(614) September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 | FREE

INSIDE

OSU PLAYER ON THE MIC, FINNISH BEER & MEATY SANDWICHES

ELEVEN WARRIORS BREAKS DOWN THE SEASON 614NOW.COM SEPTEMBER 2021 (614) MAGAZINE

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BIG PICTURE A night game at Ohio Stadium as fans cheer on The Ohio State Buckeye football team.

PHOTO BY DAVID HEASLEY

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Contents

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C O V E R PA C K A G E THE FOOTBALL ISSUE

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MAKERS SPACE: NORTH TO NASHVILLE 18 THE LONG DRINK

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POWER PLANT KITCHEN

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NEIGHBOR'S DELI

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SPOTLIGHT: HEALTH AND FITNESS

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SPOTLIGHT: ADVENTURE

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ON THE COVER:

Illustration by Willem Kern

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Opening Volley PUBLISHER Wayne T. Lewis CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lindsay Press

STEPHANIE WEST VP of Content / Editor In Chief

It’s not goodbye— it’s see you later, readers

I

’ve said a lot of goodbyes recently.

In May, I said goodbye to my daughter’s high school—both figuratively (she graduated) and literally (they tore down her high school and built a new one).

In July, I said goodbye to my apartment of 5 years and moved into a new one across the street. In August, I said goodbye to my daughter as I left her at college.

And this September, I say goodbye to you, dear readers.

This issue of (614) magazine—our football issue— is my last. I have enjoyed every second I’ve spent with you all and creating content that you all have enjoyed.

I’ve appreciated all your letters and emails that are in response to my Opening Volley—those I keep. And I have loved every second working with my brilliant creative team. It’s been a blast. And because it has, I tend to stick with the old adage, “This isn’t goodbye; it’s see you later.”

With see you later, you leave the door open to see each other again—it won’t be in this space again, but someday, someway, we will have a laugh or a good conversation or I will read your letter in response to something else I’ve written somewhere—it will be like no time has passed at all.

In the meantime, I leave you with an incredible

magazine, backed by a sassy and clever creative, sales, and marketing team, and led by the former assistant editor, Sarah Sole. She will do well in this new role and I hope you’ll send her welcoming letters and greet her with all the enthusiasm and joy you have greeted me.

And while you’re here, readers, go read this issue!

I promise it will not disappoint. The always awesome Eleven Warriors penned our cover section on Ohio State football with a primer to get you set for the season. Before that, we’ve got a former OSU player at the microphone in the new band North to Nashville, as well as a new Finnish beer that’s making waves in Columbus and a restaurant serving meaty sandwiches (and one that’s not!)

This issue also contains the ever-popular Fall Arts Guide that gives you all things artistic to see this coming season, from music to fine arts and everything in between.

And while you’re at it, why not book a hot air balloon to see those fall leaves? We’ve got the scoop on where you can get it done in our Spotlight on Adventure.

And on that note, I am off to start a new adventure of my own. I will miss you all, but I will leave you with my favorite issue (my first one!) and a few other memories that happened during my time here. Good luck Columbus— and GO BUCKS!

VP OF CONTENT / EDITOR IN CHIEF Stephanie West ASSISTANT / DIGITAL EDITOR Sarah Sole CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ally Schnaidt, Jen Brown, Allison Grimes CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sarah Sole Jack McLaughlin

Jaelani Turner-Williams Melinda Green CREATIVE DESIGNERS Jaime North, Emma Quinn, Willem Kern, Bryce Patterson VIDEO PRODUCER / EDITOR Maddy Van Buren Austin Black DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Jayci Haase MARKETING COORDINATOR Justynne Pride BRAND MANAGER, 614 LAGER Lizzy Saunders ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Nikki Harris ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mindy Wilhite Travis Burson

Created by

Got my puppy in October and she turned a year old on August l6th!

My daughter graduated from high school and went off to college!

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my creative team!

Had a blast with tag – yes I won.

This is us at laser lls eyes*) (*creative team ro Love these people!!

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614now.com www.614now.com

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ON the WEB

� S TA F F P I C K S It’s the (614) September issue and that can only mean one thing—FOOTBALL! So we asked our staffers: What's your favorite OSU football game or pre-game memory ever?

Giving away T-shirts at OSU tailgating events and seeing people go nuts over a $5 T-shirt—then remembering I lost my mind over a free $5 T-shirt just 10 days earlier.

Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should.

Every day we’re posting Columbus’s top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and suscribe to our daily email!

— Stephanie West, VP of Content / Editor-In-Chief

The feeling I had at the 2006 1. Ohio State vs 2. Michigan game might top the birth of my first child.

— Travis Burson, Account Executive

Tailgating at a game I didn't even watch. The energy was so amazing and it was so much fun! Does that make me a fake fan?

— Justynne Pride, Marketing Coordinator

→ MORE FRIED CHICKEN Listen, we know you love fried chicken. There’s a new one to enjoy. Read more by scanning the QR code.

I, in general, am not much for sportsing.

But I do like hockey and soccer. Just not football. Unpopular opinion.

— Sarah Sole, Asst./Digital Editor

I also do not like football. I prefer hockey.

Don’t tell Travis. ^^^ — Austin Black, Video Producer & Editor

I went to OSU, I don’t remember many of them. Can we put that in the magazine?

— Jayci Haase, Marketing Director

I grew up really close to OSU so my family used to bike down to the stadium and watch the jumbotron from the path!

→ Fried Lobster Walked Into A Bar and Met Grilled Steak And what did this beautiful union create? You’ll have to read to find out by scanning the QR code.

