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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>I was happy to read this and think it is a great story.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'>Richard Payne, President </span><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:black;mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'>National Federation of the Blind of Ohio</span><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:black;mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'>937/829/3368</span><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'><a href="mailto:Rchpay7@gmail.com"><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#467886'>Rchpay7@gmail.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'><a href="http://www.nfbohio.org/"><span style='font-size:13.5pt;color:#467886'>www.nfbohio.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:13.5pt;color:black;mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'>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.</span><span style='mso-ligatures:standardcontextual'><o:p></o:p></span></p></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><div style='border:none;border-top:solid #E1E1E1 1.0pt;padding:3.0pt 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'>From:</span></b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'> Ohio-Talk <ohio-talk-bounces@nfbnet.org> <b>On Behalf Of </b>President Capital chapter via Ohio-Talk<br><b>Sent:</b> Friday, June 26, 2026 11:44 PM<br><b>To:</b> ohio-talk@nfbnet.org<br><b>Cc:</b> President Capital chapter <president.capital.nfboh@gmail.com>; ohio-talk@nfbnet.org<br><b>Subject:</b> Re: [Ohio-Talk] Fwd: Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal>Thanks everyone. I always love the opportunity to share how much the Randolph Shepherd program means to me. This program has truly changed my life and if I can let others know about it and give them the same opportunity, then that is a great thing.<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Annette.<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Annette Lutz<o:p></o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal>President<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Capital Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>614-288-4323<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:President.capital.nfboh@gmail.com">President.capital.nfboh@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:13.0pt'>The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Everyday we raise the expectations of blind people because we know that low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want, blindness is not what holds you back. </span><o:p></o:p></p></div></div><div><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt'><br>On Jun 26, 2026, at 10:05<span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>\u202f</span>PM, Kathy Legg via Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>> wrote:<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif'>\ufeff</span><o:p></o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal>Annette<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Congratulations to you. I\u2019m so proud of you. Thank you so much for sharing with us.<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Kathy Legg<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><blockquote style='margin-top:5.0pt;margin-bottom:5.0pt'><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt'>On Jun 26, 2026, at 8:16<span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>\u202f</span>PM, Jessica Stover via Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>> wrote:<o:p></o:p></p></blockquote></div><blockquote style='margin-top:5.0pt;margin-bottom:5.0pt'><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif'>\ufeff</span><o:p></o:p></p><div><p class=MsoNormal>Great read! Annette, this is awesome! <o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><br clear=all><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Jessica Stover-<br>President: National Federation of the Blind of Ohio Greater Akron chapter <br>330-417-4935<br><a href="mailto:jstover.nfb@gmail.com">jstover.nfb@gmail.com</a> <o:p></o:p></p></div></div></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><div><p class=MsoNormal>On Fri, Jun 26, 2026 at 2:30<span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>\u202f</span>PM Delcenia Brown via Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>> wrote:<o:p></o:p></p></div><blockquote style='border:none;border-left:solid #CCCCCC 1.0pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 6.0pt;margin-left:4.8pt;margin-right:0in'><div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>Andra,<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'> </span><span style='color:black'>I would love to take the credit for sharing the info. However, it was shared by Shane Popplestone not I.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'>Thanks<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="98%" align=center></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>From:</span></b><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'> Andra Stover <<a href="mailto:andra.stover@outlook.com" target="_blank">andra.stover@outlook.com</a>><br><b>Sent:</b> Friday, June 26, 2026 1:36 PM<br><b>To:</b> NFB of Ohio Announcement List <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>><br><b>Cc:</b> Delcenia Brown <<a href="mailto:delcenia@prodigy.net" target="_blank">delcenia@prodigy.net</a>><o:p></o:p></span></p></div></div><div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'><br><b>Subject:</b> Re: [Ohio-Talk] Fwd: Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year <o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Delcina, <o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Thanks for sharing this, congratulations Annette.