Ohio Magazine - January-February 2024 by greatlakespublishing

JAN/FEB 2024

$5.99

30 Reasons to Love our state GATHERING SPOTS ¦ FUN PLACES TO STAY ¦ ADVENTURES FEEL-GOOD MOMENTS ¦ SHOPPING ¦ FOOD + DRINK

JAN/FEB

// 2024

19 RINK: COURTESY OF METROPARKS TOLEDO; DRELYSE: COURTESY OF DRELYSE AFRICAN RESTAURANT; KAYAK: DARYL MUMMEY

13 Calendar of Events

19 Farm & Table

Dine on authentic Ghanaian fare at this Columbus spot, and cozy up at Granville’s Seek-No-Further Cidery.

FEATURES //

24 Winter Wonders

The season of snow is also one of beauty in Ohio. Four photographers share striking frozen moments.

Martin Luther King Jr. visits Ohio University during a 1959 Christian conference exploring issues of the time.

From great gathering spots to fresh food finds to feelgood moments, here’s what has our hearts aflutter.

2 Connect 4 Editor’s Note

Prevent cold-weather hazards, and learn about one man’s quest to raise awareness for a lesserknown heart condition.

65 Milestones

30 Ohio Love

DEPARTMENTS //

22 LiveWell

TRAVEL //

5 1803

Lund Studio celebrates Cleveland, and Lori Stewart Gonzalez talks with us about leading Ohio University.

9 Datebook

See glass works by contemporary Native artists, and embrace winter at an outdoor music festival.

59 Black History ON THE COVER: Woodcut print created by Bobby Rosenstock of JustAJar Design Press. Turn to page 2 to learn about the making of this month’s cover.

OHIO, Vol. 47, No. 1 OHIO (ISSN–0279–3504) is published monthly, with the exception of February, October and December for a total of 9 issues. ©2024 Great Lakes Publishing, 1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to OHIO, 1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. Subscription prices: Ohio residents, residents of other states and possessions, one year–$17; foreign–$86.

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

CONNECT

JAN/FEB SPECIAL

ADVERTISING SECTIONS

OHIO LOVE

WINTER TRAVEL

There’s plenty to adore about life here, including these spots.

Cozy inns, inviting trails and vibrant art await at these snowy-season destinations.

JustAJar Design Press in Marietta is one of just a handful of shops creating custom posters by way of woodcut and letterpress processes. Almost all the equipment it uses is antique. The shop’s paper cutter dates to the 1890s, while its two presses were built in the 1880s and 1960s. Its collection of letterpress type was assembled over time from antique stores and print-shop basements. In the fall, we contacted Bobby Rosenstock, who co-owns JustAJar Design Press with his wife, Sara, about crafting the cover for this year’s “Ohio Love” issue. We have long loved his work, and he agreed to take on the project. Following a quick video call during which we explained our general idea — a barn in a field with “Ohio Love” painted on the side — Bobby went to work crafting a few different mockups via pencil and iPad and shared them with us. After a couple tweaks, he began working, and we didn’t see the poster design again until he shared the finished product with us. JustAJar uses reductive and multiple-block methods of SCAN TO woodblock printing, meaning each poster typically involves four WATCH to six colors, and each color separation is carefully planned and See how this carved by hand into a block of cherry, birch or luan plywood. month’s cover Each print is created one at a time on a manually cranked flatbed was created. press with oil-based inks. Aside from the text we added digitally at the bottom, everything you see on the cover of this magazine was done via the above process — by hand. Scan the QR code to see a video of how Bobby created this month’s cover.

check out our newsletters:

Are you receiving our email newsletters? Learn about fun experiences throughout the state, get great food and drink ideas or plan for your next weekend getaway. Sign up at ohiomagazine.com/ newsletters.

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

15 3 8 1 7

6 4 5

9 10

Plus:

30 Reasons to Love Ohio Right Now Akron, p. 61 Cincinnati, p. 10, 60 3 Cleveland, p. 12, 20 4 Columbus, p. 7, 9, 12, 19 5 Dayton, p. 12 6 Granville, p. 21 7 Green, p. 28 8 Hudson, p. 6 1 2

Lancaster, p. 20 South Bloomingville, p. 24 11 Swanton, p. 27 12 Toledo, p. 12, 20 13 Van Wert, p. 5 14 Wilberforce, p. 60 15 Willowick, p. 26 9

STAY IN TOUCH WITH US BETWEEN ISSUES.

Ohio Magazine encourages you to recycle this magazine. Great Lakes Publishing supports the use of paper milled from replanted forests as a renewable resource and purchases paper from Sustainable Forestry Initiativecertified sources when available. We have also taken steps to reduce the amount of plastic used when mailing issues to subscribers.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOBBY ROSENSTOCK

Behind the Cover

In This Issue:

LET’S GO THERE! LET’S GOLET’S THERE! GO THERE!

When it’s time for you, we’ll be ready.

When it’s time for you, it’s we’ll be for ready. When time you, we’ll be ready. You don’t come here for the new fangled or same old, same old. You come to recharge yourself. We’re happy to share our heritage, craftsmanship and carbs worthy of the calories with you. Come, step out of the mundane and plug into the peace of this place.

330-674-2412• historicdowntownmillersburg.com • historicdowntownmillersburg.com • 330-674-2412 330-674-2412• • historicdowntownmillersburg.com •

EDITOR’S NOTE

Made With Love I

’ve been familiar with Bobby and Sara Rosenstock’s JustAJar Design Press since soon after I became editor of this magazine. I was fascinated by the poster shop’s creative woodcut and letterpress printing. When Bobby sent several posters to photograph for a made-in-Ohio gift guide we were doing, I loved flipping through them and taking a closer look at their colorful and intricate nature. A few years ago, when we were filming our Great Ohio Road Trips video series in southeast Ohio, we stopped into the shop for a segment during which Bobby showed us how he makes the posters — one at a time on a manual antique press from hand-carved blocks of wood. In a world of augmented reality and artificial intelligence, what JustAJar Design Press is doing in downtown Marietta is as real as the ground beneath your feet. The shop does lots of concert posters for nationally touring artists and custom work for businesses. It also creates its own beautiful art prints, many of which are reflections of Appalachian heritage. Over the years, purchases from the shop have ended up on the walls of my home. Each poster run is limited, so once they’re gone, they’re gone — even more reason to pick something up if you like it. (You can browse the shop’s selection at any given time from the comfort of your mobile phone or computer at justajar.com.) So, when it came time to think of a way to uniquely celebrate this year’s “Ohio Love” issue, commissioning Bobby to create the cover image seemed like a natural choice. We couldn’t be happier with how the design he created for us embodies the pride and positivity we feel about the place we call home. (Learn more about the process that went into creating our cover on page 2.) Starting on page 30, you can read about 30 of the newest reasons we love living in Ohio. Most of the places featured have opened within the past 18 months or so and range from new gathering spots to fresh food-and-drink finds to fun places to shop and adventures to seek out as a new year begins. Just like the care JustAJar Design Press put into crafting our cover, we have selected a lineup of travel ideas and inspiration that we hope gets you excited for the days to come and the adventures across our state awaiting you in 2024.

Chairman Lute Harmon Sr. President & Publisher Lute Harmon Jr.

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL@OHIOMAGAZINE.COM

Editor Jim Vickers Associate Editors Erin Finan, Gracie Wilson Contributing Writers Hollie Davis, Nicholas Dekker,

Kristen Hampshire, Nathan Havenner, Michelle Hopkins, Sarah Miller, Damaine Vonada, Ilona Westfall Digital Content Assistant Kelly Powell Editorial Interns Lauren Keep, Hosna Sadaqat, Varad Raigaonkar Art Director Rachael Jirousek Contributing Artists Rhonda Coe, Elliot Gilfix, Daryl Mummey,

Arthur O’Leary, Bobby Rosenstock, Eric Ward ADVERTISING

INQUIRIES: ADSALES@OHIOMAGAZINE.COM | 216/377-3652

Associate Publisher & Advertising Director Karen Matusoff Account Managers Nichole Cardinale, Greg Clements,

Bryan McMahan, Cosmo Mills, Matt Staugler

Advertising Traffic Coordinator Hannah Bower

PRODUCTION PRODUCTION@OHIOMAGAZINE.COM

Production Manager Matt Kraniske Ad Designers Tom Abate, Sam Schaffer, Taryn Zwolinski

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES OHIOMAGAZINE@EMAILCUSTOMERSERVICE.COM | 800/453-1025

CUSTOM MEDIA Managing Editor Claudia Plumley Senior Editor Kelsey Miller Associate Editor Gwynnie Ball Assistant Editor Jennifer Coon Editorial Interns Hope Duffy, Sydney Rosensaft Managing Art Director Stephanie Park Art Director Lindsey Smith Associate Art Directors Sel James

INTERACTIVE MEDIA Director of Digital Strategy Jacquie Chakirelis Digital Strategy Manager Joe Vargo Development Manager Daniel Klinzing Operations Associate Camille Ross

CORPORATE Chief Financial Officer George Sedlak Finance Director Perry Zohos Accounts Payable Coordinator Geli Valli

Ohio Magazine is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited photographs, illustrations, manuscripts, books or any other material submitted for possible publication. All photographs are courtesy of the event or organization listed, unless otherwise credited.

JIM VICKERS

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

landmark library ith towering turrets, stone brickwork and lancet windows, the Brumback Library in Van Wert could easily be mistaken for a centuries-old castle standing prominently along the northwest Ohio community’s Main Street. Philanthropist John Sanford Brumback funded the construction of the building, which was dedicated Jan. 1, 1901, to provide county residents with access to a free public library. Today, it is recognized as the first tax-supported county library in the United States, and it boasts one of the largest public library collections in Ohio with more than 235,000 items. 215 W. Main St., Van Wert 45891, brumbacklib.org

ELLIOT GILFIX

Artful Impressions: Jon Lund honors Cleveland, including neighborhoods such as Little Italy and icons like the Guardians of Traffic, in a line of beautiful prints.

Literary Legacy: Columbus’ Thurber House invites visitors to step back in time and explore the life of 20th-century author and cartoonist James Thurber. J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

Artful Impressions

Jon Lund honors Cleveland and its landmarks in a line of beautiful prints that celebrate the region.

on Lund noticed the power of art at a young age and the way it was able to represent him without his having to say a word. The designer attended Akron’s Firestone High School in the mid-1970s, hoping to one day work as an illustrator. He later graduated from the University of Akron and began his career in agency work, eventually moving on to freelance. Lund started in advertising, where he worked solely with paper and pencil, transferring his designs and then finishing each piece with his signature airbrush style. In the late 1990s, he began creating digitally, but the switch wasn’t easy. “I absolutely hated Adobe Illustrator,” he says. “Eventually, I was able to make some lucky breakthroughs in it that enabled me to create a style that was sort of like my other style, [just] a little different.” Today, his Hudson-based Lund Studio creates prints that focus on iconic Cleveland architecture, landmarks and neighborhoods as well as other northeast Ohio communities. He was initially inspired by artist Michael Schwab, who did a series of posters in the mid-1980s depicting San Francisco structures. “After that, everybody started looking at their own towns and trying to find something that was special in the place they live and celebrating it,” Lund says. For Lund Studio, it all started with the Guardians of Traffic. Lund was fascinated that one of Cleveland’s most prominent icons wasn’t a building or a bridge but instead eight art deco-style statues holding different vehicles in their hands. He will sometimes take photos for inspiration and then sketch the spot before making the digital shapes that will become the finished work. It takes a lot of trial and error to create a balanced composition. Lund had one unfinished print in a folder for three or four years before deciding to give the design one last try. The final product became his Little Italy print — a bestseller and the work he is most proud of to this day. Lund spent time adjusting the piece until the layers felt right, moving the people to the foreground and darkening their shadows. “And then suddenly,” he says. “… I find a way to get all these elements to work, to gel.” — Kelly Powell For more information, visit lund.studio.

