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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'> </span><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The countdown has begun!<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'>Ohio President, Richard Payne and the Ohio Board of Directors are excited to invite you to the <b>80th National Federation of the Blind of Ohio (NFBO) State Convention</b>, taking place <b>November 5\u20138</b> at the <b>University of Dayton Marriott</b>, located at <b>1414 South Patterson Boulevard, Dayton, Ohio</b>.<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'>Join us as we celebrate 80 years of advocacy, leadership, achievement, and the limitless potential of blind people.<b> </b>Whether you are a longtime Federation member, attending for the first time, a community partner, or simply interested in learning more about the National Federation of the Blind, this convention will inspire, educate, and empower you. The 2026 Theme is \u201cReflecting Our Journey, Shaping a New Vision: Empowering Members to Inspire the Future.\u201d<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Hotel Information:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Make the University of Dayton Marriott your home for the weekend. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities while providing the perfect setting for convention activities, including general sessions, workshops, networking, exhibits, and banquet events. Guest rooms are available for $129 per night, plus 16.5% tax. To reserve your room, call <b>800-627-7468</b> and mention that you are attending the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio State Convention to receive the special convention rate.<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 80<sup>th</sup> NFB of Ohio Convention Preregistration for the 2026 state convention in Dayton, Ohio is live now! It closes on November 1, 2026, at 11:59 AM. EST.<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 and Registration fees this year are:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l4 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Preregistration Fee: $30<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l4 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Boxed Lunch: $25.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l4 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Banquet Meal: $55!<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><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'>Onsite Registration will begin on November 6<sup>th</sup> from 9:00 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. and again from 12:15 P.M. to 1:45 P.M.<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Onsite Registration: $35<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Onsite Banquet Meal: $60<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>So don't delay, preregister to secure your spot today!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><a href="http://www.nfbohio.org/convention">www.nfbohio.org/convention</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'>Navigating the University of Dayton Marriott Hotel<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'>Hotel Lobby:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>As you enter the hotel, you'll step into a spacious, welcoming lobby.<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Directly to your left is a comfortable lounge area where you can relax between convention activities.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Directly to your right is a complimentary water station.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Continuing past the water station and to your right, the Dewberry 1850 Restaurant is located down the hall, and offers a full-service restaurant, bar, and lounge\u2014perfect for meeting with friends or enjoying a meal.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The front desk is straight ahead, about 20 paces from the entrance.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The business center with two computers and a hard table with seating for 6, is located to the right slightly before approaching the front desk. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The women\u2019s first floor restrooms can be found by walking down the hallway to the right of the front desk towards the meeting spaces. The restroom entrance is located to the right across from the welcome table space. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><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'>NOTE: The University of Dayton Marriott is cashless.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><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><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Fitness and Recreation:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>To the right of the front desk, you'll find the hotel's fitness center, which includes cardio equipment, weight machines, fresh towels, and water.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Nearby are the indoor swimming pool and hot tub, with comfortable seating for relaxing after a busy day. An ADA pool lift is available for guests who need assistance entering the pool area.<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'>Guest Rooms:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The hotel offers both King and Queen guest rooms, each designed with comfortable beds, modern furnishings, and dedicated workspaces.<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 University of Dayton Marriott has six floors of guest rooms. Two elevators provide access to the upper floors, and guest rooms are also available on the first floor for those who prefer not to stay on a higher floor.<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><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Standing at the front desk with your back to the main entrance, venture around to your left and proceed down the hall is where first-floor guest rooms and an elevator serving the upper floors are available. However, before turning left toward those guest rooms, straight ahead you'll also find the hotel's market, which sells beverages, snacks, ice cream, over-the-counter essentials, and University of Dayton souvenirs and apparel. For your convenience, a second elevator is located down the hallway toward the Dewberry 1850, on the left-hand side before reaching that restaurant.<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'>Convention Areas:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>After checking in, turn right from the front desk and continue about 30 to 40 feet to reach the ballroom area.<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'>Moreover, along this hallway you will find also:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>First-floor guest rooms, on your left and down the hall.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Men\u2019s Restrooms located on your left before entering the hallway to the first-floor guest rooms. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>However, straight ahead you will find:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The Welcome Table, officiated by the Miami Valley and Springfield Chapters<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The River Park Room, where door prizes and auction items will be stored,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The Information Desk, where you can also temporarily store items, <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Ballrooms (E through H),<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The Ballroom Foyer,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The Kiefaber Room,<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The Tradewinds Room, which is at the end of the hall of the Ballrooms to your left, where on Friday, November 6: Hospitality and on Saturday, November 7: the Exhibit Hall will be housed.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><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'>Seminar and Registration Areas:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>All seminars will be held in Ballrooms E through H, along with one additional meeting room, Kiefaber <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'>Convention registration will take place in the Ballroom Foyer, where literature and convention materials will also be available. Please feel free to take any literature you need.<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'>Guide Dog Relief Areas:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Guide dogs are welcome, and two relief areas are available.