[il-talk] Ohio-talk news letter

[margaret james]

Hi Debbie please contact me

On Tue, Aug 28, 2018 at 8:19 PM Deborah Kent Stein via IL-Talk <
il-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:

>
>
> Thanks for sharing this. It's always interesting to learn about what's
> going
> on in other affiliates.
>
> Debbie S.
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: IL-Talk [mailto:il-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Debbie
> Pittman via IL-Talk
> Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 1:38 PM
> To: 'NFB of Illinois Mailing List' <il-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: Debbie Pittman <debbiepittman99 at gmail.com>
> Subject: [il-talk] Ohio-talk news letter
>
> From: Ohio-Talk [ <mailto:Ohio-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org>
> mailto:Ohio-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of barbara.pierce9366---
> via
> Ohio-Talk
>
> Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 9:21 AM
>
> To: NFB of Ohio Announcement and Discussion List <ohio-talk at nfbnet.org>
>
> Cc: barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com
>
> Subject: [Ohio-talk] Summer Buckeye Bulletin 2018
>
>
>
> Summer 2018 Buckeye Bulletin
>
>
>
> A publication of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio
>
>
>
>
>
> Barbara Pierce, Editor
>
> 198 Kendal Drive
>
> Oberlin, OH 44074
>
> barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com <mailto:barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com>
>
> (440) 774-8077
>
>
>
>  <http://www.nfbohio.org/> http://www.nfbohio.org <
> <http://www.nfbohio.org/> http://www.nfbohio.org/>
>
> Richard Payne, President
>
> 1019 Wilmington Ave., APT. 43
>
> Kettering, OH 45420
>
> rchpay7 at gmail.com <mailto:rchpay7 at gmail.com>
>
> (937) 829-3368
>
>
>
>
>
> The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
> characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise
> expectations, because low expectations create obstacles between blind
> people
> and our dreams. Live the live you want. Blindness is not what holds you
> back.
>
>
>
> The National Federation of the Blind of Ohio is a 501 (c) 3 consumer
> organization comprised of blind and sighted people committed to changing
> what it means to be blind. Though blindness is still all too often a
> tragedy
> to those who face it, we know from our personal experience that with
> training and opportunity it can be reduced to the level of a physical
> nuisance. We work to see that blind people receive the services and
> training
> to which they are entitled and that parents of blind children receive the
> advice and support they need to help their youngsters grow up to be happy,
> productive adults. We believe that first-class citizenship means that
> people
> have both rights and responsibilities, and we are determined to see that
> blind people become first-class citizens of these United States, enjoying
> their rights and fulfilling their responsibilities. The most serious
> problems we face have less to do with our lack of vision than with
> discrimination based on the public's ignorance and misinformation about
> blindness. Join us in educating Ohioans about the abilities and aspirations
> of Ohio's blind citizens. We are changing what it means to be blind.
>
>
>
> The NFB of Ohio has nine local chapters, one for at-large members, and
> special divisions for diabetics, merchants, students, seniors, parents of
> blind children, guide dog users, and those interested in Braille. This
> newsletter appears three times a year and is circulated by email, posted on
> NFB-NEWSLINER, our digitized newspaper-reading service by phone, and can be
> read or downloaded from our website,  <outbind://8/www.nfbohio.org>
> www.nfbohio.org < <http://www.nfbohio.org/> http://www.nfbohio.org/>. For
> information about the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio or to make
> address changes or be added to the mailing list, call (440) 774-8077 or
> email barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com <mailto:barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com>.
> For information about NFB-NEWSLINE, our free digitized newspaper-reading
> service, call (866) 504-7300. Local NEWSLINE numbers are: 330-247-1241
> (Akron), 330-409-1900 (Canton), 513-297-1521 (Cincinnati), 216-453-2090
> (Cleveland), 614-448-1673 (Columbus), Dayton: 937-963-1000 (Dayton),
> 567-242-5112 (Lima), 567-333-9990 (Mansfield), 740-370-6828 (Portsmouth),
> 937-717-3900 (Springfield), 56-806-1100 (Toledo), and 330-259-9570
> (Youngstown).
>
>
>
> Dream Makers Circle
>
>
>
> You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a
> member of our Dream Makers Circle. Your legacy gift to the National
> Federation of the Blind or the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio can
> be made in the form of a will or living trust or an income-generating gift
> or by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, IRA, pension, or a
> life insurance policy. You can designate a specific amount, a percentage,
> or
> list NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For additional information
> contact
> Patti Chang at (410) 659-9314, extension 2422 or at pchang at nfb.org
> <mailto:pchang at nfb.org>.
>
>
>
> Vehicle Donations
>
>
>
> The National Federation of the Blind uses car donations to improve the
> education of blind children, distribute free white canes, help veterans,
> and
> much more. We have partnered with Vehicles for Charity to process donated
> vehicles. Please call toll-free (855) 659-9314, and a representative can
> make arrangements, or you can donate online by visiting
> <outbind://8/www.nfb.org/vehicledonations> www.nfb.org/vehicledonations <
> <http://www.nfb.org/vehicledonations> http://www.nfb.org/vehicledonations
> >.
>
>
>
> Contents
>
>
>
> The 2018 Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126552>
>
> Get to Know the Holiday Inn Strongsville Cleveland
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126553>
>
> What Is the Gavel Award Anyway?
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126554>
>
> Impressions of My First National Convention
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126555>
>
> Editor's Musings
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126556>
>
> Optioning Home
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126557>
>
> From the President's Desk
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126558>
>
> Meet the 2018 Scholarship Class
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126559>
>
> The Greater Akron Chapter is on the Move
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126560>
>
> Vote For Your Life
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126561>
>
> The Value of Mentors
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126562>
>
> Buckeye Briefs
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126563>
>
> Activities Calendar
> <applewebdata://6D8B72FC-3FE2-4F7D-BF14-6DFBDA96B53A#_Toc523126564>
>
>
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> The 2018 Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio <>
>
> by Suzanne Turner
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Suzanne Turner chairs the 2018 Convention Planning
> Committee.
> She has been busy for months preparing for our 2018 convention. Here is her
> report:
>
>
>
> The National Federation of the Blind of Ohio is pleased to present a
> snapshot of activities at its 72nd Annual Ohio affiliate convention, which
> will be held at the Holiday Inn, Cleveland/Strongsville Hotel, 5471
> Royalton
> Road, Strongsville, Ohio 44133. For your convenience you Can reserve your
> room now. The cost is $82 a night plus 16.5 percent tax with free buffet
> breakfast for two. Any additional people in the room pay $5 each for the
> buffet breakfast. Note that all breakfast orders from the hotel menu are
> paid out of pocket. Please keep in mind that the cutoff date for making
> hotel room reservations is Thursday, October 11, 2018. The Holiday Inn
> Strongsville has created a personalized link for room reservations, which
> has code "FEB" added. This tool is extremely user friendly and will help to
> make sure your hotel stay is booked at the group rate. Please refer to the
> end of this article for the steps to book online. If you prefer, call
> reservations directly at 1-877-408-4913 and reference group code "FEB". Be
> sure to let the hotel know if you need a wheelchair-accessible room or have
> any additional requirements related to your reservation. Transportation
> provided by the hotel's shuttle within a three-mile radius is available.
> The
> Strongsville Mall is directly across the street. It includes a number of
> shops and restaurants. Panera Bread, Starbucks, and CVS Pharmacy are just
> up
> the road.
>
>
>
> To register for the Team Convention, go to
> <http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention>
> http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention <
> <http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention>
> http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention>. Preregistering costs
> $15 but onsite is $20. The charge for the banquet is $40 and onsite is $45.
> Note, registration is a requirement for door prize eligibility and a number
> of other convention activities. Convention attendees (both local and out of
> town) are asked to register.
>
>
>
> Our theme for 2018 is the Team Convention, "One Team, One Goal," which is
> parallel to our belief, that the National Federation of the Blind is the
> only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people, and
> has the power, influence, diversity, and determination to help transform
> our
> dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind
> people.
> Our democratically elected leaders and our diverse nationwide membership
> are
> made up of blind people, our families, and our friends. We are bound
> together by our belief that the blind are capable of achieving our dreams
> and living the lives we want and by the love and respect we have for one
> another and for all blind Americans. We support one another, act with
> courage and determination when we encounter barriers or experience
> setbacks,
> and engage in collective action to improve our lives.
>
>
>
> The Convention Planning Committee is delighted to announce that attorney
> Denise Avant is our 2018 National Representative. Denise is the President
> of
> the NFB of Illinois, a member of the NFB national Board of Directors, and
> an
> active member of the American Bar Association. Denise comes highly
> recommended, experienced, and well informed.
