<html xmlns:v="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" xmlns:o="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" xmlns:w="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" xmlns:m="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/2004/12/omml" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40"><head><meta http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=us-ascii"><meta name=Generator content="Microsoft Word 15 (filtered medium)"><style><!--
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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>Ohio, members and Friends <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hot Off The Press!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Below is an “outline-view into the 2024 Annual State Convention n”<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>However, attached is the updated full agenda that you must review to get important information.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please note the last dates to make hotel reservations and pre-register.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>For questions, please email me.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Happy readings!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Suzanne<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>///<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The National Federation of the Blind of Ohio (NFBOH) is honored to present an outline-view into the 2024 Annual State Convention. Our theme “Unleashing Potential: Empowering Through Leadership,” reflects the knowledge that our members are the power behind the nation’s oldest and largest blind people’s movement. as a founding affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, we have a strong legacy of working together as a community in order to protect and advocate for our civil rights as blind people from its very beginning.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Through our vast network of blind members and friends, we coordinate programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind people, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates unlimited opportunities.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>in November 2024, West Lake will hold the State Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio. The Convention dates are Thursday, November 14, 2024, through Sunday, November 17, 2024. Ohio Affiliate, President, Richard Payne, and the Ohio Board of Directors invite you to come learn how to reach your maximum leadership potential, participate in motivational and leadership development seminars, and most of all learn about “living the life you want.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The DoubleTree by Hilton Cleveland Westlake Hotel is where we will gather for this empowering event. The hotel address is, 1100 Crocker Road, Cleveland Westlake, Ohio 44145. You can make reservations by calling (800) 445-8667. Individuals must identify themselves as being with the group, The National Federation of the Blind, at the time the reservation is made in order to receive the special group rate. The room rates are only $105.00, taxes are 17.5%, which includes breakfast for 2 occupants per room. Breakfast is from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM. In the Sanctuary Restaurant. The last date to reserve a room is Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The good news is that when you make your reservations, funds are not deducted from your credit card until you arrive at the hotel.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_heading=h.vg794y2bk7n7"></a><b>The Beautiful DoubleTree Cleveland/Westlake Hotel: We are honored to have you join the 78th state of Ohio convention here in beautiful Westlake Ohio. As you will experience during your stay, Northeast Ohio has a lot of great attractions, and this city is one.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>The beautiful Doubletree, Cleveland Westlake is elegant and simple. It has a clean design and warm hospitality. When you walk through the double doors, you’re immediately in the lobby. As you pivot left of the doors, the Sales Department is straight ahead. However, if you pivot right, that corridor leads to the Canterbury/Dover, and Bradley/Bassett Ballrooms. Various Seminars and the Pre-Function Area are located there as well. Subsequently, back at the front door, if you walk twenty feet forward, to the left is the hotel's Front desk, you will check-in and grab delicious chocolate chip cookies. Directly across from the front desk is the sanctuary restaurant where you can partake of watering appetizers, order a full course meal, or relax at the elegant/sexy bar. But, if you need to wind down for a minute or two, there are cloth chairs and several sofas In the middle of the lobby for just that.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Again, as you check into the hotel at the front desk, the sleeping rooms are just around to the right of the desk, and down the hall. You will also notice as you journey down that opening hallway, the elevator is directly to your left. There are several of our Convention rooms on the second and third floor, which all are accessible! Just turn right after exiting and travel down the hall.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>for any pups that need to take a break, There is two exits that will take you to the parking lot, At the end of the Banquet Hall (closest to the Dover Room, and off to the left are some grassy areas. Please review the upcoming agenda for more details not to miss anything the convention has to offer!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_heading=h.x04rlrady6s4"></a><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Online Pre-Registration and Hotel Registration: Online Pre-Registration is open until November 4, 2024 at 11:59 AM. You can go to: NFBOHIO.ORG/Convention and complete the process. Pre-Registration is $25.00, and the Banquet is $55.00. Note: After November 4<sup>th</sup> at 11:59 AM. In-person Registration is $30.00, and the Banquet is $60.00.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hotel Pre-Registration packet pick-up and convention registration will take place in the Pre-Function Area outside the Ball Rooms. Those who have completed their registration prior to convention will form a line at the Pre-Registration Table for a speedy process. Visit the Registration Table to register for convention, or to purchase additional tickets to events. Both tables will be open for two shifts on November 15 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM to 1:45 PM. We look forward to helping you register as quickly as possible so you can be on your way to enjoying a great weekend of events. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_heading=h.ek32e49mr5jk"></a><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>Informational Seminar-Roung Table Event: The NFB of Ohio is inviting the general community to participate in our opening roundtable, which is an Informational Seminar that will educate and provide a snapshot on community networks respective programs and services with a Q/A segment to learn what can benefit the blind at home, work, and play. “We don’t let vision loss define our future! We envision the life we want!” This event will be held November 14<sup>th</sup> from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Doubletree Cleveland-Westlake Hotel, Canterbury/Dover Room. The NFB of Ohio will welcome: The Ohio State-Wide Independent Living Center, Ohio Civil Rights Commission, Disability Rights Ohio, My Blindness & Me Peer Support Program, Convenient Care Home Services, Linking Employment Abilities and Potential, Outdoor Recreation Inclusion Cleveland Metroparks, and Accessible Ohio Services. After the seminar, on hand for your experience, we invite you to tour OOD’S “Mobile Traveling Bus,” and Cleveland Metroparks new “Inclusive/Adaptive Equipment” that will be onsite.