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January 2024 Issue of Cleveland Magazine: Most Interesting People

Featured Articles

Lusenhop Fine Art in Cleveland Heights Tells a Complete Story of American Art

David Lusenhop’s gallery shows some of the preeminent African American artists of our time. By Afi Scruggs

Food + Drink

Dining Guide: Ohio City's 28 Best Restaurants, Cafes and Bars

From bustling West 25th Street to historic longtime favorite joints, Ohio City is home to some of the most eclectic, innovative and entertaining restaurants and bars in Cleveland. By Allison Jack

Patron Saint Embraces Wonderful Weirdness as Ohio City's All-Day Cafe

The aperitivo bar and all-day cafe in Ohio City's Hingetown enclave has any experience you need, from breakfast to dinner. By Kate Bigam Kaput

Review: Fahrenheit Brings a Show-Stopping Dining Experience to Downtown Cleveland

Since moving his longtime Tremont restaurant to Downtown Cleveland, Rocco Whalen has stunned diners by building upon that legacy in the shadow of the forthcoming Sherwin Williams Building. By Kate Bigam Kaput

In the CLE

1938: Gambling Brings Police to Cleveland's Monticello Club

The Euclid Avenue gambling club's lifespan was a short one but it has its place in history. By Vince Guerrieri

Aaron "OkPants" Sechrist: Most Interesting People 2024

Artist, bar-owner and comedian: this local creative dabbles in a few different realms. By Jacob DeSmit

Airica Steed: Most Interesting People 2024

MetroHealth’s new CEO brings a new focus on health equity to the local hospital system — one with personal connections. By Robin Goist

Angela Funovits: Most Interesting People 2024

Dermatology, magic and mentalism are all skills of this local doctor. By Lynne Thompson

Canvus Reshapes Expired Wind Turbines into Public Art

The Rocky River-based company is partnering with local artists to promote its line of benches and other products for public spaces. By Sophie Farrar

Cleveland Magazine's Most Interesting People 2024

When you learn about a person’s life, there’s often more to the story — and that’s certainly the case with this year’s class of Most Interesting People. You’ll meet a kid who breaks athletic records; a grandmother who established internet stardom; an artist who opened a bar; a doctor who moonlights as a magician. One thing they all have in common? Creativity and grit. Edited by Annie Nickoloff

Constance Hill-Johnson: Most Interesting People 2024

This businesswoman has given back to Cleveland through her involvement in local boards like The Cleveland Foundation. By Robin Goist

Darvio Morrow: Most Interesting People 2024

The man behind First Class Broadcasting has big plans for his media company’s expansion in Cleveland. By Henry Palattella

David McAllester: Most Interesting People 2024

Better known as “BigPlay Dave,” this podcaster has firmly established his company as a Cleveland sports powerhouse. By Henry Palattella

Editor's Note: Cleveland's Most Interesting People Are Inspiring Facilitators and Community Builders

Editor Dillon Stewart reflects on an encounter with Mikey Silas, one of 2024's Most Interesting People. By Dillon Stewart

Granny and Ross Smith: Most Interesting People 2024

A grandson and his grandmother have become stars of social media with their unique comedy videos. By Henry Palattella

Huck Kurinsky: Most Interesting People 2024

He’s not even 10 years old, and this BMX champion is already breaking records. By Henry Palattella

Jenice Contreras: Most Interesting People 2024

This nonprofit leader is a leading force in the ongoing La Villa Hispana neighborhood development. By Annie Nickoloff

Kara Maxine Bieber: Most Interesting People 2024

The savvy founder and owner of two community-centered digital brands is bringing her unique flair to the definition of “girl boss.” By Abigail Kussow

Ken Schneck: Most Interesting People 2024

With The Buckeye Flame, this local journalist has highlighted important issues to Ohio’s LGBTQ communities. By Eric Heisig

Kevin Stefanski, J.B. Bickerstaff Bond Beyond Basketball and Football

Browns and Cavaliers coaches share encouragement in career and advice on time away from work. By Marla Ridenour

Kiwi Wongpeng: Most Interesting People 2024

The chef and owner behind a beloved Lakewood eatery has been in restaurants for her entire life. By Kate Bigam Kaput

Matt Earley: Most Interesting People 2024

The co-founder of Gotta Groove Records helped to establish an industry around vinyl records here in Cleveland. By Eric Heisig

Mikey Silas: Most Interesting People 2024

The lead singer of Apostle Jones has always had music in his life. By Annie Nickoloff

Molly Kearney: Most Interesting People 2024

A North Olmsted native honed their comedy skills on a Lake Erie island and landed a spot on Saturday Night Live. By Annie Nickoloff

Morgan Wright: Most Interesting People 2024

The radio and podcast host dives into the drama of reality television. By Henry Palattella

Rhonda Brown: Most Interesting People 2024

This artist has returned to her hometown to become the city’s first senior strategist for the arts, culture and creative economy. By Jacob DeSmit

Rich Paul: Most Interesting People 2024

One of the world’s most powerful sports agents grew up in Cleveland. By Lynne Thompson

Sam and Caleb Skelton: Most Interesting People 2024

These Cleveland brothers will hit Lake Erie’s waves, any time of year. By Abigail Kussow and Annie Nickoloff

Sia Nyorkor: Most Interesting People 2024

The Channel 19 news anchor and Cleveland transplant uses her voice to speak out about issues important to her. By Kate Bigam Kaput

Stefan Johnson: Most Interesting People 2024

You’ve probably heard this Cleveland voice actor’s smooth voice on TikTok, in commercials or in popular Netflix shows. By Jacob DeSmit

Entertainment

At Home with Tropidelic: Cleveland's Breakout Reggae-Funk-Rock Band

With its eighth album on the way, one of the city’s biggest breakout bands reflects on its rise in Cleveland and around the world. By Annie Nickoloff

Lusenhop Fine Art in Cleveland Heights Tells a Complete Story of American Art

David Lusenhop’s gallery shows some of the preeminent African American artists of our time. By Afi Scruggs

At Home

A ‘Destination Pub’ Makes These Boston Heights Homeowners Feel Away While at Home

This the 9,000-square-foot home is complete with a modern, industrial design and its own pub. By Lynne Thompson

In-Demand Interior Styles for Cleveland Homes

Gain inspo from Hurst Design and Remodeling, Dover Home Remodeler, Mont Surfaces and more local experts. By Kristen Hampshire

Style

A Canton Extravaganza at Gervasi Vineyards: CLE Weddings

A couple finds a Tuscan vineyard vibe among trendy downtown amenities when tying the knot in Canton. By Kristen Hampshire

A Ceremony in Order at Cleveland's Old Courthouse: CLE Weddings

A Downtown landmark for Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland. By Kristen Hampshire

Love Blossoms in the Hanna Courtyard Garden at Western Reserve Historical Society: CLE Weddings

The couple exchange vows with garden nuptials in University Circle and a riverfront reception. By Kristen Hampshire

The Glidden House Glistens with Cleveland History: CLE Weddings

Elegance is the word to use when getting married at an elevated historic home in University Circle. By Kristen Hampshire