>
>
>
> The NFB of Ohio is the state's oldest organization of blind people working
> together to change what it means to be blind. The 2018 Team Convention will
> inspire and empower you and will celebrate our accomplishments. Join us to
> learn more about issues confronting blind people today and walk away ready
> to advocate for change. Showcased at the Convention will be inspirational
> stories about the work of our movement, our history, and our philosophy of
> blindness. We are planning dynamic committee meetings, stimulating
> workshops, and thought-provoking agenda items.
>
>
>
> Take a look at a few convention highlights:
>
>
>
> .      Network with blind people across Ohio.
>
>
>
> .      Encourage blind people to expand their knowledge of resources and
> opportunities such as Braille, Accessibility, and Legislative Initiatives.
>
>
>
> .      Attend Workshops on Effective Strategies for Self-Advocacy, Trends
> in
> Transportation, and the Latest Developments in Technology.
>
>
>
> .      Attend the banquet with a memorable banquet address and the
> presentation of scholarships for blind college students.
>
>
>
> .      Visit the Exhibit Hall to explore the latest technology and
> low-vision products. Exhibitors will be open to shoppers and information
> gatherers on Saturday, November 3, 2018 from noon to 5:00 PM.
>
>
>
> The opening gavel of the first general session will fall on Friday,
> November
> 2, with opening ceremonies promptly at 2:00 PM. We will have a series of
> speakers covering a wide range of topics, including a report from our
> president, our national representative, Opportunities for Ohioans with
> Disabilities (OOD), Regional Transit Authority (RTA), legislation, and
> health and wellness. Of course, Annette Lutz will have exciting door prizes
> as well.
>
>
>
> Friday evening will see a flurry of activities. First and foremost, our
> Hospitality Suite will open its doors at 5:30 PM. Your host will be the NFB
> of Lorain County, and they will make you feel relaxed and right at home.
> They are also planning some enjoyable activities for your visit. Snacks and
> beverages will be available for your comfort.
>
>
>
> The At-Large Chapter and the Ohio Association of Blind Merchants Division
> will hold their annual business meetings that evening. The Nominating and
> Resolutions Committees meetings will also take place. Sign up for the One
> Touch Self-Defense Class and learn techniques to protect yourself. And of
> course the Ohio Association to Promote the Use of Braille (OAPUB) Division
> again will entertain us later that evening with one of their wonderful
> radio
> play readings. Admission will be $5 at the door. This is an event you will
> surely not want to miss as you show your support for Braille.
>
>
>
> Saturday morning, November 3, we will begin with an OAPUB breakfast meeting
> at 7:00 AM. If Braille is important to you, be sure to sign up for the
> OAPUB
> breakfast meeting while you are registering. The Diabetes Action Network
> (DAN) will also have its breakfast meeting in the hotel restaurant at 7:00
> AM. If you are interested in becoming a member of this division, you should
> seriously consider attending.
>
>
>
> The gavel falls again promptly at 9:00 AM to continue general sessions. We
> will break at 12 noon for lunch. The Ohio Association of Guide Dog Users
> (OAGDU), the NFB of Ohio Seniors Division, and the Ohio Association of
> Blind
> Students (OABS) will conduct their annual business meetings from noon to
> 2:00. Boxed lunches will be available for meeting attendees who ordered
> them
> or for those who just want to get a lunch on the go. Be sure to order your
> boxed lunch when you register for the convention.
>
>
>
> The afternoon promises provocative workshops on promoting leadership,
> membership building, and successful employment strategies. The Exhibit Hall
> will be quite exciting, with vendors attending such as Microsoft,
> FreedomScientific, and the American Printing House for the Blind (APH), to
> name a few. These and more vendors will be available to us from 12:00 noon
> to 5:00 PM demonstrating their high-tech and low-tech products for blind
> and
> visually impaired users. Chapters and divisions will also have the
> opportunity to hold fundraisers in this exhibit area.
>
>
>
> Saturday night's banquet will surely be the highlight of the convention.
> This is an opportunity for fellowship and for all of us to share a meal
> together. Our keynote speaker for the evening will be our national
> representative, Denise Avant. We will have our Gavel Awards ceremony to
> celebrate chapter and division accomplishments from the past year. The
> finale of the banquet will be the announcement of the 2018 scholarship
> winners and the annual auction. Be sure to order your banquet meal when you
> register for the convention. Don't worry, the night is not over. Plans are
> in the works for an exciting after-banquet activity.
>
>
>
> Sunday, November 4th is the day we relax a little, reflect on the past few
> days, and think about where we are headed in the future. Elections will be
> held for the officers and one member of the Ohio Board of Directors. All
> NFB
> members are eligible to vote if their dues have been paid.
>
>
>
> Our Convention Planning Committee is committed to making your convention
> experience memorable and enjoyable. Therefore, our goal is to bring you the
> most up-to-date information on the convention. Please feel free to contact
> the committee chair with any questions, concerns, or requests for
> accommodations at SMTurner.234 at gmail.com.
>
>
>
> Vice President Sheri Albers along with the Cuyahoga Chapter will be ready
> to
> greet you bright and early at 9:00 AM on Friday morning with your
> registration packets and agendas and to preview the weekend activities.
> Please bring all donated door prizes to the registration table as well.
>
>
>
> Suzanne Turner is in charge of convention arrangements, and she and her
> committee will make sure that the hotel facility--which includes staff,
> accommodations, guide dog relief areas, meeting rooms, dining areas, and
> common areas--is as blind-friendly as possible. Volunteers will be
> available
> to assist and direct convention attendees to gathering points and
> conference
> rooms.
>
>
>
> The Convention Planning Committee and Board of Directors will be on hand to
> welcome you, and we are excited and looking forward to seeing you at the
> 2018 Team Convention. Together, with love, hope, and determination, the
> members of the National Federation of the Blind transform dreams into
> reality. You can live the life you want.
>
>
>
> Follow these steps for online registration:
>
>
>
> .      Hold down CTRL and click National Federation of the Blind <
> <
> https://www.holidayinn.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=HI&localeCode=en&regi
> onCode=1&hotelCode=CLESV&_PMID=99801505&GPC=CLG&viewfullsite=true
> <https://www.holidayinn.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=HI&localeCode=en&regionCode=1&hotelCode=CLESV&_PMID=99801505&GPC=CLG&viewfullsite=true>
> >
>
> https://www.holidayinn.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=HI&localeCode=en&regio
> nCode=1&hotelCode=CLESV&_PMID=99801505&GPC=CLG&viewfullsite=true
> <https://www.holidayinn.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=HI&localeCode=en&regionCode=1&hotelCode=CLESV&_PMID=99801505&GPC=CLG&viewfullsite=true>>
> or right
> click on hyperlink and select OPEN hyperlink.
>
>
>
> .      The group block code FEB will already be included for your special
> rate.
>
>
>
> .      Enter arrival and departure dates.
>
>
>
> .      Enter first & last name and email address.
>
>
>
> .      Enter payment information.
>
>
>
> .      Once complete, a confirmation number will be generated.
>
>
>
> .      If an email address was entered, A confirmation will be sent to you.
>
>
>
> .      This link will not function properly when attempting to access it
> through a cell phone.
>
>
>
> .      A laptop or desktop computer is recommended.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Get to Know the Holiday Inn Strongsville Cleveland <>
>
> by Barbara Pierce
>
>
>
> Though parking is available near the sleeping rooms at this motel, you will
> probably first park on the east side of the facility. The main entrance is
> near the check-in desk, close to the south end of the meeting room block.
> Imagine that the meeting room area is roughly a square with an add-on
> section on the north side at the northeast corner. The sleeping rooms form
> a
> print T that lies south of the meeting rooms with the stem running
> north-south and beginning halfway back the south side of the east-west
> hallway, which begins at the front door and stretches west to the Simmering
> Pot Restaurant at the west end of the hall.
>
>
>
> The check-in desk is near the front door and on your left as you walk
> toward
> the Simmering Pot. Just past the desk on the left is the base of the
> sleeping-room T. You will find the three sets of elevators in this
> sleeping-room area. Convention registration will be located near the
> check-in desk in the lobby part of the east-west hall.
>
>
>
> As you walk west toward the Simmering Pot, on your left you will pass the
> check-in desk, the hall leading to sleeping rooms and elevators, and
> Vinny's
> Lounge, where dinner is served as well as drinks during the evening. On the
> north (right) side of the hall are three corridors leading into the
> meeting-room area. The east-west hall is tile, and the three south-north
> meeting-room corridors are carpeted, as is the hallway leading to the
> sleeping rooms.
