[NFBOH-Cleveland] Cleveland Chapter Reminders and New Info

Thu Apr 16 19:50:47 UTC 2026

Good Afternoon, Cleveland and Friends,

As April Showers are here. Stay dry and empowered, as outdoor activities
will begin very soon.

The March minutes will be distributed tomorrow morning or this evening
around 8:00 PM for your review. Please read for a vote.

The voice box will be updated tonight at 7:00 P.M.

(641) 715-3900

Code: 582705

Also, please read the reminders through to their entirety.

Content includes:

1. 2026 Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

2. Blind Confidence

3. President Payne's Announcement on giving to chapter treasuries.

4. Legislative Alert

5. And more!

//

Please keep members in your prayers who are recovering from illnesses or
going through health concerns.

Cleveland member, Zenobia lost two family members within one week. Please
keep her family in your prayers.

For anyone who is on Facebook. Our beloved, Ohio Affiliate President,
Richard Payne is "living the life he wants." It is fun to see all of the
things he is experiencing in the community, making needed alterations to his
home and just relaxing. On the other hand, he is organizing a Leadership
Seminar that a few Cleveland members will attend. More details will be
coming soon.

As you know, a few Cleveland members traveled to Dayton to celebrate his
semi-retirement. Dr. Peters and her Dayton Chapter are thriving, and we want
to thank them for their hospitality.

///

Announcements:

* Cleveland salutes one of our own!

Details:

Congratulations are in order.

Tomeika Hurt participated in the Ohio AmeriFest Pageant last weekend. She
competed in several categories, evening gown,  best hair and more.

Elegantly, Tomeika won in four categories and was crowned Ohio Queen this
past Sunday, the 2026 Miss Ohio Star. Now this Queen will turn her attention
and compete for the national title in North Carolina this July.

Tomeika has several tours in and outside of Ohio as her title requires. She
will be quite busy representing the blind and young women alike. At the May
meeting, she will take us through her experiences after she has had time to
breathe. 

Cleveland, Tomeika will bring her crown and sash for all to enjoy this
Saturday at the April meeting. 

Again, we are quite proud that she was the first DeafBlind contestant to be
crowned queen. Soon she will reveal her platform that will promote her
mission in Ohio and beyond.

*Enrollment for 2026 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Begins April
22nd at the Department of Aging

Details:

The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) is announcing a new season of the Senior
Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Eligible Ohioans will once again
have access to $50 in fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut
herbs, and unprocessed honey.

Enrollment is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
EDT. That is when applications for the 2026 season of the SFMNP will be
available online at Aging.Ohio.Gov/SFMNP <https://aging.ohio.gov/SFMNP> .

The application deadline is Friday, May 22, at 6:00 p.m. EDT.

Providing additional ways for older adults to eat well and make healthy
choices is another way we are making Ohio the best place to age in the
nation. To be eligible for the program, Ohioans must be 60 or older and earn
less than 185% of the federal poverty level. Ohioans must reapply every year
to continue receiving benefits.

Ohioans who sign up for the program with an email address will receive a
confirmation email of their approval and can begin using their $50 starting
on May 15.

*Building Bridges Among Generations

Details:

As we continue to evolve as a society, one of our greatest strengths lies in
the connection between generations each bringing unique perspectives,
experiences, and values that shape our collective future. From long-standing
traditions to emerging ideas, there is a powerful opportunity to align
leadership, mentorship, and community purpose in a way that fosters unity
and inclusion.

If you missed the presentation last night. You missed a treat!

Click on or copy the link to be inspired.

https://nfb-org.zoom.us/rec/play/sh2hD5lQKfKWYjawyNsUYnfLYUqxxPqbHCtGDBf3wjC
WuRxnKTjN5YLCnlp7AKz6hQZ_8n2i_5Re0OWk.N4q0z8l8ERjJMK01

*Monthly Resolution

Details:

As I shared earlier this month, each month I will send out a resolution
designed to help guide your purpose in life, provide meaningful insight, and
keep you motivated and intentional in your journey.

These resolutions are meant to encourage you to 

A. walk with purpose,

B. build confidence, and 

C. transform hesitation into action.

This month's resolution is: "Finish what you've started."

So, if there is anyone who you have not seen in a while, be intentional and
pick up the phone or text and reach out to them. Invite them back into the
federation. Let them know that we've missed them and the federation needs
their talents, skills and purpose.

*Legislative Alert

Details:

Cleveland, the National Office of the Advocacy and Policy Department has
urged all affiliates and members to contact their Congressional Leaders
urging them to support the Access Technology Affordability Act (ATAA). If
you have not email or called as of yet. Please do that asap.

