John Skrtic has been with the Cleveland Public Library for over 30 years. He now serves as the chief of special projects and collections, which makes him responsible for overseeing the 11 million items in the Library Collection. He holds a master's of library and information science from Kent State University and a master's of public administration from Cleveland State University. Skrtic grew up on East 41st Street in Downtown Cleveland and has lived in the city his entire life. He is father of two children and spends his free time archiving the people and places of Cleveland.
Hip Hop Smoothie Bar
I was pleased to meet and to congratulate Krystal Jones, owner of the Hip Hop Smoothie Bar, on the one-year anniversary of her shop at 1300 W. 9th Street in downtown Cleveland. As a downtown resident, Krystal told me how much she appreciates the energized atmosphere of the neighborhood. If you haven’t yet discovered the Hip Hop Smoothie Bar, stop in soon and treat yourself to a delicious smoothie, fruit bowl, coffee frappe, milkshake, and more.
M & W Meats
Joe Gardner became the proprietor of M & W Meats in March 1982. Located at 4391 State Road in Cleveland, the business was founded by Joe’s grandfather Ed Malusky in 1912. If you're in the area, stop by to chat with Joe about the store’s fascinating history and to support a local business that has been serving superior cuts of meat to Clevelanders for more than a century.
Russ Mitchell
It was wonderful meeting Russ Mitchell, the esteemed anchor and managing editor at WKYC studios. Known for his broadcasting acumen and journalistic integrity, Russ’s impressive career has included serving as anchor of The Early Show on CBS and as weekend anchor of the CBS Evening News. His coverage of major events, such as the 2000 presidential election and the September 11 terrorist attacks, cemented his status as a trusted news source. I found him to be just as genuine and approachable in person as he appears to be on TV.
Prom
It was a pleasure to observe the beautifully attired Addison Campbell and Navahn Woods fully immersed in pre-prom excitement as I recently walked through the Old Arcade in downtown Cleveland. The Eastlake North High School students were eager to celebrate their special night. They chose the stunning architecture of Cleveland’s famous landmark as the perfect setting for their prom photos. Their smiles and elegant ensembles added a touch of magic to the vibrant scene.
Chris McNeil
It was great meeting Chris McNeil, better known as @Reflog_18 on social media, an influential figure in the local sports community. Chris hosts the BIGPLAY Reflog Show, entertaining fans with his satirical takes on Cleveland sports. He famously organized the "Perfect Season Parade" in response to the Cleveland Browns' 0-16 season, an event that captured national attention. Chris is not just a social media personality; he actively participates in community events and sports discussions, bringing people together with his engaging and approachable style. It would be difficult to find a more dedicated, enthusiastic, and hilarious supporter of Cleveland sports.
Thomas T.K. Zung
It was a distinct honor to meet esteemed architect and author Thomas T.K. Zung, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, during his recent visit to Cleveland Public Library. He is seen here posing next to a tonal brass sculpture by famed artist and designer Harry Bertoia. The sculpture is temporarily on display in the Fine Arts Department at Main Library, but will return to the Glenville Branch Library, which was designed by Mr. Zung in 1978, following renovations. A Korean War veteran, Zung was a student of architect and futurist R. Buckminster “Bucky” Fuller. In 1968, Zung designed the elongated geodesic dome in Cleveland with Fuller’s Synergetics, Inc. A commission to design the Cleveland Public Utilities Building at 1201 Lakeside Avenue – later rededicated in honor of Zung’s friend Carl B. Stokes – convinced Zung to stay in Cleveland rather than return to New York. He later merged his firm with Fuller’s to form Buckminster Fuller, Sadao & Zung Architects. Zung holds six patents based on Fuller’s ideas and has authored numerous books on Fuller.
Dickey's Lanes
It was great catching up with Greg Dickey at Dickey Lanes, a classic Cleveland 8-lane bowling alley that has stood proudly at 3275 West 25th Street since 1946. Owned by Greg’s parents, this treasured gem is a testament to the timeless enjoyment of authentic bowling pins and the simple pleasures of beer and shots. Greg and his brother George endeavor to meticulously preserve the alley’s original charm and to infuse it with a genuine hospitality that invites visitors to relish a bygone era.
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