— Emma Quinn, Creative Designer

Jumping into mirror lake and getting sick for a week after. Or kegs and eggs at 6 a.m. for noon games! (I also am not into football I just liked drinking in college).

— Lizzy Saunders, Brand Manager, 614 Lager

The blackout game vs Penn State - coming back from a deficit at halftime. Still gives me chills!!!

— Nikki Harris, Senior Account Executive

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→ Guessing Game Which local food hall received national recognition? Scan the QR code to find out!

#AsSeenInColumbus

@bean_thebasset

@brown_onthetown_cbus

@carpenterfarmproject

@viralcolumbus

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61 4 V IDEO Did you know that 614 Media Group launched a new YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. We’re expanding our ever-growing content to include video across our web and magazine stories. Keep an eye out for more on our (614) Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, check out the newest we have to offer on our channel:

now playing...

• Tasting Columbus Have you checked out our TV show “Tasting Columbus?” Join food scientist Matt Teegarden as he eats his way through Columbus’ food scene.

Make sure to tune in at tastingcolumbus.com or scan the QR code here. now playing...

• Don't Do It Yourself!

When it comes to home improvement, call a professional. Scan the QR code to see several professionals starting with The Metal Roof Company.

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SOCIAL CO M M E N TA RY Columbus, you are a social-ing bunch, and we couldn’t love it anymore than we already do—unless YOU had a giveaway for US! Still, your quirky, witty, commentary, sometimes full of love... sometimes not so much, gives us much to talk about during the day.

So, have @ it Central Ohio—we’re listening!

fa c e b o o k In response to "Taco brand closes area pick-up and delivery spots" (Torchy's Tacos) BERNIE M: Why does everything happen to me?!?!? Now all I can think of is street corn! (And queso & guac & chips).

In response to "The time the Tee Jaye's sign renamed Clintonville" DAVID W: If everyone contacts Google we might be able to get this area updated on the maps.

In response to "Less Is More: New Italian eatery is keeping things simple–and Columbus is eating it up" (Novella Osteria) JON P: Top 3 Best Dishes I've had in Columbus. SO good.

twitter In response to "Ring in the end of summer with this tribute to fair food" (Worthington event) @QUANTUMDOTDOT: oooh this is right up my alley, thanks

for the piece!

i n s t a g ra m In response to Team (614)'s "150 coffee sleeves for 150 issues" @RMHCOFCENTRALOH: The coffee machines in our family

rooms are very popular so this is perfect!

In response to Prairie photo from Junction Group Earthworks, taken by @jwilscheck @MOMSMINDFULMESS:Gorgeous! What a great place for

photos!

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↑ Country band, North to Nashville (Photo by Spencer Lookabaugh)

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Former Buckeye football player trades a playbook for the microphone

By Jack McLaughlin

W players go on to become professional

e’ve seen former Buckeyes football

football stars, NFL CEOs, actors, business owners, and a whole lot more.

Now you can add country music frontman to the list.

Former OSU offensive guard Evan Blankenship is the lead singer of North to Nashville, a local five-piece country band whose star is on the rise. His path to a career in music wasn’t a simple one, though.

“When I got to OSU, music wasn’t really a passion at first,” he said.

" WHEN I GOT TO OSU, MUSIC WASN'T REALLY A PASSION AT FIRST. " By his junior year, after participating in team talent shows and teaching himself guitar, Blankenship started to upload some of his music to YouTube. Due to an NCAA policy that barred student-athletes from using their image for monetary gain, however, his channel was deemed a conflict of interest.

“First and foremost, I was a student, I was an athlete,” he said. “So I had to let it go.”

But by this time he had caught the bug.

And after college, it wasn’t the NFL Evan was gunning for.

In 2011, he relocated to Nashville, falling headfirst into the music industry. He found some early success with another band around this time, but after a stint with them and a whole lot of industry lessons later, he returned to Columbus. →

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↓ North to Nashville performing (Photo courtesy of North to Nashville)

In 2018, after pairing with Brian Turnbull (guitar), Ryan Tuhy (bass), Ben Anderson (drums), and Brian Frank (guitar), North to Nashville was born.

The local group, known for their dynamic country sound and energetic live performances, quickly caught on. Before COVID hit, they had already opened for acts like Cole Swindel and Luke Combs. One particular show during that time served as a homecoming of sorts for Blankenship as well.

The band was a featured act for a pregame tailgate party hosted by The Fan 97.1 FM during the 2019 football season.

“I really lost a little sense of what being on campus, being in that atmosphere, is like.

But once we started playing at tailgates, all the memories started flooding back,” he said. “I love that I’m able to be part of it in a different way now too.”

And today, the milestones keep rolling in for the local Country act.

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The band released a new single, Whisperin’, on July 30, which debuted on 92.3 WCOL. The song, alongside several others, is available to stream on Apple Music and Spotify.

North to Nashville also has a handful of local gigs queued up for the fall, including Sept. 5 at the Obetz Zucchini Festival (opening for Big & Rich), and Sept. 6 at Waterfront on Buckeye Lake.

They’re set to perform during several tailgate events for OSU home games this year too, so you can help cheer on the Buckeyes with a former player behind the mic.

“I saw SEC football parties in Nashville, and they’re not even close to a gameday in Columbus,” Blakenship said. “They’re electric.

