2025 John F Clair Award Announced
At the Tuesday, February 18 Painesville City Council meeting, Tony Brooks owner of TERKK’s Computer Servies Plus was presented with the 2025 John F. Clair Economic Development Award for his long-time business commitment and volunteerism in the Painesville community.
Brooks has been providing technological services to individuals and businesses in Lake County since 1986. Not only has Brooks been a staple of the downtown Painesville business community for 38 years, but he has also devoted much of his personal time to volunteering in the community. Brooks often offers free community workshops for senior citizens on scams and fraud schemes, as well as teaching the basics of Windows, smartphones and Smart TVs. He works with Catholic Charities providing a work site for their Youth Employment Program, which helps develop young people and guide them towards successful careers. He also supports a Second Change Re-entry program to provide training on phone IT support to participants.
“I always want to do what’s best for Painesville. I’ve always said if you cut me, I would bleed Grand River brown because I grew up here,” said Brooks.
Brooks is a Harvey High School graduate, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, devoted husband, father and grandfather. He’s attended New Hope Baptist Church on W Jackson Street for over 40 years and serves as a deacon. In addition to his partnerships with Catholic Charities, Lifeline and Morley Library, Brooks is active in the Lake County NAACP, Torchlight Youth Mentoring Alliance, Eastern Lake County Chamber of Commerce and the Painesville Lions Club.
“I was particularly struck by a comment in one of the nominations for Tony that said TERKK’s assists citizens of Lake County with not just computer issues but also links people with other services throughout the county. I think that demonstrates how TERKK’s and Tony Brooks embodies the spirit of this award,” said Susan Crotty, Painesville Economic Development Director.
TERKK’s Computer Services Plus is located at 8 N State Street, Suite 100 in Painesville and is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
About the John F. Clair Award
Painesville’s John F. Clair Award honors former City Councilman John Clair (1987-1999) who was a leader and visionary in the community and was passionate about the retention and expansion of the Painesville business community. Each year, Painesville’s Economic Development Department collects nominations for a local business or organization that demonstrates the value of balancing business with community service, and shows a commitment to the growth of the Painesville community.