The Short North Alliance is pleased to announce that it will honor seven individuals and groups at the 10th Annual Short North Gala, presented by Borror Properties. Honoree categories are: District Legacy, Unsung Heroes, Business Beacon, and Community Partner.

"This year, the Short North Alliance has the privilege of honoring members of our community who have both improved the vibrancy of the Short North Arts District and the lives of others in our distinct community," said Betsy Pandora, Executive Director of the Short North Alliance. 

This year's honorees and the individual award categories are described below. For complete information about the 10th Annual Short North Gala, click here. This year’s honorees and the individual award categories are described below.

DISTRICT LEGACY

New in 2016, honorees in this category made lasting contributions to the Short North Arts District through their life and service.

Tom Thompson (1924-2015)
Tom Thompson was the founder and publisher emeritus of The Short North Gazette and many other publications showcasing art, culture, and community across Columbus. His voice, passion, and pen elevated our community for over nearly 30 years. Tom passed away in December 2015.

Greg Carr (1948-2016)
Greg Carr was one of the earliest advocates for the revitalization of the Short North Arts District. Some of his lasting and numerous contributions to the Short North Arts District include founding the Short North Tavern, Short North Business Association, Neighborhood Design Center, and the Doo Dah Parade. But not for Greg Carr, the Short North Arts District and surrounding neighborhoods would not be what they are today. Greg passed away in January 2016.

UNSUNG HEROES

Honorees in this category are nominated by the community and are selected for the contributions they have made over the years to the artistry, diversity, community, and spirit of the Short North Arts District. This year’s unsung heroes are: 

Charly Bauer, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
By day, Charly may be the head scooper at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams. But, for the last 15+ years, Charly has been one of the most instrumental advocates for the success of the Short North Arts District. From creating events like HighBall and leading the formation of the Short North Alliance to keeping business owners smiling, Charly’s wit, passion, and leadership have inspired generations of Short North entrepreneurs. 

Lori Gum, Stonewall Columbus
Since joining Stonewall Columbus in 2011, Lori has emerged as a devoted advocate for the LGBT community in Columbus. An avid storyteller, Lori had devoted her life to giving voice to those who are often overlooked. Among her accomplishments is her commanding coordination of the annual Pride Festival and her determination in helping LGBT veterans receive honorable discharges.

Dave Weibel, Edward Jones
Dave Weibel has been a behind-the-scenes staple in the Short North Arts District for nearly 20 years. Dave has served not only as volunteer for numerous Short North Arts District events, committees, and causes but also has lent his advice and expertise to small businesses all along High Street. He also plays one mean banjo.  

BUSINESS BEACON

Honorees in this category have served as catalysts to bring a broad range of visitors to the District, and have inspired others to invest in and nurture the Short North Arts District.

COMMUNITY PARTNER

Honorees in this category have deep collaborations with the Short North Arts District resulting in significant advancement of the District’s quality of life.

King Avenue United Methodist Church
For over 100 years, King Avenue United Methodist Church has been a consistent presence in this neighborhood, serving as not only a place of worship, but as a center of community. Under the leadership of Rev. John Keeny, King Avenue United Methodist Church has deepened its impact in the Short North Arts District through the growth and expansion of programs which highlight the arts, serve our seniors, celebrate inclusion and diversity, and provided support to Columbus’ vastly underserved.

Tickets to the Short North Gala are on sale now. Click here for more information or to purchase single tickets or tables. For questions, call (614) 299.8050 or email info@shortnorth.org.

High resolution headshots are available upon request.