And we can’t wait to do it again.” ♦ Learn more at northtonashville.com or follow them on Instagram at @northtonashville

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← Product shot by Spencer Lookabaugh

How a unique mixed drink from Finland is winning over Ohioans

By Jack McLaughlin

Just before Finland hosted its first-ever Summer Olympic games in 1952, the country’s government unveiled what it had been diligently working on behind the scenes to celebrate the international festivities—a mixed drink.

Known as the long drink, this top secret combination of grapefruit soda and gin was created by the Finnish state to be served at Helsinki bars and restaurants during the Olympic competition. It was easy-drinking, refreshing, and could be quickly premixed prior to hectic shifts so establishments could better handle the massive influx of customers.

Flash forward to 2021 and Central Ohioans don't need to embark on a Nordic adventure to try the refreshing beverage—it’s already here.

The Finnish Long Drink, a company based in Finland, has brought the exotic libation to Ohio, hoping long drink catches on in the states like it did in its home country. →

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"It was easy-drinking, refreshing, and could be quickly premixed..."

↑ Ere Partanen and Mikael Taipale, Co-Founders of The Long Drink Photo provided by The Long Drink

“In Finland, we grew up drinking long drink,” said owner of the Finnish Long Drink Ere Partanen. “If you go to any grocery store in Finland, there’s an aisle for beer, one for wine, and another for long drink. There are probably 30 different brands.”

But there’s only one brand available in Ohio and you can find it in a number locations throughout Columbus, including Giant Eagle supermarkets, gas stations, and a variety of bottle shops and liquor stores.

And while the most popular Finnish Long Drink product remains their Traditional flavor (5.5% ABV) modeled after the Finnish government’s mid-century recipe, the company also offers several other unique riffs on the drink. These include the sugar-free and lowcalorie Long Drink Zero (5% ABV), Long Drink Cranberry (5.5% ABV), and the robust Long Drink Strong (8.5% ABV), which incorporates another Finnish tradition.

“In Finland, people will sometimes pour a shot of alcohol into their long drink, and that’s sort of what we’re trying to recreate with Long Drink Strong.”

But no matter which variety Ohioans opt for, long drink is likely to continue growing its list of supporters here in the states. Bright, effervescent, and refreshing, the combination of subtle citrus with the piney tang of gin is a winning combination; one that quietly recalls the brushy pines of Finland with every sip.

And for Partanen, it’s this aspect of cultural exchange that makes the drink’s sale in the United States, or any other country, for that matter, so special, and so uniquely satisfying.

“It’s a little bit like being a brand ambassador, but for an entire country,” he said.

“It lets me share my country, my home, with the rest of the world. And we’re proud of it.”

Learn more and see where to buy the Long Drink in Ohio at thelongdrink.com

↑ Product shot by Spencer Lookabaugh 24

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← The Long Drink, on the assembly line Photo provided by The Long Drink

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POWER

plants Local chef uses vegan soul food to uplift spirits and diets in Columbus.

By Jaelani Turner-Williams Photos by Ally Schnaidt

↑ Ishmael Abdul-Rahman, Chef

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Chef Ishmael Rahman lives his life by maintaining high vibes through vegan soul food dishes. As such, he’s the founder of pop-up vendor Power Plant Kitchen.

Sustaining a plant-based lifestyle for 20 years, Rahman looked to his long-time dietary changes as inspiration behind Power Plant Kitchen, along with satisfying his loyal vegan following.

“As I got older, I knew I needed to make a change in food that didn't make me feel sluggish,” Rahman said. “My thought behind Power Plant Kitchen was, ‘Doesn't everyone want to feel this way? I cannot be the only one.’"

Reflecting traditional Carribean and soul food, Rahman uses foods that are both vibrant in color as well as health benefits.

Witnessing friends and family members suffering from cancer and hypertension, Rahman dedicated his business to empowering customers through foods high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. The Power Plant Kitchen menu—which changes between a rotation of signature meals like BBQ Pineapple Chikn Bowl, Ishmael Veg Lasagna and Bakon and Avocado Sandwich with Fried Plantains—has nearly changed the habits of traditional eaters.→

↑ Hosea Artista

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" ↑ Two of Power Plant Kitchen's signature meals

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FOOD HAS energy, IT IMPACTS ON ALL ASPECTS OF health...

"

↑ The chef prepares the dish for serving

“A person once told me, ‘if I could eat like this everyday, I'd go vegan.’ I've had to get more creative with marketing and the menu,” Rahman said. “During the pandemic...the world shut down, so I was in search of a new crowd of people who wanted to change their lifestyle and old eating habits.”

Looking forward to incorporating soups and stews on Power Plant Kitchen’s holiday menu, Rahman plans to work consistently with seasonal produce. With fresh, efficient and environmentally-friendly foods, Rahman doesn’t just plan to change the conversation about Black-owned vegan options, he wants Power Plant Kitchen to change the vibration.

“Food has energy, it impacts on all aspects of health,” he said. “Eating an unbalanced, heavy processed diet I believe can drastically reduce your mood and state of mind. I want to uplift communities with good food.” ♦ .

Learn more on Insta at @powerplantkitchen

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SANDWICHES FOR THE PEOPLE

↓ Jon Snyder, Owner, holds the deli's classic ruben

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Local shop with dive vibes delivers big on meaty concoctions.

By Jack McLaughlin Photos by Ally Schnaidt

I

n bold red letters, the phrase is painted onto one of the walls of Neighbor’s Deli, a small, tuckedaway sandwich shop on the city’s northwest side: “Sandwiches for the people!”

Owner Jon Snyder tells me with a wry smile that this saying has become something like the motto of his quaint, approachable eatery, and it’s not hard to see why.

The first place this is apparent?

