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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>May 17, , 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 1814<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>Greetings Fellow Federationists:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>It is halfway through may and just four months until our 65<sup>th</sup> annual NFB of SC state Convention. Currently, we have 16 individuals registered to attend in-person at the North Charleston Marriott and three individuals attending virtually. We also have 40 nights booked August 19-22. Our goal is 150 nights during the three days. Room rates are good three days prior and three days after the convention based on availability if you wish to come early or stay later or both! Please consider getting your registration for the convention in via online or mail, and don’t forget to make your hotel reservations if you will be in-person. Lots of convention details can be found near the end of this Positive Note. Check out the contests we are running for those registering for the convention by May 31, your name will be entered into a $100 gift card drawing for all registered attendees. Additionally, if you are attending in-person and have booked your room at the hotel and paid your in-person registration fee, your name will be in another $100 gift card drawing. We are going to have an outstanding state convention! Come join us!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Sponsorship Letter for State Convention<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>At the end of this Positive Note, you will find our state convention sponsorship letter not on letterhead. If you wish copies on letterhead, they can be found on our listserv or you may call David Houck at 803-254-3777 to obtain copies. Presidents of chapters and divisions will receive a copy in the mail. Please do not forget about our contest. The chapter or divisions who obtains the most sponsorship donation in dollar amount will receive a percentage of the total donations raised. Our goal is $15,000. Sponsorships will help defray costs of the convention for the affiliate.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB of SC Board Meeting May 27<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The NFB of SC will have a board meeting on Thursday night, May 27 at 8:00 PM Eastern on the Federation zoom platform. We will continue to make decisions about the state convention. I will assume that all board members will be in attendance, unless, I hear from you!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Midlands’ Gives Omission<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I want to thank Melanie Torrance for giving to the NFB of SC during Midlands’ Gives. Her name was accidentally left off the list of donors. Thank you Melanie for your contribution to the Palmetto affiliate!<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>Back by popular demand! The National Federation of the Blind of SC will have another game night on Friday, May 21, 2021 at 8:00 PM eastern! We will be playing Name That Tune again! The music chosen will be from the 50’s to current. We are asking people to register by contacting Steve Cook at 803 260 1292 via Text/call in order to place people on teams! See zoom information in the weekly schedule below.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>SC Commission for the Blind Board Meeting<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>SCCB will be holding its board meeting on Tuesday, May 18 at 1:30 PM Eastern. I hope all of you will plan to attend this important meeting!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join below<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.sccb.state.sc.us/board/meetings.php">http://www.sccb.state.sc.us/board/meetings.php</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:16.0pt'>Zoom Call-in Number: 1 301 715 8592<br>Zoom Meeting ID: 989 8625 6778<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Palmetto Connects<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> We will have our next palmetto connects meeting on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Eastern time. Please encourage your chapters, divisions, committees to attend to learn about the latest happenings in the NFB of SC! All are welcome from everywhere!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:16.0pt'>Palmetto Blind<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>It is once again time to publish our Palmetto Blind for the Palmetto affiliate. Please send in your Newsletter submissions NOW! Leaders please submit items for your chapters and divisions and update meeting information if needed. Individual members may also submit any information you feel will be beneficial to our NFB of SC family, including articles, tips and trivia. <br>Please get your submissions to me no later than -May 28th. You may send them to<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>Scholarship Announcement 2021<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hello Federation Family from the Scholarship Committee. In an effort to encourage more timely application submissions for the 2021 Scholarship Program, we are challenging students to apply early . If your application is received *<b>in full</b>* by 11:59 p.m. on May 31<sup>st</sup>, your name will be entered in a drawing for a $25 gift card. The application can be found on the affiliate’s website at <a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org">www.nfbofsc.org</a>. Don’t keep this to yourself; pass this along to anyone who may qualify. Federation members may recall that in the past, the three scholarship finalists will have their hotel room and registration paid for by the NFB of SC. Please consider making a donation to the Scholarship Program. No amount is too small. If every member gave just $10, we could double the dollar amount awarded in years past. Together, we can build the Federation.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Braille Literacy Committee<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Starting in July, the Braille literacy committee will start a basic Braille class. It is geared to those who need to learn the Braille alphabet, and numbers. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you are interested, please contact Shelley Coppel at 803-796-8662.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>There are only 5 spaces available, so please don’t delay. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Tracy Spittle<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Chairman<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Braille Literacy Committee<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Submissions for the Positive Note:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you have an item to include in the Positive Note about your chapter, division, something that would interest the affiliate, please send to me via email by Sunday night to include in the next day’s PN.<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>PAC Plan Challenge!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>We are drawing near to our contest for the PAC Plan. Our drawing will be held on June 3 during Palmetto Connects for those who have increased their PAC and those who have jumped on the PAC Plan. This can be individuals, chapters, and divisions. Here is more about the PAC and our contest which ends May 31.