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please share with your networks, family members and friends! You do not want to miss this enlightening endeavor.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>The Convention Planning Committee is thrilled to introduce Shawn Callaway, as our 2024 National Representative. </b>In 2011, Shawn was elected President of the National Federation of the Blind of the District of Columbia and in 2016 he was elected to the NFB National Board of Directors. Shawn is inspired by the NFB’s mantra “You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.”<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Shawn Callaway is a locally acclaimed disabilities advocate, motivational community leader, and currently a Program Specialist for the United States Department of Health and Human Services. For more than 23 years, he has leveraged his own experience, professional career, and personal time toward helping others to overcome obstacles that are highly attributed to the attitudes, misconceptions, and perceptions of what it means to a person with disabilities. In his current position as a Program Specialist, Shawn manages grant programs that focus on establishing innovative opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Shawn currently resides in Washington, D.C. with his lovely wife of 18 years Latonya Callaway, raising their 9-year-old daughter, Camille.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>As Ohio’s oldest organization comprised of blind people, working together to change what it means to be blind, the 2024 Ohio Convention will inspire, empower, and 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 philosophy along with dynamic committee meetings.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Take a look at a few convention highlights:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>• Network with blind people across Ohio.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>• Encourage blind persons to expand their knowledge of resources, such as Braille, Accessibility and Legislative Initiatives.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>• Attend Workshops on Effective Strategies for Self-Advocacy, Trends in Transportation and The Latest Development in Technology.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>• Attend the banquet that provides scholarships for blind college students.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Executive Board Meeting: The </b>Ohio Board of Directors Meeting will take place on Friday, November 15th from 10:30 to noon, starting with our Veterans Recognition Seromony, Featuring The Westlake Demon Marching Band in the Canterbury/Dover Room. Please be present for this honorable event and help Ohio celebrate their dedication, sacrifice and unwavering service.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The gavel will fall on Friday, November 15th, 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 a report from our president, our national representative, Aira Tech Corp, Butler Institute of American Art, United way of greater Cleveland and an educational panel of successful employed blind professionals, discussing their career success, and more. Of Course, Annette Lutz will have exciting door prizes as well.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Friday evening will see a flurry of activities. First and foremost, our Hospitality Suite located on the second floor in the Club Room will open its doors at 5:30 PM. Your host will be the Ohio Affiliate, 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></p><p class=MsoNormal>The At-Large Chapter, the Ohio Communities of Faith, Ohio Community Service, and the Ohio Association of Guide Dogs Users Divisions will hold their annual business meetings that evening. The Nominations and Resolutions Committee meetings will also take place. Moreover, attend a musical concert, by the “Visionaries” that will be held in the Canterbury/Dover Room at 9:30 PM. on Friday night. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Saturday morning, November 16th, at 7:00 to 8:45 AM, The Scholarship Breakfast Meeting will be in The Sanctuary Restaurant. If you are interested in becoming a member of this division, you should highly consider attending.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The gavel falls again promptly at 9:00AM to continue general sessions. We will break at 12 noon for lunch. The Ohio Association of Blind Seniors Division and the Ohio Membership 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, Cleveland Metroparks, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Pro Seniors, Magnifiers & More, Pathfinder Press supporters, just to name a few. These and more on-hand Vendors will be available to us from 12:00 noon to 4:30 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.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>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, Shawn Callaway. 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 2024 scholarship winners. 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.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Sunday, November 17<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></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Finally, our convention planning 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 Convention Coordinator with any questions, concerns and or, requests for accommodations at <a href="mailto:SMTurner.234@gmail.com">SMTurner.234@gmail.com</a>. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The Ohio Affiliate Board of Directors will be ready to greet you 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 registration table as well. For those who are generously providing the convention with auction items, a policy on Auction Guidelines was emailed on Ohio-Talk. Please read it carefully and follow the instructions. Thus, to request the document, email President Payne at, <a href="mailto:RCHPAY7@gmail.com">RCHPAY7@gmail.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Suzanne Turner is the Coordinator for the 2024 Convention and 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></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The Affiliate Executive Board will be on-hand to welcome you, and we are excited and looking forward to seeing you at the 2024 Ohio 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. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Suzanne M. Hartfield Turner<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>National Federation of the Blind of Ohio<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Executive Board of Director<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'>(216P: ) 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 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 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'>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, blindness does not hold you back.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>