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.
La Plaza Supermarket
La Plaza Supermarket — and taqueria — at 13609 Lakewood Heights Boulevard in Cleveland has a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional offerings, including an authentic Mexican menu. Owner Adrian Ortega established La Plaza in 2011 following a prosperous 23-year stint running a jewelry business in Rocky River. Visit soon and see if this might be your newest favorite taco spot in town. facebook.com/laplazacle
Terrapin Bakery
It was great chatting with the dynamic team of Courtney Bonning and Jackson Lang about Terrapin Bakery, the popular establishment they opened in April 2019 at 3146 W. 14th Street in Tremont. The bakery offers a wide array of delectable treats, but their reputation is based on their exceptional and unique donuts — a must-try for Clevelanders. Selections rotate through the seasons and often sell out. terrapinbakery.com
Jessica Trivisonno
Since 2022, when she was appointed senior strategist for the West Side Market, Jessica Trivossono has been on a mission to propel the market forward in innovative and effective ways. I'm a weekly visitor to the market and it seems like Jessica practically lives there, constantly brainstorming strategies to enhance and publicize this beloved Cleveland institution. westsidemarket.org
Archie's Hough Bakeries
Archie Garner, Sr., is the owner of Archie's Hough Bakeries at 3365 Richmond Road, Beachwood. Archie's journey with Hough Bakeries began in 1968. He initially worked in sanitation and gradually climbed the ranks to become head baker. Following the closure of the renowned Cleveland bakery in 1992, Archie took the initiative to acquire the rights to the company’s recipes and name. He opened Archie’s Hough Bakeries in 1994. Whenever I bite into one of his chocolate chip cookies, I am immediately taken back to my childhood visits to Hough Bakery with my grandmother. archieshoughbakeries.com
Cindy Barber
Cindy Barber is the owner of the fabulous Beachland Ballroom and Tavern, which she opened in 2000 at 15711 Waterloo Road, Cleveland. In her prior life, Cindy served as editor of Cleveland’s Free Times newspaper and Northern Ohio LIVE magazine. Throughout her remarkable quarter century in the music business, she has played a crucial role in spotlighting numerous local and national acts. It was a pleasure speaking with Cindy and learning more about her influential contributions to Greater Cleveland’s music scene. beachlandballroom.com
Tick Tock Tavern
I recently dropped by the Tick Tock Tavern at 11526 Clifton Boulevard, Cleveland, to visit with owner John Tripodis. He has been part of this classic Cleveland eatery since 1975, taking ownership in 1993 and successfully managing the bar and restaurant ever since. It was fascinating to hear about his extensive history at the Tick Tock and the deep appreciation Clevelanders have for its menu. ticktocktavern.net
Jordan Wong
Jordan Wong is a multitalented graphic designer, illustrator, and artist. Originally from Pittsburgh, Jordan relocated to Cleveland years ago and has left his mark with unique and engaging artwork. Operating under the artist name WONGFACE, his pieces have been featured in numerous prestigious museums. Explore his beautiful portfolio at wongface.com.