<o:p></o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal>Andra <o:p></o:p></p></div><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_ms-outlook-mobile-body-separator-line"><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></div><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_ms-outlook-mobile-signature"><div><p class=MsoNormal>Get <a href="https://aka.ms/o0ukef" target="_blank">Outlook for iOS</a><o:p></o:p></p></div></div><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="98%" align=center></div><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_divRplyFwdMsg"><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>From:</span></b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'> Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk-bounces@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk-bounces@nfbnet.org</a>> on behalf of Delcenia Brown via Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>><br><b>Sent:</b> Friday, 26 June 2026 13:29:55<br><b>To:</b> NFB of Ohio Announcement List <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>><br><b>Cc:</b> Delcenia Brown <<a href="mailto:delcenia@prodigy.net" target="_blank">delcenia@prodigy.net</a>><br><b>Subject:</b> Re: [Ohio-Talk] Fwd: Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p></div></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'>Congratulations Annette!<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'>Delcenia<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="98%" align=center></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'>From:</span></b><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'> Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk-bounces@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk-bounces@nfbnet.org</a>> on behalf of Shane Popplestone via Ohio-Talk <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>><br><b>Sent:</b> Friday, June 26, 2026 1:19 PM<br><b>To:</b> NFB of Ohio Announcement List <<a href="mailto:ohio-talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">ohio-talk@nfbnet.org</a>><br><b>Cc:</b> Shane Popplestone <<a href="mailto:spopplestone.nfb@gmail.com" target="_blank">spopplestone.nfb@gmail.com</a>><br><b>Subject:</b> [Ohio-Talk] Fwd: Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'>I thought this might be of interest to you all.<o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'>See below my signature.<o:p></o:p></p><div><pre>Shane Popplestone<o:p></o:p></pre><pre>Member, NFB Committee on Federation Web Coordination<o:p></o:p></pre><pre>Communications committee, NFB of Ohio<o:p></o:p></pre><pre>Legislative committee, NFB of Ohio<o:p></o:p></pre><pre><a href="mailto:spopplestone.nfb@gmail.com" target="_blank">spopplestone.nfb@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></pre><pre>234-716-2208<o:p></o:p></pre><pre>You can live the life you want!<o:p></o:p></pre></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><br><br>-------- Forwarded Message --------<o:p></o:p></p></div><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Subject:<o:p></o:p></b></p></div></td><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal>Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year<o:p></o:p></p></div></td></tr><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Date:<o:p></o:p></b></p></div></td><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:02:27 +0000<o:p></o:p></p></div></td></tr><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>From:<o:p></o:p></b></p></div></td><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal>Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities <a href="mailto:ood.ohio@public.govdelivery.com" target="_blank"><ood.ohio@public.govdelivery.com></a><o:p></o:p></p></div></td></tr><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></table></div></table><div><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></p></div><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td valign=top style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='font-size:1.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:white'>Plus: Celebrating Ohio\u2019s Leadership in Blind Education for America\u2019s 250th Birthday<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></td></tr></table><p class=MsoNormal><a name="m_-910434331625949881_x_x_x_gd_top"></a><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%' id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_flexible-abe-main-table"><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;background:#EEEEEE;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 style='max-width:6.25in'><tr><td valign=top style='background:#EEEEEE;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_abe-column-block-eaaf855d-3987-4f45-bf01-08543d42d8fa"><div align=center id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_abe-column-block-eaaf855d-3987-4f45-bf01-08543d42d8fa"><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:0in 3.75pt 3.75pt 7.5pt'><p align=center style='margin:0in;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:7.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:#B4A8A8'>Having trouble viewing this email? <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Faccounts%2FOHOOD%2Fbulletins%2F41db6bf/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/Q_OanD3RaVAq1nrlgUtNMonC9yxJZPr5jmHj9pXGw9E=452" target="_blank">View it as a Web page</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div></div></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 style='max-width:6.25in'><tr><td valign=top style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_abe-column-block-4dfd0da9-d3a6-4cf9-a163-237887128f78"><div align=center id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_abe-column-block-4dfd0da9-d3a6-4cf9-a163-237887128f78"><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:11.25pt 11.25pt 11.25pt 11.25pt'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><img border=0 width=570 height=161 style='width:5.9375in;height:1.6736in' id="_x0000_i1066" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2025/12/12780113/5-govdelivery-oodworks-email-banner-1024x288_original.jpg" alt="Banner has OOD logo which is shape of Ohio and "Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities" and text "OODWorks.com""><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table><p class=MsoNormal><span style='display:none'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Annette Lutz: Ohio Entrepreneur in a Landmark Anniversary Year<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9722in' id="_x0000_i1065" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13927728/annette_original.jpg" alt="Annette smiling at a rest area. \u201cBlind people can do anything we put our minds to as long as we have the opportunity and accessibility to do so.