The years have gone by so quickly that it is hard to believe this is the eighth edition of Who's Who In Black Cleveland. It has been a labor of love to serve as the associate publisher and bring to you the many accomplishments of the notable Blacks in our communities during this time. We began with a dedicated group excited to put out the first edition. Paula Morrison, Michael House, John Lenear and Michael Nelson made up the team. I thank them for their hard work. Now, this edition will be my last edition as associate publisher. I am especially grateful to Sunny Martin, who brought me on board, and the current Real Times Team headed by Hiram Jackson, Carter Womack, and Ernie Sullivan who have continued to produce successful publications.
It has been a special pleasure to showcase the many Black Americans who contribute daily to the life of Greater Cleveland and neighboring Akron. It is important to demonstrate the accomplishments and the breath of possibilities of Blacks who serve as an inspiration to our youth. This publication strives to spotlight and inform of the significant contributions to the development in a city that has historically set the pace for the nation. The spirit of Cleveland is one of survival and stability in the midst of adversity and an undeniable creativity that testifies to a city of promise.
A special thanks to our sponsors for their commitment to Who's Who and the dedicated writers and photographers whose contributions help make the book possible. Again, I urge you to not only to purchase a book but also encourage others to do the same. It is especially important that we share the contents of this book with our youth. Buy a book for a student to encourage them to pursue the many opportunities available to them and aspire to become a "who's who."
I look forward to serving you in some capacity again soon.
Constance Harper