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

FASCINATING OBJECTS FROM OUR PAST

OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY OF LUND STUDIO; THURBER DESK: JESSICA STRAWSER; THURBER EXTERIOR: COURTESY OF THURBER HOUSE; OHIO FINDS: COURTESY OF MEANDER AUCTIONS

LEUTY MCGUFFEY MANAHAN’S “CUTTING ICE” Folk art painting depicting frosty work from winters past

A Columbus’ Thurber House opened as a literary center and museum in 1984.

Literary Legacy

In the quiet corridors of the 1873 Thurber House, visitors can step back in time and explore the life of 20th-century author and cartoonist James Thurber.

est known for his career with The New Yorker and the humorous works he published during the 20th century such as The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and The Catbird Seat, writer and cartoonist James Thurber was also an Ohioan. He lived in a house his family rented at 77 Jefferson Ave. in what is now Columbus’ Jefferson Avenue Historic District between 1913 and 1917 while studying at Ohio State University. His time there greatly influenced his writing, with occurrences in the home serving as inspiration for many of his future works. “His mom was very theatrical and loved practical jokes. [She] was known all throughout Columbus for her practical jokes,” says Meg Brown, director of children’s education at the Thurber House. “His dad … was kind of quiet [and] reserved, but he loved words. [Thurber] has said that he got his love of writing from his dad and his sense of humor from his mom.” After falling into disrepair in the decades following the Thurbers’ time there, the house was purchased and lovingly restored, opening as a nonprofit literary arts center and museum in 1984. Two floors of the house are open for tours, and the third floor has been reworked into an apartment that hosts artist residencies.

Artifacts from Thurber’s career, including some of his earliest published works from The New Yorker and his original Underwood typewriter, antique furnishings, photographs and letters are displayed throughout the museum portion of the home. Guided and self-guided tours are available on weekends and select weekdays. Unlike other house museums, the Thurber House provides relatively unrestricted access to the home’s living spaces, allowing visitors to engage with the history by sitting on the furniture or even playing the piano. Notable authors have even been invited to sign the walls of Thurber’s bedroom closet. Thurber was a lifelong supporter of literature and the arts, and the Thurber House is dedicated to preserving that legacy. The organization hosts writing workshops, author events and presents one of the country’s most esteemed awards for humor writing: The Thurber Prize for American Humor. “Ohio has such a wealth of writers and cartoonists,” Brown says. “I think it’s really important to celebrate those from the state that you grew up in.” — Varad Raigaonkar 77 Jefferson Ave., Columbus 43215, 614/464-1032, thurberhouse.org

t parties and social gatherings, one might lament how difficult breaking the ice is, but a hundred years ago, the idea of cutting ice evoked a more literal meaning. On the bitterest winter days, rural families would saw thick pond ice into sections and store it for later use. Artist Leuty McGuffey Manahan, sometimes referred to as Ohio’s Grandma Moses, captured her memories of this work in her 1950 painting, “Cutting Ice.” Manahan was born in 1889 in McGuffey, Ohio, and is best known for her folk art depicting rural early 20th-century life. Her work received significant attention, being displayed in numerous exhibitions, some as far away as New York, but throughout her life, Manahan refused all offers to sell her collection of over 80 works. While much of Manahan’s work appears naive, it contains a sly humor tempered with nostalgic warmth. Her “memory paintings,” like this one, speak to the value of Manahan’s art and its role in preserving firsthand accounts of the daily chores, challenges and celebrations of the quiet, rural Midwestern life that was rapidly fading by the time she picked up her paintbrush. — Hollie Davis

$1,850 SOLD

Hollie Davis is a co-owner of Meander Auctions in Whipple, Ohio. J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

Pioneering President Lori Stewart Gonzalez became the first woman to helm Ohio University when she took the college’s top office in 2023.

OHIO’S GREAT NOSTALGIA MUSEUM Canton Classic Car Museum 123 6th Street SW, Canton, OH 44702 330-455-3603 • cantonclassiccar.org “When the Canton Classic Car Museum opened in 1978, it set the standard for nostalgic experiences with its unique period items, many from Canton, Ohio, complimenting some of the world’s most classic automobiles.”

ori Stewart Gonzalez made history on July 1, 2023, by becoming Ohio University’s first female president since the school was founded in 1805. She grew up in the small Appalachian town of Mount Vernon, Kentucky, where her father — a Lori Stewart Gonzalez, Ohio University’s first-generation college student — in23rd president, has spent more than three stilled in her the value of education and decades in higher education. the importance of giving back. “He was a great supporter of people throughout the community, and education was one of his life’s passions,” Gonzalez says. “I think I inherited that from him for sure.” Her father’s push for her to pursue an education eventually led Gonzalez to a 35-yearlong career in public higher education, starting as an assistant professor at Southern Illinois University and working her way up to her current position — a background that made her a well-qualified candidate to lead Ohio University. “I think people were also pleased that I happen to be a woman,” Gonzalez says. “Diversity in leadership is always important.” We talked with Gonzalez about her approach to leadership, connections between her hometown and Athens and her passion for public higher education. — Erin Finan

What similarities have you found between your hometown and Athens? A: What I see, no matter where you go in small towns across Appalachia, is a pride of place. That spirit of being proud of where you’re from and wanting to take care of it is something that resonates across all of Appalachia. We have such strong roots in family, in our history, in our music, in our culture, in the foods we eat and in the quilts we make. Part of my learning curve has been seeing where the cultures differ a little bit. Why is public higher education a focus for you? A: I think it’s the way we level the playing field. We give our students a chance to come in and provide them support so they’re successful. We educate the workforce for the future. We can give opportunities to students who are talented and passionate and brilliant but might not otherwise have a pathway toward higher education. That’s really important for me as an individual. That’s when my individual passion can meld with my passion for the work. For more information, visit ohio.edu. 8

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

® OHIO UNIVERSITY/ PHOTO BY BEN SIEGEL

How did you develop your leadership style? A: I think leadership is about always looking inward to see what your strengths are. I’ve done that throughout my career, and I think it comes from something as fundamental as enjoying being around people, believing in the transformational power of higher education and working to support those people who bring that experience to our students.

DATEBOOK Moulin Rouge! The Musical Jan. 2–14: Columbus

he dazzling theatrics of “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” hit the Ohio Theatre stage for Broadway in Columbus’ first show of the year. This enchanting, Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of the young writer Christian who finds himself in Paris where he meets and ultimately falls in love with Satine, a performer at the Moulin Rouge nightclub. The show, which features reinventions of songs by Katy Perry, Sia, Elton John and more, offers big musical fun and glamorous costuming wrapped up in a two-and-a-halfhour spectacle. columbus.broadway.com

MATTHEW MURPHY

A New Light: “Clearly Indigenous: Native Visions Reimagined in Glass” at the Cincinnati Art Museum showcases work that expands the traditional expectations of Native art.

Calendar of Events: Your winter plans start here. Check out our guide to exhibitions, shows and other happenings scheduled between now and the end of February. J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

A New Lig

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

MELT: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST, © ANGELA BABBY, PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANGELA BABBY; RAVEN: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST © PRESTON SINGLETARY, PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUSSELL JOHNSON; TOTEM: COURTESY OF STEVE HARRIS, © DAN FRIDAY, PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUSSEL JOHNSON

DATEBOOK

Featuring works by 33 contemporary artists, “Clearly Indigenous: Native Visions Reimagined in Glass” can be seen at the Cincinnati Art Museum through April 7.

By Ilona Westfall

small Inuit girl walks across an icy tundra with a husky puppy peering out of her hood. The image is from the piece “Melt: Prayers for the People and the Planet” by Angela Babby and is one of more than 100 works of art featured in “Clearly Indigenous: Native Visions Reimagined in Glass” at the Cincinnati Art Museum. The exhibition, on display through April 7, features works by 33 contemporary Native American and Indigenous Pacific-Rim artists who expand expectations of traditional Native art. “Many Native glass art pieces reflect living in two worlds: the world of mainstream society and a more traditional society,” says Letitia Chambers, who curated the exhibition. Babby created “Melt: Prayers for the People and the Planet” by heating sheets of glass into a shimmering kaleidoscope of gray, blue, pink and tan that looks like melting snow and ice. A statement on climate change, the piece exemplifies how the art in this exhibition blends historical imagery and designs with modern ideals and techniques. The traveling exhibition originated at the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and showcases the Native glass art movement that began in the 1970s. It began when Lloyd Kiva New, a founder of the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), also in Santa Fe, collaborated with the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) to create a glass-blowing program. RISD sent glass artist Dale Chihuly to the IAIA to help establish the program and the glass-blowing studio. Chihuly’s influence on the program and Native artists’ influence on his own work is explored in the exhibit by way of a few pieces made by the renowned glass artist. “Native artists have, for the most part, been fairly quick to adopt new media and media that has not been traditionally used,” Chambers says. “The interesting thing is that they bring their traditional design, patterns and aesthetics to glass art just as they do to the more traditional media.” Ultimately, Chambers wants exhibition visitors to see Native artists in a contemporary light. “American Indian artists are living, dynamic people,” she says. “One of the things that these artists have often been faced with is being put in anthropological museums instead of fine art museums. Lloyd Kiva New was instrumental in helping change that.”

Angela Babby’s “Melt: Prayers for the People and the Planet” (left), Preston Singletary’s “Raven Steals the Sun” (below), Dan Friday’s “Foraging Bear Totem” (opposite page)

953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati 45202, 513/721-2787, cincinnatiartmuseum.org J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

DATEBOOK

event

Dayton Live Presents Mardi Gras

festival

Brite Winter

Feb. 24: Cleveland

hat’s a better place to throw a party than along the Lake Erie shore in the middle of the snowy season? Cleveland’s Brite Winter festival knows just how to spark some mid-hibernation warmth and excitement. Since 2010, the festival has drawn crowds who eagerly bundle up for a day packed with art and live music in a variety of genres. The event brings more than two dozen musical acts from across the city and beyond to outdoor and tented stages on the West Bank of the Flats where Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River meet. The range of acts routinely spans rock, hip-hop, punk, soul, indie-pop, DJs and more, including many newer acts. “It is often their first time playing in front of a crowd this size,” says Emily Hornack, co-founder and executive director of Brite Winter.

