2022 SHORT NORTH GALA

Maren Roth, Rowe Boutique

The Short North Arts District’s reputation as a fashion destination is in large part due to the contributions of Rowe Boutique. Maren Roth, owner of Rowe Boutique in the Short North Arts District, has always been on top of her game, whether it be staying ahead of the trends for her customers, throwing the chicest of fashion shows, or serving her neighbors by advocating for the needs of small businesses.

Now in its 15th year, Rowe is entering a new chapter as the business expands to a larger footprint in the Short North Arts District. In addition to serving the latest styles, Maren has always made a point to give back to the community, including Rowe’s annual drop of the Lover sweatshirts benefitting the American Heart Association and her personal efforts to fundraise for the James Cancer Hospital through the annual Jack Roth Run. Maren and Rowe are a true example that doing good is always in vogue.

Nida & Chris Perry, Nida’s Thai on High

Nida Perry, a native of Thailand, first shared her passion with Columbus via Nida’s Sushi at the North Market in 2001. After building a loyal following on Park Street, Nida, alongside husband and co-owner Chris Perry, expanded operations and opened Nida’s Thai on High on High Street in the heart of the Short North Arts District.

Serving some of the city’s best Thai cuisine, with accents from Japanese, Vietnamese, and Western traditions, Nida’s has become a staple in the Short North Arts District, filling the bellies of Columbus residents and visitors to the area for over 21 years, including more than 20 years at Comfest. 

UNSUNG HERO

Honorees in this category are selected for the contributions they have made over the years to the artistry, diversity, community, and spirit of the Short North Arts District.

KaTanya Brewer

KaTanya Brewer, an event staple of Gallery Hop, is the self-proclaimed “Gallery Hop Singer.” Although being honored as an Unsung Hero, KaTayna is arguably the most well-known singer in the Short North Arts District having participated in the Short North Arts District’s monthly celebration of art for nearly 13-years. Even the pandemic couldn’t stop her. Despite the world shutting down, KaTanya took her show on the road to spread cheer by starting “Sidewalk Serenades,” in which she delivered personal concerts straight to the sidewalks of individual’s residences.

When she’s not sharing her soulful gift of song with the community, KaTanya is giving back in other ways. A long-time volunteer of the Short North Arts District, KaTanya has dedicated her time and talents year over year to many community organizations and events.

ARCHITECTURAL STAR

Honorees in this category have contributed substantially to the architectural quality, preservation, or design of the Short North Arts District.

Kevin Lykens, Lykens Companies Budd Dairy Food Hall

The Budd Dairy Company opened the Budd Dairy Building and plant in Italian Village on Fourth St. between Fourth Ave. and Detroit in 1916 and it remained in operation for more than 50 years until 1967. Local developer Kevin Lykens of Lykens Companies, had the vision to preserve, restore, and reinvent the building into a stunning set of new uses for North Fourth Street.

The building was reinvigorated with new life, while still paying homage to its longstanding history, with many of the original building’s fixtures scattered throughout the space. Now featuring offices and serving as a venue for “restaurant incubation, culinary exploration, entertainment” with the Budd Dairy Food Hall, the project is a true architectural star for our community. 

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.

Dr. Mysheika Roberts, Columbus Public Health

Over the past two years, the citizens of Columbus have come to know the Columbus Public Health Department more than ever before. Under the leadership of Dr. Mysheika Roberts, Columbus Public Health served as a beacon to guide our city through the pandemic in an effort to keep everyone as healthy and safe as possible.

With so much unknown, Columbus Public Health led with science, research and confidence as many looked for answers on what to do, including the small business community of the Short North Arts District. Whether it be guidance on mask wearing or how to operate safely, Columbus Public Health provided small businesses with the much-needed answers in what became our new normal.