Their sandwiches, of course. →

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Nearly everything served from Neighbor’s voluminous all-sandwich menu (which fills up exactly seven large, black chalkboards inside the store) is absolutely loaded with meat.

From the Neighbor’s Dip, with mountains of roast beef and melty provolone, to the indulgent Chicken Parm Panini or the classic Country Club, Snyder doesn’t shy away from piling on the protein.

But it isn’t just quantity, it’s quality that also sets the spot apart.

“I truly want to make the best sandwiches I can, so I take extra time and care,” he said. “Side-by-side with other sandwich shops, there’s no comparison.”

And while Snyder’s massive,

meaty creations may appear chaotic or slapdash to some, there’s a method behind his madness.

“My stuff might look thrown together, but everything is by design,” he said. “If I make a breakfast sandwich and pop an egg yolk after it’s on top so it runs through the bacon, that’s what I’ve found is the best way to do it.”

And just like the food, his quirky but absolutely-worth-the-wait approach, is the same experience you’ll get when dining in Neighbor’s Deli.

With brightly-colored murals painted by former employees adorning several walls, and chalkboard menus clogging up

"My stuff

might look thrown together, but everything is by design...

"

↑ The fresh bacon used on their sandwhiches

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↑ Neighbor's Deli "Country Club"

others, Neighbor’s feels welcoming, cozy, and lived-in.

Snyder, however, does have his own terminology for it. “It’ll say it, sure. It's a dive,” he said with a laugh.

And when the native Ohioan is not in the back of the house over the flattop, he’s always ready to talk about anything Columbus, from Buckeye football to the city’s indie music scene.

“I’m a punk rock guy. In that scene things were sort of DIY, and we embraced what wasn’t perfect,” Snyder said. “Like the pops and scratches when you play a vinyl record, those imperfections are sometimes the best part. That’s what I’m aiming for.” ♦ Learn more at therealneighborsdeli.com

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ELEVEN WARRIORS BREAKS DOWN THE SEASON It's football season, Columbus, and it's time to get Buckeye crazy again.

But what good is the season unless you know the main story lines going into it? That's why we went straight to the experts at Eleven Warriors and asked them to help us with an Ohio State University football primer. From quarterbacks to the defensive line, the writers over at elevenwarriors. com have you covered with the main points of the season. So what are you waiting for Buckeye fans?

Get reading so you can join in on the football fun. → 614NOW.COM SEPTEMBER 2021 (614) MAGAZINE

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↓ C.J. Stroud, Jack Miller, Kyle McCord, Quinn Ewers

ohio state's

next QB

OHIO STATE RIDING ON YOUNG TALENT AT QUARTERBACK HEADING INTO 2021 SEASON

By Dan Hope / Photos Courtsey of Eleven Warriors Ohio State's 2021 quarterback roster is loaded with talent but lacks experience. From a talent perspective, the Buckeyes have never been more loaded at the quarterback position than they are right now. Quinn Ewers is the highest-rated recruit Ohio State has ever signed. Kyle McCord was a five-star recruit too. C.J. Stroud was a near-five-star recruit who was ranked as the third-best quarterback in the class of 2020, when Jack Miller was also a four-star recruit.

All of those quarterbacks have the potential to be college football stars and future NFL players, giving Ohio State four promising options at the position and Buckeye fans plenty of reason for optimism that the scarlet and gray will have another elite quarterback this year and for years to come.

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"All of those quarterbacks have the potential to be college football stars and future NFL players..."

“There’s gonna be one starter, that’s the only thing I know for sure,” Day said. “The first play against Minnesota, there’s gonna be one quarterback in the game unless we decide to put two out there.

But that’s probably not gonna happen.”

Stroud, who is most comparable to the departed Justin Fields with his ability to both throw from the pocket and make plays on the run, is expected to begin the season as the starter. He was the No. 2 quarterback behind Fields in 2020, which made him the frontrunner in the competition all along, and he’s impressed the coaches with his body of work this offseason.

“Every day, he’s been competing,” Day said of Stroud. “He’s been taking care of the football. Making good decisions. He’s been a leader. Those are all some of the traits that we’re looking for.”

However, there’s no guarantee Stroud will start the entire season.

Ideally, Day would like to have one starting quarterback who excels all year long, but an injury or inconsistent performance could open the door for another quarterback to play – like the last time Ohio State won the national championship in 2014, when Cardale Jones led the Buckeyes to a title after Braxton Miller got hurt before the season and J.T. Barrett got hurt in the final regular-season game.

“We’re talking about going all the way to January,” Day said.

“And so everything in my experience is we’re gonna need everybody.”

Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

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C.J. Stroud →

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Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

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Ohio State defense LOOKS TO REBOUND AFTER LACKLUSTER 2020 SEASON LINEBACKER REMAINS A QUESTION MARK

By Dan Hope / Photos Courtsey of Eleven Warriors

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← Jack Sawyer and Zach Harrison

Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

Statistically, Ohio State’s pass defense was one of the worst in college football in 2020. The Buckeyes were one of just six teams that allowed more than 300 passing yards per game last season. That didn’t keep Ohio State from getting to the national championship game, but it did lead to a blowout loss on the biggest stage, as Alabama scored 52 points on 464 yards of offense to beat the Buckeyes by 28 points in the final game of the year.

Going into the 2021 season, Ohio State’s defensive players and coaches haven’t forgotten how last season ended, and that’s serving as extra motivation to play better this year. As defensive end Zach Harrison put it at Big Ten Media Days: “We’ve been told we suck the whole year, and nobody wants to hear that.” →

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← Haskell Garrett

“We’re just ready to show everybody that the Silver Bullets can play defense,” Harrison said. “We can play ball – all of us, all 11 of us, top to bottom.”

