Inaugural Awards Gala

Leonie Pheola Robinson was born in a very small rural town Balaclava of about 250 people in parish called St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, West Indies. In August of 2000 she left Jamaica to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management at Hocking Community College in Nelsonville, Ohio.

She committed to doing both school and work in Ohio. While doing this program, Leonie realized that she not only has a passion for food and music, but also for serving people. Island Vibes became her passion and has been for the last 18 years. She has and continues to service the people of the Linden area with amazing Jamaican cuisine with the same love and vibes from 18 years ago.

Clarence Simmons has an extensive background and career in developing and building affordable housing. He has helped produce over 650+ affordable units throughout central Ohio including funding sources LITHC, HOME, CDBG, and NSP funding. Clarence  has worked with clients such as CMHA, NCH/HNHF/HLH, AHT, CUL, FDA, and City Of Cols, OHFA,& OHIO Capital Corp. He has also been involved in Community Boards such MORPC, St.Stephens, GCAC, NSDP, AALA, and the Center for Real Estate-OSU. Founder of the 42 Elite Baseball Org. Clarence holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from The Ohio State University – 1995. He also completed the Executive Education Program at Dartmouth University/Tuck Business School. Clarence is a proud recipient of the City of Columbus Fred Yates Small Biz Award Scholarship 

De Lena P. Scales is the City of Columbus – Department of Neighborhoods liaison for North and South Linden. Neighborhood liaisons serve as your direct link to city services and provide support for area commissions. They are located in Neighborhood Pride Centers in each region of Columbus. Liaisons work with residents, city officials, and civic organizations to empower residents to improve their neighborhoods. On this page you will find the neighborhood liaison who you can reach out to if you need assistance with a city issue or topic. De Lena is a lifelong Linden resident with a deep passion to see Linden succeed on all fronts. She has previously worked for Columbus City Mayor’s office, and she was instrumental in shaping Celebrate 1 – an organization dedicated to help prevent infant mortality.