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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>January 4, 2021<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter & Division Presidents & Others<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>From: Jennifer Bazer, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Positive Note 1795<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>803-960-9977<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:Jhipp25@sc.rr.com">Jhipp25@sc.rr.com</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Greetings Fellow Federationists:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Happy 2021! I hope all of you are looking forward to an amazing year in the NFB of SC!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>New Year’s resolutions are meant to be made; they are meant to be broken! Each year I pick one word that will be my focus, my driving force for that year. Some of my words have been relax, focus, purpose, and others that have guided me that year. It is not a word that I pick randomly or without thought; it is a word that I pray about, a word that might keep coming up in my readings, a word that reverberates in my mind, a word that someone says. It is one word that will create clarity, passion, purpose and life change. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>During our 51 annual statewide seminar, we will discuss in more detail about our one word, your one word.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join with me in thinking about what our word, the NFB of SC’s word will be for 2021 and let’s go build the Federation! Let’s create a positive vision for the Palmetto state!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Will it be purpose; commitment, focus; love; determination; hope? Let’s think together and as a team, choose one word for our affiliate for 2021!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Flight 2021<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:#242526'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Historic",sans-serif;color:#E4E6EB'>Hello, welcome to Flight #2021. We are prepared to take off into the New Year. Please make sure your Attitude and Blessings are secured and locked in an upright position. All self-destructive devices should be turned off at this time. All negativity, hurt and discouragement should be put away. Should we lose Altitude under pressure during the flight, reach up and pull down a Prayer. Prayers will automatically be activated by Faith. Once your Faith is activated you can assist other passengers. There will be NO BAGGAGE allowed on this flight. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:#242526'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Historic",sans-serif;color:#E4E6EB'>The Captain (GOD) has cleared us for takeoff. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:#242526'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Segoe UI Historic",sans-serif;color:#E4E6EB'>Destination: GREATNESS <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>SC/Palmetto Connects<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> We will have our next SC connects meeting on Thursday, January 7 2021 at 5:00 p.m. Please encourage your chapters, divisions, committees to attend to learn about the latest happenings in the NFB of SC!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Statewide Seminar<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Our statewide seminar will be held January 9 at the Center in Columbia from 10:00 until 4:00. This will be a hybrid seminar meaning you can attend in-person and over Zoom so as many individuals can participate as possible. Please make plans to attend in-person or through Zoom. Please call, text or email me with suggested agenda items. Please also call David at the Center at 803-254-3777 to let us know if you will be attending in person. First come, first serve as we have limited seats to effectively promote social distancing at the Center. Chapter and division presidents along with FCB, NFB of SC, and Rocky Bottom board members are required to attend via zoom or in-person.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> If you notify David Houck by January 5, 2021 whether you plan to attend on zoom or in-person, your name will be entered into a $50 gift card drawing. You must be present to win. There will be additional door prizes throughout the seminar; only individuals who notify David by calling 803-254-3777 or emailing <a href="mailto:nfbsc@sc.rr.com">nfbsc@sc.rr.com</a> about your zoom or in-person attendance will be entered into the $50 gift card drawing.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Leadership Seminar:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Our next leadership seminar will be April 10, 2021 at the Federation Center. All presidents of divisions and chapters along with Federation Center board members, Rocky Bottom board members and NFB of SC board members are required to attend in-person or through zoom. Others who are interested are welcome to attend via zoom or in-person as well.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> If you notify David Houck by April 5, 2021 whether you plan to attend on zoom or in-person, your name will be entered into a $50 gift card drawing. You must be present to win. There will be additional door prizes throughout the seminar; only individuals who notify David by calling 803-254-3777 or emailing <a href="mailto:nfbsc@sc.rr.com">nfbsc@sc.rr.com</a> about your zoom or in-person attendance will be entered into the $50 gift card drawing.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> We plan to have door prizes at each of these seminars on January 9 and April 10. Calling David Houck at the Center at 803-254-3777 will guarantee your name will be entered into a separate drawing for registered in-person and zoom attendees of a $50 gift card for each seminar that will be drawn at an undisclosed time during each seminar and you must be present to win. . Anyone who attends via zoom or in-person will be eligible for door prizes and must be present to win, even if, you do not register prior to the seminars. Only registered individuals who call David Houck to let us know how you will be participating either in-person or zoom will be entered into the $50 gift card drawing for each seminar.