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</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_s1026" type="#_x0000_t75" alt="NFB of SC logo with tagline live the life you want" style='position:absolute;margin-left:4.65pt;margin-top:6.9pt;width:60.85pt;height:68.7pt;z-index:-251658240;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square;mso-width-percent:0;mso-height-percent:0;mso-wrap-distance-left:9pt;mso-wrap-distance-top:0;mso-wrap-distance-right:9pt;mso-wrap-distance-bottom:0;mso-position-horizontal:absolute;mso-position-horizontal-relative:text;mso-position-vertical:absolute;mso-position-vertical-relative:text;mso-width-percent:0;mso-height-percent:0;mso-width-relative:page;mso-height-relative:page'>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><![if !vml]><img width=81 height=92 style='width:.8437in;height:.9583in' src="cid:image002.png@01DCF13D.DF822660" align=left hspace=12 alt="NFB of SC logo with tagline live the life you want" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1"><![endif]><span style='line-height:150%'>May 31, 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:1.5pt'>Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter & Division Presidents & Others<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:1.5pt'>From: Marty R. McKenzie, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:1.0in'>843-939-8091 <a href="mailto:president@nfbofsc.org">president@nfbofsc.org</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:1.0in'>Positive Note: 2077<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:1.0in'><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Dear Federation Family,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>I spent time recently catching up on podcasts and I am still not completely caught up. I want to remind everyone that the National Federation of the Blind and the NFB of SC both have podcasts which help members stay abreast of Federation happenings. Access On is so interesting as Jonathan Mosen covers a variety of topics from week to week. I am several episodes behind, but one of the interesting topics recently covered is the smart home. He and his team discussed three different approaches individuals can take to build a smart home. The awesome thing is that it does not all have to be completed at once. We can build a smart home over time as resources are available and our knowledge increases. You can listen to Access On using your Amazon device, your favorite podcast app, or your computer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>From Shannon Cook<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>This is a friendly reminder of the next Brick by Brick Zoom call. We will discuss community involvement, which was decided by the attendees from the first meeting in April. The meeting will be on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. The dial-in number is 929-205-6099 and the Meeting ID is 803 254 3777#. If using the Zoom app on your computer or mobile device, click Join and enter the Meeting ID above. The passcode is 124578.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>From Andrew Adams, Fundraising Committee Chair<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Attention NFB of South Carolina Members! Please do not show up to the Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Unfortunately, this activity has been canceled and will be rescheduled for Saturday, September 26. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate everyone’s understanding and continued support. We look forward to seeing everyone in September for an even bigger and better Family Fun Day experience!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>In some Positive Notes, I have included uses for artificial intelligence (AI). About a month ago, I moved from ChatGPT to Claude. It is a different experience in terms of how it works on the back end. The first example is that my Honeywell thermostat stopped working with the Amazon devices in February. I attempted to fix this with instructions from ChatGPT without success. When I prompted Claude for assistance, the response was straightforward and all was well in about ten minutes. Claude provided the most likely problem and steps to correct it. The Alexa skill breaks from time to time, but this issue was quickly resolved with Claude’s help.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The second example is in regard to a vintage hurricane lamp that I have had since 1985. When my childhood room was redecorated, I got this lamp using Green Bax Stamps from Piggly Wiggly. In 2006, I broke the bottom of the top shade. I have searched without success for a replacement shade. I prompted Claude for suggestions. Claude asked for a picture to be uploaded. It then provided the three most likely manufacturers for the lamp. With sighted assistance, I was able to verify the manufacturer and add this to my chat with Claude. Claude then provided instructions on measurements and prompts to put into eBay as the first choice for locating a replacement. Voila! The shade came yesterday and is an exact match except for differences in the hand-painted flowers on the shade. Yes, I am a fan of AI! Think about ways that you can use it in your everyday life.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Palmetto Convention Grants<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The Palmetto Convention Grant application for first-time attendees to the NFB of SC State Convention is now available on the home page of the NFB of SC website at </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'>. Please pass the word along to your chapter members, division members, fellow Federationists, and anyone else who fits the bill. We will award four grants in the amount of $300 each. The application deadline is June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The Computer Science & Technology Division (CSTD) of the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina is holding a Technology Backpack Fundraiser with a drawing on August 16, 2026, during the state convention. Tickets are priced at $5 for one, $10 for three, $20 for seven, and $30 for ten. The prize package includes a technology backpack, a talking meat thermometer and an infrared thermometer, Bluetooth earbuds, a 256 GB flash drive, a Bluetooth speaker, a surge protector, and a home license copy of JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion. Ten percent of funds raised will support a student scholarship. You do not need to be present to win as prizes can be shipped. To enter, complete the online web form and submit payment via PayPal or check, or by calling 803-260-1292. If using PayPal, be sure to note “Technology Backpack Fundraiser” in the notes section. Mail checks to Steve Cook, 2446 Harrison Road, Columbia, SC 29204.