If the defense is going to be better this season, that likely starts with an improved pass-rush up front. Ohio State was stout against the run last season, holding opponents to less than 100 rushing yards per game, but its pass-rush wasn’t as dominant as past years. The Buckeyes have the talent for an elite defensive line this year, led by a deep group of veterans including Harrison, Haskell Garrett and Tyreke Smith as well as five-star freshmen Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau.

Most importantly, Ohio State needs better play from its defensive backfield. The secondary was a glaring weakness last year, when OSU’s cornerbacks and safeties simply got beat way too often in coverage. The Buckeyes enter this season with more experience on the back end than they had last year, but they need returning starters Sevyn Banks and Josh Proctor to be more consistent while they’ll also be counting on big contributions from less proven players like Cameron Brown and Lathan Ransom.

Linebacker is a big question mark, too, as Ohio State is replacing all four of its linebackers who saw regular playing time last season. That said, the Buckeyes are expected to play with only two traditional linebackers in their base defense this year, eschewing the third linebacker in favor of the “bullet” – a hybrid safety/ linebacker position – to get more speed and coverage ability on the field.

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Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

Zach Harrison →

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Ohio Stadium ↓ Photo courtesy of David Heasley

OHIO STATE GAME DAYS SET TO RETURN TO NORMAL MASKS WILL BE REQUIRED IN THE SHOE; NO CASH

By Kevin Harrish

After a year without fans, marching band performances, or even Brutus roaming the sidelines, football season is about to look and feel a lot more normal this season.

When the Buckeyes host Oregon on Sept. 11 in their first home game of the season, it will feel like a proper game day in Columbus for the first time since November of 2019. Fans will be tailgating, the stadium will be at capacity, and the band will once again be performing the incomparable Script Ohio in front of 100,000 strong.

It's been a long time coming, and it didn't come without sacrifice.

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“I want to thank all the Buckeye fans out there who have kept their health at the forefront over the past year,” Ryan Day said. “It's been a long year. It's been hard for a lot of us. We're looking forward to getting back to the Shoe. We're very excited to have a full stadium, and a big part of that is getting vaccinated.”

Things still won't be completely normal – masks will still be required in all indoor and enclosed spaces on game day and Ohio Stadium is going cashless and contact-free – but it's certainly a start.

An empty Ohio Stadium during the 2020 Season ↓ Photo courtesy of Eleven Warriors

Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

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SET TO MAKE IMMEDIATE IMPACT FOR THE BUCKEYES

TRUE FRESHMEN IMPRESSIVE YOUNG TALENT AS OSU RAMPS UP FOR SEASON OPENER

By Colin Hass-Hill Photos Courtsey of Eleven Warriors

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← TreVeyon Henderson

Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

J.T. Tuimoloau →

← Emeka Egbuka

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JACK SAWYER Five-star defensive end Jack Sawyer showed out in the spring game after impressing throughout the prior three months, and there’s no way Larry Johnson can keep him off the field as much as he does most true freshmen.

TREVEYON HENDERSON With Master Teague and Miyan Williams returning, TreVeyon Henderson might not start on Sept. 2, but he certainly figures to play a lot as a true freshman. While there’s plenty of depth in the tailback room, nobody has the skill set that he possesses as the No. 1 running back recruit in the country.

QUINN EWERS After electing to skip his senior season of high school and reclassify to the 2022 recruiting class, it's unlikely Quinn Ewers sees much meaningful playing time in 2021, especially early in the season. But Ewers is the highest-rated quarterback prospect ever to sign with the Buckeyes for a reason and could force himself onto the field.

J.T. TUIMOLOAU There's a reason J.T. Tuimoloau is Ohio State's highest-rated recruit in the modern era. He's got unnatural size, athleticism and talent at the defensive end position. Even though he didn't even sign with the team until early July, he will be nearly impossible to keep off the field in 2021.

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EMEKA EGBUKA The top-ranked wide receiver recruit in the country appears dead-set on ending up as Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s backup in the slot and it would be a genuine shock if he’s outside of the twodeep depth chart by the time the first game rolls around. Emeka Egbuka is as physically ready to play right away as any wide receiver who has come through Columbus in recent years.

MARVIN HARRISON JR. Even before spring camp began, Ryan Day touted Marvin Harrison’s physical progress, saying he “looked like a whole different person” when he showed up in January. Then the work began, and it became evident that he’s going to play right away. He’s currently projected as Garrett Wilson’s backup at X-receiver.

KYLE MC CORD Unless C.J. Stroud suffers an injury, it's unlikely Kyle McCord will start or see meaningful playing time. But that doesn't mean we won't see him on the field in some capacity this season, even if it's late in a blowout game.

JESSE MIRCO Provided Jesse Mirco beats Michael O’Shaughnessy for the opening left by Drue Chrisman, he’ll be Ohio State’s punter, likely for four years.

Exterior of Ohio Stadium ↓

Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

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ohio state vs. michigan X RIVALRY RETURNS WITH MORE PASSION THAN EVER X

IMPRESSIVE YOUNG TALENT AS OSU RAMPS UP FOR SEASON OPENER

By Kevin Harrish / Photo Courtsey of Eleven Warriors

OSU Band Member rallies the fans ↓

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Content by Eleven Warriors. Read more about the season over at elevenwarriors.com

After a one-year hiatus, “The Game” is back this year, and with renewed vigor.

