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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=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>June 23, 2024<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 1976<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.0in;text-align:justify'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>843-939-8091 </span><a href="mailto:president@nfbofsc.org"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>president@nfbofsc.org</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> <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'>We are about 10 days from departing for the National Federation of the Blind National Convention being held in Orlando, Florida and there is a great deal of excitement and anticipation. Federationist are already planning to renew old friendships and make new ones during this special time within the Federation family. Please note that, while we think it is hot in South Carolina, Orlando always feels like it is just a little bit hotter and I encourage everyone to be mindful of the heat. Of course, hotels think that the indoor temperatures must be the extreme opposite of the outdoor temperatures. Regardless, everyone will have a great time and we will learn what is new within the Federation!<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'>We have all heard the saying, “there’s an app for that!” Well, it is true that the #2024 app for the National Convention is now available. Attendees can load this app on your smart phone or tablet by downloading it from the App Store or Google Play and signing in with the e-mail address used when attendees registered. You can also access this information from a web browser as well. Set up your profile and make it visible to others so that your friends know you will be in attendance. Create your personalized schedule of sessions you wish to attend. It is fine to schedule more than one session during a timeslot and then you can make the final decision at that date and time.<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'>Each year, thousands of Federation members and friends contribute before and during National Convention to various funds that support blind people. We still need your generosity to fund our great programs in 2024 and beyond. When you give $25.00 or more between May 16<sup>th</sup> and July 6<sup>th</sup> by 5:00 p.m. eastern time, you will be entered into the Dream Big: Give $25 Drive Drawing. Each $25.00 dollar increment is a chance to win. Why “Dream Big?” We know there are no limits to what blind people can accomplish and together we'll make our dreams a reality. For more information or to make a donation go to </span><a href="https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/give-25"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/give-25</span></a><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'>The restaurant guide for the National Convention was shared on the NFB of SC’s listserv on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Please note that delivery services such as UberEATS and Door Dash cannot deliver to your hotel room. You are required to meet these drivers at the hotels main entrance.<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 scholarship application process for students is now closed and we appreciate all of the applications that were received. Please remember that the scholarship program operates exclusively on donations. If you, your chapter, your division, your civic organization, church etc., would like to contribute a scholarship or donate to the Metro Fund, please contact me, Shannon Cook at </span><a href="mailto:scholarships@nfbofsc.org"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>scholarships@nfbofsc.org</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> or 803-605-4250.<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'>We are excited to feature a youth track at the NFB of SC State Convention this year! Sonia Timmons, SC Association of Parents of Blind Children Committee Chair, and Andrena Corder, Director of Successful Transitions, are working hard to have a full youth track to engage our young Federationists in the convention. There will be special activities for the youth who will also serve as talking signs and participate in other integral functions. Please encourage students and other young Federationists to attend this year!<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 Palmetto Convention Grant is offered again this year for first-time in-person state convention attendees. To qualify for a Palmetto Convention Grant, the applicant must be … <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>• A dues-paying member in good standing<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>• Registered for the NFB of SC state convention<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>• Registered to stay at the convention hotel<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>• A first time in-person attendee <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'>A completed application packet includes … <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'>The completed application itself<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'>A letter of recommendation from an NFB of SC chapter or division president.<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'>A personal letter <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'>The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. June 30, 2024. Please spread the word to chapter and divisions to allow everyone the opportunity to apply. For questions, call Shannon Cook at 803-605-4250 or send an email to secretary@nfbofsc.org.<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'>Lenora Robertson will once again serve as the Door Prize Chair for the NFB of SC State Convention. Cash and gift cards are always favorite items. You can purchase gift cards from the At Large chapter in the amount of $25 or greater. Please bring your door prize contributions to the convention or you can mail them to Lenora Robertson, 1258 Roundtree Circle, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Let’s have an abundance of door prizes to share at the state convention.<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 Embassy Suites is now accepting reservations for the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina State Convention being held on August 15-18, 2024. Rooms can be booked at $112 plus tax and any applicable fees for singles, doubles, triples and quads. You may call the Embassy Suites at 803-252-8700. Reference the NFB of SC State Convention to obtain the special rate. Members are not being charged the first night’s room; instead, a hold is placed on your card until check-in. The cut-off for room reservations is July 25, 2024.<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;color:#212121'>Registration for the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina State Convention is now live! The cost is $85 for adults, $55 for students and $25 for children under eighteen. These prices all adjust upward after July 25, 2024. Please visit<span class=apple-converted-space> </span></span><a href="https://nfbofsc.org/node/178" title="https://nfbofsc.org/node/178"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>https://nfbofsc.org/node/178</span></a><span class=apple-converted-space><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> </span></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>to register online. If you need assistance to register online, , plea<span style='color:#212121'>se contact me and someone will assist you.<o:p></o:p></span></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 Lori Anne Coley, President, Sports and Recreation Division<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Our Sports and Rec fundraiser is extended to August, coinciding with the state convention. All purchased tickets remain valid. Purchase $20 tickets for a chance to win big, including a $750 and a $250 giveaway. Contributions support our Sports Camp Week for the Blind at Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind in Upstate South Carolina. Led by the NFBSC Sports and Rec Division, our mission is inclusive sports. Purchase tickets via PayPal at </span><a href="https://www.paypal.me/sportrecnfbsc"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>https://www.paypal.me/sportrecnfbsc</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> or Zelle at srnfbsc21@yahoo.com. Goal: sell 100+ tickets by August 17, 2024, with the drawing at the state convention. Spread the word! For more information, contact Lori Anne Coley at 803-316-9838.<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 the SC Association of Black Leaders<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The SC Association of Black Leaders is thrilled to announce that we are extending our coffee basket fundraiser to the State Convention in August! The basket includes 1 tin of hot chocolate, three flavors of Starbucks coffee, two NFB tumblers, and a $25 gift card. Tickets are 1 for $5 or 3 for $10, every $20 spent earns you an entry to win a Keurig! Purchase tickets at the NFB of SC PayPal or by sending a check or money order to the Federation Center at 119 S. Kilbourne Rd., Columbia, SC 29205, noting “coffee basket” in the memo field.<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:l1 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Palmetto Scholarship Applications are due by June 30, 2024<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>National Convention dates are July 3-8, 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>NFB of SC State Convention Registration and Room Reservations are due by July 25, 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'><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/">www.nfbofsc.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>