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.
Ian Herrington
Ian Herrington is the founder and head baker of Leavened, located at 1633 Auburn Ave. in Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood. Since opening in 2020, Leavened has earned a reputation as one of Cleveland’s great bakeries. Its superior baked goods are a destination for locals and tourists alike. Ian was gracious in allowing me to take his photo during a busy day of making delicious rustic loaves and artisan pastries. Stop in and enjoy the mouthwatering offerings, which also include coffee, sandwiches, and soup.
Robert Banks
It was great to see the über-talented Robert Banks at the retirement celebration for John Ewing, who recently stepped down as director of the Cleveland Cinematheque after 40 years. I have seen Robert at the Cinematheque too many times to count over the years. Robert is a renowned Cleveland filmmaker whose work has earned him a position of great respect in the world of independent film. Characterized by a raw, gritty style that often explores urban life and societal issues, his films employ a unique storytelling perspective using traditional filmmaking techniques.
Travis Peebles
It was great to talk to Travis Peebles, owner of the Blazing Saddle Bike Shop, after being properly welcomed by Randy the dog. Blazing Saddles has been in business for more than a decade in the former Lakefront Hardware building at 7427 Detroit Ave., which, by the way, is also the building where William Folberth invented the modern windshield wiper in 1919. Travis and I talked about the alarming trend of local bike shops closing and the importance of having shops conveniently located in Cleveland neighborhoods. Stop in to see the wide selection of bikes and accessories – displayed in the shop’s cool aesthetic – and to have your bike repaired and tuned up.
Mike Kaplowitz and Lou Ortez
Owner Mike Kaplowitz and general manager Lou Ortez continue the 70-year traditions of the Bill Kap Piano Company, selling both new and reconditioned pianos at 14130 Euclid Avenue in East Cleveland. Their timeless 25,000-square-foot store features more than 200 pianos in multiple showrooms. Mike shared that his dad, who founded the company, originally started out in the ice cream business. He later went into the piano moving business and eventually opened his own piano shop, hiring Lou in 1970 to be general manager. Mike and Bill regaled me with wonderful stories of generations of customers from over the decades.
Jazmin Bailey
I met Jazmin Bailey, a member of the Fox 8 news team, at the June 22 grand opening of the Rockport Branch of the Cleveland Public Library, at the corner of W. 140th and Puritas. I was thrilled to learn that Jazmin grew up in the Rockport neighborhood and that she made a special point of attending the opening day festivities with her mom. I loved hearing stories of her visits as a kid to the popular Rockport Branch to read, check out books, and attend programs.
Giovonni and Gianna Santiago
I met Giovonni and Gianna Santiago at a park near the Fleet neighborhood. When I stopped to say hello, Gianna proudly shared that she was working on her hitting skills to avoid needing a tee next year. Giovonni, her proud dad, smiled and mentioned that they were a Cleveland family who loved using the park to practice. Giovonni then shared more about his own impressive background as a community organizer, military veteran, LGBTQIA+ advocate, public speaker, and coach. Giovonni started the Akron-based nonprofit Meta Center Inc. to advocate for transgender youth. You can read even more about him in this 2018 Cleveland Magazine Most Interesting People profile.
Molly Martin
I was pleased to grab a picture of community organizer extraordinaire Molly Martin with her new bike in front of Main Library downtown. Molly is often seen around town with a clipboard in hand, ready to engage with the community. I first met Molly when she worked for the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless. She currently works with the Greater Cleveland Congregations. Molly was also the lead organizer for the People's Budget Cleveland Campaign. Her passion for assisting people in need is truly inspiring.
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