\u201d"><o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in'><i><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Annette Lutz at the new I-70 rest area in Madison County.</span></i><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Nearly 30 years ago, Annette Lutz entered the Business Enterprise (BE) Program as a single mother on public assistance seeking stability and a better future for her daughter. She began as a cashier, enrolled in BE training, became a licensed operator, and built a long, successful career as an entrepreneur who is blind. Annette often says the program \u201cchanged her life,\u201d giving her independence, confidence, and pride in her work.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Over the years, Annette has grown into a respected business owner with strong technical knowledge, exceptional customer service skills, and a statewide and national network of fellow entrepreneurs who are blind. She is also a passionate advocate for the program\u2014serving in leadership roles, mentoring peers, and helping shape the future for the next generation of BE Operators. Annette credits OOD\u2019s partnership for supporting her from the very beginning and throughout every stage of her career.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>While Annette is currently operating the revamped Madison County rest area, she views this assignment as just a small part of her larger story. She continues to use every opportunity to refine her business approach, support fellow Operators, and highlight the value and professionalism that blind entrepreneurs bring to Ohio\u2019s travel system.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Annette\u2019s work was recently featured on <i>The Loop</i>, a show by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), where she discussed the importance of accessible opportunities and the role of BE Operators in serving travelers. Her segment begins at 2:09 on <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv=6QJAupii1GE%26list=PL0SPTxSVmT4ivxV3mCKgA-jD16UpBP9X3%26index=2/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/8pbknTnX3jgosABX2CtpbXX2HlC2dhSu85yCuUaXLFM=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>ODOT\u2019s YouTube channel</span></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 11.25pt 0in'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='background:#0C77CF;padding:7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt;border-radius:5px;word-break:break-word'><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:white'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fsi=XDLmRsVoqDD-p8zb%26v=6QJAupii1GE%26feature=youtu.be/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/jnH82gQQ5rks7p4nMOd1pvSWqUYJzfUx7mPmK63sJ3c=452" target="_blank"><b><span style='color:white;text-decoration:none'>Watch Now</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>This year adds special significance to Annette\u2019s story as the nation celebrates the 90<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the Randolph\u2011Sheppard Act. Signed into law on June 20, 1936, the Act granted priority to entrepreneurs who are legally blind to operate vending facilities on federal property\u2014opening doors to stable employment and economic independence at a time when opportunities were extremely limited. Major expansions in 1954 and 1974 broadened the scope of the program from simple vending stands to include cafeterias, snack bars, and full vending routes, laying the foundation for today\u2019s nationwide network of blind\u2011owned businesses.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>For generations, including Annette\u2019s, the Randolph\u2011Sheppard Act has created meaningful pathways to entrepreneurship, financial security, and leadership. Its impact continues to define the Business Enterprise Program today\u2014and Annette\u2019s story stands as one of the many powerful examples of what is possible when opportunity meets determination.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>To learn more about BE opportunities, please visit the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Food.ohio.gov%2Finformation-for-individuals%2Fservices%2Fblind-low-vision-services%2Fbusiness-enterprise/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/zZhPHaVw83J808XwfiULCnIG8iX0t8W9b97aC13XKtY=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>BE Program webpage</span></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>DeafBlind Awareness Week<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9722in' id="_x0000_i1064" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13927813/deafblind_original.jpg" alt="Black and white photo of Helen Keller. "Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement; nothing can be done without hope and confidence.""