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<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:14.0pt">December 18, 2023<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter & Division Presidents & Others<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">From: Marty R. McKenzie, President<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Positive Note 1949<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in;text-align:justify;text-indent:.5in">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">843-939-8091 marty2music@outlook.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Dear Federation Family,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">This Positive Note comes to you on the final week before Christmas and the last week of possible holiday parties for chapters of the NFB of SC. Many wonderful parties have happened
this holiday season, and you will hear about a few more of them during this week’s Positive Note.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">From Sonia Smith, SCPOBC Leader<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">I had the opportunity to participate as a keynote speaker at the NFB of SC Sumter Gala 50th Anniversary last night and I would like to share how impactful the event was to my
family. The best way to describe it is nothing short of magical and amazing. My family enjoyed the food, comedy, music, great door prizes, and the warm, inviting environment. I was inspired by the leadership Ms. Canty showed last night. She has the memory
of an elephant!!! It was important that my daughter, Alana, witness blind leadership and influence so she can see the possibilities and the abilities of her community. It is an experience that my family and I will never forget and it was an absolute honor
to contribute to blind awareness.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">First Vice president Lenora Robertson and two of her members attended the Chesterfield County Chapter of the NFB of SC Christmas party where approximately 10 chapter members
were present for the festivities. Lenora brought information regarding the upcoming Statewide Seminar and the Washington Seminar. She has already been invited back in March to share information from the Washington Seminar with chapter members.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">The Clarendon County Chapter of the NFB of SC held its annual Christmas party on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Mount Zero Missionary Baptist Church hosted the chapter for this
event and it was the best Christmas party for us since before the pandemic. Almost all chapter members were present along with Rev. Jackson and Rev. Rice among others from the church. There were at least three potential new blind members present and a great
time of food, fellowship, laughter and fun was had by all. At the end, we gathered in their beautiful sanctuary and sang Christmas carols. The participants made requests as Sarah Massengale and Malinda Ham stood and led the group. The Clarendon County Chapter
extends its deep appreciation to this church for opening their doors to us.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">From Steve Cook<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">The SC Association of Guide Dog Users (SCAGDU) is having a Honey Baked Ham fundraiser that promises to be a delectable and heartwarming experience for all participants. The savory
allure of Honey Baked Ham's signature dishes is sure to draw you in for the wonderful flavors! The centerpiece of the fundraiser is, of course, their mouthwatering, slow-roasted ham, glazed to perfection with their unique blend of honey and spices. Whether
it's served in slices, sandwiches, or as part of a wholesome meal, the unmistakable flavor of Honey Baked Ham is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together for a common cause. To complement the main attraction, a delightful array of sides, desserts, and beverages,
all carefully selected from the Honey Baked Ham menu, will create an unforgettable dining experience.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">In addition to the culinary delights, a Honey Baked Ham gathering around good foods has a unique way of uniting people, memorable and meaningful occasions. It's an opportunity
for friends, family and neighbors to come together, savor delicious food and contribute to a worthy cause. With Honey Baked Ham's quality and reputation, you can be confident that your meal will be a flavorful success, bringing people closer while making a
positive impact. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">The SC Association of Guide dog Users invites you to go to
</span><a href="https://www.honeybaked.com/fundraising/SCAGDU"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Honey Baked Ham
</span></a><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">to purchase your Honey Baked Ham store gift card!
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Your support is greatly appreciated!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">The Friends of Rocky Bottom fundraising campaign is now underway and will conclude on December 31, 2023. There are a variety of prizes available for those who contribute in certain
amounts. This will assist Rocky Bottom with the winter months when income is low and rentals are non-existent. Individually and as chapters or divisions, please consider what you can give. For more information about this fundraiser, contact Thom Spittle at
803-331-3344 or via e-mail at </span><a href="mailto:nfbsc.lab.4@gmail.com"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">nfbsc.lab.4@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"> for additional information.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">If anyone has outstanding pledges from the State Convention Banquet Fundraiser, please take care of these by December 31, 2023. You can mail a check to NFB of SC, 119 S. Kilbourne
Road, Columbia, SC 29205 or by using the donate link on the </span><a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">www.nfbofsc.org</span></a><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"> website.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">The Annual Statewide Seminar will take place on January 6, 2024 at the Federation Center of the Blind beginning at 10:00 a.m. and concluding no later than 4:00 p.m. This is our
mid-year NFB of SC meeting and we want as many members as possible to join us. Last year, we had approximately 125 members present and a great time of learning took place. Chapter presidents should contact David Houck via e-mail at
</span><a href="mailto:nfbsc@sc.rr.com"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">nfbsc@sc.rr.com</span></a><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"> or via telephone at 803-254-3777 by December 29, 2023 and let him
know how many plan to come from your chapter to assist with food planning. If anyone wants a salad rather than soup, please contact David Houck by December 20, 2023 and provide this information.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Things to Remember<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top:0in" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Friends of Rocky Bottom Fundraiser<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">SCAGDU Fundraiser<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">State Dues<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Chapter Elections<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1">
<span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Statewide Seminar on January 6, 2024<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Here is David Houck’s Federation Facing Fact.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">This week, the Blind Who Lead the Blind will provide background information on Isaiah Nelson, former state board member and current president of the Columbia Chapter of the NFB
of SC.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Isaiah “Ike” Nelson was born in Georgetown, SC. He has seven brothers and three sisters. Ike attended SCSDB beginning in 1969 and completed his education in 1975.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">From 1975 to 1988, Ike worked with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Spartanburg and at night for the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind. After 1988, he worked a year at McDonald's
in Columbia, and then received on-the-job training in the Business Enterprise Program of the SC Commission for the Blind. Ike has been a vending facility operator in the Columbia Judicial Center located on Main Street, and although retired, he often assists
other vendors where he is needed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Ike has held and continues to serve in several different positions in the Federation. He has served and still serves as President of the Columbia Chapter and has previously served
as both First and Second Vice President of the chapter. Ike is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Federation Center. Additionally, he served for eight years as President of the SC Blind Alumni Association and as President Emeritus for another two years.
He has been a member of the NFB of SC for 31 years (only missing two meetings) which includes attending national as well as state conventions.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif">Ike is in charge of preparing the monthly meals for the Columbia Chapter. Asked why he joined the Federation, he replied that he observed the spirit and togetherness of Federation
members which impressed him. He states that he learned very early that the NFB of SC has a lot of influence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Marty<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Marty R. McKenzie, President<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">119 S. Kilbourne Road<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Columbia, SC 29205<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Phone: 803-254-3777<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Mobile: 843-939-8091<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;mso-ligatures:none">Website:
<a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org/"><span style="color:#0563C1">www.nfbofsc.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
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