Positive Note
Positive Note
November 1, 2026
Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter and Division Presidents and Others
From: Marty R. McKenzie, President
843-939-8091 [email protected]
Positive Note: 2099
Dear Federation Family,
I attended the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) Annual Meeting last week, where Dr. Craig Meador is concluding his tenure as APH’s President and CEO. Among the special guests was President Mark Riccobono from the National Federation of the Blind. Dr. Meador gave his closing address on Wednesday evening, October 28, 2026, in which he highlighted the successes of his time at APH. These successes include products such as the Mantis Q40, the Chameleon Refreshable Braille Display, the Jupiter and the Monarch. Representatives from several organizations in the blind and low vision field were present and offered their parting comments. President Riccobono was the last person to speak at this event before Dr. Meador closed it, and his comments were phenomenal to hear. He noted that Dr. Meador reached out to the National Federation of the Blind and created the partnership among HumanWare, the NFB and APH that yielded the Monarch Dynamic Tactile Display. President Riccobono commented that Dr. Meador values the lived experiences of blind people, as evidenced by his work and by the partnerships and collaboration with other organizations that marked his years there. We wish Dr. Meador well in his future endeavors and look forward to the next chapter for the American Printing House for the Blind.
Others present from South Carolina included President Jolene Madison from the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind, along with several staff members. Commissioner Luis Mendoza from the South Carolina Commission for the Blind also attended, along with Donna Earley, Ex Officio Trustee to APH. I am deeply grateful that these influential leaders took time from their busy schedules to attend the Annual Meeting. Their presence emphasizes their commitment to the populations their agencies serve.
NFB of SC and Rocky Bottom Board Retreat
The National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina and the Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind will hold their annual board retreat November 20–22, 2026, at Rocky Bottom. Preference is given to board members and their plus-ones, followed by chapter presidents who may wish to attend. Contact Thom Spittle by Monday, November 16, 2026, to make your reservation for this important activity. Thom can be reached at 803-331-3344 or via email at [email protected].
AI Tip or Trick
This week’s AI tip or trick comes from my need for a table tent for the Trunk or Treat at church, where I sold raffle tickets for a fundraiser. Here is the prompt: “Here is the text of an announcement from the weekly Positive Note.
Clarendon Chapter Fundraiser: Christmas Afghan
The Clarendon Chapter of the NFB of SC is selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handcrafted Christmas 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.
Referencing Positive Note 2099_Print located in the Downloads folder, create a tent-style sign that I can print on card stock paper and fold so that the same message appears on both sides. Include the logo of the NFB of SC. Please produce this in Microsoft Word and save it in my Downloads folder.” Voila! I have a table tent that I only need to print and fold.
Blind Equality Achievement Month Round-Up
Although Blind Equality Achievement Month is now behind us, there are two additional #BlindMonth events to share with you.
President Debra Canty reports that the NFB Sumter Chapter shared awareness on October 13, 2026, during its chapter meeting. On Thursday, October 22, 2026, the keynote speaker was Jermaine Johnson, candidate for governor. He answered questions pertaining to transportation and improving lives for the community. Thursday was reserved as “South Carolina Rural Transit Day” along with the South Carolina Transportation Association and our local Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority. The guest speakers, who shared personal experiences on the need for public transportation, were Debra Canty, Marvin Nelson, Marvin Boykin, William Davis, Karen Davis, Michelle Johnson and Daniel Taylor. Thanks to DJ Butch, Glenda Bossard, Barbara Brooks, Joyce Engles and John Carter for their support as well. Other agencies involved in public transportation were also there. On Saturday, October 24, 2026, the NFB Sumter Chapter participated with the Trinity Church. Kudos to Marvin Nelson, who did an excellent job of bringing blind awareness through his presentation on #BlindMonth.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, I attended the Lee County #BlindMonth event held at Market Commons. Other guests included Xavior Dixon, Martha Coleman, Jerry Johnson, Thom Spittle, Sarah Massengale and Regina Pound. Linda Dizzley, event coordinator, also rendered selections during the program. It was a lively evening of gospel, R&B and classical music that was enjoyed by approximately 50 residents. Snacks were provided at the end. Congratulations to Linda Dizzley and the Lee County Chapter on a job well done!
One More Party — Rock Hill Chapter Member Turns 100 Years Old
The Rock Hill Chapter celebrated Mrs. Pearline Barber’s 100th birthday at its chapter meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026. President Lenora Robertson asked Mrs. Pearline to share from her 100 years of life experience on this earth. Mrs. Pearline definitely has a way with words. Several members of her family joined in the festivities, and good food was enjoyed by all! The NFB of SC has enjoyed helping Mrs. Pearline celebrate her centennial birthday!