><o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>June 25 \u2013 July 1, 2026 is DeafBlind Awareness Week. We reflect on the contributions of Helen Keller, born on June 27, 1880. This trailblazer devoted her life to advancing the rights of people who are blind or DeafBlind. To learn more about her accomplishments, read an <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.perkins.org%2Fstories%2Fq-a-a-factual-look-at-helen-kellers-accomplishments/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/b_1lYgyxHrLrD-elHxU7v7Iwe0rzADjGJ7n91S9eWQU=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>article by the Perkins School for the Blind</span></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>For more information, visit the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.aadb.org%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/CXCPQeCYKYvAVcrUH6PRrlb1wlKE2Ozoo3ykWJvvwrQ=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>American Association of the DeafBlind</span></a></span>, <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.helenkeller.org%2Fhknc/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/Xmek2j468eEBX-SqLmSUliR6vOa8P4RRa72a7i8t778=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths & Adults</span></a></span>, <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.nationaldb.org%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/gsr-l9GPyxF-Du3LezcdUCChDy5MabOBfKf9_00wrww=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>National Center on Deafblindness</span></a></span>, and the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2F341930782504997%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/vG215Egsa5FKBEUfvNWnDGNY2DNrWsASlhtbmLPGPKk=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Ohio Association of the Deaf-Blind Facebook Group</span></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Celebrating Ohio\u2019s Leadership in Blind Education for America\u2019s 250th Birthday<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9722in' id="_x0000_i1063" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13927961/250_original.png" alt="Zach and the Governor standing together in the school library."><o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in'><i><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Zach Groves-Hagedorn, an Ohio State School for the Blind alumnus, and Governor DeWine.</span></i><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Ohio is reflecting on the many ways our state has shaped America\u2019s story\u2014including its pioneering work in education for students who are blind or have low vision. A new <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Famerica250-ohio.org%2F2026%2F01%2Fohios-legacy-of-leadership-in-blind-education%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/RV_WEWEt9DRQol4dL62X-jO65BQ1KZ2Sm2mdpWRWX1c=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>America 250\u2011Ohio blog post</span></a></span> highlights this legacy, tracing the history of the Ohio State School for the Blind and the innovative leaders who helped expand opportunities for generations of students.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><br>The article also explores how Ohio\u2019s commitment to accessibility and disability inclusion continues today\u2014through modern educational tools, expanded learning environments, and statewide partnerships focused on ensuring all Ohioans can participate fully in their communities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><br>Read the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Famerica250-ohio.org%2F2026%2F01%2Fohios-legacy-of-leadership-in-blind-education%2F/2/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/HPD0nHK8j99LpXnnIwYrZZ7-3WfYetJuFm3Vji19DTQ=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>full post</span></a></span> by Eric Duffy, OOD Accessibility Coordinator.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Applications Open for Disability-Inclusive Employer Award<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9722in' id="_x0000_i1062" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13927972/inclusive_original.jpg" alt="Skyline, Seal of Ohio, and text: Governor's Inclusive Employer Award"><o:p></o:p></p><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:12.0pt 0in 11.25pt 0in'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='background:#0C77CF;padding:7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt;border-radius:5px;word-break:break-word'><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:white'><a href="https://player.cloudinary.com/embed/?public_id=ood.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%20Award%20videos%2FGovernor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award-Solicitiation_Video_1920x1080_2026_V2&cloud_name=stateofohio&secure_distribution=dam.assets.ohio.gov&private_cdn=true&profile=cld-adaptive-stream&player%5bcolors%5d%5bbase%5d=%23000000&player%5bcolors%5d%5btext%5d=%23FFFFFF&player%5bcolors%5d%5baccent%5d=%23000000&source%5btextTracks%5d%5boptions%5d%5btheme%5d=player-colors&source%5btextTracks%5d%5boptions%5d%5bfontSize%5d=1.5rem&player%5bhideContextMenu%5d=false&player%5bfloatingWhenNotVisible%5d=false&player%5bshowJumpControls%5d=true&player%5bfullscreenToggle%5d=true&player%5bposter%5d=https%3A%2F%2Fres.cloudinary.com%2Fstateofohio%2Fimage%2Fupload%2Food.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%20Award%20videos%2FGovernor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award_1920x1080_2026.jpg&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5blabel%5d=English&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5blanguage%5d=en&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5burl%5d=https%3A%2F%2Fdam.assets.ohio.gov%2Fraw%2Fupload%2Food.