Below is Congresswoman, Brown's and Kaptur's telephone numbers and emails.

Also here is what I wrote as an example.

Full disclosure. 

I took some content of what was sent down from the national with my
narrative that created my email. This can be done, which is suggested by the
Advocacy and Policy Department.

Good Evening, Honorable, Congresswoman Brown,

Thank you again for your unwavering support for your blind constituents in
Ohio. 

I would like to urge your support for an important legislative issue.

Access technology can be expensive but is often necessary for daily tasks
such as job searching, applying for work, and completing job
responsibilities. Since 2017, we have worked tirelessly to support this
legislation because it will expand employment opportunities, reduce
financial barriers to technology, and contribute more to the federal
government through income and payroll taxes. Your engagement and support are
essential to advancing this legislation.

Please consider cosponsoring the Access Technology Affordability Act (ATAA),
H.R. 1529. This bill will help blind Americans afford the high cost of
qualified access technology by creating a refundable tax credit of $2,000
for use over a three-year period.

As we move into an election year, accessible technology is equally crucial.
The blind is asking to be independent, responsible and have equal access.
So, we are counting on you and your administration for support.

Thank you again for representing the blind of Ohio.

Suzanne Turner,

National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, Cleveland Chapter

Congresswoman's Brown and Kaptur contact info

Congresswoman Kaptur

E:  <mailto:Adrienne.Cardulla at mail.house.gov>
Adrienne.Cardulla at mail.house.gov

P: 202-225-4146

Congresswoman Brown

E: Lyndsey.Hannah at mail.house.gov 

Or

E:  <mailto:julia.rossman at mail.house.gov> julia.rossman at mail.house.gov

P: 202-225-7032     

*Chapter Meetings

Details:

Cleveland will meet at the Buffelo Whild Wings on April 18, Zoom on May 22,
MLK on June 20, July in the field for celebrating the ADA, our picnic is in
August, and September 19 back at MLK. October at the Buffelo Whild Wings,
November in Dayton for the 80th Ohio Convention, and finally, the Christmas
Party will either be at Buffelo Whild Wings or to be determined.

The Chapter in-person meetings will begin at noon until 3:00 P.M. However,
from noon to 2:00 P.M. will be the chapter's meeting. Please do not order
food until 2:00 P.M. to assist the restaurant with the large membership, and
so that the meeting is not interrupted by orders being served.

Note: If members wish to order from the Buffelo Whild Wings or neighboring
restaurants, it might be a good idea to have return Para Transit schedule a
pick-up between 3:30 and 4:00 P.M.

*Friends and Family Day

Details:

Theresa McKenney is inviting members to visit her church this Sunday, April
19th. Bethlehem Temple of Praise is located at, 2607 Archwood Street,
Cleveland Ohio, from 11:00 A.M to 2:00 P.M. if you would like to stay for
early dinner. 

However, if you do not want to stay for dinner, schedule your transportation
to pick up at 1:00P.M.

Note: There will be a bake sale after service.

*Blind Confidence

Details:

This is not just about blindness, it is about identity, strength, and the
unwavering belief that we belong in every space we choose to enter.

What is Blind Confidence?

Five Ohio leaders will expound on this vital topic.

When: Tuesday, April 21, 2026

Time: 7:00 P.M. EDT.

Where: Ohio Zoom

We will hear from Annette Lutz, Wilbert Turner, Jessica Stover, and Delcenia
Brown.

You do not want to miss this powerful dialog.

*Ohio Affiliate NFB Gear

Details:

The Ohio Affiliate Fundraising Committee is selling hoodies and long and
short sleeve T-Shirts. Orders begin August 1st getting you ready for the
80th NFB Ohio Convention. The logo is on the front chest and on the back is
"O.H.I.O" In the top (O) is "Who Are We? and in the bottom (O) "NFB"!

Do you get it:

Who are we?/NFB!

Gear comes in the colors of Black, Blue, Red, White, Purple and Gray.

For more details, contact Pat McPherson at patrinkle at icloud.com
<mailto:patrinkle at icloud.com>  or Theresa McKenney at (216) 990-2582.

*Flying Pig Fundraiser.

Details:

Announcement from President, Payne,

Details of the Fundraising Contest

For every ticket sold by your chapter or division, your group will receive
$2.00 for each ticket. At the conclusion of the contest, Chris and I will
review all the sales reports and send out checks accordingly.

Additional Incentives

As an added incentive, anyone who sells tickets will have their name entered
into a drawing for a $100.00 gift card.

Get your tickets online to be a winner. They are $5 each and you can win and
add money into the Ohio Affiliate Treasury.

First place is ten thousand dollars, five thousand go to you and the other
five thousand to the Ohio Treasury.

