Our Board + Staff

Board of Directors

Harriette Watford Lowenthal, President

Alexandria Nichols, Vice-President

Scott Williams, Treasurer

Dr. Betsy Feighan, Secretary

Alexandria Cooke

Louis Rorimer

Dr. Sebouh Setrakian

Diana Stromberg

Cecilia Wong

Advisory Council

David Goodman

Crickett Karson

Ann Plantz

Dr. Michael Roizen

John Schulze

Tom Wiandt

William Woolf

Linda Johanek

Interim Executive Director

Linda Johanek is the Interim Executive Director of North Union Farmers Market and Owner of LDJ Consulting, LLC. She brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience in organizational development, strategic growth, fund development, and community partnerships.

A former CEO of Cleveland’s Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center, Linda has led complex nonprofit mergers, capital campaigns, and nationally recognized program expansions. She previously served as Senior Director of Staff for the Leap Ambassadors Community, a global network of nonprofit leaders advancing high performance in the sector.

Linda has taught and mentored social work students at Cleveland State University and continues to serve on several community boards, including the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County.

Kawai Bitto

Director of Market Operations

Kawai Bitto is a dedicated advocate for holistic wellness and sustainable living, blending her degree in Nutrition and Dietetics with a minor in psychology to foster healthy lifestyles. Over 6 years at the North Union Farmers Market, she's ascended from volunteer to general manager, leading initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture and community well-being. As a wife, mother, and dog owner, she embodies the principles she advocates for, enriching both her personal and professional life through a commitment to healthy living and community empowerment.

Emma Visnic

Director of Marketing and Communication

Emma Visnic is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of diverse experience at North Union Farmers Market, where she currently serves as Director of Marketing and Communication. Renowned for her lifelong connections and creative contributions to promoting local food systems and supporting Ohio farmers, Emma is celebrated as a dynamic leader in community-building and sustainable agriculture.Through her initiatives, she enriches the community, empowers farmers, and fosters a culture of environmental stewardship. Beyond her professional pursuits, Emma finds joy in her roles as a wife, mother, and dog owner, drawing inspiration from the bonds of family and the simple pleasures of everyday life.

Denise Sumbry

Westside Outreach Coordinator

Denise is a Cleveland native with a passion for community connection, food access, and wellness. With a background in entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement, she brings a people-centered approach to building relationships and supporting local businesses. Deeply aligned with the farm-to-table movement, Denise believes everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food and the resources needed to thrive. She enjoys connecting with local entrepreneurs, community partners, and residents to help strengthen Cleveland's neighborhoods and local food system. Outside of work, Denise enjoys hiking, traveling, dancing, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

Cheryl Evans

Market Manager

From longtime volunteer and trusted payroll provider to beloved market manager, Cheryl has worn many hats at North Union Farmers Market. A familiar and friendly face, she’s been the heart and soul of your favorite markets for years—keeping everything running smoothly with care, consistency, and a warm smile. Her dedication and deep-rooted love for local food (Cheryl is an avid home cook!),and the community make her a cherished part of our team.

Christine Bertlemann

Market Manager

Christine brings a background in education, nonprofit leadership, hospitality, and community engagement. Originally from Hawaiʻi and now calling Ohio home, she combines the spirit of aloha with a passion for creating welcoming spaces where people feel connected and supported.

She enjoys helping local farmers, artisans, and food producers share their products and stories while supporting small businesses and strengthening the local economy. Christine believes farmers markets are more than places to shop—they are gathering spaces where relationships grow and communities thrive.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring Ohio's small towns and farmers markets, staying active, and discovering new adventures with her partner, Jon.

Alexandra Gaines

Market Manager

Alexandra brings a passion for local food, hospitality, and community connection to her work as a market manager. As the founder of Al Gaisson, she creates curated food experiences that celebrate seasonal ingredients, local producers, and the joy of gathering around the table.

She enjoys connecting shoppers with farmers, artisans, and small businesses while helping create vibrant market experiences that support Northeast Ohio's local food system. Alexandra believes food has the power to bring people together, foster community, and create meaningful connections.

Outside of the market, she enjoys exploring local farms, hosting gatherings, and finding new ways to celebrate the beauty and abundance of each season.

Izzy Stitchick

Market Manager & Administrative Assistant

Izzy advocates for and is an active participant of a resilient local food system. Her background is in food justice work and sustainable agriculture, and her current roles involve supporting farmers, connecting consumers to accessible healthy food, and building community through buying local. Izzy is also a farmer and owner of Quilt Star Farm where she grows heirloom and specialty crops.

Kendall Walter

Market Manager

Kendall Walter is a Cleveland native who has spent the last decade in New York City working across design, events, and food equity initiatives. Kendall’s experience in community food systems and creative operations fuels her passion for building inclusive and accessible market spaces. She is excited to be returning to her roots in Cleveland and connecting with the local community. Outside of work, she is an illustrator and small business owner who enjoys cooking and creative storytelling.

Mia Watson

Eastside Outreach Coordinator & Market Manager

Mia is a passionate local food advocate who brings warmth, energy, and a wealth of experience to the market. With a background that spans education, food service, and bartending, she’s done it all—and brings that same versatility to her role as Market Manager. Whether she’s welcoming shoppers, supporting farmers, or sharing her love for sustainable agriculture, Mia helps make every market feel like home.