The Buckeyes have always met the rivalry with round-the-clock passion, with dedicated Michigan drills, a countdown clock in the locker room, banning blue throughout the football facilities, and not even allowing the word "Michigan" in conversation.

That same passion hasn't always existed at Michigan, but that's changing.

“Every day. Every day. That’s what it’s about. It’s about beating them. Every single day,” Michigan linebacker Josh Ross said. “And that’s one thing that’s been a focus for our program, for the players, coaches, make the best of every day."

"Maybe a year off was needed to reignite this rivalry."

Similar to Ohio State, Michigan has installed a countdown clock, rivalry signage and banned the color red from its facilities.

"We prepare for Ohio State every single day,” senior defensive end Aiden Hutchinson said. “In the weight room, in the walkthroughs, every day we got one thing on our mind and that’s Ohio State. And what are we gonna do to beat them?"

The No. 1 mission is to beat Ohio State. As head coach Jim Harbaugh puts it, "we're going to do it or die trying.”

Maybe a year off was needed to reignite this rivalry.

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By Melinda Green

Columbus has always had a thriving art scene—from painters and sculptors to filmmakers and writers, and everything in between. If you want to get crafty, creative, and noticed for your artistic abilities, the capital city never disappoints. And as fall approaches, the season for all things art in Columbus is ready to kick off—and we’ve got all your must-go spots from music and dance to film and fine art.

So cut this out, hang it on your fridge, and head out for a night (or 10) of impressive and noteworthy art events in Columbus.

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Columbus Symphony Orchestra

Renee Fleming (Photo courtesy of Columbus Symphony)

Renee Fleming in Concert Sep. 25

Pro Musica Opening Night Oct. 10

Composer/bassist Xavier Foley and pianist Eunice Kim join the orchestra for Foley’s “For Justice and Peace”, a modern dialogue about slavery’s history in the United States.

Fleming, renowned internationally for her sumptuous voice and impeccable artistry, joins the orchestra for classical and popular favorites, in a one-night concert sure to be a sellout.

Columbus Symphony Orchestra

Masterworks 1: Brahms & Dvořák Oct. 22 – 23 Up-and-coming superstar Stefan Jackiw joins the orchestra for Brahms’ Violin Concerto, while Jessie Montgomery's "Banner" shows off multi-cultural nuance.

Chris Coles (Photo courtesy of Jazz Arts Group)

Stefan Jackiw (Photo courtesy of Columbus Symphony)

Jazz Arts Group

Chris Coles' Nine Lives Project Oct. 28 Saxophonist Chris Coles combines music, spoken word, and movement into a powerful meditation on the 2015 Charleston Church shooting, in this one-night-only musical reflection on social justice.

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Lena Selkaly (Photo courtesy of Jazz Arts Group)

Jazz Arts Group

Gershwin, Berlin & Beyond Oct. 14 Get your feet tapping to celebrated tunes by some of America's most renowned songwriters, with up-andcoming guest artists Patrick Bartley, Jr. (saxophone) and Lena Seikaly (vocalist).

Patrick Bartley Jr. (Photo courtesy of Jazz Arts Group)

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Pro Musica

Subscription Concert 2 Nov. 6 – 7 Creative Partner and violinist Vadim Gluzman leads and performs with the orchestra alongside 20-year-old violinist Julian Rhee for Alfred Schnittke’s Concerto Grosso No. 1.

Opera Project Columbus

To See Again the Stars Nov. 19 – 21 Be moved by operatic arias of sentiment, drama, prayers, and joy, accompanied by orchestra.

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Columbus Symphony Orchestra Masterworks 2: Variations on Romanticism Nov. 12 – 13

Claire Huangci takes on Liszt’s extraordinary Piano Concerto No. 2, while Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 is sure to captivate with its lush, pastoral beauty.

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Short North Stage

Red Herring Theatre

A manic menagerie of itinerant actors, rehearsing a flop and later trapped in its shabby tour, suffers through a disastrous dress rehearsal, amorous rivalries, despair, intrigue, and an errant herring. It's been called the funniest farce ever written.

Three former nuclear power station colleagues wrestle with the ghosts of their past and struggle make peace with their demons, after the plant they worked at suffers an earthquake, tsunami, and meltdown.

Noises Off Sep. 2 – 19

The Children Through Sep. 12

Evolution Theatre Company A Crane Takes Flight Sep. 8 – 11

Dayton Edward Willison stars in the world premiere of Columbus playwright Mark Schwamberger’s oneperson play based on the works, writings and letters of influential poet Hart Crane.

Red Herring Theatre

These Shining Lives Sep. 30 – Oct. 17 In 1928, four women who contracted radium poison while painting watch faces mustered the courage, hired an attorney, and fought back against their dismissal after they became too sick to work.

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Evolution Theatre Company The Story of My Life Oct. 7 – 16

Two lifelong, small-town friends are reunited in one's mind, after the other's death, as he struggles to write a eulogy and recounts the many turns their lives took.

Short North Stage Young Frankenstein Oct. 7 – Nov. 7

This musical adaptation of Mel Brooks’ classic movie comedy follows Frederick Frankenstein, his hunchbacked sidekick Igor, and the voluptuous lab assistant Inga, as they create a monster for this century. When the monster escapes, hilarity abounds.

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Contemporary American Theatre Company

Red Herring Theatre The Thanksgiving Play Nov. 4 – 21

Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play Oct. 28 – Nov. 14

No cow is sacred in this wickedly funny, satirical comedy about Thanksgiving, one of America’s most cherished holidays.