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> The following meetings are scheduled on the Zoom platform this week. You are welcome to attend any of these meetings, even if you are not a member of the chapter or committee. All Committee meetings are open to the public for listening. Contact President Bazer if you would like to be added to any NFB of SC committee so that information stays current on our website and membership list.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Here is what is coming up on Zoom for the week of January 4, 2021 and January 11 2021. All meetings are on the main Federation ID of 803-254-3777, unless noted.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Monday, January 4, We Care Committee, 6:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Monday, January 4, Fund Raising Committee, 8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Tuesday, January 5, Legislative Committee, 8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thursday, January 7, Palmetto Connects, 5:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Friday, January 8, Meet the Blind Committee, 6:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Saturday, January 9, Statewide Seminar, 10:00 until 4:00<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Sunday, January 10, Lee County Chapter Meeting, 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Monday, January 11, Braille Literacy Committee, 6:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Tuesday, January 12, At Large Chapter Meeting, 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Tuesday, January 12, Sumter Chapter Meeting, 7:00 p.m. see zoom info below in the Positive Note<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Wednesday, January 13, Sports and Rec Division Meeting, 7:30 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thursday, January 14, Cherokee Chapter Meeting, 1:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thursday, January 14, Columbia Chapter Meeting, 6:15 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thursday, January 14, Lancaster Chapter Meeting, 7:00 p.m. use 864-878-9090 for meeting ID<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Friday, January 15, Name that Tune, Fun Friday Night, 8:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Saturday, January 16, Technology Training, 10:00 until 12:00<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> NFB of SC Federation Center is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Topic: NFB of SC Chapter and Committee meetings<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Times are in Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8032543777?pwd=QTVQd2RzN3l6QnNmZ0FmSnp6NG8vQT09</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 803 254 3777<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Passcode: 124578<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+19292056099,,8032543777# US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h1 style='margin-top:0in'><b><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black;letter-spacing:1.5pt'>Support A Local Vender</span></b><span style='font-size:24.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black;letter-spacing:1.5pt'><o:p></o:p></span></h1><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white;box-sizing: inherit;font-size:0.875rem'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'>Would you like to support a local vender and the National Federation of the Blind of SC (NFB of SC ) at the same time? Well, here is your opportunity to do both! When you purchase items from any of the below venders, be sure to mention the NFB of SC in order for a percentage to be donated to the NFB of SC. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'>If you know of any venders that are willing to donate a percentage of each purchase to the NFB of SC and have their information listed on <a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org/"><span style='color:black'>www.NFBofSC.org</span></a>, have them contact Jennifer Bazer and Steve Cook at the below Email addresses.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white;box-sizing: inherit;font-size:0.875rem'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white;box-sizing: inherit;font-size:0.875rem'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'><a href="mailto:jhipp25@sc.rr.com"><span style='color:black'>jhipp25@sc.rr.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white;box-sizing: inherit;font-size:0.875rem'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'><a href="mailto:cookcafe@sc.rr.com"><span style='color:black'>cookcafe@sc.rr.com</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'>To access a list of venders, please go to <a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org">www.nfbofsc.org</a> and then click on the support a local vender link. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'>Your support of the local vender and the NFB of SC is greatly appreciated!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='letter-spacing:.75pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='color:black;letter-spacing:.75pt'>From Thom Spittle, Chairman, Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind</span><span style='letter-spacing:.75pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Rocky Bottom is now taking reservations for 2021. Chapters and blind South Carolinians can get away from things and stay at our facility for a small reservation fee. For more information, or to book your stay, call Thom Spittle at 803-331-3344 or email <a href="mailto:rockybottominfo@gmail.com">rockybottominfo@gmail.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin-bottom:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#616161;letter-spacing:.75pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>From Linda Dizzley, President, Lee County Chapter<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please join the Lee County Chapter of the NFB of SC on Sunday, January 10 at 7:00 p.m. on the Federation zoom platform to learn about technology and apps that help blind people live the lives they want.