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%2520Award%2520videos%2Fsrt_2026-Governor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award-Solicitation-DirectorV2.en.US.vtt&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5bdefault%5d=true&player%5bchaptersButton%5d=true" target="_blank"><b><span style='color:white;text-decoration:none'>Watch Now</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Moments after taking the oath of office, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed Executive Order 2019-03D, establishing Ohio as a Disability Inclusion State and a Model Employer of Individuals with Disabilities. To reinforce his commitment to Ohioans with disabilities, H.B. 110 included presenting the Governor's Inclusive Employer Award each year during October\u2019s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to employers who meet the criteria for having a workplace inclusive of individuals with disabilities. OOD is responsible for determining the criteria for the award and promoting participation by Ohio employers. OOD will review applications and make recommendations to Governor DeWine for the selection of the Award recipient(s).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Businesses of any size are encouraged to apply for this award. OOD invites Ohio employers to complete this to be considered for the award. More information and a PDF of the application are available on the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Food.ohio.gov%2Finformation-for-employers%2Femployer-awards%2Femployer-inclusion-awards/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/fCcGxoLXLm6u6LrLOl2S_tE1VhXkX3PXlHwFMsi9iiU=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>employer awards webpage</span></a></span>. The deadline for submission is 11:45 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026. Only one application may be submitted for each company. Winners will be announced in October 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Watch a <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://player.cloudinary.com/embed/?public_id=ood.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%20Award%20videos%2FGovernor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award-Solicitiation_Video_1920x1080_2026_V2&cloud_name=stateofohio&secure_distribution=dam.assets.ohio.gov&private_cdn=true&profile=cld-adaptive-stream&player%5bcolors%5d%5bbase%5d=%23000000&player%5bcolors%5d%5btext%5d=%23FFFFFF&player%5bcolors%5d%5baccent%5d=%23000000&source%5btextTracks%5d%5boptions%5d%5btheme%5d=player-colors&source%5btextTracks%5d%5boptions%5d%5bfontSize%5d=1.5rem&player%5bhideContextMenu%5d=false&player%5bfloatingWhenNotVisible%5d=false&player%5bshowJumpControls%5d=true&player%5bfullscreenToggle%5d=true&player%5bposter%5d=https%3A%2F%2Fres.cloudinary.com%2Fstateofohio%2Fimage%2Fupload%2Food.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%20Award%20videos%2FGovernor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award_1920x1080_2026.jpg&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5blabel%5d=English&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5blanguage%5d=en&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5burl%5d=https%3A%2F%2Fdam.assets.ohio.gov%2Fraw%2Fupload%2Food.ohio.gov%2FVideos%2FGovernors%2520Award%2520videos%2Fsrt_2026-Governor_s-Inclusive-Employer-Award-Solicitation-DirectorV2.en.US.vtt&source%5btextTracks%5d%5bcaptions%5d%5bdefault%5d=true&player%5bchaptersButton%5d=true" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>video requesting nominations</span></a></span> from OOD Director Kevin L. Miller.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>All About Accessibility: Rental Assistance<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9722in' id="_x0000_i1061" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13928027/rental_original.jpg" alt="An apartment unit with an Ohio logo and text: Housing Finance Agency. 811 Project Rental Assistance Program."><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>The Ohio Housing Finance Agency partners with the Ohio Department of Medicaid, the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, and the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health to provide extremely low-income households composed of one or more adults with a disability to live in an integrated setting with access to rental subsidy and supportive services through the Ohio 811 Program. Apartments are available to low-income individuals ages 18 to 61 with a disability who are eligible for Medicaid or Medicaid waivers. An individual must be connected to a referral agent to be placed on the 811 waiting list. The Ohio Department of Medicaid referral agents include HOME Choice transition coordinators, Home and Community Based Services waiver case managers, MyCare case managers, or Managed Care staff with housing or transition responsibilities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities referral agents include county boards of developmental disabilities, and Ohio Department of Behavioral Health referral agents include ADAMH boards. Many boards serve as referral agents, although participation is voluntary. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>The Ohio Housing Locator (<a href="http://ohiohousinglocator.org" target="_blank">ohiohousinglocator.org</a>) maintains a listing of affordable rental housing properties throughout the state. OHFA also provides links to HUD eviction guidance and legal resources on the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fohiohome.org%252Fhousingassistance.aspx%26data=05%257C02%257CKim.Jump%2540ood.ohio.gov%257C07f9b02828f0499069cb08deb1f9a7fa%257C50f8fcc494d84f0784eb36ed57c7c8a2%257C0%257C0%257C639143883149090203%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=%252Bm8Ai2UTnmtc5PXhJefMN8Fdq7WyTvCC4sDWaV%252FKAWU%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/vlEoWY-Pn8mc8ey44B3VlMVKaVW5g8af2-tfL2CXSe0=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Housing Assistance Information page</span></a></span>. You may also contact the <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Faffordablehousingonline.com%252Fhousing-authorities%252FOhio%26data=05%257C02%257CKim.Jump%2540ood.ohio.gov%257C07f9b02828f0499069cb08deb1f9a7fa%257C50f8fcc494d84f0784eb36ed57c7c8a2%257C0%257C0%257C639143883149112692%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=b2AASt26lNQF4fLv5jn0fDX8vCUb9eGkKbGPyXvgtHI%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/MJHf2To-yyfPC0gMCLu-PjIC-GunBsDDRJqsIdbK72w=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Metropolitan Housing Authority</span></a></span> for your county regarding Section 8 rental assistance or other affordable housing programs that may be available.