A post-apocalyptic tale of survival, compassion, and the enduring power of The Simpsons explores the need for community and storytelling in a world where everything familiar has disappeared.

Holiday Hoopla (Photo courtesy of Shadowbox Live)

Shadowbox Live

Let’s Get It On: Live Edition Through Nov. 13 This all-new, original sketch comedy and rock ‘n’ roll show demonstrates how love and laughter are the perfect couple!

Shadowbox Live

Leather and Lace: A Musical Tribute to the Women of Rock-n-Roll Through Nov. 14

Hadestown (Photo courtesy of Broadway in Columbus)

A rocking celebration of hardworking, hard-playing and women of rock 'n' roll, featuring music from Heart, Alanis Morrisette, Aretha Franklin, Melissa Etheridge, and more.

Leather & Lace (Photo courtesy of Shadowbox Live)

Contemporary American Theatre Company Herschel and the Hanukkah Goblins Nov. 27 – Dec. 12

Using wit, wisdom, and humor, legendary folk hero Hershel of Ostropol outsmarts the goblins, allowing the villagers to celebrate Hanukkah once again.

Broadway in Columbus Hadestown Nov. 16 – 21

This acclaimed new musical weaves two mythic tales together—that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone—in a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience where a song can change your life.

Leather & Lace (Photo courtesy of Shadowbox Live)

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Lindsay Gallery Joey Monsoon Sep. 12 – Oct. 30

11 of Monsoon's works, including his largest painting ever, explore time apart, time together, time stretched and time lost, with figures becoming whole in the layers of occurrence.

Drag the Future Past the Day (Photo courtesy of Lindsay Gallery)

934 Gallery

Gridlock Through Sep. 18 Elizabeth Nelson's grids of black and white plexiglass, plastic, and other media explore how breaking things down can result in an inability to move on—gridlock.

Wexner Center for the Arts Jacqueline Humphries: jHΩ1:) Sep. 18, 2021 – Jan. 2, 2022

Don't miss the first large-scale museum exhibition of Humphries' paintings. Her recent work, full of emoticons, emoji, CAPTCHA, and ASCII code, highlights the importance of digital communications and online culture

Columbus College of Art & Design, Beeler Gallery Bianca Beck, Tamara Gonzales, Christina Forrer Through Nov. 6

As we consider being close to others again after COVID-19's dramatic strike, questions arise: Where do I stand? Where is it safe? Where is it appropriate? Twenty-four works are gathered to help us think about these questions and consider the space around and between our bodies.

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Columbus Museum of Art

Partially Buried: Land-Based Art in Ohio, 1970 to Now Through Nov. 8 Artists approach Ohio's landscape as a site and as a subject, challenging traditional representations of the state's history and cultural legacy, and confronting unanswered questions around land use and preservation.

Columbus Museum of Art A Primer on the Commons Through Nov. 8

For many, it has been a year of intense suffering, public grief, and outrage. This exhibition explores—and critically exposes—the systems that enclose, confine, and disempower us, and proposes the commons as a space of refuge, solidarity, and collective liberation in times of crisis.

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Columbus Museum of Art Through Vincent’s Eyes: Van Gogh and His Sources Nov. 12, 2021 – Feb. 6, 2022

More than fifteen signature paintings and drawings by Van Gogh himself will be juxtaposed with more than 100 works of art that fed his voracious imagination, firmly connecting his art to its late 19th-century context.

Columbus Museum of Art Nina Katchadourian: To Feel Something That Was Not of Our World Through Apr. 24, 2022

The Robertson family, cast adrift in a lifeboat and dinghy for 38 days in 1972, is the subject of Khatchadourian's personal-museological exhibition of videos, sculptures, paper models, photographs, drawings, text message exchanges, and excerpts from nearly 50 hours of audio recordings.

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Columbus Museum of Art

Present Generations: Creating the Scantland Through May 22, 2022 Collection of the Columbus Museum of Art. With vivid paintings as well as photographic and sculptural installations, these works of creative exuberance comprise the first wave of promised gifts that will inaugurate the Columbus Museum of Art’s Scantland Collection.

Brandt-Roberts Galleries

Mark Gingerich: Columbus Illuminated Sep. 4 – 26

Collection of the Columbus Museum of Art. With vivid paintings as well as photographic and sculptural installations, these works of creative exuberance comprise the first wave of promised gifts that will inaugurate the Columbus Museum of Art’s Scantland Collection.

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Thurber House

Adult and Youth Writing Workshops Sep 7 – Nov. 30 Get first-hand experience with literature through virtual workshops for adults and youth grades 9-12. Writers of all experience levels are welcome.

Wexner Center for the Arts Cinetracts '20 Oct. 8 – Dec. 31

Wexner Center Film/Video curators invited artists to capture “the zeitgeist in your own backyard.” This online exhibition of short films includes portraits of specific times and places, as well as reflections on how the present is inextricably linked to the past.

Ohioana Library

Drexel Theatre

Love literature? Get your ticket to the prestigious Ohioana Book Awards ceremony, honoring books from Ohio authors or about Ohio.

Gramercy Books joins the Drexel Theatre to present author Wil Haygood, in an evening of conversation and film that explores Black filmmaking in Hollywood.

Ohioana Book Awards Oct. 14

Colorization: One Hundred Years of Black Films in a White World Oct. 21

Grandview Theater

Clay Zombies feature film theatrical premiere Oct. 2 Featuring a wealth of Ohio talent, this midnight movie premiere has gratuitous clay violence and comedy in full force!