Large-scale art installations built by professional artists and local groups like the Cleveland Institute of Art and Ingenuity Cleveland are part of the festival fun, as are themed warming tents across the festival grounds where attendees can step into an environment created by a particular artist. Hornack was a graduate student at Case Western Reserve University when she and her friend, Jimmy Harris, developed the inaugural Brite Winter festival. Focusing on Cleveland’s rich arts scene, the pair got to work on a do-it-yourself event that drew around 800 people in its first year. Since then, Brite Winter has grown to host between 12,000 and 15,000 attendees and has included headliners such as Welshly Arms and Colony House. Tickets are $17 day of and $12 in advance, and a list of acts can be found on the festival website. “The city kind of falls asleep between New Year’s and St. Patrick’s Day” Hornack says, “but people will come out to spend time together, even in the cold.” — Lauren Keep 1153 Main Ave., Cleveland 44113, britewinter.com

festival

Arnold Sports Festival Feb. 29–March 3: Columbus Iconic strongman Arnold Schwarzenegger brings his Arnold Sports Festival to Columbus for another year of fitness-focused excitement. The four-day event hosts a multitude of competitions from wrestling to powerlifting. The event is also known for the Arnold Expo, a collection of more than 500 exhibitors showcasing the latest in sports equipment, apparel, nutrition and more. Check out the full lineup of events and venues at the Arnold Sports Festival website. arnoldsports.com

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

Head to Dayton’s Schuster Center for a celebration straight from the Big Easy. This tasting event for those 21 and older features a lineup of essential Louisiana foods to try as well as a selection of local beers and liquor fit for sipping in the on-site Wintergarden. daytonlive.org

Theater

Hadestown

Feb. 20–25: Toledo The Stranahan Theater hosts the eight-time Tony Awardwinning musical Hadestown. The show, which also won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, interweaves the ancient Greek myths of Hades and Persephone and Orpheus and Eurydice as it takes audiences into the underworld and back. stranahan theater.com

BRITE WINTER: DAN SEGAL; ARNOLD: EMERY PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.; MASK: ISTOCK; HADESTOWN: MATTHEW MURPHY

Feb. 8: Dayton

CALENDAR

State Regions Because dates, times and locations are subject to change, please call ahead to confirm all details before traveling. For a more complete listing of events, visit ohiomagazine.com/events.

FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF EVENTS ACROSS OHIO, VISIT OHIOMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS.

JANUARY

JAN 13

In the Air Tonight

Central

Listings with photos are paid for by advertisers. For more information on enhanced listings, email us at adsales@ohiomagazine.com.

Festivals JAN 20

Columbus Beerfest

Sip and sample more than 150 local craft brews and other drinks from new wineries and distilleries at this annual event sure to put a hop in your step. Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High St., Columbus, 614/8272500. columbusbeerfest.com. Visit website for times and prices.

Museums + Exhibits THRU JAN 28

Quilting a Future: Contemporary Quilts and American Tradition View this exhibition examining how artists portray social, political and environmental perspectives through their work. The show presents a comprehensive view of the past, present and future of American quilting. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum.org. Tues.– Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Visit website for prices. THRU MAR 3

Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence

Discover how animals use light to attract mates, lure unsuspecting prey and defend against predators. This exhibit highlights creatures from backyard fireflies to deep-sea fish that illuminate the perpetually dark ocean depths. COSI, 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, 614/228-2674. cosi.org. Visit website for times. Adults $30, military adults and seniors $28, children ages 2–12 $25, military youth $23, teachers and children under 2 free.

Music + Theater JAN 2–14

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

A world of splendor and romance unfolds on the Ohio Theatre stage as Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment in the Tony Award-winning “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” Watch Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary 2001 film reimagined as a musical mashup with a book by John Logan and choreography by Sonya Tayeh. Sit back and enjoy this theatrical celebration of truth, beauty, freedom and love. Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony.com. Visit website for times and prices.

To submit event information, visit ohiomagazine.com/submit. Events must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance. Include the date, cost, address of the event, phone number and website, as well as a brief description of the event. Events are published on a space-available basis; however, all events submitted 8 weeks in advance appear on ohiomagazine. com/events.

Northeast Phil Collins’ drum work and songwriting have left an enduring mark on music. This symphonic tribute featuring two vocalists includes renditions of “Follow You Follow Me,” “Abacab” and many more unforgettable hits. Davidson Theatre, 77 S. High St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony.com. 8 p.m. $35–$65. JAN 18–FEB 18

The Color Purple the Musical

Get to know Celie, a downtrodden young woman with a personal awakening that spanned 40 years. Listen to a joyous score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, African music and blues, underlining this testament to love’s healing power inspired by Alice Walker’s award-winning novel. Short North Stage, 1187 N. High St., Columbus, 614/725-4042. shortnorthstage.org. Visit website for times and prices. JAN 19–20

Time for Three

Festivals JAN 18–21

Cleveland Boat Show

Celebrate 67 years of Ohio’s premier boat show. Experience the nautical event packed with live music, boaters’ education, live fishing and local cuisine. International Exposition Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, 216/6766000. clevelandboatshow.com. Visit website for times. $18

Museums + Exhibits THRU FEB 4

Refocusing Photography: China at the Millennium

Explore the sudden awakening of photographic documentation, art and personal expression in 1978 China. When the country opened to global trade and Western societies, photography blossomed as personal photographic societies formed, art schools began teaching the craft and information on Western contemporary art became available. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/421-7350. clevelandart.org. Visit website for times. Free. THRU MAR 24

RETOLD: African American Art and Folklore

Genre-defying string trio Time for Three performs Kevin Puts’ “Contact.” This exhilarating piece draws inspirations from themes of contact and connection. Later, enjoy French composer Hector Berlioz’s programmatic “Symphonie fantastique.” Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 p.m. $10–$89. JAN 24

Mary Chapin Carpenter & Shawn Colvin

Enjoy the harmonious sounds of country and folk artist Mary Chapin Carpenter and singersongwriter Shawn Colvin as they perform live together in a historic theater. Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Place, Newark, 740/345-5483. midlandtheatre.org. 8 p.m. $49.50–$99.50.

Explore themes of remembering, religion, racialization and resistance in this exhibition that shows the artist’s muse connecting closely with stories that have been told by generation after generation. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330/376-9186. akronartmuseum.org. Wed. & Fri.–Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Tues. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Music + Theater JAN 9–28

Mrs. Doubtfire

Catch up with everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny as she heads to Playhouse Square for this internationally acclaimed new hit musical that critics call “wonderful, heartwarming and laugh-outloud funny.” The performance tells the story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/771-4444. playhousesquare.org. Visit website for times. $25–$115.

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

JAN 11–13

The Miraculous Mandarin

Hear Bartok’s suite from the story of a girl forced to lure a wealthy man to his tragic fate. The theme of the dark passions between men and women remain as powerful and controversial as they were when the tale premiered. Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/231-7300. clevelandorchestra.com. Thurs. & Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 8 p.m. $29–$165.

Other Events THRU JAN 6

Steubenville Nutcracker Village

More than 200 unique, larger-than-life nutcrackers are on display throughout the historic downtown and Fort Steuben Park. The nutcrackers are accompanied by a variety of events and activities, lights, music and trolley rides as well as a holiday market. Downtown Steubenville, 120 S. Third St., Steubenville, 866/301-1787. steubenvillenutcrackervillage. com. Visit website for times. Free. THRU MAR 1

Sleigh & Carriage Rides

Get in the winter spirit as Ma and Pa hitch up sleighs and take visitors through the woods, out to the field and back. Warm up at the cabin with a toasty fire, a plate of Ma’s cookies and a mug of hot chocolate or maple coffee. Ma & Pa’s Cabin, 15161 Main Market Rd., Burton, 440/5485521. maandpas.com. Sat. noon–8 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

419/255-8000. toledomuseum.org. Visit websites for times. Free.

2750. explorehockinghills.com. Visit website for times. Free.

Music + Theater

JAN 12–14

JAN 14

Through this performance, explore social issues of domestic abuse, self-preservation, selfdiscovery and finding our place in this world. Examine the phrase “blood is thicker than water” and how far it can really take us. Fort Findlay Playhouse, 300 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 567/525-3636. fortfindlayplayhouse.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Enjoy the music of this “firecracker of talent,” whose humble beginnings originate in the small town of Greentop, Missouri. See the musician at her best in a historic theater. Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 740/753-1924. stuartsoperahouse.org. 3 p.m. $30–$35.

Finding Home

JAN 27

Kings of Soul

Celebrate a lineup of legendary artists including Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, James Brown, Otis Redding, The Temptations, Al Green and more. Engage in an evening of soulful rhythms and melodies honoring the true royalty behind classic soul. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 419/255-8000. toledomuseum.org. Wed.–Thurs. & Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Free.

Other Events THRU DEC 31, 2024

Rhonda Vincent & The Rage

Southwest Museums + Exhibits THRU JAN 14

Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960

Explore themes of fashion, function and feminine decorum in this exhibit. “Sporting Fashion” highlights the evolution of women’s sporting and leisure attire, highlighting clothing that accommodated horseback riding, golfing and motorcycling. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Chasing Totality: The History and Science of Eclipses

THRU JAN 21

JAN 12–14

JAN 31

THRU FEB 18

Chill out at this annual event featuring ice sculptures, live carving demonstrations, an inflatable polar bear slide, a hot-chocolate crawl and more wintertime joys. Downtown Perrysburg, Louisiana Avenue. downtownperrysburg.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Read and discuss books about the American presidency at this free gathering after diving into January’s book, A Man of Iron, by Troy Senik. Visitors can participate in person or online. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. Noon. Free.

Northwest Festivals Perrysburg Winterfest 2024

JAN 20

Winter Brewfest

Grab your friends and pretzel necklaces for the largest outdoor beer tasting in the northwest Ohio region. Enjoy pours from dozens of national, regional and local craft breweries alongside live music and food. Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St., Toledo, 419/725-4367. hensvilletoledo.com. Visit website for times. $35–$1,300.

Museums + Exhibits JAN 20–APR 14

The Brilliance of Caravaggio: Four Paintings in Focus

Study four important paintings by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio in conversation with works from the museum’s permanent collection. This marks the first time in more than a decade that four paintings by this renowned Italian artist have been on view together in the United States. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 14

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

Explore the story of humanity’s fascination with eclipses, with a look into the science behind the phenomenon and the history of astronomy’s attempts to understand it. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Presidential History Book Club

Southeast Festivals JAN 20

Hocking Hills Winter Hike

Enjoy winter’s splendor on this 6-mile trek that takes hikers from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave. Make sure to dress appropriately, and save some time to partake in Logan Kiwanis Club’s famous bean soup and cornbread muffins served at Cedar Falls. Old Man’s Cave, St. Rte. 664 S., Logan, 740/385-6841. explorehockinghills.com. Visit website for times. Free. JAN 20

Logan Frozen Festival

Bundle up for an afternoon of ice games, food vendors, ice-carving demonstrations and local shopping at this signature event held in downtown Logan. Main Street, Logan, 740/385-

Black & Brown Faces: VERIFIED

View works that aim to celebrate the overall impact of Black and brown culture in entertainment, health and science, beauty and fashion, and food and agriculture on a global scale. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum. org. Visit website for times. Free.

