Explanation
Title
To commemorate the life of Ray Hanley, an individual who truly understood the impact that the arts could have not only on an individual, but on a community and whose leadership became an institution, with results that can be seen all over Central Ohio.
Body
WHEREAS, Ray worked to find innovative solutions to build support for the arts, including stabilization funds and marketing initiatives; and
WHEREAS, Ray served as the president and CEO of the Greater Columbus Arts Council since 1985, creating the state's largest and most active arts council; and
WHEREAS, Under Ray's guidance The Columbus Arts Festival remains one of the top ten events of its kind in the country. Each year more than 500,000 people of all ages and from diverse backgrounds attend the four-day event, making it one of central Ohio's largest and most popular outdoor attractions. The Columbus Arts Festival is a reflection of the civic pride Ray shared with all Columbus residents; and
WHEREAS, Ray Hanley has helped to establish a national image for Columbus as a city deeply committed to the arts and culture by forging invaluable partnerships with city and civic leaders, artists and arts organizations; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby commemorate the life of Ray Hanley - community activist for the arts - for his unwavering commitment to building a truly community driven arts program; for bringing the world to Central Ohio; and for letting us see, firsthand, what true passion looks like.
Presented on this 20th day of April, 2006.