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SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH & FITNESS:

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The 6-1- 4 Workout you can do anywhere, anytime.

Workout By Charles Gibson Photos by Spencer Lookabaugh

Columbus, we know you love fitness! Whether it’s yoga in the park or bicycling down a trail, the capital city is a great place to get healthy. As we approach fall and back-to-school, we wanted to give you a workout that could be done in 11 minutes at anytime and anywhere you have the space and inclination. So we met up with personal trainer Charles Gibson, owner of Charles Gibson Fitness LLC who also does group classes and Thai massage, and asked him to make a workout specifically for Columbus—the 6-1-4 workout!

Do these moves anytime to get at least 11 minutes of cardio that will work your heart and your muscles. Always check with a doctor before you start any workout.

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The first six minutes will focus on legs. Do two circuits of these exercises at 30 seconds per exercise. →

Modification for beginners: Tap to side Modification for advanced exercises: Star jump

Modification for beginners: Halfway Modification for advanced exercises: Squat pulese

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Modification for beginners: March Modification for advanced exercises: Steam engines—high knee with twist

Modification for beginners: Reverse Modification for advanced exercises: Front lunge to back lunge

Modification for beginners: Bend knees to kick Modification for advanced exercises: Add a punch

Modification for beginners: Hold Modification for advanced exercises: Hips up kick feet up → 614NOW.COM SEPTEMBER 2021 (614) MAGAZINE

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Modification for beginners: Knees down/only 30 seconds to start Modification for advanced exercises: Lift leg (alternate)

This one minute will focus on the core. Do one circuit for one minute →

The final four minutes of the workout will focus on arms. Do two circuits of these exercises at 30 seconds per exercise →

Modification for beginners: Slow pace Modification for advanced exercises: Crossbody

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Modification for beginners: Knees down Modification for advanced exercises: Hand lift

Modification for beginners: Shoulder tap Modification for advanced exercises: Alligator crawl

Modification for beginners: Keep head down opposite arm/leg Modification for advanced exercises: Both arms and legs lift together ♦

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ADVE NTUR E:

SPOTLIGHT ON

3000 FEET

THE CITY ABOVE TH A quiet world awaits in the clouds with hot air balloon rides.

By Jack McLaughlin Photos by Ally Schnaidt

↑ Russ Jurg, owner of Columbus Aeronauts and Scott Wilburn

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Y

ou might think that with a fear of heights, floating thousands of feet above central Ohio is categorically out of the question.

Not so fast, though.

Not only are hot air balloons the safest form of air travel recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration, but according to Stu Gibboney, Grove City-based hot air balloon pilot and owner of Gibboney’s Aerostation, the magic of a balloon ride can overcome a whole lot more than you probably think.

“Most people who say they’re afraid of heights actually aren't once they get up there,” Gibboney said.

“It’s a completely unique experience.

It’s peaceful. And as I always tell people, it’s where I go to get my zen.”

Equal parts exhilarating and relaxing, local hot air balloon tours are a perfect way to jump-start a fun weekend, put together a memorable date, or just take in Columbus from a different perspective.→

" "

It’s a completely unique experience.

It’s peaceful. And as I always tell people, it’s where I go to get my zen.

↑ The Columbus Aeronauts in the sky

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"Think of the sky like a jello parfait, where each layer of it has winds that move at a different speed.

We’re able to move up and down between them using fuel..." ↓ Setting up to begin the journey

Or, should we say, several different perspectives.

“I like to show my passengers what it’s like to fly from a high altitude and a lower one,” said Russ Jurg, owner of Columbus Aeronauts, another local spot providing commercial balloon rides. “The world looks a lot different depending on how high up you are.”

For Jurg, hot air balloons are in his blood. His uncle has been a pilot in the Netherlands for over 50 years. He caught the bug early from him, and hasn’t let it go since.

Gibboney, on the other hand, didn’t take his first flight until he was celebrating his wedding anniversary by attending a local festival with balloon rides in 1999. But before the trip was even over, he already knew he’d found something special, and soon after began working on a local pilot’s crew in exchange for flight lessons.

But no matter how they got started, both pilots believe that hot air balloon rides are a totally original experience that you have to take in yourself to truly understand.

If you’re ready to hit the skies, both Columbus hot air balloon spots opt for twice-daily rides, one right at sunrise and the other several hours before sunset.

According to Jurg, one of the best things a first-time flier can do to prepare themselves is to stay on top of the weather. Unlike airplanes,

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↓ The balloons being inflated for the flight

↑ Floating above the Columbus landscape

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which rely on high-powered engines, balloons are at the mercy of the wind.

“It’s sort of like sailing in 3-D; you have to go the way of the wind.” he said with a laugh.

But pilots do still have some control over how fast their craft travels, according to Gibboney.

“Think of the sky like a jello parfait, where each layer of it has winds that move at a different speed.

We’re able to move up and down between them using fuel,” he said, adding that while many balloons are equipped to handle altitudes of nearly 20,000 feet, most commercial rides don’t go higher than 3,000.

Flights for both local businesses typically take about an hour, and see the balloon travel 10 miles on average, although this—like everything else in the world of hot air ballooning—depends on wind speed and weather.

If you are considering expanding your horizons and scheduling a ride, you can expect to shell out between $175 and $275 per person.

“It’s like being on a balcony, and the whole world beneath you,” Jurg said. “There really is nothing else like it.”

So why not step out into a new experience—or, should we say, up into one—that you won’t soon forget.

Learn more at balloonohio.com or columbusaeronauts.com

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