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The NFB of SC Senior Division is holding a Cash Extravaganza fundraiser with a chance to win $400 in cash. The drawing will take place Sunday morning, August 16, at the conclusion of the state convention, and you do not need to be present to win. Tickets are $10 for one or $20 for three. Half of the funds raised will go to Rocky Bottom Senior Camp and half to the Senior Division. To buy or sell tickets, contact Shelley Coppel at 803-796-8662, 303-819-9795, or </span><a href="mailto:Frankandshelley51@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Frankandshelley51@gmail.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>. Checks and money orders should be made payable to the NFB of SC Senior Division with "Cash Extravaganza Fundraiser" in the memo line and mailed to Shelley Coppel, 847 Jefferson Street, West Columbia, SC 29169.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>You are warmly invited to attend the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina State Convention, an exciting annual event that brings together blind and low-vision individuals, families, advocates, and community members from across the state for a weekend of learning, networking, and inspiration. Whether you are a long-time member or new to the Federation, the convention offers something for everyone: engaging guest speakers, opportunities to connect, exhibits featuring helpful products and services, and time for fun and fellowship. The event will take place August 13–16, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton located at 2100 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC. Join us as we work together to build a brighter future and change what it means to be blind. For more information or to register, visit </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'> and select “State Convention & Exhibit Hall Registration.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The DoubleTree by Hilton is now accepting reservations for the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina State Convention being held August 13–16, 2026. The cost of the rooms is as follows: singles and doubles – $134; triples – $144; and quads – $154 plus applicable taxes and fees. Breakfast is included with the cost of your room. You may book online at </span><a href="https://hil.tn/lkz9ef"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>https://hil.tn/lkz9ef</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>. You may also call 800-445-8667 and give the code 917 to link to our room block. The cutoff for these special rates is Thursday, July 22, 2026. Remember the following when booking your room:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The first night’s stay will be charged at time of booking.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>When checking in, a hold will be placed on the card to cover the entire stay.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>There is a $50 per night hold for incidentals.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>It is strongly recommended that a credit card be used for this stay. Using a debit card means these holds will be placed on the funds in your checking account.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>2026 NFB of SC Student Scholarships</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The 2026 NFB of SC Scholarship Program is now open. The state convention will be held August 13–16, 2026, and all application materials must be submitted by 11:59 PM EDT on June 20, 2026. As in recent years, the committee will select the top three applicants, who will be notified about one month before the convention. The updated application is available online at </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'>. Please remember that the scholarship program is funded entirely by donations. If you or your chapter would like to sponsor a scholarship or contribute to the Dorothy C. Barksdale Metro Fund, contact Shannon Cook at 803-605-4250 or via email at </span><a href="mailto:scholarships@nfbofsc.org"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>scholarships@nfbofsc.org</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>. Finally, help us spread the word—if you or someone you know is enrolled full time in school, encourage them to apply.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><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=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Brick by Brick on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the NFB of SC Zoom platform.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>NFB of SC Student Scholarship applications due by 11:59 PM on June 20, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Palmetto Convention Grant applications due by June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Hotel reservations and Early Bird Registration for the NFB of SC State Convention end on July 22, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>NFB of SC State Convention takes place August 13–16, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Technology Backpack Fundraiser drawing is August 16, 2026, during the state convention.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNoSpacing style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Cash Extravaganza drawing is Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the conclusion of the state convention.<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>