>
>
>
> Just after you step into the hotel, you can turn right into the first
> meeting-room corridor. It is called the sales corridor because the sales
> and
> catering offices are on the right of the hall as you walk north. The Aspen
> Room is the first door on the left of this hall. There are restrooms on the
> right just north of the sales office. A pair of drinking fountains is just
> to the north of the men's room. There is a low, wheelchair fountain and
> then
> a taller one. Neither reaches the floor, so they are a bit of a hazard
> since
> a cane will slide under them. After the fountains is a door to the outside,
> which is one of the dog relief areas as well as a seating area for smokers.
> There are two sets of doors to pass through to get out. There is a
> permanent
> trash receptacle outside, and the hotel staff will probably place a couple
> of others out there for your convenience. Please use them when picking up
> after your dog.
>
>
>
> On the west side of the hallway is a door into the Mulberry Room, which is
> our general session room. This door is located at the north side of the
> head
> table. There is another entrance on the south wall of the Mulberry Room at
> the west end, which means it is located at the back of the meeting room.
>
>
>
> Returning to the sales hallway, the hall stops at the north end at a door
> into the Chessnut Rooms A and B. These will be breakout rooms, especially
> on
> Saturday. These two meeting rooms are the add-on space at the north end of
> the meeting-room square.
>
>
>
> Returning to the east-west hallway, where the check-in desk is located, and
> walking west past the sales and catering corridor, you come to the second
> corridor leading north. This is opposite the check-in desk. Walking north
> in
> this carpeted hall, you pass the west door into the Aspen Room. If you stay
> to the right walking north, you will walk straight into the back door to
> the
> Mulberry room referred to above. Just to the left of that door is the door
> to the Sycamore Room, and west of that room is the Cypress Room. These two
> rooms are the hospitality room on Friday night.
>
>
>
> On the west side of the south-north corridor is a door into the Board Room,
> and around the corner in the east-west corridor that passes the Cypress
> Room
> is another door into the Board Room. If you walk further west in this hall,
> you will cross the third of the north-south hallways. Just beyond this hall
> you will find a door on the south side of the hall, which leads into the
> Juniper Room. There is a second door into this room which is on the south
> end of the room and leads to the east-west hallway just outside the
> Simmering Pot Restaurant. There are restrooms on the east wall of the third
> north-south hall, as well as the Butternut Room, which lies between the
> restrooms and the main east-west hallway. When you leave the carpeting,
> walking south, you will know that you are back in the main east-west hall.
> When you cross this hall, you will enter Vinnie's Lounge. The Simmering Pot
> Restaurant is on your right at the west end of the hall, and the front door
> of the hotel is to your left.
>
>
>
> When you begin walking east toward the check-in desk, you will pick up the
> carpeting leading south into the sleeping-room area. This is the stem of
> the
> T. All of the elevators are on the stem: the first two pairs of cars are on
> the left, and the third, single elevator is on the right, almost at the
> junction of the stem of the T with the cross piece. The left or east arm of
> the cross piece is shorter than the west arm. The sleeping rooms all have
> ADA signs. Even-numbered rooms are on the right, and odd-numbered rooms are
> on the left. Large circular mirrors with thick frames are hung at shoulder
> height alternately right and left in the hall, so be careful not to hug the
> walls as you walk, or you could locate the mirrors the hard way. There are
> ice and soft drink machines near all the elevators. On floors one and six
> there are rooms with a coin-operated washer and dryer. These are located
> just after the second elevator bay. There are three sets of elevators on
> the
> stem of the T. The first two sets go all the way to the sixth floor; the
> last elevator goes only to floor five. That elevator is located on the
> right
> (west) side of the hall almost at the cross piece hall, and there are only
> five floors of rooms on the cross piece.
>
>
>
> A door leading to a dog-relief area on the west side of the corridor is
> across the hall from the second set of elevators. This is a large grassy
> area, and trash receptacles will be placed outside the door for your
> convenience. Remember to take your room key card with you in order to get
> back into the hotel.
>
>
>
> I will conclude with my usual plea: do not just read through this article
> once and then feel frustrated because you do not have a perfect map of the
> hotel in your mind. Read through it carefully several times. Consciously
> construct the map in your mind. Making maps is one of the skills of
> blindness, but it takes practice to do it quickly. Use this article as a
> way
> of developing the skill.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> What Is the Gavel Award Anyway? <>
>
> by Cheryl Fields
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Cheryl Fields chairs the Awards Committee. She is convinced
> of the value of the Gavel Award program. This is what she says:
>
>
>
> The beginnings of the Gavel Award seem to be lost in the mists of time. I
> have asked around, and no one knows of any other state affiliate in the NFB
> that conducts anything like Ohio's contest. I find this very surprising
> because it seems such a good idea.
>
>
>
> Because it is such a valuable teaching tool, people seem to assume
> naturally
> that Bob Eschbach came up with the idea, probably in 1973, when he became
> president of the NFB of Ohio. This is the way Barbara Pierce explains her
> thinking: The challenge always facing a state president is how to get a
> range of chapters to think carefully about how well they are doing at the
> things that count in the Federation. After all, we have both experienced
> and
> brand new chapters. We have ones that are tired of doing the necessary
> activities and those who are excited about tackling the problems of
> blindness. We have energetic ones and ones who are tired of raising money.
> How do we get them all to look at their programming and evaluate how well
> they are doing, never mind building their enthusiasm to the point where
> they
> will find the energy to try new things?
>
>
>
> The Gavel Award questionnaire has evolved through the years. Lots of people
> have chaired the Awards Committee. In the eighties we began assigning point
> totals for the various program areas being assessed. It took time for
> chapters to become comfortable answering questions about how they spend
> their funds and for that matter how they raise them. But the truth is that
> we can all learn from each other.
>
>
>
> I don't know when we began asking divisions to compete in a similar
> program,
> but that too has been a good idea. The competition establishes the
> expectation that divisions will conduct programs throughout the year. This
> is not an easy project for groups with people spread across the state, but,
> if we are going to bother with organizing divisions, they had better have
> some reason to exist.
>
>
>
> We do not demand that every chapter or division complete the Gavel Award
> form. We have groups so new or fragile that trying to complete the form
> might finish them off, and we certainly do not want to scare leaders away.
> But by completing the form, people can learn a lot about what their
> chapters
> are doing as compared with other chapters. It is useful to keep the
> questions in mind when the group or the officers are planning activities in
> the late winter or the spring: maybe we could get a state senator to come
> to
> the meeting. Could we share transportation with a nearby chapter to get to
> the Columbus Seminar? What could we do for Braille Literacy week? How
> should
> we spend our money? These are all decisions that should be shaped at least
> in part by the recollection that the Gavel Award report is coming up.
>
>
>
> If your chapter is so new or so exhausted that you can't face filling out
> the form, just write a paragraph telling our president what you have done
> this year. Maybe your group would be a candidate for the Membership
> Committee to visit and help you rebuild. But if your group is active and
> engaged in changing what it means to be blind in your neck of the woods,
> gather a small group together with the minutes from the meetings of the
> last
> year, and compile your answers to the questionnaire. The Awards Committee
> wants to hear from you.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Impressions of My First National Convention <>
>
> by Trisha Kulkarni
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Trisha Kulkarnie was one of the thirty scholarship finalists
> at the 2018 national convention. She lost her sight suddenly in middle
> school, but she did not let that complication to her life distract her from
> her academic goals. She learned Braille so that she could do her math
> assignments, and she built a distinguished academic record for herself in
> high school in Centerville. She will be attending Stanford University in
> the
> fall. She spent this summer at the Colorado Center for the Blind in CCB's
> intensive college readiness program. She is now packing for her freshman
> year. Here are some of her reflections about the convention, where she was
> awarded the Oracle Scholarship for Excellence in Computer Science for
> $8,000:
>
>
>
> My pulse begins drumming in my ears as I leave my dad's side, mount the
> stairs, and find my place on the banquet stage. It has been an exciting
> week
> of new friendships and opportunities, but now it was time for the final
> moment everyone had been waiting for. I hear the thousands of spectators in
> the audience take in a collective breath of excitement, and the scholarship
> presentation begins.
>
>
>
> Looking back, it is quite humbling to think about the power one phone call
> had to change the course of my life as I knew it. In early May I received a
> call from Sachin Pavathran informing me that I had been chosen to be a part
> of the 2018 NFB scholarship class and that I would be attending the
> national
> convention in July. At the time I was completely oblivious of the
> incredible
> opportunity I had been given--not recognizing how difficult it had been to
> be selected for such an honor. However, after attending the national
> convention in Orlando, Florida, and as I prepare to move across the country
> to begin my undergraduate studies, I can't help feeling overwhelmed with
> gratitude for the empowering experience I had this summer. Despite not
> knowing many other blind individuals and being the only blind student in my
> high school, I was fortunate enough to have many people in school who
> devoted time and effort to help me succeed. Little did I know that
> attending
> convention following graduation would expand my scope of community far past
> the boundaries of my hometown and open new doors to live an independent and
> fulfilling life.
