Stonewall Columbus, along with supporting Sponsor, Out In America, would like to thank the community for their generosity and support making this years Annual Stonewall Columbus Awards Gala “A Night Out” the most successful Stonewall gala to date. With record breaking attendance of approximately 400 people, the event was incredible.Guests raved about the amazing décor from the Peacock ballroom, compliments of Ambient Creations, to the beautiful view of downtown Columbus at night time. They also enjoyed delectable food from Cameron Mitchell, unbeatable volunteer bar service, including table service and outstanding entertainment by Lisa O’dierna and the Arnett Howard Trio. Silent auction bids were at an all time high as guests perused the five tables full of wonderful donated items from tickets to the Ellen Degeneres show to a football signed by Jim Tressle to a red leather sofa with trim hand painted by Corbett Reynolds that Tammy Faye Baker sat on during Corbett’s Red Party.
The program went off without a hitch thanks to our wonderful emcee Kate Burdett from mix 97.1 morning show. Our Key note speaker, Councilwoman Hudson stated, “I am so honored to be presenting at Stonewall’s annual awards gala” and went on to thank the community for all of their continued support. Special recognition went out to all of the evening’s nominees and to the winners in each category.
Volunteer of the year nominations: For outstanding Volunteer Service to Stonewall Columbus Warren Stephenson Lori Boldman Jim Hammond (winner)
Media Awards nominations: For outstanding coverage and support of the GLBT community:
Kate Burdett from 97.1, Colleen Marshall from NBC4 and Chris Hayes from Outlook Media (winner)
Community Service nominations: Given to an organization which has made a significant contribution to the quality of life for the GLBT community in Central Ohio:
Columbus National Gay and Lesbian Theatre Festival, Kaleidoscope Youth Coalition (winner) and Equality Ohio
Leadership nominations: For exceptional leadership efforts in the GLBT community:
Don Laufersweiler (winner), Cheri Meyers and Bill Hedrick
Rhonda Rivera Human Rights Award: In appreciation of distinguished service to the GLBT community:
Chris Cozad, Lynne Bowman and Lynn Greer (winner)
Michael Dutcher, Director of Operations for Stonewall and the event coordinator stated “It makes me proud to be part of such a strong community willing to come together for a single cause, equality for everyone and to recognize those folks that inspire us and have made a positive impact on the GLBT community.” Kellye Pinkleton, Interim Executive Director of Stonewall also said “Stonewall Columbus is a center for the community and is open because of the community. The generosity, support and ongoing giving efforts are what keep the doors to Stonewall Columbus open so we can continue to provide programs and services for the GLBT community.”
Stonewall Columbus would like to recognize the following event sponsors, without whom this event would not have been possible; Out In Columbus, NBC4, Absolut, Outlook Media, CD101, Direct TV/LOGO, JP Morgan Chase, Ambient Creations, Bud Light, Ameriprise, Artz & Dewhirst, Dooley & Company, Dr. James Ford, Union Station Foundation, Amerititle Downtown, World of Travel, Pizzuti, Wall Street, Kover Dental, United Way, Torso, Prudential Financial, T-Bears Florist, Fisher College, Cameron Mitchell, Gateway and Arena Grand Theaters and Electronic One.
Lastly and most importantly, Stonewall Columbus staff and board would like to sincerely thank all the volunteers and event committee members for making this event happen. With out the support of the community and all the wonderful folks that continually support Stonewall Columbus, we would not be able to bring such a recognition program to you. For more information on this event or Stonewall Columbus, please visit our website at www.stonewallcolumbus.org
Stonewall Columbus is a human rights organization serving Central Ohio through advocacy, community building and education. We do this in pursuit of equality, fairness and safety for the entire gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.
For More Information Contact:
Michael Dutcher, Director of Operation and Special Events
Stonewall Columbus
(614)930-2262
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