Second Place is five thousand, twenty-five goes to you and twenty-five to
the Ohio Treasury.

Third place is a fifteen-hundred-dollar vacation in Cincinnati.

Go to the link to purchase.

 <https://piggestraffleever.com/> https://piggestraffleever.com/.

And choose National Federation of the Blind of Ohio as your charity.

Tickets will be drawn on May 3rd at the marathon.

*PAC:

Details:

Welcome to the National Federation of the Blind's Pre-Authorized
Contribution (PAC) program. Your donation will help the blind live the lives
they want.

Through the PAC Plan, you can authorize a monthly contribution directly from
your bank account. With a minimum of just $5 per month and no maximum
limit-this program makes it easy for anyone to contribute consistently.
Thus, Funds raised through the PAC Plan support critical initiatives, such
as the Free White Cane Program, Legal advocacy efforts and National
Scholarship Programs.

Here are the ways to contribute!

To enroll or increase your contribution:

*	Download the PAC Plan form (PDF)
*	Visit www.nfb.org/pac <http://www.nfb.org/pac> 
*	Call 1-877-632-2722

If you have questions, please contact the Accounting Department at
410-659-9314.

Your ongoing support helps expand opportunities and independence for blind
individuals across the nation. Thank you for making a difference.

For Further details contact the Ohio PAC Coordinator 

Chacity Gilliam

Phone: 216 644 4374

Email: chaitygilliam04 at gmail.com

*The NFB Pledge

Details:

The Cleveland Membership Committee Chair, Chacity Gilliam, provided an
announcement that during the April 18 meeting, we will have team building
exercises. One of those events is the " NFB Pledge Challenge."

Therefore, continue to practice the NFB Pledge, which is at the end of this
message. Also, she asked that you wear comfortable shoes and clothing ready
to compete, learn and fellowship with additional activities.

*Cleveland NFB Gear

Details:

Tomeika Hurt, Fundraising Chair is encouraging members to put in their order
for the Cleveland Gear. The last day to do so will be April 18. Also, all
funds are due as well on that day. 

You have three days left to order, pay, or both.

*Michael

Details:

Vice President, Chacity Gilliam has secured a private showing for members to
see the movie "Michael." The fee is $12, which is due at the April 18
meeting. If you would like to attend, contact her. The date of the showing
is May 3rd at 1:00PM at the Cedar and Lee Theater. Unfortunately, there are
only 25 audio description boxes available. First Come First Serve! .

*80th Ohio Convention

Details:

The bus to Dayton for the 80th Ohio Convention is filling up with 10 seats
left. You want to secure your seat for $30. We will travel on November 5 and
return on November 8. We will leave from the McDonalds on 30th Street. A
stop in Akron on West Exchange street to provide transportation for Greater
Akron will be offered as well. The cost of the trip is $120, due on
September 19.

*Preregistration Is Open

Details:

The National Convention Preregistration and Virtual Experience are open.
Please go to NFB.ORG/Convention and preregister.

*Reservations

Details:

To make room reservations for the National Convention and the 80th Ohio
Convention, call 800-627-7468. Please keep in mind that you must provide the
correct dates. The National Convention will be held from July 3rd to July
8th. The 80th Ohio Convention will be held from November 5 through November
8.

Room Rates:

National: Singles and doubles at $139, Triples and Quads at $155 with 19%
tax.

80th Ohio Convention: $129 with 16.5% tax

Please reserve now!

*The Introduction To The Organized Blindness Movement

Cleveland Members, if you know of someone who is wishing to learn more about
the NFB, "The Introduction To The Organized Blindness Movement Calls" are
where you want to direct them to attend on May 6, August 5, November 4. All
calls are at 8:00 PM. These calls will provide a detailed account of the
largest blind movement and how we advocate for change, how to live with
blindness and help identify one's interests.

*Cleveland Chapter Contact Info:

Vice president, Chacity Gilliam

(216) 644-4374

Fundraising Chair, Tomeika Hurt

(216) 820-5404

Treasurer, Natassha Ricks

(216) 376-9863

Cleveland Zelle

NFB.CLE.Treasurer at gmail.com <mailto:NFB.CLE.Treasurer at gmail.com> 

Add 50 cents to the payment.

*NFB Pledge

I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of
the Blind, to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to
support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its
constitution.

Suzanne M. Hartfield Turner

National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, Vice President

Ohio Legislative Director

Cleveland Chapter, President

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and
all blind people in the United States. We know 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. Our collective power, determination,
and diversity achieve the aspirations of all blind people.

P: (216) 990-6199

W: NFBOhio.ORG

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohiosblind/photos/

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