>
>
>
> From the moment I walked into the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and heard the
> echo of thousands of canes tapping through the halls, I knew that attending
> a national convention would be like no other experience I had had before.
> To
> be perfectly honest, I was quite scared to be traveling through such a
> massive hotel independently while trying to juggle the busy schedule of a
> scholarship finalist. By no means was it easy to stay oriented among the
> crowds of people, but I came to find that there is a certain thrill that
> comes only from finding your way in such a vast environment. For the first
> time in my life, I had the freedom to venture out and discover my
> surroundings without the fear of embarrassment or judgment. Whether it was
> rushing to meet my mentor for breakfast or exploring with friends late at
> night, I learned that I was capable of navigating the convention madness
> independent of my sighted peers, and as I trod through the frenzied halls,
> I
> began to find my own direction and purpose.
>
>
>
> With this realization I felt liberated to dive into the many exciting
> events
> and opportunities the convention had to offer. I came to appreciate that
> the
> NFB is responsible for many of the progressive efforts that bridge the gap
> between blind individuals and their dreams. From trips to the Independence
> Market to listening to the Ohio caucus meeting, there seemed to be an
> endless number of opportunities to find resources. I attended division
> meetings on topics from computer science to handling a guide dog and gained
> exposure to new innovative technology such as 3D printing and smart
> glasses.
> Through joining NABS, the National Association of Blind Students, I learned
> of the resources and tools that have been most useful for students in
> college and beyond. Although it was impossible to find time for all of the
> events that interested me, what was most empowering to me was to realize
> that, no matter what a person's background and interests are, there is a
> place for them within the Federation.
>
>
>
> But more valuable than the resources and exposure I gained from coming to
> convention were the relationships I built as a part of the scholarship
> class. Having met only a few blind people in my entire life, I found that
> the national convention was the first time I had the opportunity to network
> with blind people of all ages, pursuits, and values. I met students who
> faced similar academic barriers in the classroom. I connected with
> professionals who share the same interests as I have, and, perhaps most
> comforting, I found people who share my same roots. The Ohio delegation
> welcomed me into their family with open arms and a shared determination to
> help me succeed. On the final day of convention, my dad surprised me by
> coming to watch the banquet, so I unfortunately was not able to sit with
> the
> delegation the final night, but I nevertheless felt my state proudly
> cheering me on as I accepted my award. Although I will be attending college
> in California, Ohio will always be the place I call home, and I am so
> appreciative for the support the NFB of Ohio has shown me.
>
>
>
> Additionally, I had the privilege to be mentored by members of the
> scholarship committee throughout the week of events. At first I was nervous
> to be spending time with such impressive and experienced members of the
> NFB,
> but I soon understood that the mentoring program is not meant to be a test
> but a remarkable asset. Especially as a new member, I had many questions
> about the structure and function of the organization, and having role
> models
> to guide me through the process made my experience much more rewarding.
> Despite their busy schedules, it was empowering to see how the members of
> the scholarship committee devoted time to advising their mentees and
> helping
> them get the most out of their time. Whether it was the many phone calls I
> made to Barbara Pierce prior to my departure for Florida, the hushed
> conversations I had with Pam Allen during general sessions after her
> re-election, or the in-depth discussion about my academic goals with
> Kathryn
> Webster over lunch, I will carry the connections and memories I created as
> a
> finalist with me no matter where my life takes me.
>
>
>
> Although convention is now over and it is time to start my undergraduate
> career in a few short weeks, I can't help feeling it is only the beginning
> of my work with the NFB. Since leaving Orlando, I have joined the
> fundraising committee of the California Association of Blind Students and
> have kept in touch with members of my scholarship class. The financial gift
> that I received will certainly be helpful in funding my academic endeavors,
> but I will forever be grateful for the relationships and ongoing resources
> that my scholarship has provided me with. I know that, with the force of
> the
> NFB behind me, I will turn my dreams into reality and live the life I want.
>
>
>
> It seems as though time slows down onstage as we wait for the awards to be
> presented, but finally the names begin to be called, and I listen intently.
> Disbelief takes over as first five then ten then fifteen names get called,
> and I do not hear my name. Did I miss it? Suddenly we are down to the last
> few, and I hear Ms. Mendes announce, "Trisha Kulkarni, Ohio, California!" I
> feel a grin take over my face and the crowd applauds. As the memory of the
> many moments that brought me to this moment flow through my mind, tears
> fill
> my eyes, and I am overcome with gratitude for the experience of a lifetime.
> I know that this moment will be one that I remember for a long time, and I
> think to myself, "I can't wait to return again next year."
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Editor's Musings <>
>
> by Barbara Pierce
>
>
>
> For the past several weeks I have been thinking a lot about the NFB's
> one-minute message. The longer I reflect on it, the better and truer I find
> it. When our leaders were working on NFB branding several years ago, they
> quite consciously sat down with experts to try to distill what the NFB
> stands for in a few words, in fact ideas that could be expressed in under a
> minute. We talk a lot about Federation philosophy, and we in Ohio have
> spent
> hours at state conventions discussing our philosophy, but the challenge is
> to reduce it to a few words. If you can't quote the message, here it is:
>
>
>
> The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
> characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
> expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles
> between blind people and our dreams. We can live the lives we want;
> blindness is not what holds us back.
>
>
>
> You may notice that the final sentence is a little different from the
> version we used in the beginning, but I recently saw this version in
> something from the national office, and I like it better. It is the second
> sentence that is the powerful one to my mind because it directly addresses
> what President George W. Bush referred to as "the soft bigotry of low
> expectations." Moreover, it seems to me that raising expectations is among
> the best things that we do for blind people. Blind people get to know newly
> blind folks, and immediately they understand that they have the possibility
> to do things they had only dreamed of doing. Blind adults get to know
> families with blind children, and immediately they transform the
> expectations that the parents have for their blind children. Seniors losing
> vision meet competent blind seniors, and suddenly their futures open out in
> ways that they had thought were impossible. The damage done to us all by
> low
> expectations is criminal, and this is why we must do everything we can to
> prevent those obstacles from getting between blind people and our dreams.
>
>
>
> All this has come to mind in new ways because of an applicant
> recommendation
> that I read this spring in Ohio's scholarship program. I have been reading
> and assessing letters of recommendation for scholarship applicants for
> almost thirty-five years now. These are intended to be letters from those
> who know the academic or work lives of our applicants. Ideally students ask
> people to write recommendations who can speak to the excellence of their
> scholarship or mastery of their field of study or their work ethic or
> ability to lead their peers or something notable about the student that it
> would be helpful for us to know and to learn from an objective third party.
> I have seen all sorts of unfortunate letters from next-door neighbors,
> Sunday school teachers, Boy Scout leaders, and aunts. But this spring I
> read
> probably the worst letter of recommendation I have ever seen. Sadly, it was
> from an OOD counselor. Some students, typically high school seniors, make
> the mistake of assuming that their vision teacher or rehabilitation
> counselor would be a good person to ask for a recommendation. Like those
> students who ask their ministers or parents, these students assume that the
> blindness professionals know them well and can speak to their blindness
> skills and will understand the challenges they face academically. They
> probably do understand these issues. The miscalculation is that as blind
> people ourselves we know something about blindness and therefore presume
> that we can assess adjustment to blindness for ourselves. We are looking
> for
> expert evaluation of educational, athletic, work, or internship skills.
>
>
>
> The first problem with this recommendation is that it was a PDF that none
> of
> us using access technology could read. We have all worked out
> accommodations
> for this problem, but it seems gratuitously insulting for a professional
> who
> should know about the PDF problem to inconvenience the committee by sending
> an inaccessible letter to a group likely to be composed of screen-reader
> users. In passing I should remind readers that several years ago two
> college
> students brought the problem of inaccessible documents from OOD to the
> attention of the OOD administrators addressing the NFB of Ohio convention.
> Their response was to regret the difficulty and promise to look into the
> problem. Clearly they did not solve it.
>
>
>
> But back to the current recommendation letter. As an example of the
> student's strong work ethic, the counselor mentioned that this student was
> always early to their meetings. For our convenience the counselor provided
> discussion headings in the letter. These were communication, interpersonal
> skills, mobility, self-care skills, and work skills. With clear admiration
> the counselor called special attention to the student's independent flight
> to another state for summer classes. In passing the counselor mentioned
> that
> the student traveled in familiar areas without a cane despite having what
> were characterized as excellent cane skills. If I had read such a
> recommendation for a young high school student, I might have been
> impressed,
> but college students should be far beyond assessment of daily living and
> communication skills in a scholarship recommendation.
>
>
>
> The entire recommendation was an exercise in demonstrating low
> expectations.
