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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@01DD17C8.64ADE940" 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%'>July 19, 2026<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:1.5pt'>Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter and Division Presidents and 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><h1><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Positive Note: 2084<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:1.0in'><span style='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'>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 am sure everyone is aware of the sudden and unexpected passing of US Senator Lindsey Graham on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Senator Graham was the older brother of Darline Graham Nordone, who until last week served as Commissioner of the SC Commission for the Blind. We extend our deepest sympathy to Darline and the entire Graham family on the loss of her beloved brother. Please keep the Graham family in your thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.<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'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>As many of you know from the media, Lindsey and Darline were extremely close. They lost both of their parents when Darline was still a child, and Lindsey stepped in to finish raising his younger sister. He became her legal guardian and supported her in every endeavor she undertook throughout her life. On Monday, July 13, 2026, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Darline to the US Senate to complete her brother's term, which ends in January 2027. She stepped down as Commissioner of the SC Commission for the Blind to accept the appointment. On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, she was sworn in as Senator Darline Graham Nordone — the first woman ever to represent South Carolina in the US Senate — and will serve until January 2027.<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 SC Commission for the Blind held an emergency Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, and appointed Mr. Luis Mendoza as Interim Commissioner. We extend our congratulations to Commissioner Mendoza and look forward to continuing our long-standing working relationship with the Commission.<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're Invited!</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> 2026 National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina Annual State Convention Reception Theme: Simply Me: Beyond Sight<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Join us for an evening of celebration, fellowship and self-expression as we embrace this year's reception theme, Simply Me: Beyond Sight, celebrating confidence, authenticity, resilience and the unique journey of living as a blind person, a reminder that blindness is only one part of who we are and that our character, talents, determination and commitment to living the lives we want define us. The evening will be filled with fellowship, interactive activities, engaging conversations, a themed photo area and opportunities for members to share how their personal style, confidence or Federation journey reflects who they are, and whether you're reconnecting with longtime friends or meeting new members for the first time, this welcoming and uplifting reception is one you won't want to miss. Dress attire is casual to semi-formal, so come dressed as the best version of yourself, whether that means neat jeans and a T-shirt, a polo, a blouse, smart casual or semi-formal attire, wearing what makes you feel comfortable, confident and authentically you. Simply Me. Beyond Sight. Confident. Authentic. Unapologetically You. We can't wait to celebrate with you and what makes each of us uniquely who we are, and we look forward to seeing you there!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>We are nearing the final time to secure hotel rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton for the 70<sup>th</sup> Annual National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina Convention. The hotel recently added additional rooms to the block, so everyone should be able to secure rooms. Please take care of this as soon as possible since the deadline is Wednesday, July 22, 2026. You may book online at </span><a href="https://hil.tn/lkz9ef"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>the DoubleTree's reservation page</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.<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'>Early bird registration for the NFB of SC State Convention also closes on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Once that date passes, regular registration will move to $100. You may register by visiting </span><a href="http://www.nfbofsc.org"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>the NFB of SC website</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>. The link is directly on the homepage.<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'>Scholarship application deadline for high school seniors and college students is now extended to Friday, July 24, 2026. We identified an issue in the process. Students who need assistance should reach out to Shannon Cook 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'>. We strongly encourage students to apply as there is significant unrestricted financial support available through our scholarship program.<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'>Nominations are still being accepted for the Donald C. Capps Award (contact David Houck 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 phone at 803-254-3777), the Betty R. Capps Award (contact Julie Bible at </span><a href="mailto:jbible73@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>jbible73@gmail.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> or via mobile phone at 803-622-8093), the Educator of the Year Award (contact Tracy Spittle at </span><a href="mailto:tracysc1974@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>tracysc1974@gmail.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> or via mobile phone at 803-447-7609) and the Employer of the Year Award (contact David Bundy at </span><a href="mailto:davidbundy13@outlook.com"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>davidbundy13@outlook.com</span></a><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> or via mobile phone at 803-447-7629). We want to honor those friends and allies of the blind who deserve our recognition for their support.<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'>This week’s AI tip comes from one of two real-life needs that cropped up during my first full week at my home in Lake City, South Carolina. The only freezer available is the bottom drawer in the French door refrigerator, and it is not enough storage space. I identified a wall where a freezer can go, but it will be visible from many areas of the main living space in my home. I used Claude to identify the freezer matching the size I need by putting in the measurement of the wall. I need a 7-cubic-foot freezer. I then put in the color I required. It identified only two options and one was unacceptable to me. Finally, with prompting, Claude told me where to purchase the freezer at the best price. Walmart delivers, and my new freezer is here and installed. Personal shopping is a great use case for AI!<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><h2><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Door Prizes for NFB of SC State Convention<o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>First Vice President Lenora Robertson will again serve as the door prize chairperson. Please bring your door prizes to the state convention and give them directly to her. If shipping, address them to Lenora Robertson, 1258 Roundtree Circle, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Shipments should arrive no later than Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Door prizes should have a minimum value of $10. Cash is always welcome!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Technology Backpack Fundraiser – Computer Science and Technology Division<o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The Computer Science and 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, 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><h2><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Cash Extravaganza Fundraiser – Senior Division<o:p></o:p></span></h2><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><h2><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>Things to Remember<o:p></o:p></span></h2><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'>Hotel reservations and Early Bird Registration for the NFB of SC State Convention ends 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.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><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>