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.
Bill "Rock" Rockwell
While in line at the wonderful Biagio's Donut Shop and Pizzeria in Eastlake, I overheard many of the staff happily shout out, "Hi, Coach." I turned to see Bill "Rock" Rockwell, the defensive line football coach for the state champion Saint Edward team. It was great talking with coach Rockwell about the St. Ignatius vs. St. Ed’s rivalry, how exceptional this era of Ed's teams is, and Ohio high school football in general.
William Ruiz
I met up-and-coming boxer William Ruiz while he was sparring in a local park. William's journey began when he took a boxing class at the Estabrook Recreation Center, in the Ohio City neighborhood, and immediately fell in love with the sport. William now works to pay for private boxing lessons, constantly improving his skills and passionately working toward making a name for himself in the boxing world. His dedication and hard work are truly inspiring.
Darrell and Bacon
I have regularly waved to West Side resident Darrell Farley, who can often be seen in his front yard with his best bud, Bacon — a large pig with a fondness for apples. I finally stopped to speak with Darrell, and he told me all about his pal, including that Bacon is 8 years old and has a continuous parade of regular visitors who pass by to say hello.
Breanna Reid
While grabbing lunch in the 5th Street Arcades at 530 Euclid Ave. in Downtown Cleveland, I met Cleveland Detective Breanna Reid, Badge Number 1558. With five years of dedicated service under her belt, Detective Reid is currently making a profound impact in the Sex Crimes & Child Abuse unit. Her commitment to the protection of the most vulnerable members of our community is truly inspiring.
Bracy Lewis
It was an honor to conduct an oral history interview with Bracy Lewis at the Cleveland Public Library. Mr. Lewis is a longtime advocate for seniors and African Americans, dedicating both his career and his retirement years to supporting marginalized communities. As a pioneer in Cleveland's banking industry, he was one of the first African Americans locally to hold multiple top-level “C-Suite” executive positions in finance. It was a delight to hear him reminisce about his long life and meaningful contributions to the community.
Western Reserve (OH) Chapter of The Links
It was fantastic to attend a meeting of the Western Reserve (OH) Chapter of The Links. The Links, Incorporated, is an international organization of accomplished, dedicated women devoted to supporting the culture and economic survival of African Americans and others of African ancestry. Professional women of color established the Western Reserve chapter in 1987 and it now includes more than 50 members. The Links members are newsmakers, role models, mentors, activists, and volunteers who are linked in friendship and connected in service. Pictured are Links members Linda Milan Shatteen, Cassandra L. Johnson, Lynnette Forde, Renee Holcomb Hardwick, and Leslie Parchment Lindsay.
TRD Leather
I visited TRD Leather at 6321 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, and spoke with owner Chuck Perez, who started the business in 1985. Inspired by the demand for high-quality leather gear for American bikers, Chuck began with a simple design for a children's vest. The design was so well received that he produced more items and his business took off. Today, TRD offers custom work and remarkable alterations that are showcased at bike rallies nationwide. Chuck runs the business with a small staff, including his sons and daughter. Stop in to see the beautiful leatherwork they create daily.
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.