> JW Smith and Caroline Peters are going to have their hands full as members
> of the new Consumer Advisory Council. I have no idea how they will go about
> raising the quality of the rehabilitation services offered when counselors
> like this one do not believe in the abilities of the people they are
> advising.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Optioning Home <>
>
> by Eric Duffy
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Eric Duffy is the immediate past president of the NFB of
> Ohio, a position he held for almost four years. He has never stopped caring
> about and helping our affiliate during the years of his absence. Here is
> what he has to say about coming home:
>
>
>
> As far back as I can remember, sports have been a big part of my life. When
> I was very young, they were an annoyance. I can't believe that I just wrote
> that! But I remember trying to figure out why my dad and brothers liked
> baseball and football so much. However, it didn't take me long to clamber
> onto the band wagon. By 1970 I was a Cincinnati Reds fan. Not long after
> that I came to love the game of baseball as a whole. Then, of course, came
> football. I remember being very unhappy when one of my favorite players was
> traded in either sport. "What? How could they get rid of him? What's wrong
> with this team?" I asked. I often wondered how it might feel to find out
> all
> of a sudden that your home was in a new city. In the last couple of years I
> have gotten a little taste of that.
>
>
>
> I have never been a professional athlete. I have not been traded by a team
> of any kind. However, in 2016 I moved from Ohio to New Jersey to take a job
> with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired and
> finally to become one with my childhood sweetheart Shelley. Although it was
> hard for me to leave my Federation family in Ohio, I got a great deal. One
> might say I exercised an option to move to New Jersey.
>
>
>
> Then in 2017 I exercised an option to move to Baltimore to become the
> director of access technology for the National Federation of the Blind.
> Shelley also moved to Baltimore, and we were married on September 10.
> Since
> August of 2017 she has served as the receptionist at the National
> Federation
> of the Blind's Jernigan Institute.
>
>
>
> Before I was ever offered the director of access technology position, I
> told
> President Riccobono that I wanted to move away from technology work on a
> daily basis. However, we both agreed that I would give this job a try.
> There
> is no doubt that I love the National Federation of the Blind, and it seemed
> to make sense that I should come to work for the Federation.
>
>
>
> What does any of this have to do with sports? Well, once again, I am not
> being traded to Ohio, but I am opting to come home. I am bringing another
> player with me, and together we are a team. But we will join the bigger
> team
> of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio. President Payne has said
> many times now, "One team, one goal." I am excited about being a part of
> the
> Ohio team again. I will support the work of the National Federation of the
> Blind of Ohio in any way I can.
>
>
>
> As president Richard has my support in the way that Dr. tenBroek had the
> young Kenneth Jernigan's support. Dr. Jernigan told Dr. tenBroek that, as
> long as he agreed with 51 percent of what tenBroek was doing, he had 100
> percent of Jernigan's support. That is exactly the commitment I make to the
> Ohio affiliate and to President Payne. That is exactly what I expected of
> Richard when he served as my vice president.
>
>
>
> To resume my sports analogy, I look at the current situation with Lebron
> James. Lebron left the Miami Heat to return to his home town of Cleveland.
> He recently opted out of his contract with Cleveland to play for the Los
> Angeles Lakers. Lebron could have made more money if he had stayed in
> Cleveland. But he wanted to go where he believes he will have the
> supporting
> cast to help him win another championship. In my own case I could have
> chosen to remain in Baltimore and have real job security. But I have
> decided
> to come back home. I too believe I am once again joining a winning
> organization. I am rejoining one team with one goal.
>
>
>
> I have been proud to hear about the new members who have joined the Ohio
> affiliate over the last two years. I am also pleased to see that Richard
> has
> managed to bring many people off the bench and put them in starting roles
> on
> the team.
>
>
>
> The game plan and the execution in the Ohio General Assembly have been
> carried out well. Richard has grown and matured in the presidency of the
> affiliate in the same way that our predecessors and I had to do. He has had
> a good support team in place, and on occasion I have also provided support
> from a distance. Richard has not hesitated to ask for the advice and
> support
> that he has needed, and that is the mark of a good leader.  It felt like
> home week sitting in the Ohio delegation during the national convention,
> and
> I look forward to coming back home and playing my assigned role on the
> team.
> I will put all that I have to give into the work of the National Federation
> of the Blind. We are the World Champions in the blindness field, and I am
> proud to contribute to our success in any way that I can.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> From the President's Desk <>
>
> by Richard Payne
>
>
>
> Many of you know that I like to joke and have fun. I believe that laughter
> is the best medicine. However, when it comes to the service I give the
> National Federation of the Blind, all jokes are out the door. I started my
> quest for knowledge and liberation within this organization at the age of
> 17. Although it has been many decades of work with some challenges
> sprinkled
> along the way, I would not change anything. It was the NFB that taught me
> to
> be assertive, independent, and informed about what it means to be blind in
> a
> positive manner.
>
>
>
> The philosophy of the organization means more to me than ever before.
> Blindness is not the characteristic that defines me or my future. This is
> evident as I have served as your Ohio Affiliate President for the past few
> years. There is a place in this organization for all. It is through love,
> hope, and determination that I will do everything to the best of my ability
> to help transform dreams into reality.  There is no "I" in we and no "me"
> in
> us. It will take all of us collectively to combat negative attitudes and
> barriers.
>
>
>
> As we move closer to the end of our Affiliate's fiscal year, the work of
> the
> Federation must continue with purpose and strength. For instance, with the
> new State of Ohio Rehabilitation Council and with the changes in the OOD
> administration, we must continue to be in the forefront and be ready to
> help
> frame, reframe, and develop policies that will benefit the blind of Ohio. I
> think that over the next few years rehabilitation will undergo some drastic
> alterations-some maybe we won't be in favor of. Nevertheless, the
> Federation
> has always been a leader in the field of blindness and will continue to
> fight to guard against programs and policies that do not reflect our best
> interest.
>
>
>
> The NFB of Ohio has represented and advocated for blind people across Ohio
> for many years. To understand where we are going, we must honor our past
> and
> embrace the present moment. We must prepare and arm ourselves for what is
> to
> come in 2019. Moreover, we all must play an active role in shaping the
> future of the National Federation of the Blind and services for blind
> people
> in Ohio. It is important for you to realize the power within you and the
> responsibility we all have. We must ensure that we continue working forward
> to carry the charge and lead the way. You are an essential piece of the
> Federation's power, not just in numbers but by being an active member.
>
>
>
> For the last two years we have visited the Statehouse in Columbus and have
> begun gaining new friends. The work has been critical and will benefit all
> blind people throughout the state. Yet we must dedicate ourselves to living
> the Federation's philosophy regardless of the battles we face.
>
>
>
> Finally, the National Federation of the Blind is always moving, and it is
> even more important to rally the troops now with so many changes in
> policies, laws, and regulations that affect us. In the words of Dr.
> Jernigan, "We are the movement. We are the blind. Join me on the
> barricades!
> We know who we are, and we will never go back!" The National Federation of
> the Blind will not turn back to earning subminimum wages, receiving
> inadequate rehabilitation services, being portrayed negatively, dismissed,
> and overlooked. We are a network of tens of thousands of blind people
> changing what it means to be blind, living full lives. Together, with love,
> hope, and determination, the members of the National Federation of the
> Blind
> transform dreams into reality. You can live the life you want. Do not let
> blindness hold you back!
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Meet the 2018 Scholarship Class <>
>
> by JW Smith
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Dr. Smith chairs the Scholarship Committee this year. Here
> is
> his introduction to the 2018 scholarship class:
>
>
>
> It is a joy and a privilege to serve as the 2018 chair of our NFB of Ohio
> Scholarship Committee. The other committee members are Barbara Pierce, Bob
> Pierce, Emily Pennington, and Lucas Cassi. We began our task by revising
> the
> scholarship information and circulating it as widely as possible in an
> effort to solicit interested applicants. We were not disappointed with
> either the process or the pool of applicants. After a conference call
> consultation, the committee selected these three finalists. Ladies first,
> please-Lillie Pennington. Lillie Pennington is no stranger to our
> affiliate.
> It has not taken her long to make meaningful contributions to our movement
> and success. Lillie is on track to graduate a year early with three
> academic
> minors. She is a student at Northern Kentucky University majoring in social
> work. Lillie also continues to be involved with activist and awareness
> organizations for LGBTQ+ communities. Lillie served last summer as an
> intern
> at our Kenneth Jernigan Institute under the tutelage of Anil Lewis. I
> believe this paragraph from her personal statement captures the essence of
> Lillie Pennington:
>
>
>
> Last fall, I had a homework assignment in a class on child abuse in social
> work that required me to look at a picture and identify ten risk factors
> about a home that may indicate signs of child abuse. There was no
> alternative assignment, and my professor had not discussed this with me
> beforehand. Luckily, a quick email inquiry fixed the situation relatively
> quickly, and she was more mindful in the future about accommodations for
> these types of assignments. Not dissimilar from this experience, in the
> process of obtaining an updated transcript as part of the requirements for
> this scholarship application, I ran into an inaccessible website that
> prevented me from downloading this document. Through contacting the
> registrar, I learned that I had to go to them and that I could only obtain
> a
> hard copy and that the technology center would scan and email it to me. I
> left having a bad taste in my mouth and with the knowledge that I would see
> what I could do to change this policy. Contacting Disability Services to
> inform them of this issue resulted in an accessible website to access final
> grades, download transcripts, and register for classes: all things that I
> had been struggling with since starting college.