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>At the end of Fiscal Year 2025, 411 units were leased through the program, and another 300 units are in the 811 pipeline. If you have questions about the 811 Program, please email <span style='color:#0098D3'><a href="mailto:811Program@ohiohome.org" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>811Program@ohiohome.org</span></a></span>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>OOD Works e-Newsletter Returns July 10<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=570 height=285 style='width:5.9375in;height:2.9652in' id="_x0000_i1060" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/OHOOD/2026/06/13928070/july4_original.jpg" alt="Dad and son wear sunglasses and hold an American flag. Text: Happy Independence Day."><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Happy Independence Day! The OOD Works e-Newsletter will return on Friday, July 10. Stay tuned!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;min-width:100%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div></td></tr></table></div><h1 style='mso-margin-top-alt:8.05pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:22.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>In the News<o:p></o:p></span></h1><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.weirtondailytimes.com%2Fnews%2Fcommunity%2F2026%2F06%2Flocal-teens-build-job-skills-through-summer-work-program%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/gFMxZImmRN_US90ZqdyycRhi2bo1CfnS5j6Kcu5DtNY=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Local Teens Build Job Skills Through Summer Work Program</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>The Weirton Daily Times, 6-26-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.yourohionews.com%2Fcoshocton%2Fcoshocton-dd-luncheon-honors-local-partners%2F1049604/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/OC2FwJZTPNgEDxJcWCyvi2Zfr7FAGBev0eJwzxg4teg=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Coshocton DD Luncheon Honors Local Partners</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Your Ohio News, 6-22-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.sent-trib.com%2F2026%2F06%2F22%2Fspecial-olympians-flock-to-falcons-football-clinic%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/ppARaP9y0Lw4FELbjFOi3uymGtNzjR_nSFxhcg6LK80=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Special Olympians Flock to Falcons\u2019 Football Clinic</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Sentinel-Tribune, 6-22-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.13abc.com%2F2026%2F06%2F22%2Ftoledo-museum-art-exhibit-showcases-work-by-50-disabled-women-artists%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/KjgSfLeTyqFp_1jcKjd3roXiaBfoqxSrtDluJ4p67yw=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Toledo Museum of Art Exhibit Showcases Work by 50 Disabled Women Artists</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>WTVG, 6-21-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dispatch.com%2Fstory%2Fnews%2Fhistory%2F2026%2F06%2F21%2Fspecial-olympics-ohio-was-created-in-1975-four-years-after-first-games%2F90406019007%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/Ucxi7waic2wd4i0h8t31AmVrcgIB10lLJgHEVJ531pw=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Special Olympics Games at Ohio State Campus a Summer Tradition for Decades</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Columbus Dispatch, 6-21-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fbgindependentmedia.org%2Finclusive-playground-with-wheelchair-accessible-trampoline-being-built-in-northwood%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/NFpPaJkvOUH6IenvV3GUqbB4QZZAC8KunUXHw9-IUP8=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Inclusive Playground \u2013 with Wheelchair Accessible Trampoline \u2013 Being Built in Northwood</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>BG Independent News, 6-21-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fspectrumnews1.com%2Foh%2Fcolumbus%2Fnews%2F2026%2F06%2F19%2Fjob-skills-training-expands-for-ohioans-with-developmental-disabilities-/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/sojLzBzFpt2dDb-kFZIcYU2CpUMU2RBPY6--kNJoDF4=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Job Skills Training Expands for Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Spectrum News, 6-20-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.wfmj.com%2Fnews%2Fohio-pennsylvania-news%2Fdewine-passes-joshua-alert-law-to-help-find-missing-kids-with-autism%2Farticle_4d5a416c-c6e9-4561-a255-3425c162e476.html/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/C7pjDDXOUPX07r7T1YrrGyH0nso2rCrtoPOv0-Rpd5c=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>DeWine Passes \u201cJoshua Alert\u201d Law to Help Find Missing Kids with Autism</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>WFMJ, 6-19-26<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:#0098D3'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdhgroup.com%2Fnews%2Fsensory-bags-now-available-at-ohio-star-theater%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/PGR4Pc6AUn4ArP3gr0U23GOqSJ40s7Vum7rQoYNZ5MU=452" target="_blank"><span style='color:#0098D3'>Sensory Bags Now Available at Ohio Star Theater</span></a></span><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in'><span style='font-size:11.5pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>Dutchman Hospitality News, 6-4-26<o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div></div></td></tr></table></div></td><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></table></div></table></td></tr></div></table></blockquote><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_mail_footer"><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 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alt="Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities"></span></a><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt 7.5pt'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width="50%" valign=top style='width:50.