June 29, 2025

Memo To:  Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter & Division Presidents & Others

From:  Marty R. McKenzie, President

843-939-8091  president@nfbofsc.org

Positive Note 2029

 

Dear Federation Family,

 

July 4 marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when the thirteen American colonies declared freedom from British rule. This day symbolizes the birth of the United States and the founding ideals of liberty, equality, and self-governance. It is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and patriotic displays to honor the sacrifices made for freedom. Today, July 4 remains a reminder of the country’s ongoing pursuit of justice and unity. It encourages Americans to reflect on their shared history, uphold democratic values, and work together to ensure that freedom and opportunity remain strong for future generations. Happy July 4th to everyone!

 

We are just 10 days away from the kick-off of the National Federation of the Blind National Convention! Hopefully, those who are going have all arrangements in place and it is only necessary to pack. I always look forward to reconnecting with old friends and making new friends at convention. The NFB of SC will not caucus at the National Convention.

 

The next Palmetto Connects is scheduled for Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. on the NFB of SC Zoom platform. Your host for this event is District 2 representative Andrew Adams! The phone number is 929-205-6099 and the meeting ID is 803 254 3777#. If you are using the Zoom app on your computer, phone or tablet, activate the Join button and enter the above meeting ID without the # sign. The passcode is 124578 for use with these devices. Continue to encourage members to participate in this monthly meeting so that we can improve our attendance.

 

This is a friendly reminder to make your reservations for the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina’s State Convention being held August 14-17, 2025 at the Doubletree by Hilton. There is no room rate guarantee after July 23, 2025, so be sure to contact the hotel for your reservation needs. Book online at https://hil.tn/00qbnn or call Central Reservations at 866-247-3572 and ask for the National Federation of the Blind of SC Attendee Block. Note: Your card will be charged for the first night at the time of booking. These rates apply to reservations between August 12 and 19, 2025.

 

To register for the NFB of SC 2025 State Convention, visit www.nfbofsc.org and find the heading “2025 National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina State Convention Registration.” Read all the instructions carefully before accessing the form. If you have questions, contact Steve Cook at 803-260-1292. You should complete the form even if you are not using PayPal to pay.

 

Palmetto Convention Grants

The 2025 Palmetto Convention Grant offers three $200 awards to help first-time in-person members attend the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina state convention. To qualify, applicants must be dues-paying members in good standing, registered for the convention and hotel, and must submit a completed application packet by 11:59 p.m. on June 30, 2025. The application must include a personal letter explaining the applicant’s goals and background with the NFB, and a letter of recommendation from an NFB of SC chapter or division president. All materials should be emailed as attachments to secretary@nfbofsc.org and preferably typed for accessibility. Contact Shannon Cook via e-mail or via telephone at 803-605-4250 with questions or for additional information.

 

The National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina invites you to kick off the 2025 Annual State Convention with “An Evening to Remember: Prom Night & Talent Show” on Friday, August 15, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This special evening will feature a best dressed contest where two individuals will be crowned Prom King and Queen and awarded $200 each based on their individual style and presentation. The event will also include a talent show showcasing up to 15 contestants, each given three minutes to perform. Talent show entry is $25 per act. Open to Federation members of all ages, this event is a celebration of confidence, creativity, and community spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of style, entertainment, and Federation pride. for more information, please contact a member of the Columbia Chapter Board.

 

Door Prizes

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 13, 2025. Door prizes should have a minimum value of $10. Cash is always welcome!

 

Lead and Drive: Give $25 in ’25

The NFB invites members to participate in the 'Give $25 in '25' campaign running from May 15 to July 11. Donating $25 or more enters you into a prize drawing. Prizes include a trip for two to the 2026 NFB National Convention or a $2,025 cash award. Each $25 increment earns an additional entry.

 

Things to Remember

• Palmetto Grant Scholarship applications due by June 30, 2025
• Palmetto Connects on July 1, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. on the NFB of SC Zoom platform
• NFB of SC hotel reservations and registration due by July 23, 2025

 

 

Marty

 

Marty R. McKenzie, President

National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina

119 S. Kilbourne Road

Columbia, SC 29205

Phone: 803-254-3777

Mobile: 843-939-8091

Website: www.nfbofsc.org