[NFBOH-Cleveland] Cleveland Chapter April Updates

Tue Mar 31 13:04:08 UTC 2026

Dear Cleveland Members

I trust all is well!

Just a reminder that we are in the allergy season, and many factors can
affect your sleep, emotions and body. Take precautions to keep allergens at
bey. Drink plenty of water and consider exercising. There are many
medications over the counter to help. However, consult your physicians prior
to taking any medications to combat this annoying condition.

Please read through to its entirety!

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Celebrating Women History Month

Details:

Cleveland, will you raise a glass to the Cleveland members, who facilitated
and participated in an empowering panel last night celebrating Women history
Month. If you miss it, I will share when the recording is released. Our very
own Delcenia Brown and Tomeika Hurt gave us a look into their personal
lives, influential efficacy and transferable aptitude. Also, Chacity Gilliam
opened the program and William turner was the moderator , but it was Dynasty
Lavender who has evolved and taking charge. This year's Women History Month
Theme is "Women Leading The Charge." Dynasty definitely proved that fact
with her inspiring message and uplifting spirit last night. You actually
could not only hear her joy, but her skills were uncovered on full display.
Again, congratulations to them all on a great presentation by the Ohio
DeafBlind Committee.

Fellowship

Details:

This past Saturday, I supported the Cuyahoga Chapter, as they are
revitalizing. Kim Jackson is the President and is learning fast. Her Vice
President, Shawn Martin assisted and provided great encouragement to her.
There were five visitors considering joining, that was great to witness.
Shawn provided an overview of the National Federation of the Blind, which is
one of the pillars in the organization. Thus, to invite and provide
awareness on "who we are." Although, they did not join. It is possible they
will at the next meeting.

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.

Chapter Meetings

Details:

As most of you are aware, Cleveland has been seeking a home for our Chapter
meetings. At this time, we have 60 members. Therefore, it is becoming
difficult to find adequate space. This is a good thing.

We want members and guests to come out in person and be comfortable. So,
Cleveland will meet at the Buffelo Whild Wings in April, 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. If members
would not like to fellowship at 2:00 P.M. they can depart. Then again, if
members would like to stay and fellowship with a bite to eat, you can stay
as long as you like starting at 2:00 P.M. It is highly encouraged that all
members be on time at noon for the meeting.

Thus, please continue to come out to the meetings and invite guests or
potential members. If the Board of Directors will have to give up our seats,
we will do so gladly for you and you!

Adjusting To Blindness

Details:

Today, March 31, 2026, The Cleveland chapter will be providing our Adjusting
To Blindness Seminar for a nursing facility in Ashtabula Ohio. There are
around 20 clients who have lost vision or is blind. We will introduce them
to the NFB, mobility, held-hand devices and accessible technology, that we
hope will enhance their lives. Each year Cleveland does the seminar
educating the community on what is possible for the blind to "live the life
they want". Members, please continue to spread the word about the NFB and
learn how we can provide awareness. "Each one, teach one."

The NFB Pledge

Details:

Vice President, Chacity Gilliam provided an account that during the April 18
meeting, we will have team building exercises. One of those events is the "
NFB Pledge Challenge." 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. 

   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.

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. 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 55th 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. Also, the information about
the Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship details is equally available. 

  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!

Connect, Lean and Make An Impact

Details:

The Foundation Fighting Blindness will hold a Vision Connection at the
Cleveland public Library, Woodland Branch on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at
11:00 to 1:00 P.M. The address is 5906 Woodland Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44104. 

Vision Connection is where community and purpose come together - advancing
our mission to drive treatments and cures for blinding diseases.

Come and hear an informative presentation from Allison Milicia, a certified
genetic counselor from the Cleveland Clinic. She will share how genetic
counseling supports individuals and families with an IRD diagnosis through
testing, education, and personalized guidance.

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> 

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

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