You Don’t Know Me: Works by Unknown Photographers

Explore more than 150 years of photography by unknown photographers. The photos depict people and moments that meant something special, with someone choosing to capture them, then someone choosing to keep and care for them. View several personal photographs, familiar to onlookers both in format and subject matter. Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N., Dayton, 937/223-4278. daytonartinstitute. org. Visit website for times and prices. JAN 19

Baby Tours: Touchable Textures

Bring your infant to this 40-minute experience that serves as an introduction to the world of art. The tour is designed to stimulate developing young minds and provides explanations for the positive effects of visual learning. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.org. Visit website for times. Free.

Music + Theater JAN 16–28

Beetlejuice: The Musical

Laugh along with the ghost-with-the-most from Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film in this rip-roaring musical that tells the story of an

unusual teenager whose life changes when she meets the demon with a thing for stripes. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, 513/621-2787. cincinnatiarts.org. Visit website for times and prices.

FEBRUARY Central

FEB 22

Get the Led Out

Rock out to this band capturing the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin. From the bombastic and epic to the folksy and musical, the Philadelphia-based group will have you jamming all night long. Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Place, Newark, 740/345-5483. midlandtheatre. org. 8 p.m. $50–$60. FEB 23–24

Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1

Festivals

Museums + Exhibits Short North Arts District Gallery Hop

Celebrate art with exhibitions, street performers, special events and more. See local work in both galleries and nontraditional exhibit spaces. Short North Arts District, North High Street, Columbus, 614/299-8050. shortnorth.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Music + Theater FEB 3 & 4

Stravinsky Firebird Suite

Guest conductor Carl St. Clair leads the Columbus Symphony in John Wineglass’ post-pandemic piece, “Alone Together,” Tchaikovsky’s monumental first piano concerto featuring pianist Claire Huangci as well as Brahm’s final “Symphony No. 4.” Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. Fri. 10 a.m. & 7:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 p.m. $10–$89.

Witness this bittersweet comedy featuring the indomitable Fanny Brice, a Lower East Side girl who has always dreamed of life on the stage. Featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time, as well as an updated book and tap choreography, the show acts as a love letter to the theater. Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/771-4444. playhousesquare. org. Visit website for times. $25–$115.

Other Events FEB 24

Girls Day/Night Out

Other Events Winter Wedding Resale Market

Shop from past brides for some amazing deals on new and gently used items, including wedding decor, dresses, accessories, jewelry, favors, candles, centerpieces, tablecloths, card boxes, cake cutters, glassware, table numbers and much more. Makoy Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 614/717-7526. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. VIP $12, adults $6.

Festivals FEB 16–19

Medina Ice Festival

Head to Historic Downtown Millersburg for a day of shopping, game-playing and fun. Stick around for an evening filled with music and live entertainment at the pubs around town. Plus, enter a raffle for the chance to win one of two Coach purses. Downtown Millersburg, Jackson Street, 330/674-2412. historicdowntownmillersburg.com. 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Free.

Northwest Festivals FEB 3

Vermilion Ice A Fair

FEB 6

An Evening With Misty Copeland

Learn from Misty Copeland, the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. The active philanthropist, author and performer will be interviewed by BalletMet artistic director Edwaard Liang. Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts, 100 E. Dublin Granville Rd., New Albany, 614/245-4701. mccoycenter.org. 7 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Watch these three legendary artists unite to perform works both originally conceived and reimagined for piano trio. This musical conversation between three friends promises to offer audiences new depths and delights. Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216/231-7300. clevelandorchestra.com. 7:30 p.m. $100–$250.

FEB 25

Northeast Experience a fantastical journey through the melodies of Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite.” Following the performance, award-winning saxophonist Steven Banks performs Tomasi’s “Concerto pour saxophone alto et orchestra.” The evening closes with William L. Dawson’s “Negro Folk Symphony.” Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $10–$89.

Ax, Kavakos & Yo-Yo Ma Trio in Recital: Beethoven for Three

Funny Girl

Franklinton Fridays

FEB 3

FEB 1

FEB 20–MAR 10

FEB 9

Experience a neighborhood-wide celebration of art, performance and community. Mingle from location to location and come to know all that the Franklinton Arts District has to offer. Franklinton Arts District, Harmon Avenue, Columbus, 614/321-5316. franklintonartsdistrict.com. Visit website for times and prices.

Music + Theater

If you’re willing to brave the cold temperatures this month, you can see dozens of amazing ice sculptures decorate downtown Medina at the 30th annual Medina Ice Festival. This seasonal event is fun for the whole family. Plus, stick around for live ice-carving demonstrations. Medina Square, 330/722-6186. mainstreetmedina.com/medina-ice-festival. Visit website for times. Free.

View 50 ice sculptures created by Elegant Ice Creations and attend narrated trolley tours of Vermilion’s historic district. Plus, enjoy shopping, dining and intricate ice-carving demonstrations. Downtown Vermilion, 685 Main St., Vermilion, 440/963-0772. mainstreetvermilion. org. Visit website for times and prices. FEB 24

Burning Snowman Festival

Light fire to winter by burning a giant snowman at this all-day event featuring live music by local and regional bands, craft brews, ice sculptures, fire dancers, hot tubs and plenty of s’mores and hot chocolate. Docks Beachhouse, 252

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

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W. Lakeshore Dr., Port Clinton, 419/357-6247. facebook.com/burningsnowman. Visit website for times. Free.

Music + Theater FEB 20–24

Hadestown

Watch two mythic tales unfold — one of Orpheus and Eurydice and one of King Hades and his wife Persephone — with this hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. The performance employs vibrant acting, dancing and singing ensembles to tell its haunting yet hopeful story. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, 419/381-8851. stranahantheater.com. Tues.–Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. $46–$114. FEB 23

Mozart’s Requiem

Discover one of Mozart’s most personal works, which was left unfinished at his death, and join the symphony for an evening filled with great depth and poignance. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 419/255-8000. toledomuseum.org. Wed.–Thurs. & Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Free.

Other Events FEB 17

Presidents’ Day Run

Hit the pavement with this event put on by the Fremont Runners Club that takes place at Rutherford B. Hayes’ former estate. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Southeast Other Events FEB 3

Twitty & Lynn: A Salute to Conway & Loretta Listen as Tre, the grandson of Conway Twitty, and Tayla, Loretta Lynn’s granddaughter, bring the timeless songs of their grandparents to the stage and provide country music fans the chance to look back in time. Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 740/772-2041. majesticchillicothe.net. 7:30–9:30 p.m. $49–59. FEB 11

Sarah Jarosz: Polaroid Lovers Tour

Dance the night away as artist Sarah Jarosz performs a mix of her greatest hits as well as new songs from her latest album, “Polaroid Lovers.” Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/760-8592. peoplesbanktheatre.com. 8–10 p.m. $28–92. FEB 19

Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra from Bulgaria

The Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra from Bulgaria brings their American Concert Tour to the Zanesville Concert Association’s 84th concert season at Secrest Auditorium. The concert repertory features music by Beethoven, including a piano concerto as the featured composition. Secrest Auditorium, 334 Shinnick St., Zanesville,

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

740/588-0871. zanesvilleconcertassociation. org. 7–9 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Southwest Festivals MAR 2–3

Old Town Trade Faire

Take a peek into the past at this indoor living history show. Talk to dealers and demonstrators dressed in pre-1890s style clothing, and see how our forefathers lived. Greene County Expo Center Assembly Hall, 120 Fairground Rd., Xenia , 937/857-9745. Call for times and prices.

Music + Theater FEB 4

Mardi Gras Party featuring Queen City Vintage Vibe

Celebrate the music of Mardi Gras, from New Orleans marches to the tunes of Jelly Roll Morton to favorites like “When the Saints Go Marching In.” First Unitarian Church, 536 Linton St., Cincinnati, 513/281-1564. cincinnatijazz.org. 2–4:30 p.m. Adults $20, children $10. FEB 15

Plan Your Stay Today www.wccvb.com A DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT KIND OF STAY

A Tribute to Wayne Shorter featuring Rick VanMatre

Part of the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra’s Big Band series, the Queen City’s tenor saxophone powerhouse Rick VanMatre takes the Redmoor stage with the CCJO big band to pay tribute to enigmatic saxophonist Wayne Shorter. The Redmoor, 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, 513/871-6789. cincinnatijazz. org. 7–9:30 p.m. Adults $25, children $10. FEB 16–25

Cincinnati Ballet: Don Quixote

Follow the story of Don Quixote, who takes on knightly adventures with his loyal sword-bearer Sancho Panza. Watch the modern take on a medieval classic set to a 19th-century score performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, 513/7443344. cballet.org. Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. Visit website for prices. FEB 27

Jonathan Richman

Attend this collaboration between Stuart’s Opera House and The Foundry Theater. Jonathan Richman founded the influential proto-punk band “Modern Lovers” in 1970 at age 19. Foundry Theater at Antioch College, 920 Corry St., Yellow Springs, 937/319-0200. stuartsoperahouse.org. 8 p.m. Students $10, general admission $30.

Other Events FEB 1–29

Everything Thomas

203 South Market Street • Wooster, Ohio 44691 330.601.1900 • www.stpaulhotelwooster.com 18

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

Celebrate Thomas the Train with themed train layouts, videos, a scavenger hunt, crafts and more. Bring your kiddos for a train ride and marvel at the world’s largest indoor train display.7379 Squire Court, West Chester Township, 513/898-8000. entertrainmentjunction. com. Visit website for times and prices.

FARM & TABLE

Flavors of Home Columbus restaurateur Lisa Bannerman’s Drelyse African Restaurant serves the authentic dishes she grew up with in Ghana.

COURTESY OF DRELYSE AFRICAN RESTAURANT

Hoppy New Year: Raise a glass and explore fresh brews at this trio of beer events scheduled across the state that promise to warm up even the coldest winter days.