Registration Open for 2027 Virtual Senior Retreat
Registration is now open for the 2027 Virtual Senior Retreat, a weeklong experience running January 10–16, 2027. Participants will learn basic nonvisual techniques from experienced blind instructors who serve as role models. The retreat is designed for seniors 50 and older, but younger participants are welcome too. The $50 fee helps cover the cost of a thumb drive each participant receives after the retreat. Your registration and payment must be received by January 5, 2027. You can find details and the registration form at https://seniors.nfb.org/senior-retreat or on the main page of the seniors website, seniors.nfb.org. Please help spread the word to anyone who might benefit.
NFB of SC Dues and Chapter Elections
Chapters should begin collecting dues for 2027 and holding elections from October through December. Please provide Thom Spittle with a list of all dues-paying members by December 31, 2026. As elections are held, provide the results to each of the following:
- Marty McKenzie – [email protected]
- Thom Spittle – [email protected]
- Steve Cook, website – [email protected]
- David Houck – [email protected]
This will greatly assist us with recordkeeping. I appreciate your assistance with this request.
Clarendon Chapter Fundraiser: Christmas Afghan
The Clarendon Chapter of the NFB of SC is selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handcrafted Christmas 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:
- Marty McKenzie – 843-939-8091 or [email protected]
- Glenda Culick – 843-598-3630 or [email protected]
- Trent Tedder – 843-939-8092 or [email protected]
Let’s support one of our smallest chapters.
Emerson Smart Voice Air Fryer Tickets – Belvedere Chapter
The Belvedere Chapter is selling raffle tickets for an Emerson Smart Voice Air Fryer. It does not require Wi-Fi or an app to operate. Tickets are one for $5, three for $10 or eight for $20. The winning ticket will be drawn at the Statewide Seminar on January 9, 2027. You do not need to be present to win. Tickets are available from any of the following:
- Frank Loza – 803-617-8016
- Gerald McMurray – 803-608-9449
- Pathronda Anderson – 803-269-4354
Thank you for your support.
Things to Remember
- Dues and Elections – October 1 through December 31, 2026
- NFB of SC and Rocky Bottom Board Retreat – November 20–22, 2026
- Clarendon Christmas Afghan Drawing – November 21, 2026
- Sports and Recreation Organizing Meeting – November 24, 2026
- Senior Retreat Registration Deadline – January 5, 2027
- Belvedere Chapter Emerson Air Fryer Drawing – January 9, 2027
- Virtual Senior Retreat – January 10–16, 2027
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
November 1, 2026
Memo To: Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter and Division Presidents and Others
From: Marty R. McKenzie, President
843-939-8091 [email protected]
Positive Note: 2099
Dear Federation Family,
I attended the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) Annual Meeting last week, where Dr. Craig Meador is concluding his tenure as APH’s President and CEO. Among the special guests was President Mark Riccobono from the National Federation of the Blind. Dr. Meador gave his closing address on Wednesday evening, October 28, 2026, in which he highlighted the successes of his time at APH. These successes include products such as the Mantis Q40, the Chameleon Refreshable Braille Display, the Jupiter and the Monarch. Representatives from several organizations in the blind and low vision field were present and offered their parting comments. President Riccobono was the last person to speak at this event before Dr. Meador closed it, and his comments were phenomenal to hear. He noted that Dr. Meador reached out to the National Federation of the Blind and created the partnership among HumanWare, the NFB and APH that yielded the Monarch Dynamic Tactile Display. President Riccobono commented that Dr. Meador values the lived experiences of blind people, as evidenced by his work and by the partnerships and collaboration with other organizations that marked his years there. We wish Dr. Meador well in his future endeavors and look forward to the next chapter for the American Printing House for the Blind.
Others present from South Carolina included President Jolene Madison from the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind, along with several staff members. Commissioner Luis Mendoza from the South Carolina Commission for the Blind also attended, along with Donna Earley, Ex Officio Trustee to APH. I am deeply grateful that these influential leaders took time from their busy schedules to attend the Annual Meeting. Their presence emphasizes their commitment to the populations their agencies serve.
NFB of SC and Rocky Bottom Board Retreat
The National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina and the Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind will hold their annual board retreat November 20–22, 2026, at Rocky Bottom. Preference is given to board members and their plus-ones, followed by chapter presidents who may wish to attend. Contact Thom Spittle by Monday, November 16, 2026, to make your reservation for this important activity. Thom can be reached at 803-331-3344 or via email at [email protected].
AI Tip or Trick
This week’s AI tip or trick comes from my need for a table tent for the Trunk or Treat at church, where I sold raffle tickets for a fundraiser. Here is the prompt: “Here is the text of an announcement from the weekly Positive Note.
Clarendon Chapter Fundraiser: Christmas Afghan
The Clarendon Chapter of the NFB of SC is selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handcrafted Christmas 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.