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>From Debra Canty, Sumter chapter President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:.5in'>The Sumter Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina will host a Zoom Platform on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 in the comfort of your home on Zoom at 7:00 p.m. Please pay attention, save the zoom info now in your contacts, and remember to use the zoom Platform, just for our NFB meeting on January 12<sup>th</sup>. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The presenters will be Yvette Thompson and Vincent Ferguson, Representatives for A Final Expense Plan. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The sparkling revolving spotlight is shining on those who’s paid NFB (2021) state dues thus far, Lori Anne Cowley, Gary Engles, Joyce Engles, Jan Lewis, Herbert Boykin, Ruthie Walker, Della Sherod, Essie Williams and Debra Canty. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Yvette Thompson is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Please note, this info is different than the Federation zoom link and information.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Topic: Final Expense Plan<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Time: January 12, 2021 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87469812090?pwd=TGZrbHZDTjk4bVVQLy9lM3lJQ09WZz09"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87469812090?pwd=TGZrbHZDTjk4bVVQLy9lM3lJQ09WZz09</span></a><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Meeting ID: 874 6981 2090<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Passcode: 727547<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>+13017158592,,87469812090#,,,,,,0#,,727547# US (Washington D.C)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>+13126266799,,87469812090#,,,,,,0#,,727547# US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Or, just dial on your phone:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>1-301-715-8592<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Meeting ID: 874 6981 2090<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Passcode: 727547<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you know a blind person please relay this information and contact Debra Canty chapter president at (803) 775-5792 or (<a href="mailto:debra.canty@frontier.com">debra.canty@frontier.com</a>).<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Sports and Rec Division<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The NFB of SC now has a Sports and Rec Division. I am excited to see how this division grows in the Palmetto state. This division emphasizes healthy eating and exercise and includes recreational activities like reading, cooking, gardening, and more. We hope you will support this division and become members for just $5 per year. The next Sports and Rec Division Meeting will be January 13 at 7:30 p.m. on the Federation zoom platform. The 2021 officers are:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>David Rebocho, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Matthew Duffell-Hoffman, Vice President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Cheri Euton, Secretary/Treasurer<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Name that Tune<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Our movie night on December 23 was a huge success as we watched audio described Christmas with the Cranks. We had 25 participants including members from NC, NJ, IL, FL, SC and other affiliates. We will be having a fun Friday night once per month hosted by the NFB of SC to include: trivia, name that tune, interactive activities, and additional audio described movies. Our next fun Friday night will be Friday, January 15 at 8:00 eastern with name that tune! All are welcome, come join your Palmetto affiliate!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>From Steve Cook<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The upcoming weekly Zoom events can now be found on Newsline! The article list the date, name of the event and the time. Also, listed is the information you will need to call in using your phone. Thank you to MS. Cummings for speaking out about a challenge she was having knowing when all the zoom events took place. Since she does not use a computer and used Newsline on her phone, we created a solution that will hopefully assist others.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Recipe Group via Email<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>From Steve Cook<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Do you have a favorite recipe that people always ask you for? Do you enjoy learning about new recipes? Do you enjoying trying new food? Here is your opportunity to all of the above an more! I have created a group for people to Exchange Recipes and the discussion of recipes. Below is the Email address for you to subscribe To this new group. Just a friendly reminder to also put the word subscribe in the subject line. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:RecipeExchange+subscribe@groups.io">RecipeExchange+subscribe@groups.io</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> PAC Plan Challenge:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> We will be running a contest from December 5, 2020 through May 31, 2021 for our NFB of SC affiliate. We are currently 13 and would like to be in the top 10 or higher. One of our members would like to see us as an affiliate contribute $1,500 to PAC each month between chapters, divisions, individuals and our NFB of SC affiliate. If you join PAC, your name will be entered into a drawing for a $100 visa gift card. If you increase your PAC donation, your name will be entered into a different $100 visa gift card drawing. I have a list of chapters, divisions, and individuals who are on PAC at this time. On June 1, I will ask the national office for another list which I will use to have the two drawings on June 1. There are many ways to give. Below, is a little about PAC.