Seek-No-Further Cidery: This cider-making operation in the village of Granville offers a core lineup of flavorful cider varieties and a cozy, inviting place to hang out. J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

FARM & TABLE

Hoppy New Year

These three beer events across the state promise to warm up even the coldest winter days.

entree-size dishes focused on rice, fish, turkey, spinach and beans. For starters, diners should try a sambusa. The crispy shell is filled with ground beef, onion and seasonings and served with a cup of a pleasantly fiery red sauce tinged with habanero. Don’t miss a signature side of fried plantains as well. The small dish of the sliced fruit arrives at the table crisp with caramelized edges and soft interiors. Our server was helpful in suggesting dishes to try. She recommended the beef spinach stew with fufu. Fufu is a dish that is ubiquitous in West African cuisine. Drelyse’s version is made from cassava (also called yuca) that is ground, cooked and shaped into a ball. It is sticky, starchy and lightly sweet, and is eaten by tearing off small clumps and using them to scoop up bites of stew. The relatively neutral flavor of the fufu is an interesting contrast to the rich stew filled with tender chunks of beef, spinach and loads of spices. Jollof rice is another staple of West African dining, and the restaurant’s version is memorable. It’s served on a long, wooden platter with a small side salad and choice of protein. The rice arrives with a side of thicker sauce that is poured on top. When scooped with a piece of wonderfully seasoned, fall-off-the-bone chicken, it’s a real winner. “I love the excitement of cooking,” Bannerman says. “I don’t like to eat that much, but I love people coming by and seeing the happiness on their face. It really lights me up.” — Nicholas Dekker 1911 Tamarack Circle N., Columbus 43229, 614/430-3350, drelyseafricanrestaurant.com

WINTER BREWFEST Jan. 20: Toledo

LANCASTER BREWFEST Feb. 24: Lancaster

WINTER WARMER FEST March 2: Cleveland

Walk the Toledo Mud Hens’ ballpark and sample beers from a lineup of over 30 breweries found in the Buckeye State and beyond. The lineup routinely includes Ohio heavyweights like Great Lakes Brewing Co. and Rhinegeist Brewery as well as out-of-state favorites. Opt for general admission tickets, or go big with a suite package offering a private box and ballpark-food favorites. hensvilletoledo.com

Bundle up for this outdoor beer festival that is a longtime local tradition. Over 20 breweries and cideries from Ohio serve up their craft creations, spanning dark beers, ciders and high-octane brews. The event also features food trucks and live music to accompany selections from breweries like Lancaster’s own Double Edge Brewing Co. and Columbus’ Land-Grant Brewing Co. lancasterbrewfest.com

Choose samples from more than 55 breweries and take in views of downtown Cleveland during the Ohio Craft Brewers Association’s annual festival. The event at Windows on the River features breweries from across the state. Avid beer fans can purchase tickets for the Warmer’s Eve event on March 1 that offers early access to 20 breweries appearing at the festival. ohiocraftbeer. org/winterwarmer

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y 2 0 24

FOOD: COURTESY OF DRELYSE AFRICAN RESTAURANT; BEER: ISTOCK

isa Bannerman has embraced the joy of cooking since her early youth, receiving a small stove at the age of 9 that set her on a path to sharing the cuisine of her native country, Ghana. “I grew up in the hospitality field among old ladies,” Bannerman says. After helping manage her aunt’s restaurant in Ghana, Bannerman carried that passion for cooking to the United States. She moved to Cleveland in 2004 and then to Columbus, where she put herself through culinary school and within a couple years opened Drelyse African Restaurant. Bannerman’s eatery sits on Tamarack Circle, a one-way street in northeast Columbus that encircles a large block of businesses. Its small storefront has a counter and four large tables, and Afrobeat music plays over speakers. The menu is divided into appetizers and side dishes, salads, a collection of main courses and a selection of

Fufu and light chicken soup (far left), banku and fried fish (left) and red red beans and fried plantains (below) show the rich flavors of Ghanaian cuisine at Drelyse African Restaurant.

The Gathering

Seek-No-Further Cidery This cider-making operation in the village of Granville offers a core lineup of flavorful cider varieties and a cozy, inviting place to hang out.

COURTESY OF SEEK-NO-FURTHER CIDERY

uch like the founders of Granville, Garrett Huber made his way to Licking County with apples in mind. Early settlers brought uprooted SeekNo-Further apple trees from Massachusetts, and a cidery of the same name located in the center of town is what drew Huber there to be the cidermaker in 2021. Seek-No-Further Cidery’s two-story garage is tucked among historic homes and locally owned restaurants on Elm Street, just one block over from the village of Granville’s bustling Broadway and the towering hill of Denison University. Huber and Trent Beers, the cidery’s owner, have made the space into a cozy spot with a garden for live music and a loft space with a wood-burning stove and board games. “[Beers] was thinking ‘rustic cider barn’ and just a nice place for people to hang out,” Huber says of the space he and the cidery’s owner brought to life with soft lighting and an outdoor fire pit. Seek-No-Further’s core cider menu spans six different varieties (three year-round and three seasonal) ranging from dry to sweet

and all made on-site. The Farmhouse has lemon and caramel notes, while the semisweet Cherry Pickin’ uses cherries and Ohio-grown apples to achieve a lighter, fruitier taste. Huber prefers the award-winning off-dry After the Goldrush with its hints of peach, lemon and pear. The ciders are accompanied by Ohiomade beer, hot toddies and a small cocktail menu. While there is no kitchen on-site, patrons can order a small cheese tray and are welcome to bring in food. “We focus a bit more on our fruit sourcing and fruit quality, which comes through in our ciders,” Huber says. “We’re going for high-flavor varieties instead of flavoring afterwards, so working with local orchards — orchards growing the things that we want and have a lot of flavor — is our game.” — Gracie Wilson

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Weekend getaway, day trip, family retreat, or just a great place to grab dinner - Findlay is here for you. Learn more about this Northwest Ohio gem at VisitFindlay.com

126 E. Elm St., Granville 43023, seeknofurthercider.com

Painters’ Pottery J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

LIVEWell Prepare for Winter

An emergency room doctor shares how to prevent common, cold-weather home hazards that can lead to a need for urgent care.

he first major freeze or snowstorm of the season often catches people by surprise, despite the extreme weather warnings. Emergency rooms tend to fill up with cases related to slips and other injuries, says Dr. Brian Kaminski, an emergency room physician and vice president of medical affairs at ProMedica in Toledo. We asked him to share winter-safety advice for some common, cold-weather risks. — Kristen Hampshire Do a Heat Check. Look at the insulation surrounding your doors and windows, which are common places that heat can escape a home during the winter, and make any necessary repairs. “That way, if you lose power, the heat will stay in the house,” Kaminski says. Protect Against Carbon Monoxide. Install a carbon monoxide alarm and be sure to get your furnace inspected annually. Carbon monoxide exposure can feel like the flu, Kaminski says, and symptoms include fatigue, headache and difficulty breathing. Look Beneath the Surface. What looks like fluffy white powder can conceal treacherous ground. Before you dive into shoveling, let someone know you’ll be outdoors. “We see people who end up outside for prolonged periods of time [get] frostbite or cold-related injuries because they fell,” Kaminski says.

ISTOCK

Stock Essential Supplies. Keep a first-aid kit on hand, along with enough food or water to last several days in case of a storm. “Also think about your vehicle,” Kaminski says. Stow a blanket, roadside assistance kit, food, water and warm clothing in case you get stranded.

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Matters of the Heart

Commonly misdiagnosed and often overlooked, dilated cardiomyopathy can be a silent killer. Greg Ruf of Dublin hopes to help change that.

COURTESY OF GREG RUF

n 1982, Greg Ruf was a senior in high school and he can still recall the pounding in his chest while running track. “My heart would take off racing,” he says. A required physical in 2003 brought concerns, which the Dublin resident was not previously aware of, to light. “I went to a cardiologist, and they found arrhythmia and a low ejection fraction, meaning your heart does not squeeze and pump blood very well,” he says, adding that nothing was done to correct it because he appeared healthy. A decade later, an allergist’s stethoscope picked up an erratic heartbeat and a pulse of 32. Eventually, an ECG resulted in a diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

“It’s very underdiagnosed, no one really knows about it, and it kills more people than breast cancer each year,” says Ruf, co-founder of the DCM Foundation, the first nonprofit organization in the world dedicated to education, research and advocacy for patients and families dealing with the issue. DCM is a condition when the heart’s main pumping chamber is enlarged. As the chamber grows bigger, the muscular wall stretches, becoming thinner and weaker. This affects the heart’s ability to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. More than half of diagnosed DCM cases are caused by heart muscle damage from heart

attacks or coronary artery disease. A large percentage are caused by genetic factors. “During the last 20 years, familial DCM genetic studies have identified mutations in almost 40 genes,” Ruf says. At the time of his diagnosis, his left ventricle was pumping at about half of its capacity. In 2021, Ruf received a successful heart transplant. Following recovery, Ruf dedicated his career to the DCM Foundation, which he started in 2018 with Dr. Ray Hershberger, a professor of medicine, a heart failure and transplant cardiologist, and a clinical and laboratory scientist at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. The foundation has three pillars: information and education, patient and family support and understanding the need for genetic testing. “If you are experiencing any symptoms where you think there is something wrong with your heart, go to a cardiologist. If you have a family member diagnosed with DCM, ask about genetic testing,” Ruf says. “A simple doctor’s visit and tests can save lives.” — Kristen Hampshire To learn more, visit dcmfoundation.org.

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J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

WINTER WONDERS Ohioans may not always love this time of year, but these photographers across our state captured moments showing the true beauty that can be found here as temperatures drop. By Jim Vickers

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SNOWY SPECTACLE AS THE FATHER OF A YOUNG CHILD who keeps him busy, Columbus-based nature photographer Arthur O’Leary frequently spends time thinking about how to compose a photo before setting out to create it. “I try to tell a story and have a vision of what it’s going to look like before I go there,” he says, “which is usually when I produce my best images.” That was the case with this look out from Hocking Hills’ Ash Cave, the largest recess cave in Ohio. O’Leary had been there before and knew that if he used a wide-angle lens, he could get an encompassing view. “I was envisioning a snow-globe type photo,” he says. He also wanted to include people in the image to give a sense of scale. Luckily, on the day he visited, there was a fresh snowfall and a couple taking a hike with their dog. “It was my first time using an ultra-wide lens, and I was able to pull it off,” he says. “But I had my back up against the very back of the cave.”

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

ICE ENCOUNTERS

DARYL MUMMEY LIVED IN THE SUMMIT COUNTY CITY OF HUDSON for years before moving to Willowick along the Lake Erie shore a few years ago. “It’s opened up a whole new world of outdoor adventure,” he says, “fishing and photography, beach-glass collecting and all kinds of stuff that I’ve never experienced before.” Mummey kayaks on Lake Erie in the summer, but he has discovered that the icy season is when paddling along the northeast shore of our Great Lake takes on a different dimension. “When the ice shoves come in, it creates a whole new shoreline that has a lot of little coves, and there are ice bridges and caves … The key is being able to get beyond [the ice] and then approach it from the water side.” A creek that runs into the lake near his home creates a path for Mummey to get to the backside of these enormous ice chunks to see where the lapping of the water carves ice landscapes like the one captured in this photograph. 26

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PINE PERSPECTIVES LIVING JUST SOUTH OF TOLEDO IN PERRYSBURG, photographer Eric Ward says Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is high on his list of spots to visit when northwest Ohio gets a good snowfall — specifically for the neatly ordered rows of tall pine trees planted in a small portion of the park. “Whether it’s photographing them or just walking through and enjoying them, I think they are at their most beautiful when we’ve got a nice powdery snowfall with very little wind,” Ward

says. “The bark on those pines just captures the snow as it builds up along those edges. Without wind to blow it off, you get so much texture that shows itself.” This photo is one of many that Ward has created at the park over the years. In this image, one of Ward’s friends stands in the distance at the center of the composition, dwarfed by the parallel lines of immense trees that run into the distance. “Having this lane of space leading to him and just the powder coming down behind him highlights him a little bit more,” Ward says, “and gives the viewer a sense of scale.”

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FROZEN MOMENTS RHONDA COE GOT HER FIRST CAMERA IN 2017 and was out every day for the following five years creating photos. She captured this image of ice fishermen set up on Nimisila Reservoir near her home in the Summit County city of Green in January 2022, after a deep freeze had rolled into the state and safely iced over the body of water. “It was the first time that I had seen that lake fully freeze, and I’d lived in this area since 2006,” she says. “We ended up having a ton of ice fishermen who were setting up their tents on the lake, which I thought was cool-looking.” Coe went out as evening was falling to create this photo of one group of fishermen on the ice just as the sun was about to dip behind the horizon. “We had snow all week long, so you could see the footprints out to their tents,” she says. “They started lighting up their lanterns in their fish tents, and I thought: ‘That’s it,’ … that combined with the beautiful sunset and the snow.”