Referencing Positive Note 2099_Print located in the Downloads folder, create a tent-style sign that I can print on card stock paper and fold so that the same message appears on both sides. Include the logo of the NFB of SC. Please produce this in Microsoft Word and save it in my Downloads folder.” Voila! I have a table tent that I only need to print and fold.
Blind Equality Achievement Month Round-Up
Although Blind Equality Achievement Month is now behind us, there are two additional #BlindMonth events to share with you.
President Debra Canty reports that the NFB Sumter Chapter shared awareness on October 13, 2026, during its chapter meeting. On Thursday, October 22, 2026, the keynote speaker was Jermaine Johnson, candidate for governor. He answered questions pertaining to transportation and improving lives for the community. Thursday was reserved as “South Carolina Rural Transit Day” along with the South Carolina Transportation Association and our local Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority. The guest speakers, who shared personal experiences on the need for public transportation, were Debra Canty, Marvin Nelson, Marvin Boykin, William Davis, Karen Davis, Michelle Johnson and Daniel Taylor. Thanks to DJ Butch, Glenda Bossard, Barbara Brooks, Joyce Engles and John Carter for their support as well. Other agencies involved in public transportation were also there. On Saturday, October 24, 2026, the NFB Sumter Chapter participated with the Trinity Church. Kudos to Marvin Nelson, who did an excellent job of bringing blind awareness through his presentation on #BlindMonth.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, I attended the Lee County #BlindMonth event held at Market Commons. Other guests included Xavior Dixon, Martha Coleman, Jerry Johnson, Thom Spittle, Sarah Massengale and Regina Pound. Linda Dizzley, event coordinator, also rendered selections during the program. It was a lively evening of gospel, R&B and classical music that was enjoyed by approximately 50 residents. Snacks were provided at the end. Congratulations to Linda Dizzley and the Lee County Chapter on a job well done!
One More Party — Rock Hill Chapter Member Turns 100 Years Old
The Rock Hill Chapter celebrated Mrs. Pearline Barber’s 100th birthday at its chapter meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026. President Lenora Robertson asked Mrs. Pearline to share from her 100 years of life experience on this earth. Mrs. Pearline definitely has a way with words. Several members of her family joined in the festivities, and good food was enjoyed by all! The NFB of SC has enjoyed helping Mrs. Pearline celebrate her centennial birthday!
Registration Open for 2027 Virtual Senior Retreat
Registration is now open for the 2027 Virtual Senior Retreat, a weeklong experience running January 10–16, 2027. Participants will learn basic nonvisual techniques from experienced blind instructors who serve as role models. The retreat is designed for seniors 50 and older, but younger participants are welcome too. The $50 fee helps cover the cost of a thumb drive each participant receives after the retreat. Your registration and payment must be received by January 5, 2027. You can find details and the registration form at https://seniors.nfb.org/senior-retreat or on the main page of the seniors website, seniors.nfb.org. Please help spread the word to anyone who might benefit.
NFB of SC Dues and Chapter Elections
Chapters should begin collecting dues for 2027 and holding elections from October through December. Please provide Thom Spittle with a list of all dues-paying members by December 31, 2026. As elections are held, provide the results to each of the following:
- Marty McKenzie – [email protected]
- Thom Spittle – [email protected]
- Steve Cook, website – [email protected]
- David Houck – [email protected]
This will greatly assist us with recordkeeping. I appreciate your assistance with this request.
Clarendon Chapter Fundraiser: Christmas Afghan
The Clarendon Chapter of the NFB of SC is selling raffle tickets for a beautiful handcrafted Christmas 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:
- Marty McKenzie – 843-939-8091 or [email protected]
- Glenda Culick – 843-598-3630 or [email protected]
- Trent Tedder – 843-939-8092 or [email protected]
Let’s support one of our smallest chapters.
Emerson Smart Voice Air Fryer Tickets – Belvedere Chapter
The Belvedere Chapter is selling raffle tickets for an Emerson Smart Voice Air Fryer. It does not require Wi-Fi or an app to operate. Tickets are one for $5, three for $10 or eight for $20. The winning ticket will be drawn at the Statewide Seminar on January 9, 2027. You do not need to be present to win. Tickets are available from any of the following:
- Frank Loza – 803-617-8016
- Gerald McMurray – 803-608-9449
- Pathronda Anderson – 803-269-4354
Thank you for your support.
Things to Remember
- Dues and Elections – October 1 through December 31, 2026
- NFB of SC and Rocky Bottom Board Retreat – November 20–22, 2026
- Clarendon Christmas Afghan Drawing – November 21, 2026
- Sports and Recreation Organizing Meeting – November 24, 2026
- Senior Retreat Registration Deadline – January 5, 2027
- Belvedere Chapter Emerson Air Fryer Drawing – January 9, 2027
- Virtual Senior Retreat – January 10–16, 2027
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