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> Thank you for your interest in the National Federation of the Blind's Pre-Authorized Contribution (PAC) program. This program allows you to contribute to the NFB through recurring monthly donations. These can be direct withdrawals from a checking account or charges to a credit card. Please contact <a href="mailto:pac@nfb.org">pac@nfb.org</a> with any questions. Thank you for your generosity.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> You can go to <a href="https://www.nfb.org/pac">https://www.nfb.org/pac</a> to complete the online form.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> You may also call the national office at 410-659-9314 extension 2622 or email <a href="mailto:PAC@nfb.org">PAC@nfb.org</a> with questions.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> There are several chapters and divisions within our state who are on PAC and we are grateful for those contributions. There are individuals who are on PAC and we are appreciative of those members who give each month. As an affiliate, we are averaging $17.41 per person and less than 10% of our members are on PAC. Let’s see if we can increase those percentages to over $20 per month and have at least 20% of our members on PAC. I appreciate you considering to get on the PAC plan or increasing your donation each month!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Nationally:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The NFB of SC sends its thoughts and prayers to Joe Ruffalo and his family.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><b><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Request for distribution by Janie Degenshein, NFBNJ Affiliate Board Member</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>This is the first of many updates I wish to share with our NFBNJ family about my brother Joe Ruffalo. Joe is in need of quiet rest at this time but </span>knows<span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'> that he feels the love and warmth of your prayers and thoughts. I wish to personally thank those that have reached out to me via email, text, or phone calls to share your heartfelt wishes. Over the next few weeks, there will be other updates we wish to share with our entire NFBNJ family. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Below, my nephew, Joe's son shares his thoughts with you. If for any reason the method of sending well wishes is unworkable for you, just send an email to Janie Degenshein at <a href="mailto:jdegen16@comcast.net" target="_blank">jdegen16@comcast.net</a> and I will personally share them with my brother.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>**</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Thank you all for reaching out concerning my dad, Joe Ruffalo. As many of you may know he has been suffering from terrible pain for some months now. His most recent bout has kept him in the hospital since December 7th. During that time, it was diagnosed that he has cancer. We are still waiting for all the details, but early indications are that it is not a common type of cancer. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Dad has always been a fighter and is in good spirits, although very tired. I know many of you want to reach out and wish him well. The family, my mom, brother Jim and I, as well as his brother’s and sister’s appreciate this outpouring. For the time being I am asking that you do not call him. It is not that he doesn’t want to hear from you, but he needs to rest and quite frankly I have woken him up far too many times myself.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>In lieu of phone calls, I have created a special website and email address where you can send him well wishes. Feel free to share a funny story or moment, an accomplishment or something positive about your life. Dad loves to hear that. My aunt Jane Degenshein and I will be reading these to him on a frequent basis. We may not be able to respond directly to everyone, but rest assured he will get your message.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Website: </span><a href="http://wishjoewell.com/" target="_blank"><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif'>wishjoewell.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>email: <a href="mailto:wishjoewell@gmail.com" target="_blank">wishjoewell@gmail.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>We ask that you keep both him and my mom in your thought sand prayers. Currently this is all we need and ask of you.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Thank you all from the bottom of my heart, </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background-image:initial;background-position:initial;background-size:initial;background-repeat:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial'><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif;color:black'>Joey </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h3 style='mso-margin-top-alt:2.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.25in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Attend the First 2021 Presidential Release <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://19"><span style='color:black'>on January 4</span></a>—Captioning and Spanish Available:</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:#1F3763;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></h3><p class=MsoNormal style='-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The January Presidential Release of the National Federation of the Blind will be delivered on World Braille Day—<a href="x-apple-data-detectors://20"><span style='color:black'>Monday, January 4—at 8:00 p.m. eastern</span></a>. After the remarks, there is an opportunity for questions. Submit questions in advance to<a href="mailto:cdanielsen@nfb.org">cdanielsen@nfb.org</a> and put PR501 in the subject line, or call <a href="tel:410-659-9314;2473">410-659-9314, extension 2473</a>. Closed captions and Spanish interpretation will be available. Zoom details coming soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h1 style='margin-top:0in'><b><span style='font-family:inherit;color:#212529'>Braille Calendars</span></b><span style='font-size:24.0pt;font-family:inherit;color:#212529'><o:p></o:p></span></h1><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>Every year, the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults provides, free of charge, more than 10,000 Braille calendars to blind and deafblind people throughout the United States.