>
>
>
> Michael Molchan is a name and individual you will probably remember from
> last year. He was a winner last year, and he impressed the committee again
> this year with the record he has amassed as a freshman. Mr. Molchan is a
> Dean's List student at Miami University, double majoring in business
> economics and finance. Michael works at the Student Success Center at Miami
> University, reading children's literature on topics of diversity to
> elementary students, and he teaches martial arts in his spare time. Michael
> also has a melodious voice, and his speaking capacity is effective and
> exemplary. I admit that this may be the rhetorician and public speaking
> professor coming out right now, but, nevertheless, it is true. Here is how
> Michael ends his personal statement:
>
>
>
> I can put how I deal with blindness in two words: "dots and trust." I trust
> that these dots will connect. That connection lies beyond Miami University.
> I might go to law school. I might pursue an MBA program with a
> concentration
> in finance. I might publish my eBook in the next few years and share it
> with
> more than two elementary schools. But I might let the dots connect
> themselves, because blindness does not control my life. How could it? How
> could it when I trust that somehow, someway, my dots will connect.
>
>
>
> You will probably also remember Mr. Robert Sabwami, one of the 2017
> scholarship winners. Like Michael, he clearly demonstrated that he should
> receive a second look and the opportunity to impress us one more time.
> Robert is a graduate student at Wright State University, where he is
> studying to be an intervention specialist in special education. Mr. Sabwami
> has a wife and children and is originally from Africa, but now he is a U.S.
> citizen. He told me during one of my phone conversations with him that
> becoming a U.S. citizen was one of the proudest days of his life. Notice
> how
> this paragraph from his personal statement is the stuff that our philosophy
> exudes:
>
>
>
> In short, the journey toward self-actualization was long and tortuous, the
> climb was steep, and the quest to realize my potential remained a mirage.
> Fortunately, I established a network of friends, who, unlike my family,
> embrace me all the way. Through these connections I was introduced to
> Braille and adaptive computer technology. Once again I could read books and
> personal mail; transact business; browse the internet; create electronic
> files; and communicate with whomever I want at will. With these newly
> founded skills, I regained independence, and I was able to take control of
> my life.
>
>
>
> Please welcome our 2018 scholarship class to our NFB of Ohio family! They
> will be with us at our state convention November 2-4 in Strongsville, Ohio.
> It is my hope that they will be even more visible this year and have the
> chance to get to know us even better. Each of them brings their unique
> narratives and experiences to our movement and we should do all that we can
> to facilitate their matriculation through our movement. Please take
> advantage of every opportunity you get to meet and greet them and to
> encourage their participation in both our convention and affiliate.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> The Greater Akron Chapter Is on the Move <>
>
> by Dave Bertsch
>
>
>
> It was another beautiful Akron, Ohio, morning on July 21, 2018, when our
> new
> Greater Akron Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio was
> established. NFB of Ohio President Richard Payne and Cleveland Chapter
> President Suzanne Turner both shared inspiring words and a clear mission
> with the almost twenty attendees of this Founders Meeting.
>
>
>
> But this meeting was for launching a new chapter, so participant names were
> taken, and new Federationists were welcomed to the newest Chapter. We made
> nominations, and then we cast our votes, and suddenly our new Greater Akron
> Chapter had a Board. From day one we have an exceptional Board-talented
> leaders committed to helping their neighbors and making a difference for
> blind people in Akron. I really look forward to serving with our Vice
> President Kiana Hill, our Treasurer Eric Smith, and our board member Mary
> Weldon. My wife Stephanie Bertsch will serve as Chapter Secretary. But she
> says, even though I'm President, I still can't boss her. Rats.
>
>
>
> Having been elected President of this newest chapter in Ohio, I'm very
> honored and excited to be part of the awesome NFB team and mission we have
> in Ohio and nationally. Since that morning with much help we've been
> getting
> people and papers and plans in place. The Independence Market is sending
> materials to help us serve the blind and their families in the greater
> Akron
> area, and our first chapter meeting is in the works.
>
>
>
> I'd like to thank Richard, who criss-crosses our state to champion the NFB
> mission, and is a terrific example of living to help others to live the
> lives they want. Thanks also to Suzanne Turner for her untiring service and
> wealth of knowledge and for helping get our new Board and Chapter on track.
>
>
>
> A big thanks to Scott Reisberg from the Akron Blind Center. When asked to
> speak, Scott focused on the benefits of our organizations working side by
> side, and then shared an uplifting message of survivors and champions over
> adversity.
>
>
>
> Thanks also to Tom Sawyer at the Cleveland Sight Center and Dr. Cheryl Reed
> at UDS Akron, for many years of serving the blind community and for adding
> to our chapter kickoff.
>
>
>
> And big thanks to our state board members, many of whom have reached out
> personally. All of our state leaders have helped get this chapter up and
> running, and it is their daily support of each NFB of Ohio member that
> enables our opportunities and impact.
>
>
>
> The NFB is a compassionate yet determined group, making a real difference
> for the blind and their families, raising expectations and showing each of
> us we can live the life we want, I'm honored to be part of this incredible
> organization.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Vote for Your Life <>
>
> by Eric Duffy
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Eric Duffy is a political animal. Here is his plea to
> everyone to vote in this fall's election. This is what he says:
>
>
>
> From the time I can remember, I have had an interest in politics. Better
> yet, I should say I have had a desire to vote. Long before I was eligible
> to
> vote, I wanted my vote to count. I remember having voting machines at
> school
> in order to have the experience of voting. We could vote in the big -ticket
> races such as president or governor.
>
>
>
> Rarely have I missed an opportunity to vote in an election of any kind
> since
> I turned eighteen. I regret those few elections in which I did not vote. I
> believe my vote counts, and I am proud to live in a country where my vote
> matters and where I am free to vote the way I choose to. I have the right
> to
> cast a secret ballot independently.
>
>
>
> Blind people have not always been able to vote independently and secretly.
> There was a time when blind people who needed assistance voting had to take
> a representative from the Democratic and Republican Parties into the voting
> booth. Each of these people got to know how the blind person voted, and so
> did anyone who might have overheard the person indicate his or her vote.
> Through the work of the National Federation of the Blind the late Senator
> Howard Metsenbaum of Ohio introduced and fought hard for legislation which
> permitted a blind person to take someone of his or her choosing into the
> voting booth.
>
>
>
> Florida's hanging chad problem during the election of 2000 fundamentally
> changed the method Americans used for voting. Legislation was quickly
> passed
> mandating that all states use electronic voting systems. The conspiracy
> theorists then came out of the woodwork. They claimed that the machine
> manufacturers were going to throw the elections. Votes weren't going to be
> counted.
>
>
>
> The federal law that was passed was the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). In
> Ohio I was involved with the work of the Secretary of State's office as
> they
> worked to implement the HAVA legislation. I heard about how many boxes of
> ballots were left in trunks of cars, basements of courthouses, etc. How
> many
> votes didn't get counted before electronic voting machines came along? Who
> knows?
>
>
>
> Be that as it may, blind people took advantage of a golden opportunity that
> was laid in our laps. We said that, if there is going to be electronic
> voting, the machines have to be nonvisually accessible. It wasn't long
> after
> that that blind people could independently cast a secret ballot.
>
>
>
> All of this is a brief history lesson, or perhaps just a stroll down memory
> lane for me. It only tangentially ties into this article. What's the point
> of this article? I want to encourage you to vote.
>
>
>
> The deadline to register to vote in the next general election is October 9.
> Please register and vote. If you vote, your vote will count. It means
> something. Justin Dart Jr., RSA commissioner and American activist helpful
> in passing the Americans with Disabilities Act, is famous for having said,
> "Vote as if your life depends on it, because it does."
>
>
>
> This was driven home for me in a forceful way on my second day back in the
> state of Ohio. I attended an Ohio candidate forum on disabilities issues.
> The Democratic and Republican candidates for senator and governor were
> invited. Both Senate candidates sent surrogates. The Democratic candidate
> for governor, Richard Cordray, came and addressed the group. That said a
> lot
> to me. The Republican gubernatorial candidate, current Attorney General
> Michael DeWine, did not bother to show up, nor did he bother to send anyone
> in his place. That also told me a lot. That message is not one that most
> politicians want to send. Most politicians don't want to tell a group of
> constituents that they don't matter unless they believe that the group is
> not strong enough to hurt them. Let everyone know that we matter. Let your
> vote be counted in November. Study the positions of each candidate. Cast
> your vote intelligently. Your vote counts. Your vote matters.