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=left width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:7.5pt;margin-left:0in'><b><span style='font-size:7.5pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Follow OhioOOD</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p style='margin:0in'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOhioOOD/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/J8gE90dnA-bEE_xR7o73HAmN47KrBVbbRoQBjBs36RY=452" target="_blank"><span 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whole or in part, with federal grants awarded by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). For purposes of the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, including Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), OOD received 78.7% of its funding through the DOE VR grant. In federal fiscal year (FFY) 2025, OOD received $177,897,297 in federal funds. Funds appropriated by the state covered 21.3% of the total costs, or $48,147,553. Of these federal funds, $26,684,595 is set aside for Pre-ETS.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:7.5pt'>For purposes of the Works4Me Program, OOD received 100% of its funding through the DOE Disability Innovation Fund grant. In FFY 2025, OOD received $1,793,225 for this Program.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:7.5pt'>For purposes of the Supported Employment (SE) Program, the DOE SE grant funded 90% of the costs for this Program up to the grant amount and 100% of the costs of the regular Supported Employment Program up to the grant amount. In FFY 2025, OOD received $446,137 for SE Youth with a Disability, and state-appropriated funds paid the remaining 10%, or $49,571 of the total costs. In FFY 2025, OOD received $446,137 in regular SE grant funds.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-size:7.5pt'>For purposes of the Independent Living Services Older Blind (ILOB) Program, the federal grant received from DOE in FFY 2025 paid 90% of the total costs incurred under the Program. In FFY 2025, OOD received $1,129,124 in federal grant funds. Funds appropriated by the state paid the 10% required match, or $125,458 of the total costs incurred under the ILOB Program. For purposes of the Independent Living (IL) Program, the federal grant received from HHS paid 90% of the total costs incurred in FFY 2025. In FFY 2025, OOD received $640,682 in federal grant funds. Funds appropriated by the state paid the 10% required match, or $71,187 of the total costs incurred under the IL Program.</span><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div></div></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="m_-910434331625949881x_x_x_tagline"><div class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><hr size=2 width="100%" align=center></div><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width="89%" style='width:89.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr><td width="11%" style='width:11.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal align=right style='text-align:right'><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsubscriberhelp.granicus.com%2F/1/0101019f043d3243-af3a9ece-3d55-47f9-a18f-b73304d71afc-000000/Pf_aWxXAbrU4cfQEGnm4EpNE4Qw1LmkDcX-cjokLkAo=452" target="_blank"><span style='text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=115 height=29 style='width:1.1944in;height:.2986in' id="_x0000_i1051" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/images/govd-logo-dark.png" alt="GovDelivery logo"></span></a><o:p></o:p></p></td></table></table></div><div><div><p class=MsoNormal><Outlook-Web Bug fr.gif><o:p></o:p></p></div></div></div><p class=MsoNormal>_______________________________________________<br>Ohio-Talk mailing list<br><a href="mailto:Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org" target="_blank">Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org</a><br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org" target="_blank">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org</a><br>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Ohio-Talk:<br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/jstover.nfb%40gmail.com" target="_blank">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/jstover.nfb%40gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal>_______________________________________________<br>Ohio-Talk mailing list<br><a href="mailto:Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org">Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org</a><br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org</a><br>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Ohio-Talk:<br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/kalegg0220%40gmail.com">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/kalegg0220%40gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>_______________________________________________<br>Ohio-Talk mailing list<br><a href="mailto:Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org">Ohio-Talk@nfbnet.org</a><br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org</a><br>To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Ohio-Talk:<br><a href="http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/president.capital.nfboh%40gmail.com">http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/ohio-talk_nfbnet.org/president.capital.nfboh%40gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></p></blockquote></div></div></div></body></html>