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.
Roldo Bartimole
Investigative journalist and activist Roldo Bartimole is seen here accepting the 2024 Herrick Memorial Award from the Early Settlers Association of the Western Reserve. The award is presented annually in Public Square on July 22 — the city’s birthday — to a person “whose accomplishments have promoted and brought honor to the City of Cleveland.” Best known for his incisive take on issues of public importance and for exposing corruption through his bi-weekly newsletter, Point of View, which he published for 32 years starting in 1968, Roldo never hesitated to blend activism with journalism to advocate for positive change for Cleveland’s citizens. Urban development, social justice, and government transparency are among the causes championed by this legendary commentator.
Kathy Blackman
Kathy Blackman is the owner of the popular Grog Shop at 2785 Euclid Heights Boulevard in Cleveland Heights, best known for providing a stage for local and emerging musical artists. She opened the doors to this popular venue in 1992 and moved to the current location in the same Coventry Village neighborhood in 2003. Her efforts have played a crucial role in shaping and supporting the local music scene for diverse musical talents, and for being an anchor in this popular Cleveland Heights business and entertainment district.
Cleveland Heights Cheerleaders
I met the Cleveland Heights High School cheerleading team as they were raising money for a school trip to Arizona. They were performing some of their signature cheers so passersby could see their excellent choreography and be encouraged to donate to their worthy cause. Pictured are Carletta Boone, Davona Evans, Artrese Roberts, Nyla Arnold, Josephine Bray, and Jaeya Riley. chuh.org
Monica Lexin
I met popular drag queen Monica Lexin outside the Cedar-Lee Theatre prior to a performance she was giving nearby. As one of Cleveland’s powerhouse headliners, Monica turns heads every time she enters the room. Catch her drag brunch every Sunday at 1 p.m. at Muze Gastropub at Studio West 117 in Lakewood, or the last Saturday of every month at 1 p.m. at CLE Urban Winery in Cleveland Heights. You can find all the details on her Facebook and Instagram @monicalexin.
Greg Pruitt
Popular former Cleveland Browns running back and stand-up citizen Greg Pruitt recently visited Cleveland Public Library’s Lorain Branch to speak with the neighborhood kids and help them make crafts. Known for his speed and agility on the playing field, Pruitt was also known for his kick return skills, contributing significantly to the Browns' special teams. He played for the Browns from 1973 to 1978, before moving on to the Oakland Raiders in 1979.
Rincon Criollo Take 2
I stopped in for a delicious bite at the family-owned Rincon Criollo Take 2 at 7403 Denison Ave. in Cleveland. Papo and Nydvia Ruiz opened the original Rincon Criollo on West 65th and Detroit Avenue in 2006. Popular demand prompted them to open this second location thirteen years later. Their delicious and very affordable food is made from scratch daily. Thanks to staff members Jonathan Stay, Ana Coriano, and Jesslianie Benitez who gave me a tour and proudly posed for this photo. rinconcriollocle.com
Preston Wolfe
It was a pleasure to meet Preston Wolfe, manager of SATOO Reptiles and Aquatics at 7503 Brookpark Road in Parma. Preston has worked at the shop for seven years and is seen here posing with a friendly giant python. His popular videos featuring his work with exotic animals can be seen on Instagram at @prestons_predators. satooreptilesandaquatics.com
For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.
Cleveland Magazine is also available in print, publishing 12 times a year with immersive features, helpful guides and beautiful photography and design.