<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>Thank you to the following individuals, chapters and divisions who have gotten on PAC or who have increased their PAC amount each month:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'> New contributors (6):</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Cheri Euton</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Lori Coley</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>At Large Chapter</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Lancaster Chapter</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Melanie Torrance</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Lynn Hornsby</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Increases:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Frank and Shelley Coppel</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>David Bundy</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Debra Canty</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>NFB SC Sumter Chapter</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Steve and Shannon Cook</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Jennifer Bazer<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Rank: 12 </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Average given per month: $960.75</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Monthly totals:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>December 2020 – $898.00</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>January 2021- $953.00</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>February 2021- $991.00</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>March 2021- $1,001.00 </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Total given in 2020: $10,731.00</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Total given in 2021 so far: $2,945.00<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#1F497D'>Virtual Senior Camp<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>There will be another South Carolina virtual Senior Camp Day on May 21, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If you are 55 or over – or just want to participate - and would like to join us for fun, discussions, games, and more, you can join on the Federation Center Zoom platform. (That is the normal one used for most NFB of SC meetings.) As Senior Camp co-directors, Shelley Coppel and I are co-hosting this event. Please join us the day of the event. We would love for you to RSVP by calling me, Shannon Cook at 803.605.4250. Just leave a message. We want to be sure we have a good idea of the number of people who will be attending. Let us know if you have any questions. My number was given above. Shelley Coppel can be reached at (803) 796-8662. We would love to have a large group of participants. Please share this announcement throughout the state to encourage all of those interested to join us. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB of SC 65<sup>th</sup> Annual State Convention!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>As of Sunday, May 9, we have ten participants in-person including an individual from Arizona and three virtual participants. I encourage you to register for our 65<sup>th</sup> annual state convention and attend the way that best fits your comfort level at this time. Our goal is fifty in-person participants and I am confident we can exceed that goal. We have several contests listed below for those registering before May 31 and between June 1 and June 30 so please insure your name is in one of those drawings. Also, we will be running a contest for the chapter or division who obtains the most money in sponsorships. Let’s work to exceed our $15,000 sponsorship goal to defray the cost of the convention. If you will need transportation or a roommate during the convention in North Charleston, please call/text me at 803-960-9977 or email me at <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>This information will go on the listserv. The transportation requests will help us in determining pick-up points around the state. I am hopeful that chapters with vans will assist in the transportation process as well as, others in the community.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The NFB of SC board met on Sunday, May 2 to discuss further details about the state convention.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Sponsorships<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The board voted to have a competition among chapters and divisions to see which team can acquire the largest sponsorships in dollar amount. The chapter or division that raises the most money with sponsorships will receive 10% of the total amount raised. We are hoping a company, individual, or group will donate a trophy to this chapter or division to be passed around each year like we do with Midlands’ Gives. Remember, all sponsorships help defray the cost of the convention and does not drain the state affiliate treasury.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Scholarships to First Timers to the State Convention<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The board voted to give out three $200 scholarships to be used for those who are first timers to the NFB of SC state convention. The applicants must be members of the NFB of SC in good standing, have registered to attend the convention in-person, and submit their application by June 30, 2021 which is the same day one must have dues paid to the state organization. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Drawings for Registered Attendees<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>There will be several drawings before the convention to encourage individuals to register early. The board voted to have a drawing for those who register by 11:59 PM Eastern on May 31, 2021 for the state convention virtually or in-person. The winner of that drawing will receive a $100 gift card. Those that register between June 1 and 11:59 PM Eastern on June 30, 2021 will be entered into a $50 gift card drawing.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Those that register before May 31 and pay your deposit on a room at the North Charleston Marriott by the same date will be entered into an additional $100 drawing donated by an anonymous donor. If you register for the state convention and pay your room deposit at the hotel between June 1 and June 30, 2021, you will be entered into an additional $50 gift card drawing donated by the senior division<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Let’s talk about our state convention in detail.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>We will be having our sixty-fifth NFB of SC state convention August 19-22, 2021 at the North Charleston Marriott, 4770 Goer Drive, North Charleston, SC, 29406. It is time for all of us to begin making our reservations and registering for our hybrid convention. You may contact the hotel directly at 843-747-1900 and let them know you are registering for the NFB of SC state convention to receive the discounted rates.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Room rates are as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Singles and doubles, $115.00 per night.