I have friends who went to OSU and OWU. Partied there with them on several occasions. They often said that Short North is a cool place to go but it's "where all the fags hang out" in their words. Also was there during the Gay Pride parade (not FOR the parade...just DURING it.) Even happened upon an article claiming Columbus was a gay-friendly city that specifically mentioned Short North and German Village. Put 2 and 2 together...(and add in confirmation from freeper MikefromOhio...)
I never denied capitalism being alive and well. Columbus is a good example of a city that is fiscally conservative but has many social liberals.