<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo4'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The first is outside the exit at the end of the hallway near the first-floor guest rooms to the left of the registration area. The grassy relief area is located just off the parking lot.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo4'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>The second is outside the exit in the Tradewinds Room, providing another convenient location for guide dogs to take a break.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><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><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Pre-Convention Activities</span></b><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'>Support the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio by joining an exciting and meaningful event where <i>every pin makes a difference!<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>How it Works:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Blind bowlers will take the lanes on November 5th.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Sponsors pledge 25 cents or more for each pin knocked down.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5'><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Pledge sheets will be provided so you can make a monetary contribution to the organization. Your support helps strengthen the treasury of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, funding programs, services, and advocacy for blind individuals across the state.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>For more information or to sponsor a bowler contact: Theresa McKenney, Fundraising Committee, Co-chair at (216) 990-2582 or Patricia McPherson, Fundraising Committee, Co-chair at <a href="mailto:patrinkle@icloud.com">patrinkle@icloud.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><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt'>Convention Highlights:<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'>The convention will begin on Friday, November 6th with the Ohio State Board of Directors Meeting, where Board Members will review and discuss policies, collaborate on programs and services, and address initiatives that support Ohioans who are blind or have low vision. This meeting is an excellent opportunity, to learn how the Board works on behalf of our members at the local, state, and national levels, including partnerships with legislators on issues affecting the blind and low vision community. The Board will also conduct the final readings of the previous meeting minutes and review the treasury reports.<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'>All members and guests are encouraged to attend the Board meeting to gain a better understanding of the organization's initiatives that will help shape the future of our organization. Also, come meet your Ohio State Board of Directors, learn about the important work being done in our communities, and be part of building a stronger future for blind and low vision Ohioans. <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'>Immediately following the Board meeting, convention registration will open at 12:15 P.M.<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'>Then the gavel will fall with the opening ceremonies and general session promptly at 2:00 PM. We will have a series of speakers covering a wide range of topics, including introductions from NFB national President, Mark A. Riccobono, Honorable, Mayer of Dayton, Shenise Turner-Sloss, Ohio House Representative, Mark Sigrist, Director, Kevin Miller, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) and much more. Of Course, Annette Lutz will have exciting door prizes as well. To contact Annette with items, email her at <a href="mailto:president.capital.nfboh@gmail.com">president.capital.nfboh@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'>Friday evening will see a flurry of activities. Primarily, our Hospitality Suite located in the Tradewinds Room will open its doors at 5:30 PM. Your host will be the Miami Valley and Springfield Chapters, 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.<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 At-Large Chapter, the Ohio Communities of Faith, Ohio Community Service and the Ohio Association of Guide Dogs Users (OAGDU) Divisions will hold their annual business meetings that evening. The Blind Parents Group, Nominations and Resolutions Committee meetings will also take place. First-time convention attendees are cordially invited to attend the Rookie Roundup/a meet and greet. Ohio President, Richard Payne, National President, Mark Riccobono, and other Federation leaders will be on hand to welcome you and preview the convention activities. Moreover, sign-up for the evening event facilitated by Jessica Stover. The details will be coming soon. <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'>Saturday morning, November 7th, from 7:00 to 8:45 AM, The Scholarship Breakfast Meeting will take place in the Dewberry 1850 Restaurant. If you are a student, you should consider attending. <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 gavel falls again promptly on November 7<sup>th</sup> at 9:00AM to continue general sessions. We will break at 12 noon for lunch. Note: Boxed Lunch Pick-up (tickets required) will be in the Ballroom Foyer Area on November 7th. Be sure to order your boxed lunch when you Preregister for the convention. The Ohio Association of Blind Seniors, the Diabetic Action Network (DAN) Divisions and the Deaf Blind Committee will conduct their annual meetings, and 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, Vispero, State Library of Ohio, EvenGround Accessibility, Eye Learn Tech LLC. and Ohio Disability Rights Law and Policy just to name a few. These and more on-hand Vendors will be available to us from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM demonstrating their high and low-tech products for blind and Low vision users. Chapters and divisions will also have the opportunity to hold fundraisers in this exhibit area.<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'>Saturday night\u2019s 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 NFB national President, Mark A. Riccobono. The Gavel Awards ceremony celebrating the chapter and division accomplishments from the past year will be revealed. Lastly, the finale of the banquet will be the announcements of the 2026 scholarship winners. Be sure to order your banquet meal when you Preregister for the convention. Don\u2019t worry, the night is not over \u2013 plans are in the works for an exciting after-banquet activity.<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'>Sunday, November 8<sup>th</sup> 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 members of the Ohio Board of Directors. All NFB members are eligible to vote if their dues are in good standing. <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'>Subsequently, our Convention Planning Committee is committed to making your convention experience memorable and quite enjoyable. Therefore, our goal is to bring you the most up-to-date information on the Convention. So please feel free to contact the Committee Chair with any questions, concerns and or requests for accommodation at <a href="mailto:SMTurner.234@gmail.com">SMTurner.234@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'>We will be ready to greet you bright and early at 9:00 AM on Friday morning with your registration packets, agendas and to preview the weekend activities. Please bring all donated door prizes to the River Park Room or the Information Table, as well. For those who are generously providing the convention with auction items, please review the policy on Auction Guidelines. Please read it carefully and follow the instructions.<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'>Suzanne Turner is the Chair of convention arrangements, and she 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. Lastly, volunteers will be available to assist and direct convention attendees to pinnacle points and conference rooms.<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 hope this overview helps you become familiar with the hotel's layout and amenities and provide a look into the Convention. Ohio President, Richard Payne and the Ohio Board of Directors looks forward to welcoming you to Dayton as we celebrate 80 years of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio!<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'>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.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></body></html>