Positive Note

August 23, 2026

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

From:  Marty R. McKenzie, President

843-939-8091  president@nfbofsc.org

Positive Note: 2089

 

Dear Federation Family,

 

As typically happens after the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina Annual State Convention, the last Positive Note was dedicated to a complete recap of the convention, which occurred last week. There are a few things to mention this week as we prepare to move forward.

 

The Friday night reception with the theme Simply Me: Beyond Sight was enjoyed by all. National Representative Shawn Callaway commented on this as well. It was a low-key affair that gave Federationists an opportunity to socialize with each other and enjoy a time of fellowship. I appreciate the work of all who put this together.

 

The convention does not belong to just the president. Instead, it belongs to all of us. One person cannot do all of the work required to make the convention happen and be successful. I learned in my first year that naming names causes problems because someone will invariably be left off. I am deeply grateful to everyone who had any part in making the convention so successful. Shawn noted that people did particular jobs and were passionate about making sure those jobs were done well. Each person should give themselves a pat on the back and a huge “thank you.” Whether you did the work or sat in the audience, it takes all of us for the convention to happen.

 

To round out the coverage of the convention, we extend our appreciation to all of our donors who gave door prizes, scholarship funds and banquet funds. We also thank everyone who bought tickets from the various fundraisers taking place at the state convention. Your generosity is amazing! Thank you for all that you do.

 

AI Tip or Trick

This week, a friend asked me to prepare a flyer for a fundraiser to assist a young man who was injured in an accident and cannot work for several weeks. I started a chat conversation with Claude and explained that I was providing the information for a fundraiser flyer. I then keyed the information on separate lines and left Claude to produce the flyer in Microsoft Word format. Claude produced a beautiful flyer. It would have taken me significantly more time to build, and the result would not have been nearly as good. AI can make everyday tasks much simpler, cleaner and quicker.

 

Homestead Exemption

The bills the NFB of SC supported to increase the Homestead Exemption did not make it through the General Assembly. The final budget does raise the amount from the first $50,000 to the first $75,000 of a home’s assessed value. It is unclear at this time whether this is permanent or whether it will have to be renewed from year to year. We will continue to work on this important initiative.

 

Statewide Family Fun Day

Statewide Family Fun Day is back on Saturday, September 26,2026 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Saluda Shoals Park at a cost of $15 per person. This brings the Federation family together again after the State Convention for a day of good food, games and fellowship with members, families and friends from across South Carolina. Activities include the return of the Federation favorite Braille Bingo, music and fellowship, canoeing and outdoor recreation on the water, fishing, walking trails and splash pad fun for the kids — with plenty of room to simply relax and enjoy the company. The menu features burgers and hot dogs, fried fish, potato salad, baked beans, pasta salad, coleslaw, water and assorted drinks. All proceeds from the $15 admission support the National Convention Sponsorship Fund, which helps members of the National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina attend the National Convention. To register, email fundraising@nfbofsc.org with the total number of individuals attending with you. Payment may be made in advance through PayPal or by sending a money order or check to the Federation Center. Convention may be over, but the fellowship continues — come out, bring the family, enjoy the food, play some bingo, turn up the music and let’s have another great time together. For additional information, contact Andrew Adams at 803-269-3803.

 

Blind Equality Achievement Month

October is Blind Equality Achievement Month (BEAM). Chapters are encouraged to begin planning their events and sharing them with me as soon as possible. Let’s have a huge turnout for BEAM this year.

 

Clarendon Chapter Fundraiser: Christmas Afghan

The Clarendon Chapter of the NFB of SC is selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handcrafted afghan made by our very own Glenda Culick. Tickets are $5 each or three for $10. The drawing will take place at the Annual Board Retreat on November 21, 2026. The winner will be notified by phone. Tickets are available from any of the following:

 

Let’s support one of our smallest chapters.

 

Things to Remember

  • Statewide Family Fun Day – September 26, 2026
  • Blind Equality Achievement Month – October 2026
  • Clarendon Christmas Afghan Drawing – November 21, 2026

 

 

 

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