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u o t b A H o z n z e u y b A W ine l l A BY ASHLEY BLAES

Indulge this winter in the sweet taste of mead, also known as honey wine. Thought to date back to 7th millennium BCE in China, it’s one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages. Visit these Ohio meaderies to see what the buzz is all about. Brothers Drake Meadery in Columbus’ Short North Arts District is so popular it now has two locations. Try their Wild Ohio mead, made with Ohio wildflower honey. Sip on springtime notes of vanilla, chamomile and lavender in their Ginger Verve mead. Take a Mead Maker tour at their Grandview Heights location, and listen to blues and jazz from local artists on select weekdays in the Short North. Enjoy a drink while you peruse the small art gallery at Woodstone Creek Winery and Distillery in Cincinnati. As Ohio’s first boutique microdistillery, it carries a limited but thoughtful variety of seasonal meads, wines and spirits. Try their Pomegranate Honey mead for a refreshing taste, or go for the Raspberry Honey blended with sweet white grapes for a reminder of summer.

Brothers Drake Meadery

Partake in the social atmosphere of live bands, trivia nights and board games at Woodland Cellars in Hubbard. Look for their libation called Eye of Odin, a honey wine that evokes mead’s nickname “nectar of the gods.” Try the coffee-infused version for a caffeinated pickme-up, or go for the pumpkin-spiced edition for an autumnal flavor. You can also select red and white wines as you snack on their appetizers and signature flatbreads. Dutch Creek Winery in Athens makes all its honey wines including its signature American Mead from on-site beehives. Indulge in their artisanal fruit wines and ciders made from their own orchards. Sip honey wine on your honeymoon or weekend getaway at the Dutch Creek Retreat Caboose — a renovated vintage Athens County C&O train car just a half-mile from the winery in the heart of Southeast Ohio’s verdant countryside.

Dutch Creek Winery

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Dutch Creek Winery

30 ReAsOnS

TO LOVE

OhIo RiGhT NoW From great new gathering spots and fun places to stay to fresh food finds and memorable moments, here’s what has our hearts aflutter about the place we call home. By Jason Brill, Erin Finan, Michelle Hopkins, Lauren Keep, Sarah Miller, Varad Raigaonkar, Hosna Sadaqat, Jim Vickers, Damaine Vonada and Gracie Wilson

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ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS LISTED UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Glide Path P oised along the mighty Maumee River, Toledo’s Glass City Metropark beckons winter visitors with heated cabanas, sledding and ice skating on a track that blends perfectly with the park’s natural environment. The Ribbon, a 1,000-foot-long refrigerated ice trail is the newest attraction, and locals got a glimpse of it for a brief period last winter. “This will be The Ribbon’s inaugural season,” explains Mike Keedy, a Metroparks Toledo director. “Last year, The Ribbon’s threeweek preview drew over 15,000 visitors. With Phase II construction

complete, Metropark visitors can enjoy the full experience.” The Ribbon is the only ice trail of its kind in the region, transforming what is a roller-skating path during the summer to an ice-skating trail during the snowy season. The multi-use trail winds past nature-inspired playgrounds and glass-art installations, making for a memorable and scenic experience. Skate rentals are available inside Market Hall, which is the perfect place to cozy up after some time on the ice. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the city skyline and the National Museum of the Great Lakes next door. Stop by The Garden by Poco Piatti for quick-service meals, including wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean dishes, desserts and more. 1521 Front St., Toledo 43605, 419/4079717, metroparkstoledo.com J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

EpIc EnCoUnTeRs

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s new Visitor Hall previews the wonders to come when the institution’s full renovation is complete.

dinosaur skeleton unearthed in 1954 occupies the same space as the oldest and most complete fossil of a human ancestor ever discovered. The famous sled dog Balto stands at attention, and a rock from the surface of the moon rests behind glass. Unveiled in October 2023 and covering 14,650 square feet, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s new Visitor Hall immediately grabs your attention. “It’s the starting point for people’s journey of exploration and a reconceptualizing of what a natural history museum could be in a community and the role we expect it to play,” says Andrew Bednarski, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s director of philanthropic partnerships. The flowing hall showcases some of the museum’s most beloved specimens in an airy and bright space with large windows and snowwhite walls that create an inviting atmosphere to explore. The design was meant to evoke the feel of the glaciers that shaped the very land

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the museum sits on. Longtime favorites found here include Happy, a sauropod specimen that has long been one of the museum’s most iconic attractions. There’s also Dunk, the massive jaws of a Dunkleosteus terrelli — an apex predator that swam the waters that covered what is now Ohio around 360 million years ago. Balto, who made headlines around the world in 1925 as the lead sled dog on the final leg of a journey to deliver lifesaving medicine to Nome, Alaska, became part of the museum’s collection in 1933 and has returned to display after being restored. The free-to-visit hall serves as a preview of the rest of the museum renovations that are scheduled to be completed by December 2024. “It’s going to be something that nobody has seen before when it comes to a natural history museum,” Bednarski says. “It’s going to be a very innovative way of telling that story and centering the individual.” 1 Wade Oval Dr., Cleveland 44106, 216/231-4600, cmnh.org

Fun Factory B

right red letters rising above West Main Street announce the presence of Newark Station, an expansive redevelopment project that is turning a former wartime rubber and tire factory into a place for fun, food and more. It all began with The Yard in 2021, a space for lawn games and sand volleyball during the summer. A former loading dock now houses the Earthworks Cafe & Lounge, where locals can enjoy a latte made from coffee beans roasted on-site and grab a bite to eat. The Lofts, 18 apartments that offer studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, are connected to the cafe and began leasing in fall 2023. A brick building on the property that was once an industrial warehouse will house future development. Todd Alexander, owner of Newark Station, says the project will continue to move in phases. He hopes to add a community park, an art gallery, a rooftop taproom and an Italian fine-dining restaurant in the years to come. “What we’re trying to create here at Newark Station is a community, something that the city of Newark and Licking County can be proud of,” he says. “Something that will attract and retain the youth that could be likely to locate elsewhere [after] they graduate from high school or college.” 325 W. Main St., Newark 43055, 740/618-2735, newark-station.com

Heavenly Happening The phrase “once-in-a-lifetime experience”

gets overused, but April 8, 2024, promises to bring just that, as a total solar eclipse will be viewable from our state for the first time since 1806. Another one won’t be visible here until 2099, so this spring is your chance to take in this rare event. The 124-mile-wide band of totality — in which the

LEGENDARY

Trek Y

ou’ve probably heard of geocaching — a type of large-scale scavenger hunt that uses GPS technology — but Belmont County gave the outdoor adventure a cryptid twist with its Bigfoot GeoTour. Launched in September 2023, the tour takes participants to 23 cache locations that show off fun and scenic destinations across the county. It can be completed in as little as a day, but participants are encouraged to explore at their own leisure. “I find that most people like to take their time with it,” says Jackee Pugh, executive director of the Belmont County Tourism Council, which launched the tour. “We take people to places that they can patronize along the way and really make a weekend adventure out of it.” What sets this tour apart from most is the themed cache boxes, many of which are designed to look like giant Sasquatch feet. Inside each cache, participants find a logbook to sign as well as additional items like stickers, rocks or gems. Those who uncover 20 of the cache locations receive a commemorative coin. Finding all 23 cache locations earns participants a digital souvenir through the Geocaching app. The Bigfoot GeoTour runs through 2024. visitbelmontcounty.com

moon casts its shadow on the Earth as it passes MUSEUM: GUS CHAN

between our planet and the sun — will run from the southwest to northeast corner of our state just after 3 p.m. with the total eclipse lasting no more than five minutes. ohiodnr.gov

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

HeRiTaGe FaRe C

harlo’s Provisions & Eatery’s chef and owner Chad Druckenbroad had specific goals in mind when he decided to graduate from a successful food truck to a brick-and-mortar restaurant along Fountain Avenue in Springfield. “I wanted to provide eclectic entrees that people can’t find anywhere else in this town,” he says. “And I wanted a hospitable place where they could chat and hang out with friends without being surrounded by noise and TVs.” After finding a spot with a sunny wall of windows in an up-and-coming area of downtown, Druckenbroad christened his new eatery Charlo’s by blending the names of his daughters. With its relaxing atmosphere and special touches like fresh flowers on the tables in the summer, the spot has become a draw for people seeking fine food at a reasonable price. The menu is all about American heritage dishes, and Druckenboard puts his own stamp on classics such as pierogies filled with pancetta, white cheddar and Yukon Gold potatoes or shrimp and grits featuring fire-roasted ham instead of traditional andouille sausage. He also stocks Charlo’s on-site market with meats and cheeses as well as his popular Fried Chicken Salad and Roasted Poblano Pimento Cheese. “We have guests,” he says, “who drive two hours to enjoy everything Charlo’s offers.” 45 N. Fountain Ave., Springfield 45502, 937/505-1066, eatatcharlos.com

Power Play W

oodworking can be an intimidating task. Add power tools to the mix, and those do-it-yourself projects can feel like a home-improvement Mount Everest. Brian and Anna Kolin once felt that way too. The couple had dreamed of renovating their Toledo home but found the task too daunting to start. Then, in 2018, their basement flooded with over a half foot of water — a catastrophe that turned into a catalyst for not only gaining the know-how to do home-renovation projects but also creating a business that helps others do the same. Inspired Lumber Workshop opened in May of 2023 in Toledo. The workshop offers skill-based classes that teach the basics of woodworking and how to safely use power tools as well as project-based classes that provide step-by-step directions on how to make items such as cutting boards and farm tables. There is also a membership option, which provides full and autonomous access to the workshop and tools. “[Many] have never picked up a drill or table saw, and they’re walking out running all the tools in the workshop,” Anna Kolin says. “They come back feeling completely empowered — that they can do anything.” 3156 Central Ave., Toledo 43606, 419/754-1408, inspiredlumberworkshop.com 34

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Wild Ride

Forget the idea that sequels can’t top the original. In early December, a crane hoisting the final piece of a soaring spike tower at Cedar Point shifted anticipation for the Sandusky amusement park’s Top Thrill 2 ride into high gear. The new iteration of Cedar Point’s beloved Top Thrill Dragster is set to open this summer and features three separate launches, including one that climbs the new 420-foot, 90-degree vertical tower in reverse and a final launch that sends riders up and over the original 420-foot tower at speeds reaching 120 miles per hour. cedarpoint.com

Stay Classic Y

ou won’t find Don Draper checking into Columbus’ South Wind Motel, but the German Village spot will make you feel like you’ve stepped into his world. In 2022, Michael Kelley and Michaela Dempsey turned what was once a rundown motel built in 1959 into a retro-inspired delight. The rooms are a total vibe, adorned with custom-made walnut furniture, period-styled wallpaper and pops of color in all the right places. The suites even have turntables and vinyl records in case you feel like spinning some Bob Dylan. “We did think about different themes,” says Kelley. “But the identity of this building is clearly mid-century, so we felt like it would be almost inauthentic to go a different direction.” That doesn’t mean South Wind Motel is without contemporary conveniences. The beds are draped with high-end linens, the bathrooms are stocked with locally and sustainably made skincare products and each room features a Chemex pour-over coffeemaker. Kelley and Dempsey are also happy to offer recommendations for local food, drinks and shopping. “That is definitely the most fun part of working at the motel,” says Dempsey. “Getting to help the guests find out what they are going to do with their time in Columbus.” 919 S. High St., Columbus 43206, 614/845-1135, southwindstay.com

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

ExPaNdEd MeNu B

The Downtown Exchange brings a food hall to Zanesville, offering new lunch options for daytime workers and a hub for the community.