>
>
>
> The next governor will make major policy decisions that will affect the
> blind and others with disabilities for years to come. These decisions will
> put money into programs on which we rely. The wrong decisions will take
> money away from programs on which we rely. The next governor will appoint
> the director of the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities agency. He
> will also appoint members to the council that provides the agency with
> consumer input. Whom will you vote for? Whom will you give the power to
> make
> these critical decisions? Will you give it to the man who said by his
> actions and not his words, you don't matter? Will you give it to the man
> who
> said by both his actions and his words, you do matter? You matter enough
> for
> me to be present in your gathering. I want you to know my thoughts on
> issues
> of importance to you, and I want to know what you think.
>
>
>
> Don't tell me your decision. Just independently cast that secret ballot.
> Once again the National Federation of the Blind has made it easy for you to
> do so. You can do it by requesting an absentee ballot if you choose to do
> so. Here are two articles that appeared on the Disability Rights Ohio
> website:
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> She Wanted to Cast Her Absentee Ballot Privately and Independently
>
> by Stacy Brannan-Smith
>
>
>
> Shelbi Hindel has voted in every election since she turned 18. Because she
> is blind, she needed help to read the ballot for many years, relying on
> someone to read it aloud to her and trusting them to vote the way she
> wanted
> to. Accessible voting machines with screen-reading technology were helpful,
> but getting to the polls can be difficult for her, especially since her
> polling location was moved to a community center that is not within walking
> distance or on a bus line. Those problems made absentee voting at home
> really appealing, but Ohio's absentee voting process has been paper-based,
> so she'd again have to find someone to read the ballot to her and mark it
> on
> her behalf. She found it unacceptable that she had to give up her privacy.
>
>
>
> "I don't want to trust someone to fill out an absentee ballot for me," she
> says. "If you want to share, that is your prerogative, but you shouldn't be
> forced into sharing that with anyone." So, when the National Federation of
> the Blind approached Disability Rights Ohio about filing a lawsuit to
> challenge the inaccessible absentee voting process, she proudly became a
> named plaintiff in the suit. Hindel v. Husted <
> <
> https://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/disability-rights-ohio-lawsuit-cl
> aims-ohio-secretary-of-states-voting
> <https://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/disability-rights-ohio-lawsuit-claims-ohio-secretary-of-states-voting>
> >
>
> https://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/disability-rights-ohio-lawsuit-cla
> ims-ohio-secretary-of-states-voting
> <https://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/disability-rights-ohio-lawsuit-claims-ohio-secretary-of-states-voting>>
> was filed in December 2015.
>
>
>
> DRO and its co-counsel, Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP, successfully pursued
> the case through the United States District Court and the Court of Appeals
> for the Sixth Circuit. Now, after more than two years, Ohio is preparing to
> launch <
> <
> http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/ohio-requires-accessible-absentee-
> ballots-for-the-blind
> <http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/ohio-requires-accessible-absentee-ballots-for-the-blind>
> >
>
> http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/ohio-requires-accessible-absentee-b
> allots-for-the-blind
> <http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/news/ohio-requires-accessible-absentee-ballots-for-the-blind>>
> accessible absentee ballot marking tools in time for
> the November 6, 2018, General Election. In a directive issued in January <
> <
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/elections/directives/2018/dir2018-
> 03.pdf
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/elections/directives/2018/dir2018-03.pdf>
> >
>
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/elections/directives/2018/dir2018-0
> 3.pdf
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/globalassets/elections/directives/2018/dir2018-03.pdf>>,
> Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted told county boards of elections
> that they must select, test, and implement such a tool by September 1.
> Voters with print disabilities will be able to request the digital absentee
> ballot, which will allow them to use screen-reading technology to read the
> ballot and mark it before printing it, signing it, and mailing it in.
> Shelbi
> is excited for this new option that will allow her to vote privately and
> independently like any other voter. She hopes it will encourage more people
> with disabilities to cast a ballot. "We have so much to be thankful for,
> and
> we should not take that for granted," she says. "We should vote."
>
>
>
> Reporter Rick Reitzel from NBC 4 in Columbus interviewed Shelbi and DRO
> Attorney Jason Boylan about the case. Watch and read that story here <
> <
> http://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/blind-woman-helps-guide-successful-vot
> ing-rights-lawsuit-against-the-state/1119261364
> <http://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/blind-woman-helps-guide-successful-voting-rights-lawsuit-against-the-state/1119261364>
> >
>
> http://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/blind-woman-helps-guide-successful-voti
> ng-rights-lawsuit-against-the-state/1119261364
> <http://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/blind-woman-helps-guide-successful-voting-rights-lawsuit-against-the-state/1119261364>
> >.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Early Voting Has Begun for May 8 Primary
>
>
>
> Voting in Ohio is underway for the May 8 Primary Election. Although the
> accessible absentee ballot marking tool is not available yet, all Ohio
> voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot <
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/publications/#abr>
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/publications/#abr> by noon on Saturday, May 5.
> Absentee ballots <
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters/absentee-voting/#byMail>
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters/absentee-voting/#byMail> must
> be postmarked on or before Monday, May 7. Early, in-person voting hours <
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters/voting-schedule/>
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters/voting-schedule/> are also
> available weekdays through April and every day May 1 through May 7. Check
> with your county board of elections <
> <
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-
> elections-directory/
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-elections-directory/>
> >
>
> https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-e
> lections-directory/
> <https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/elections-officials/county-boards-of-elections-directory/>>
> to find your early, in-person voting location.
>
>
>
> If you have questions about voting or problems voting because of your
> disability, contact DRO at 800-282-9181 and select option 2 for intake. You
> can also find many voting resources on the Voting page <
> <http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/voting>
> http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/voting> of our Self-Advocacy Resource
> Center < <http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/resource-center>
> http://www.disabilityrightsohio.org/resource-center>.
>
>
>
> Lou Ann Blake, who manages the voting projects for the National Federation
> of the Blind, is also prepared to assist you with voting concerns. Before
> election day both DRO and NFB will provide numbers to call should you have
> difficulty obtaining an accessible absentee ballot or problems voting when
> you arrive at your polling place. Remember to vote as if your life depends
> on it, because it does.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> The Value of Mentors <>
>
> by Suzanne Turner
>
>
>
> Editor's note: Suzanne Turner is a well-known leader in this affiliate.
> Here
> she is talking about the value of seeking mentors. This is what she says:
>
>
>
> In my work as a career coach and benefit counselor, I have found several
> helpful resources that very few people take advantage of. I am speaking of
> becoming or taking part in mentoring others. Having a mentor helps people
> evolve skills, talents, and upward mobility.  Therefore, having a mentor
> can
> elevate one's professional capabilities tremendously.  Mentors are amazing
> people, who are a bonus.  When you take the time to develop a strong
> mentoring relationship, you get access to a wealth of knowledge and
> experience, but you also end up with a lifelong friend and potential future
> business partner.  In short, there's no downside. Of course, if you aren't
> familiar with the concept of mentorship, you may have questions about how
> it
> all works.
>
>
>
> What Exactly Is a Mentor? A mentor is a more experienced (typically older)
> professional in your field who can offer real-world guidance, advice, and
> assistance. Some may ask why they should bother.  Having a mentor offers a
> host of benefits.   A good mentor is wise and willing to share his or her
> knowledge and experiences in order to help you succeed.  It's like having a
> wonderful trusted ally to go to whenever you're feeling unsure or in need
> of
> support.  They can help you set goals and help you make smart decisions.
> They can also be your sounding board.
>
>
>
> When Should You Get a Mentor? Mentors are helpful regardless of where you
> are in life.  Whether you're fresh out of college or a few years from
> retirement, there are always others who have been there and done that. The
> ability to retain and develop talent from within an organization is quickly
> becoming essential.  Mentoring can improve organizational satisfaction and
> retention, enrich new employee initiation, make your organization more
> appealing to potential members, and train potential leaders.  Mentors
> develop a professional relationship with mentees who are usually
> individuals
> seeking to start or develop within their calling or business.
>
>
>
> The role of the mentor is to share knowledge, skills, and experiences to
> help mentees develop their calling or professionalism through attaining new
> knowledge, building new skills, and planning and achieving goals. Both
> members of the mentoring team develop a wide range of personal and
> professional skills, including leadership and communication, which can lead
> to an increase in morale and personal satisfaction for all.
>
>
>
>  This year I completed the National Federation of the Blind online
> application to become a mentor. The process was inclusive, thorough, and
> structured. I took a background test and was interviewed along with
> providing several references who could vouch for my character and
> abilities.
