by John Skrtic | Aug. 17, 2025 | 11:00 AM
John Skrtic
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.
Eric Williams
Eric Williams is a celebrated Cleveland chef and restaurateur known for his innovative approach to Mexican cuisine. He grew up in Garfield Heights and now lives in South Hills. He is the executive chef and owner of Momocho, a groundbreaking modern Mexican-inspired bistro in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood.
Williams began his Cleveland culinary journey working at several local restaurants, including the acclaimed Lola Bistro, where he refined his skills under the mentorship of renowned chef Michael Symon. He also contributed his talents at other Cleveland dining spots like The Greenhouse Tavern and Blue Point Grille, gaining a deep appreciation for the city’s burgeoning food scene.
In December 2005, Williams launched Momocho, crafting a menu that blends bold, inventive flavors, such as his unforgettable guacamoles. He still works every day, and in interviews around the city, Eric’s name often comes up as someone deeply respected. A quiet role model, he often says that success comes from hiring people who have that special fire for their craft, a philosophy that has paid off, as many of his staff have stayed for years, some for almost the entire time Momocho has been in business.
Williams’ culinary vision has brought national attention to Cleveland, with Momocho featured on the Food Network, Cooking Channel, and in publications like O Magazine and Food & Wine. The restaurant was named one of the top new Mexican restaurants in 2007. He earned James Beard Foundation nominations in 2010 and 2011 for Best Chef, Great Lakes region, cementing his status as one of the key figures in Cleveland’s culinary history.
Erik Anderson
Erik Anderson is the Executive Director of the Ohio City Bicycle Co-op at 1779 Merwin Ave. in Cleveland. He first worked at the co-op from 2016 to 2021 and returned to the role on July 5, 2025. Originally from Canton, Anderson came to Cleveland in the early 2000s and now lives in Lakewood, commuting daily to the co-op.
Before returning to Ohio City Bicycle Co-op, Anderson served as Executive Director of Bikes for All People in Columbus, Ohio, where he led initiatives promoting cycling as a sustainable means of transportation and community engagement.
Known for his calm demeanor, intelligence, and dedication to community service, Anderson emphasizes hiring individuals passionate about their work — a philosophy that has helped sustain the success of the organizations he has led.
In his current role, Anderson continues to advocate for cycling as an inclusive, accessible mode of transportation for all members of the Cleveland community.
Kim “Supermutt” Goodman
Kim “Supermutt” Goodman is a respected advocate and writer from Cleveland who uses her voice to shine light on homelessness and social justice. Despite facing developmental challenges and a social communication disorder, Goodman has persevered through tough times, including periods of homelessness and job struggles.
Her work with the Cleveland Street Chronicle, part of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, has been a lifeline, helping her build confidence, learn business skills, and connect deeply with her community. Goodman doesn’t just share stories; she shares lived experience, speaking at schools, churches, and events to raise awareness and foster empathy.
She started with the paper in 1997 and writes with honesty about the struggles people face, especially those with disabilities, and the urgent need to care for the hungry and marginalized. Always a familiar and welcome presence, you can often find Goodman at the West Side Market or downtown at the Cleveland Public Library, where she works on her articles for the Chronicle.
Through her courage and dedication, Kim “Supermutt” Goodman stands as a beacon of resilience in Cleveland, inspiring others to see beyond stereotypes and take action with compassion.
B. Riley
B. Riley, located at 2121 W. 117th Street, Cleveland, is a community-focused organization dedicated to supporting people on their recovery journeys. They provide services tailored to help clients rebuild their lives with dignity and care, with a strong commitment to creating a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals. Currently, B. Riley serves 17 clients, fostering a close-knit environment where personalized attention and inclusivity go hand in hand.
Annibeth Jatsek, from Broadview Heights, is the assistant chef at B. Riley. She/they bring a passion for cooking that goes beyond just preparing meals — Jatsek believes, “Nothing helps recovery like a full stomach.” Their nurturing spirit and love for food play a vital role in creating comfort and strength for the clients they serve.
Together, B. Riley and team members like Jatsek foster a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where healing, community, and respect for diverse identities come first.
Nick Atallah
Nick Atallah is a Cleveland staple, a longtime community figure whose Salameh Market at 3501 Daisy Ave. has been a trusted neighborhood spot since 1982. He originally opened the shop with his late brother after they immigrated from Jordan to Cleveland, building not just a business but a gathering place for locals.
Atallah lives above the market, deeply rooted in the neighborhood he serves. Talking to residents, it’s clear Atallah is more than just a shop owner — he’s part of the community fabric. Everyone I spoke to in the neighborhood expressed genuine affection and respect for him, encouraging me to take his photo and share his story.
Salameh Market is more than a convenience store; it’s a symbol of perseverance, family, and connection in this corner of Cleveland. Despite hardships and tragedy, Atallah’s dedication has never wavered, making the market a beacon of stability and warmth for all who stop by.
I was grateful for the chance to interview Atallah and hear firsthand about his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and the deep bond he shares with the community he’s served for 43 years.
Saigon Restaurant & Bar
Saigon Restaurant & Bar, located at 2061 E. 4th Street in downtown Cleveland, offers amazing Vietnamese cuisine with influences from Chinese, Thai, and French culinary traditions. Since its establishment, Saigon has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic and flavorful dishes.
The menu features a variety of options, including classic pho, stir-fries, rice dishes, and fresh spring rolls, all made with the finest ingredients using traditional techniques. The restaurant also boasts a selection of exotic cocktails and wines to complement the dining experience.
Bon Thai, the owner, has proudly run Saigon for 18 years alongside his wife, Nancy Vo. Originally from Quang Ngai, Vietnam, Thai first came to the U.S. in 1980. His dedication and passion have made Saigon a beloved Cleveland fixture on East 4th Street.
Emmanuel and Chris Tsolakis
Talking with Emmanuel and Chris Tsolakis, you get a real sense of Cleveland’s heart and grit. Two brothers from Athens, Greece, who landed here in 1976 as teenagers, stepping into a city as tough and unpredictable as the weather itself. They went to West Tech High, but the schoolyard wasn’t where their real education began. For over 40 years, rain or shine, they’ve manned a hot dog cart on downtown corners, a constant, familiar presence for the neighborhood. Emmanuel recently stepped back from his post on West 3rd Street, hanging up his hat after decades. But Chris? He’s still there, on Superior Avenue, right across from Hotel Cleveland, holding it down like he’s part of the city itself.
White Claw Invitational
Growing up in Cleveland, you learn early on that finding your crew matters. Into your teens and twenties, you’re always looking for like-minded folks, people who get you, who share your similar energy. I was lucky. Back in the day, the old Lorain Avenue Speak in Tongues music venue was a haven, a spot where you could just be yourself. Today, the city’s alive with clubs, events, and all kinds of creative energy spread across neighborhoods.
This month, I got to witness something unique, the White Claw Invitational. It’s an annual skateboarding event that feels like a love letter to Cleveland’s raw, unconventional spirit. Organized by West Side Skates in Lakewood, it’s become a cornerstone for the local skate scene. (Full disclosure: this event is not endorsed by the White Claw brand, which, honestly, makes it even funnier.)
I met Richter Sia, who showed up decked out and ready for the chaos, fireworks, drinks, music, and skating jousts. It’s a wild, beautiful mess of creative Clevelanders coming together for a day that’s all about fun, community, and that same DIY grit that shaped this city back in the ’70s and ’90s.
That’s Cleveland—the city that’s always finding ways to come alive on its own terms.
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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.
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