Page Turner

Software engineer turned business owner Max Frazier and his wife, Alicia, opened Black Cat Books & Oddities in 2023 in a brick house along Medina’s Court Street. The store stocks a carefully curated selection presented in themed rooms such as The Cabinet of Curiosities, Sherlock’s Study, The Phantom’s Passage and The Raven’s Roost. There is also a second-floor children’s room, The Secret Garden, that has been kid-approved by the Fraziers’ son and daughter. Regularly scheduled events such as author signings and tarot-card readings complete the fun sense of discovery. 420 S. Court St., Medina 44256, 440/263-0650, blackcatmedina.com

rian Diamond felt like Zanesville needed more. So, with the help of his wife, Mary, and his friends Cara and Judd Dodson, he remade the former Olde Towne Antique Mall into The Downtown Exchange. It has a first-floor food hall and a coworking space upstairs with desks and three conference rooms. “Zanesville has 1,000 people that work in downtown every day, and we had one place that served sandwiches and you could get coffee,” Brian Diamond says. “We just didn’t have a vibrant place in downtown for coffee, for food [or to] see community members.” The Downtown Exchange’s main-floor food hall houses locals such as Zanesville’s Pizzeria 1880 and Chapman’s Coffee House, which originated 15 miles away in New Concord. Haya Hibachi and the Columbus-based burger and sandwich shop Hot Mess are here too. The Dodsons’ Lucky Jupiter Bar has craft and domestic beers on tap as well as a full liquor selection and pays homage to the Jupiter Department Store that once called the building home. “We have less than 10% crossover between every single menu,” Diamond says of the food lineup, which also includes Bee Sweet Desserts, Tacology, Taste of Greece and Woods Meat & Deli. “It’s such a unique food experience, and each vendor is truly offering something different.” Live music completes the feel of a neighborhood gathering place, as The Downtown Exchange brings in musicians to play guitar during the weekend dinner rush, when often all 120 chairs inside the hall are filled. “The support from the community is overwhelming,” Cara Dodson says. “You get off work and pop in for a beer, then you have the workforce, you’ve got the bankers, you’ve got the people that bring their families in … it’s a great collaboration.” 527 Main St., Zanesville 43701, 740/683-5841, downtown-exchange.com

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Local

Support

Native Narrative I

n spring of 2024, Great Council State Park and its 12,000-square-foot cultural interpretive center will open along state Route 68 in Greene County, bringing an immersive museum space and interactive exhibits that highlight the history of the region as well as the past and present of the Shawnee people. Throughout the project, members of the Shawnee nation were consulted for the planning of exhibits and even the construction of the building itself, which is designed to resemble a Shawnee long house. The 14-acre site will use natural elements to mimic the native prairie that existed in the 1700s, and a half-mile walking path will wind through a diverse mix of pollinator species. Inside the center, an interactive living stream and replica frontiersman camp will greet visitors on the first floor, while the second floor will house exhibits and displays dedicated to pre-contact Native American history and the modern-day members of the Shawnee nation. “It’s long overdue for us to really tell the story of not only the Shawnee but other Native Americans,” says Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. “We don’t have any other state park that is really devoted exclusively to that story. So, I think it’s well-past time to do that.” ohiodnr.gov

owling Green’s Wood County Museum reopened in the fall after a 10-month closure following expansive repairs. Just after Christmas 2022, the staff returned to a broken boiler and burst pipes. The building’s 1869 East Wing was frigid, with water dripping from the ceiling and sloshing over the floor. Miraculously, most of the museum’s artifacts sustained minimal damage, and staffers worked to protect the pieces spread across nine rooms and three floors. In 1869, the sprawling brick home was created to care for Wood County’s poor, elderly and people with disabilities. During this time, Ohio opened 87 county-run “poor houses,” with only those in Wood and Lake counties now designated as museums. Support for Wood County’s recovery was overwhelming. “Farmers were offering to bring in heaters. People sent us letters with well wishes, sometimes stuffed with a $20 bill. Our maintenance team was golden,” says Annette Wells, director of the Wood County Museum. During construction, the annual gala fundraiser switched to an outdoor Boiler BBQ Bash. “In total, we received $20,000 in private donations,” Wells says. “Double what we usually receive from our annual giving campaign.” 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green 43402, 419/352-0967, woodcountyhistory.org

Precious Moments

For those of us who love watching baby

animals — and that’s all of us, right? — Netflix’s “Baby Gorilla Cam” brought true cuteness this fall by airing a livestream of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s gorilla troop for two hours every Thursday morning in September. The event offered a peek into the lives of the adult male gorilla, Mokolo, the four adult female gorillas, Kebi Moyo, Frederika, Nneka and Tusa, as well as the two babies, Kayembe and Kunda, to help raise awareness about the work being done to save this endangered species. Those who missed the original weekly livestream can check out highlight episodes on Netflix. netflix.com, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

CaNdY LaNd Spangler Candy Co. has produced Dum Dums and other sweet treats for generations. Now it has a destination in downtown Bryan that celebrates the company’s legacy.

illy Wonka’s world of sweets may be one built of pure imagination, but a trip to the northwest Ohio city of Bryan offers a real-life candy adventure. When you spot the 160-foothigh water tower adorned with Dum Dums lollipops, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Spangler Candy Co.’s Spangler Candy World in downtown Bryan covers 5,200 square feet of candy-colored happiness. Every square inch of the attraction that opened in late 2023 is packed with fun exhibits that share the history and story of the family-owned company that began in 1906. “There’s a smile on the end of every piece of candy that we make,” says Kirk Vashaw, Spangler Candy Co. CEO and fourth generation family member. “That fun should be celebrated.” Kids and adults alike can virtually mix colors to light up their own 10-foot-tall lollipop creation, battle for Dum Dums with bots Duane and Dave (named in honor of Spangler’s first robotic engineers) and stop for pics in Sweethearts Chapel framed with giant conversation hearts. (The Ohio company acquired the maker of the favorite Valentine’s Day candy in 2018.) Older kids will enjoy the STEM video games that simulate real-life candy-making, while toddlers can “drive” Spangler’s Dum Dums Trolley down a delicious timeline of the company’s history of products. Be sure not to miss Spangler’s theater factory tour — a big-screen celebration. Vashaw wrote the script for the laughter-filled candy caper. Surprise blasts of wonderful scents fill the theater as giant images of shiny, colorful candy appear on the huge screen. Although logistics have ended the in-person factory tours Spangler offered in years past, the bigscreen presentation provides an up-close tour like never before. Spangler Candy World is free and open Monday through Saturday. Visitors need only pay for the movie and any Spangler memorabilia or candy they want to take home with them from the gift shop. 131 S. Main St., Bryan 43506, 419/636-6439, spanglercandy.com 38

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Creature Comforts W

hen Jason Brewer left Cincinnati’s Listermann Brewing Co. in 2019 to launch his own business, he wasn’t exactly sure what it would be. But when his son was born in 2020, the concept crystalized: a family-friendly brewery. “It’s not just another place where your kids are bored with a tablet in front of them,” says Brewer, who opened Wandering Monsters in summer 2023. “They can come in and have an activity — and not one you’re just watching them do. Families can play together.” Brewer is referring to duckpin bowling, a variation of 10-pin bowling that features smaller lanes, pins and balls, and the taproom has six lanes where patrons can play. The fun extends to the beer menu, which features expected classics alongside more experimental brews. Huldra, a blonde ale, and Bossie, an ale inspired by New Glarus Brewing Co.’s Spotted Cow, are easy-drinking options, while the Wandering Hiker IPA is a fruited, creamy take on a raspberry milkshake. Hungry bowlers can choose from a lineup of smokedin-house barbecue favorites like ribs, brisket and Texas Twinkies (jalapenos stuffed with pimento cheese, wrapped in bacon and smoked). And, of course, there’s a kids menu. 8251 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45255, 513/4178805, wanderingmonstersbeer.com

ToY TiMe MaChInE Inspired by their love for 1980s pop culture, four friends took The Toy Department in Fairfield to a new level of fun.

oys are a lot more fun when you’ve got friends to share the joy with. Maybe that’s why Chris Neal, Kenny Koepnick, James Sawyer and Matt Mull decided to open The Toy Department — a wonderland of action figures, diecast cars, trading cards and more from the 1980s. “The sweet spot for the store is absolutely the ’80s,” says Koepnick, who manages The Toy Department alongside Sawyer, with Neal as owner and Mull as product manager. “There was a pop-culture revolution in the ’80s. Star Wars, Transformers, G.I. Joe, He-Man — they all either were created in the ’80s or had their heyday in the ’80s.” For adults of a certain age, it’s tough to peruse the store aisles without repeatedly exclaiming a nostalgic “I had that!” In summer 2023, exploring those aisles got a lot more fun after The Toy Department moved into a 20,000-square-foot former Harley-Davidson dealership in the Butler County city of Fairfield — a supersized step up from its original 2,500-square-foot location. The extra space means more room for toys, from vintage finds to newer items such as Funko Pop! vinyl figures. “We also do get some stuff from the ’50s and ’60s — Hot Wheels, Barbie, Major Matt Mason,” says Koepnick, who notes that the store also buys toys. He adds that one of the coolest things is when customers bring their kids in who are also interested in still-relevant toy lines such as Star Wars and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. “You just can’t beat a kid running up to the counter excited because he’s getting a new wrestler or a new Luke Skywalker, and he’s just so stoked,” says Koepnick, who has passed his love of toys on to his own son. “It’s a special thing to be able to share with your kids.” 5960 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield 45014, 513/869-3378, toydepartment.net

FIRED-UP

Flavors

hanks to the airplane, cash register and other local inventions, Dayton became a manufacturing hub during the 1900s, and that rich heritage inspired The Foundry, a rooftop restaurant that sits atop the AC Hotel downtown. Along with its soft industrial decor and a scenic location overlooking the Dayton Dragons’ ballpark, The Foundry entices guests with American fare, a lot of which is cooked in a wood-fired oven that executive chef Jason Findley uses for everything from baking his handmade rolls and pizza dough to smoking brisket for house-made pastrami. “My vision for The Foundry is taking guests on a journey of extraordinary flavors,” he says. Born and raised in Dayton, Findley brings two decades of restaurant experience to The Foundry as well as a flair for innovative flavor combinations. His Crispy Pork Belly, for example, melds the richness of smoked meat with the sweetness of a plantain, the subtle fruitiness of a cherry drizzle and the bold tang of pickled red onions. Findley’s deft balance of tastes and textures takes even familiar foods like burgers to a new level. His version — the bestselling Forged Burger — tops Wagyu beef with raclette cheese and bourbon-bacon jam. “It’s quite a compliment,” Findley says, “when people tell us that it’s the best burger they’ve ever had.” 124 Madison St., Dayton 45402, 937/965-7520, thefoundryrooftop.com J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

GrUb HuB The Gatherall, a food hall located in a former playingcard factory northeast of Cincinnati, offers a world of flavors and an inviting space to socialize.

n a former industrial complex in Norwood, an urban community northeast of Cincinnati, there’s a squat brick building where U.S. Playing Card Co. factory workers used to break for lunch. Now, the 120-year-old cafeteria houses the Gatherall, a food hall featuring more than a dozen independent restaurant stalls serving a range of locally owned, internationally influenced fare, from traditional barbecue and New York-style pizza to Vietnamese banh mi, Korean fried chicken and Filipino adobo. The Gatherall opened in summer of 2023 as a central pillar of Factory 52, a mixed-use development spanning 20 acres of revamped manufacturing space. Aptly named, the spot is designed as a gather gathering space for different people with different interests. “If you go out with a group of people and not everyone wants the same thing, they can get a sampling of different flavors from around the world in one place,” says Eric Stringer, a retail developer for PLK Communities, Factory 52’s developer, owner and operator. “We wanted to showcase Cincinnati-region chefs and entrepreneurs but also showcase the strong international community we have here.”

