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UNSUNG HERO
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:
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Cleve Ricksecker, Unsung Hero
Before Cleve was Mr. Downtown, he was Father Short North. As the first full-time director of the Former Short North Business Association, Cleve was instrumental in creating some of the most lasting and impactful events and improvements in the District’s history. From Holiday Hop to the Short North Cap, along with countless others, the Short North Arts District would not be all that it is today without Cleve’s leading touch. Beyond his professional service to the District, Cleve has been a lifelong champion of the Short North and its neighborhoods, a devoted promoter of public and active transportation, and an enthusiastic patron of the District.
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Katie Beaumont, Unsung Hero
Having lived in the Short North for 12 years, Katie is a familiar face who has made deep connections across the Short North community. In 2017, Katie turned those connections into impact by founding At Home By High. Inspired by the national village movement that aims to help seniors age in place, At Home By High is both a service-based nonprofit and a social network, helping seniors to stay connected to the Short North community as they age. Be it organizing neighbors to shovel sidewalks, finding transportation solutions for medical appointments, serving as friendly companions, or even finding housing for those in need - Katie has created an army of compassion for elder persons in our community.
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Rick Harrison, Unsung Hero
Rick is part of a group of individuals known as “super volunteers.” Having lived in the Short North for more than 15 years, few can recall a time when Rick wasn’t volunteering to help support this community by giving his time to serve on boards and organize the time of others. He has served on the board and/or volunteered for Friends of Goodale Park, Short North Civic Association, Stonewall Columbus, Equitas Health, and too many fundraising and community events to count. Rick is always willing to help and does so without seeking or expecting any recognition. He is valued member of the community and a role model to many.
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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. This year's Business Beacons are:
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Cameron Mitchell and Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Business Beacon
In 2018, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants celebrated 25 years of restaurant excellence -- 25 years that have brought the company to now operating 33 restaurants under 15 different concepts, including five highly successful restaurants in the Short North Arts District -- The Guild House, The Pearl, Marcella’s, Martini, and Harvey & Ed’s -- with two more on the way in 2019 -- Del Mar/Lincoln Social in the Short North Arts District and Budd Dairy Food Hall in nearby Italian Village. Mitchell is widely known for his commitment to the central Ohio community and is dedicated to seeing the Short North Arts District thrive as a destination of choice for visitors and residents alike. In addition to their guiding principles of putting associates first, and always answering guest questions with a “yes,” as well as their exemplary industry leadership and inspiration, CMR has contributed millions of dollars as committed partners to the local communities they serve.
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Elizabeth Townes Bella and Phia Salon, Business Beacon
When Elizabeth Townes Bella opened Phia Salon in the Short North Arts District 15 years ago in a small storefront with just a few chairs, many knew she had big plans. In addition to promoting wellness, sustainability, and quality service, the dedicated team at Phia are committed to being educators and artists. From training up-and-coming stylists to serving as the creative force behind the hair and makeup that dazzle at HighBall Halloween, Phia is a special part of the business community in the Short North Arts District.
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Melaine Mahaffey and Mary Catherine’s Antiques, Business Beacon
In 1979, Eva Ricci Mahaffey and her daughter Melaine opened Mary Catherine’s Antiques in the Near North Side of Columbus, which was not so affectionately referred to as the Short North by Columbus Police who made frequent trips to the area just “short” of the northern boundary of the downtown police precinct. Fast-forward 40 years, and Melaine still carries on her mother’s legacy in the oldest continuously operating retailer in the Short North Arts District. Charming treasures along with their stories line the rooms of Mary Catherine’s, serving as both a bonanza of discovery and a living landmark in our community.
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