> I understood the purpose of the process; after all I would be interacting
> with children and teenagers.
>
>
>
> As the application was finalized, I reflected on who recently has provided
> mentorship in my growth and development, who has helped me to achieve my
> goals, who has encouraged me and most of all who has talked to me when the
> barriers were a mile high. Most of us could spit out a name or two. But
> believe it or not, my mentor arrived and became evident just this year. The
> work of the National Federation of the Blind has given me commitment,
> dedication, a vision, and the means to achieve positive results. As the
> President of the Cleveland Chapter, I have found that the chapter's
> support,
> admiration, and exchange have developed me into a pragmatic yet disciplined
> leader. Text books and prescribed methods are not always the best approach
> to success. It is flexibility, compassion, and common sense that take
> precedence. Also, as I have served in many roles for the NFB, several Ohio
> leaders have become my uncelebrated mentors, sharing information and
> guiding
> me through a step-by-step process to aid me in achieving my goals. Their
> time and patience have given me confidence and successful groundwork. Thus
> their feedback and participation have been essential to my growth,
> competence, and productivity as I serve. Therefore I provide testimony to
> the Ohio Affiliate that with the culture of the NFB reinforces mentoring
> system. Through experiences and challenges I intend to pass along
> everything
> I have learned to my mentees I mentor in the NFB Mentoring Program.
>
>
>
> If you wish to become a mentor and provide wisdom, expertise, and time,
> please visit  <https://nfb.org/mentorapplication>
> https://nfb.org/mentorapplication < <https://nfb.org/mentorapplication>
> https://nfb.org/mentorapplication> to complete the process.
>
>
>
> *****
>
>
>
> Buckeye Briefs <>
>
> Online registration is now available for the 72nd NFB-O convention. You can
> register by  navigating to the convention information page from the
> <outbind://8/www.nfbohio.org> www.nfbohio.org web site.  The direct link
> to
> the convention information is
> <http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention/>
> http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention/ <
> <http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention/>
> http://nfbohio.org/home/nfbo-72nd-annual-convention/>.
>
>
>
> On August 3 Federationists from across the state joined friends and family
> members of Paul and Bernie Dressell to celebrate Paul's eightieth birthday.
> His birthday is actually in January, but the weather was much better in
> August. Thanks to Judy Cook, we had a delicious supper, and Marianne
> Denning
> brought a spectacular chocolate birthday cake.  We told stories and
> recollected Paul's generosity and friendship through the years. We are all
> keeping our fingers crossed that Paul will be feeling well enough to attend
> the convention in November.
>
>
>
> The NFB of Ohio Seniors Division will conduct a drawing for a basket of
> goodies at the fall convention. We already have an ivory hand-knitted
> throw,
> gourmet tea, coffee, and hot chocolate; an Amazon Fire Stick and Alexa;
> foot
> care products and lotion; and chocolate truffles. Come to the exhibit hall
> or find a member of the division to buy your tickets.
>
>
>
> Wilbert Turner will be conducting two One-Touch Self-Defense workshops
> Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. The cost for a two-hour workshop is
> $15.
>
>
>
> The NFB of Lorain County will conduct its fortieth annual hike-a-thon on
> October 6. Actually we did a bike-a-thon for a year or two, but we have
> been
> raising funds with this project for forty years now. We will hike around
> Tappan Square in Oberlin for five kilometers. Folks are welcome to join us.
> We will begin checking hikers in at 9:00 a.m. that morning and should be
> finished by a little after 11. Come hike with the blind.
>
>
>
> Colleen Roth reminds At-Large members that the chapter will be revising its
> constitution at its convention meeting. They will also be electing
> officers.
> As usual they will conduct a split the pot drawing at the convention.
>
>
>
> BSVI Notices:
>
>
>
> BSVI/NFB Ohio's Adult Braille Literacy Program is in full swing. In March
> 2018 the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio continued its partnership
> with OOD's Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired by beginning an
> adult Braille literacy project. To date, half of the fourteen participants
> from around Ohio have mastered uncontracted Braille, months ahead of
> schedule, and are carrying on to tackle contracted Braille. As a result
> they
> can keep the Braille writers given to them at the beginning of the program.
> Many are already borrowing books from the National Library Service.
>
>
>
> The program began with weekend meetings around the state in March and April
> to introduce small groups of learners to the textbook and Braille writers
> they would be using. Following this, each learner has participated in two
> hours of weekly tutoring by phone and through Internet from qualified
> Braille teachers, plus weekly work and conversation with other adults who
> know Braille. These mentors use Braille actively in their own lives, and
> several also learned Braille as adults.
>
>
>
> On August 25 a statewide exhibit of Braille displays came to Columbus at
> the
> initiative of teachers in the program. This exhibit was open to program
> learners and anyone else interested in technology to introduce visitors to
> practical applications of Braille use such as connection with a smart phone
> or reading from one's laptop.
>
>
>
> The American Printing House for the Blind has created and released a unique
> Spotify playlist. It includes works by and about more than 100 musicians
> who
> are visually impaired. From the works of Japan's Biwa Hoshi of the twelfth
> century to Kentucky alumnus Michael Cleveland, music has played a
> significant historical role in the lives, education, and livelihoods of
> people who are visually impaired. A sample of this music can be accessed
> from anywhere through APH's Spotify playlist.
>
>
>
> Film and television portrayals of people who are visually impaired range
> from positive to negative, accurate to ridiculous. The following annotated
> filmography describes sixty movies about blindness, encompassing a broad
> spectrum of fictional and documentary work. Each of the movies described in
> this pamphlet is held in the Migel Library, along with other videos,
> including 1921's Love Light and the current series Game of Thrones. Movies
> about Blindness has been digitized for Internet Archive at
> <https://archive.org/details/moviesaboutblind00muse>
> https://archive.org/details/moviesaboutblind00muse <
> <https://archive.org/details/moviesaboutblind00muse>
> https://archive.org/details/moviesaboutblind00muse>. Contact American
> Printing House for the Blind library staff to view any of the videos listed
> in the filmography or the many others in the Migel Collection.
>
>
>
> One boy found out with corrective lenses what it means to see the stars. As
> an eye doctor he has invented an innovative system for early-intervention
> eye testing now spreading in the developing world.
> <https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-44697342>
> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-44697342
>
>
>
> This young YouTuber, who is blind, is out with owning her disability, and
> recently she celebrated her millionth follower. See both humorous and
> serious takes she's made here:
> <https://www.youtube.com/user/MollyBurkeOfficial/videos?disable_polymer=1>
> https://www.youtube.com/user/MollyBurkeOfficial/videos?disable_polymer=1 <
> <https://www.youtube.com/user/MollyBurkeOfficial/videos?disable_polymer=1>
> https://www.youtube.com/user/MollyBurkeOfficial/videos?disable_polymer=1>
>
> This podcast, "Autonomous Vehicles Provide Mobility for All," is now
> available. Henry Claypool, policy consultant for the American Association
> of
> People with Disabilities, discusses the potential impacts that autonomous
> vehicles may have in the workplace and other areas of life. Listen to the
> podcast and read the transcript here:
> <http://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork/podcast/2018/06/AAPD>
> http://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork/podcast/2018/06/AAPD <
> <http://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork/podcast/2018/06/AAPD>
> http://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork/podcast/2018/06/AAPD>
>
> Access all of the other ten "Future of Work" podcasts here:
> <https://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork>
> https://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork <
> <https://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork>
> https://www.peatworks.org/futureofwork>
>
> Italian engineers at Ford have invented a system for nonvisual travelers to
> learn what's passing by outside. "Feel The View" takes pictures that are
> turned into high-contrast monochrome images. These are reproduced on the
> glass using special LEDs.When a user touches  the image, different shades
> of
> grey vibrate with a range of 255 intensities:
> <
> http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.h
> tml
> <http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.html>
> >
>
> http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.ht
> ml
> <http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.html>
> <
> <
> http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.h
> tml
> <http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.html>
> >
>
> http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.ht
> ml
> <http://fordeurope.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/feel-view-smart-window-for-blind.html>
> >
>
> In July Ohio's libraries announced that they were entering a three-year
> contract with LinkedIn to provide Ohioans free access to online courses
> with
> the social media company's Lynda.com service, which has over 12,000
> self-guided courses to help people gain workforce skills, from computer
> programming to creating games. These courses will be available to anyone
> with an Ohio library card and an online connection:
> <
> https://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2018/07/public_library-linkedin_ag
> reem.html#article
> <https://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2018/07/public_library-linkedin_agreem.html#article>
> >
> https://w
> <https://www.cleveland.com/open/index.ssf/2018/07/public_library-linkedin_agreem.html#article>