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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#467886" vlink="#96607D" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Dear Cleveland Members<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>I trust all is well!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Please read through to its entirety!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>///<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Celebrating Women History Month<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Fellowship<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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 <sup>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.<o:p></o:p></sup></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><sup><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></sup></p><p class=MsoNormal><sup><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Chapter Meetings<o:p></o:p></span></sup></p><p class=MsoNormal><sup><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></sup></p><p class=MsoNormal><sup><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></sup></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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 80<sup>th</sup> Ohio Convention, and finally, the Christmas Party will either be at Buffelo Whild Wings or to be determined.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Adjusting To Blindness<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'> NFB Gear<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Michael<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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 3<sup>rd</sup> at 1:00PM at the Cedar and Lee Theater. Unfortunately, there are only 25 audio description boxes available. First Come First Serve! . <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>80<sup>th</sup> Ohio Convention<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The bus to Dayton for the 80<sup>th</sup> 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 55<sup>th</sup> 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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Preregistration Is Open<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'> Reservations<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>To make room reservations for the National Convention and the 80<sup>th</sup> 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 3<sup>rd</sup> to July 8<sup>th</sup>. The 80th Ohio Convention will be held from November 5 through November 8.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Room Rates:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>National: Singles and doubles at $139, Triples and Quads at $155 with 19% tax.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>80<sup>th</sup> Ohio Convention: $129 with 16.5% tax<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Please reserve now!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Connect, Lean and Make An Impact<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Details:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Vision Connection is where community and purpose come together — advancing our mission to drive treatments and cures for blinding diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Cleveland Chapter Contact Info:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Vice president, Chacity Gilliam<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>(216) 644-4374<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Fundraising Chair, Tomeika Hurt<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>(216) 820-5404<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Treasurer, Natassha Ricks<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>(216) 376-9863<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Cleveland Zelle<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><a href="mailto:NFB.CLE.Treasurer@gmail.com">NFB.CLE.Treasurer@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>I pledge to participate actively <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>in the effort of the National Federation of the Blind, <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>to support the policies and programs of the Federation; <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>and to abide by its constitution.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> Suzanne M. Hartfield Turner</span><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, Vice President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Ohio Legislative Director<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Cleveland Chapter, President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:24.0pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in;line-height:18.0pt'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#333333'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>P: (216) 990-6199<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>W: NFBOhio.ORG<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ohiosblind/photos/"><span style='color:#0563C1'>https://www.facebook.com/ohiosblind/photos/</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>