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>These pocket calendars are an invaluable tool for everyday use. They provide the day, date, and the major holidays during each month. They allow blind people to receive the same information that their sighted family, friends, and colleagues have easy access to. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h2 style='box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-family:Lato;color:#212529;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2.4pt'>TESTIMONIALS</span><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2.4pt'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'><img border=0 width=343 height=228 style='width:3.575in;height:2.375in' id="Picture_x0020_1" src="cid:image001.jpg@01D6E1C5.0AEBA2B0" alt="Cover of 2020 Braille Calendar."></span><em><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>"While I use accessible technology each day in my job, I find tremendous value in having a calendar that I can access directly while conducting conference calls or meetings. I also use it for planning my business and personal trips. This calendar is quick and easy to use!"</span></em><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><em><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>"The calendar is small enough to carry in my bag or purse. It is arranged in a way that makes it very easy to check the date or day of the week. It is very handy to have on my desk when I am talking to people on the telephone and it is very well made."</span></em><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>If you would like to make sure a deafblind or blind person is able to continue to receive the Braille calendar, <a href="https://www.actionfund.org/about/donate"><span style='color:#007BFF;text-decoration:none'>please consider making a $10.00 donation today</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><h2 style='box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-family:Lato;color:#212529;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2.4pt'>2021 BRAILLE CALENDARS</span><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:2.4pt'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt;box-sizing: inherit'><span style='font-size:10.5pt;font-family:Lato;color:#212529'>If you would like to receive the 2021 Braille calendar or know someone who would like to have one, please fill out the form at the below link. Please note, this program is for Braille readers only.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://www.actionfund.org/resources/braille-calendars">https://www.actionfund.org/resources/braille-calendars</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hot off the presses is the January 2021 Brail Monitor! . Among the interesting articles contained in this issue is one entitled <i><a href="https://www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2101/bm210117.htm">Honoring our Blind Ancestors: Anita O'Shea</a>, written by Peggy Chong, the Blind History Lady.<o:p></o:p></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><o:p> </o:p></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><i>Below is the link to the complete January, 2021 Braille Monitor for your reading pleasure.<br></i><a href="https://www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2101/bm2101.htm">https://www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm21/bm2101/bm2101.htm</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h3 style='mso-margin-top-alt:2.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.25in'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Louis Braille Commemorative Silver Dollar on Sale <br> in Honor of 2021 World Braille Day:</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Calibri Light",sans-serif;color:#1F3763;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></h3><p class=MsoNormal style='-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>During the week of <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://15"><span style='color:black'>January 4-8</span></a> only, the National Federation of the Blind Independence Market will be offering special pricing for the Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar. This commemorative coin was issued by the United States Mint in 2009 to honor the two hundredth anniversary of Louis Braille's birth. The US Mint issues only two commemorative silver dollars each year, so it is truly special that our incredible advocacy led to the recognition of Louis Braille’s contribution to the literacy of blind people in this way. During this week, the price of this collector’s coin will be $50.00 plus shipping and handling. To make a purchase or for further questions, please contact the NFB Independence Market by phone at <a href="tel:410-659-9314;2216">410-659-9314, extension 2216</a>, or by email at<a href="mailto:independencemarket@nfb.org">independencemarket@nfb.org</a>.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.25in;line-height:19.35pt;vertical-align:baseline'>Final Thought: <span style='font-size:13.5pt;font-family:inherit;color:#33475B'>"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose." -<i><span style='border:none windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'>Dr. Seuss</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB Pledge - I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB One Minute Message - “The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If this message was forwarded to you and you would like to receive it directly in your inbox, as well as, receive messages regarding the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina, please email Steve Cook at <a href="mailto:cookcafe@sc.rr.com">cookcafe@sc.rr.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>