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Triples, $125.00 per night.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Quads, $135.00 per night.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>You will also need to add sales tax which currently is 14%.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>The NFB of SC block of rooms at the above rates will be good until July 29, 2021 until 5:00 PM Eastern time. After that date, the hotel will release the rooms to the general public and we will not be guaranteed our group rate.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>The NFB of SC board voted on Thursday, April 22, 2021 on the following rates for convention registration. The prices include reception on Friday night, boxed breakfast Saturday and Sunday, and banquet Saturday night. There will not be a luncheon on Saturday afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>Adults, $85.00 per person until July 15; $100.00 after this date.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt'>College, graduate and doctoral students, $55 per person until July 15; $60 after this date.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Individuals 18 and younger, $25.00 per person until July 15; $30 after this date.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Virtual, $25.00 per person until July 15; $30 after this date.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>In order to have a hybrid event so that as many individuals can attend as possible, we are charging a small registration fee for virtual attendance to cover the cost of broadcasting from the Marriott; the hotel charges the NFB of SC around $1,000 for audiovisual equipment and broadcasting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you plan to vote in this year’s election for the NFB of SC, you will need to be a member of the NFB of SC in good standing as of June 30, 2021 by 11:59 PM Eastern Standard time. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>You may register using a paper registration form, complete and enclose payment and send to the Federation Center, 2021 NFB of SC State Convention, 119 S. Kilbourne Road, Columbia, SC 29205.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>You may also register online and submit payment through Pay Pal or you may send in your payment to the Center at the above address. Registration will not be confirmed until payment has been received through the mail or Pay Pal. If using Pay Pal, please remember to add 3% to your total to cover Pay Pal’s administration fees and so that NFB of SC receives the entire amount.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Let’s have a large in-person and virtual turn-out for the NFB of SC Sixty-Fifth state convention!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Register online at<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>2021 National Federation of the Blind of SC Sixty-Fifth State Convention Registration Form<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><a href="https://forms.gle/JUxemkCKcjiWdC827">https://forms.gle/JUxemkCKcjiWdC827</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>You may obtain a printed form from David Houck at the Federation Center. Those letters and registration forms will be in the mail this week.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Questions about the convention, please call me at 803-960-9977 or email me at<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>We Care<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Columbia Chapter members Princetta Goodwin and Gwen lost everything in a house fire according to Maggie Floyd. Anything contributed (money, clothing, household items, etc.) should be given to Maggie Floyd at 1643 Albritton Rd., Columbia, SC 29204, phone 803-920-4433. You may also drop off gifts card at the Federation Center for this family. Grocery and restaurant gift cards are much appreciated at this time.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please notify Dorothy Barksdale, Chair of the We Care Committee of praise and prayer reports as well as birthdays, anniversaries and more so that the committee can remember you.<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. Here is what is coming up on Zoom for the month. All meetings are on the main Federation ID of 803-254-3777, unless noted.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dates & Times of meetings are subject to change. All times are Eastern.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Monday, May 17, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Membership Committee 7:00 PM<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Tuesday, May 18, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Get Fit with the Sports & Rec 5:30 PM Rocky Bottom<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Diabetes Action Network 7:00 PM<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Wednesday, May 19, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Advocacy Committee 6:00 PM<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Public Relations Committee 8:00 PM<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Thursday, May 20, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Palmetto Connects 6:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Florence Chapter Meeting 7:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Clarendon County Chapter Meeting 8:00 PM <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Friday, May 21, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Name that tune 8:00 PM<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2>Saturday, May 22, 2021<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Get Fit with the Sports & Rec Division 9:00 AM Rocky Bottom<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><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><h2 style='margin-top:0in;line-height:26.25pt;background:#EAE6E2'><b><span style='font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#9A9585'>Random Fact of the Day:</span></b><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#9A9585'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Stomach acid is strong enough to dissolve metal.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Final Thought:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>“Logic will take you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”—Albert Einstein<o:p></o:p></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><p class=MsoNormal>Sponsorship letter<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>May 19, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Dear Friends: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina is a non-profit, private organization of the blind working together to improve the quality of life for all blind people in South Carolina. The NFB of SC is an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, the nation’s oldest and largest organization of the blind, and for the blind. The NFB advocates for the rights and abilities of blind South Carolinians. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:.25in'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:.25in'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>With approximately 500 members, the NFB of SC consists of approximately 20 chapters. The divisions in the NFB of SC are the SC Association of Blind Students, the Blind Merchants Division, the Computer Science & Technology Division, the Senior Blind Division, the Parents of Blind Children Division, and the Sports and Rec Division. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:.25in'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;margin-bottom:.25in'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The NFB of SC is an energetic organization dedicated to serving and teaching the blind in the state and nation. Its ongoing programs are designed to empower blind people to improve the economic, social, and spiritual aspects of their lives. Blind people can live the lives they want. Blindness is not what holds them back.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina will be holding its 65<sup>th</sup> annual state convention August 19-22, 2021 both in-person at the North Charleston Marriott and via Zoom. It is extremely important to look at alternate ways to raise funding to reduce the cost to the blind who attend. These annual conventions provide exhibits, a Friday evening Reception, Saturday and Sunday morning continental breakfasts, and an evening Banquet. With six division meetings including blind students, seniors, merchants, computer science, parents of blind children, sports and rec, numerous committee meetings, and three convention general sessions, it is no wonder that hosting a convention today requires well thought out planning, and detailed budgeting. Because our state organization had to postpone the in-person convention from 2020, this year, there are hotel fees that will be charged regardless of the number of attendees. This is where you can help. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>As a convention sponsor, you can help defray the cost of these conventions. By agreeing to contribute to one of the sponsorship levels below, you will help to lower registration costs and better cover other convention related expenses for the people who attend. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Platinum Level: $2500 or higher<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpFirst style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Full page ad in the agenda for all to review<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>One year of publicity in newsletter, publications, on social media page and website<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Table reserved at Saturday evening Banquet and five minutes to announce your sponsorship during the Banquet<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Twenty minutes on the agenda during the convention<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>One complementary night at the North Charleston Marriott Friday August 20 or Saturday, August 21<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Complementary tickets to the reception on Friday night, August 20<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpLast style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Exhibit hall space if desired<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>GOLD Level: $1000 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpFirst style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Three- quarter page ad in the agenda for all to review<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Nine months of publicity in newsletter, publications, on social media page and website<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Two seats reserved at Saturday evening Banquet<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Fifteen minutes on agenda during convention<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Complementary tickets to the reception on Friday night, August 20<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpLast style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Exhibit hall space if desired<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>SILVER Level: $500 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpFirst style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Half page ad in the agenda for all to review<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Six months of publicity in newsletter, publications, on social media page and website<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpMiddle style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Ten minutes on the agenda during convention<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpLast style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Exhibit hall space if desired<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>BRONZE Level: $250 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpFirst style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>One quarter page ad in the agenda as a Bronze Level Sponsor for all to review<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpLast style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Three months of publicity in newsletter, publications, on social media page and website<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>WHITE CANE Level : $100<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpFirst style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Listed in the agenda as a white cane sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListBulletCxSpLast style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>One month of publicity in newsletter, publications, on social media page and website<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>If you would like to help, please make checks payable to the NFB of SC and mark as “convention sponsor.” Get your name out there to the blind community! You can make the difference in defraying these ever increasing costs and at the same time make it possible for many more blind South Carolinians to attend this very informative state convention. Your sponsorship is tax deductible and the value to the blind is priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The goal this year is $15,000. A list of sponsorship levels is below. Please choose a sponsorship level that is comfortable for your business, and send your contribution in the enclosed addressed envelope. You may also submit your sponsorship donation via PayPal. Click on the Donate button on the NFB of SC website </span></b><a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>www.nfbofsc.org</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>. Please put “convention sponsor” in the comment field. Otherwise, the donation will not be used for its intended purpose. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>If you have questions, please contact me, Jennifer Bazer, President of the NFB of SC at 803-960-9977 or email <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:Jennifer@successforlives.org"><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Jennifer@successforlives.org</span></b></a><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The NFB of SC, with your support, can continue to build the Federation and change lives!<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Kind Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Jennifer Bazer<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>President, National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina</span></b><o:p></o:p></p></div></body></html>