In addition to flavor, the lively food hall has plenty of personality. Craving a cocktail? Pull up a seat at According To Hoyle, the Gatherall’s center bar named for the man who wrote the book (literally) on card-game rules. Need to use the restroom? Just look for “The Royal Flush.” Rising chefs will soon try their hand at new restaurant concepts at The Shuffle, the Gatherall’s on-site culinary incubator. For diners who prefer to pair their meal with a craft beer, Cincinnati’s Fretboard Brewing Co. is located inside the Gatherall and many vendors offer complimentary delivery to Hi-Wire Brewing’s location in Factory 52. Then perhaps it’s off to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams or Molly’s Cupcakes for dessert, if you play your cards right. 4590 Beech St., Norwood 45212, 513/206-8741, thegatherall.com 40

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Delicious Delivery

The prospect of starting your morning with a freshly baked doughnut or pastry from Ohio’s Amish Country is enticing, and since September 2023, The Rolling Dutchman has been delivering just that. The sweet treats that draw travelers to the region are now mobile, being carted to cities and towns within a 100-mile radius of Sugarcreek. Packed with 350 to 400 doughnuts, as well as cinnamon twists, apple fritters, coffee, hot chocolate and more, The Rolling Dutchman delivers a truckful of early morning deliciousness each day. The truck’s schedule can be found on its Facebook page, and requests for it to make a specific stop can be made online. dhgroup.com/rolling-dutchman

BrIgHt IdEa Rainbow Row Bellefontaine’s vibrantly colored storefronts provide a new downtown destination and new chapter in this Logan County city’s revitalization.

ot long ago, one of the city of Bellefontaine’s newest success stories was an unsightly row of rundown buildings. The structures, which date to the late 1800s, were abandoned, dilapidated and in need of a lot of love to bring them back. Today, they house the vibrant Rainbow Row Bellefontaine, a new attraction inspired by the famous pastel rowhouses in Charleston, South Carolina. In the span of two years, the Bellefontaine property was stripped to its bones and rebuilt. It now houses five retail businesses and second-level suites for overnight or extended stays. The Craft Emporium, which features a variety of Ohio beers on tap, moved into Rainbow Row’s dark green building in January 2023. The yellow one next door houses Candy Crazy, a bright space filled

with retro treats. Eden House, which arrived in September 2023, sells houseplants inside the lavender-colored storefront, and the light green structure next to it is home to Rush Creek Art Studio, where Dwight Greenbaum teaches artists of all skill levels. The red building on the end houses tattoo artist Nicci Kauffman’s The Salty Swan Studio. Local doctor Norman Greene and his wife, Julie, are behind Rainbow Row’s second level, which houses seven Airbnb suites that are themed after the seven continents of the world. They are available for one-night stays or multi-month reservations. Since 2011, the city of Bellefontaine’s downtown has seen a revival spurred by Small Nation — a local company that redevelops historic properties and is behind Rainbow Row Bellefontaine — as well as other independent business owners. “We wanted to create a neighborhood within our downtown that was fun, funky and creative,” says Jason Duff, the founder of Small Nation. “[In] every living room, when you work with effective designers, you always have that accent chair. This is what we described as the gem and the accent chair for downtown Bellefontaine.” 114 W. Chillicothe Ave., Bellefontaine 43311, 937/565-4580, rainbowrowohio.com J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

Developing Brewery O

Artistic

ADDITION

pened in June 2023, Darkroom Brewing Co. has quickly made a name for itself in the middle of Ohio wine country. Husband-and-wife duo Gino Lavini and Amanda Briggs de Lavini had long thought about opening a brewery, and with the purchase of a 5,000-square-foot space along North Broadway in Geneva, they did just that. The 1900s row building had previously been home to a popular photography studio, and this history is reflected in both the name and atmosphere of the brewery. The space is filled with artistic touches, from the multicolored couches to the vintage cameras and antique movie projectors to the hand-painted mural that depicts a mermaid caught in a fisherman’s net, a design inspired by the label for the brewery’s soon-tobe flagship IPA. The brewery currently serves two of its expected five core beers: a Kolsch and a red ale. An IPA, a brown ale and a porter are coming soon, but customers can still partake in seasonal varieties and other interesting brews in the meantime. “I’m really, really excited about being here.” Briggs de Lavini says. “I really feel confident that we’ll always have beer drinkers here. We’ll always have visitors here that are looking for something unique.” 32 N. Broadway, Geneva 44041, 440/290-6045, darkroombrewingco.com

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DARKROOM: MARTELLO PHOTOGRAPHY

rought to life in 2018 by the vision and creations of David Griesmyer, the Ohio Art Corridor now spans over 140 miles and five counties throughout southeast Ohio, making it one of the largest outdoor art exhibitions in the world. Since Griesmyer’s first sculpture, “School of Fish,” was installed along state Route 376 in Morgan County, other artists have contributed murals and other works to the project. Griesmyer himself has four pieces on display in the corridor and is currently working on a fifth. The 4,000-pound metal deer sculpture, which Griesmyer began creating back in 2020, is set to be completed in early 2024 and will stand a towering 23 to 25 feet tall. “I love how beautiful the McConnelsville area is,” Griesmyer says. “I see the tremendous amount of deer that are here. And so, we’re thinking, ‘What could we do that would be really significant to this area?’ That was the big reason for [making] a deer. It’s because that is what this whole area is really known for.” This sentiment is echoed by many pieces on the Ohio Art Corridor, which represent the beauty of the region in the hopes that people will visit and support the communities within it. For more information about David Griesmyer’s works, visit dgriesmyer.com.

Shore Thing

Sandusky doesn’t routinely get thought of as a coastal destination with its location along Lake Erie (and, yes, we know the coasts of lakes are called “shores”), but the Erie County city once again took top honors in

USA Today’s Best Coastal Small Towns readers’ choice award in 2023. The city last received the honor in 2019, and the list of 10 finalists for 2023 assembled by an eight-person committee of travel writers included spots like Nags Head, North Carolina; Cannon Beach, Oregon; and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. An online vote by website visitors decided the winner.

shoresandislands.com

MoDeRn HoSpItAlItY The Junto hotel on Columbus’ Scioto Peninsula offers an inviting space and an experience unlike any other you may have in our capital city.

he Junto hotel opened in summer 2023 as the centerpiece of Columbus’ Scioto Peninsula development. It’s named after Benjamin Franklin’s intellectual club formed in 1727 and extends that theme throughout the space. Billed as the first “independent lifestyle hotel” in Columbus, The Junto offers multiple restaurants, hosts educational events and seeks to integrate visitors with the surrounding city. “For us, we have the flexibility to be a hotel of the local community,” says general manager Jason Delcamp. “It’s not about just staying within our four walls and sleeping but getting out and exploring what Columbus has to offer.” The Junto features a Gear Garage with equipment like bikes, kayaks, scooters and pickleball gear for guests, and the hotel offers easy access to the Franklinton Arts District, COSI and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.

Instead of the traditional hotel lobby, The Junto’s check-in desk is positioned around a corner, so guests are greeted instead by the Trade Room lobby bar. “We call it genuine hospitality. It’s not supposed to be transactional,” Delcamp says. “It’s meant to feel like your living room. It’s comfortable. What I’ve really enjoyed is the diversity and number of people in the space and how everyone’s using it differently.” One section of the Trade Room is centered around a fireplace, with comfortable couches and tables, while the next room offers long tables for workspaces. In addition to a full bar with drinks and snacks, the lobby connects to Maudine’s, the in-house coffee shop named for the Holstein cow that was voted Ohio State University’s 1926 homecoming queen. The Junto also features a ground-floor eatery, Little West Tavern, built around an open-hearth kitchen. On the top floor of the hotel sits the Brass Eye, which offers drinks, snacks, weekend brunch and patios with outstanding views of Columbus. 77 Belle St., Columbus 43215, 888/976-2106, thejuntohotel.com

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

ReTrO ReViVaL

Past Times Arcade in Girard houses hundreds of vintage pinball machines and old-school arcade cabinets. Even better, you can play all day for $20.

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Grand Getaway The Wilds in southeast Ohio has long had yurts, but on Sept. 1, 2023,

reservations opened for the newest ADA-compliant Grand Yurt that allows people of all abilities to stay at the conservation center (a partner of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium) that is home to a wide variety of animals from far beyond Ohio. Situated along an elevated ridgetop, the newest Grand Yurt — a large circular tent that comfortably sleeps two — overlooks pastures where visitors can spot endangered species like the Pere David’s deer and Sichuan takin. Reservations for the Grand Yurt run from May 1 to Oct. 31. thewilds.org

YURT: GRAHM S. JONES

ntering through the doors of Past Times Arcade may remind you of walking into a grocery store, especially since the sign for Santisi’s Marketplace is still hanging in the entryway. This feeling doesn’t last long, however, once you hear the music, flashing lights and cacophony of pinging and clicking. In June 2023, this former grocery store in Girard became home to over 600 vintage pinball machines and retro arcade cabinets representing Rob Berk’s 45 years of collecting. Berk’s fascination with pinball started when he was 6 years old playing a family-owned machine called Baby Face, but it wasn’t until his 20s when he started getting serious about his collection. It started with a call that prompted Berk to rent a U-Haul and head to Wisconsin to pick up 15 machines for $100 each. He later ventured to Halifax, Nova Scotia, for an additional 40 machines. “I started having a passion and [an] obsession that kept getting stronger and stronger,” Berk says. “Then I started wanting to collect all of a certain manufacturer or a certain type of game, so the obsession kept going. Pinball is in my blood, that’s for sure.” Berk’s pursuit of expanding his collection has taken him as far away as Spain and as nearby as Illinois and parts of Ohio, where some of his older machines are from. These machines, some of which date back to the 1930s, are not available to play but are displayed near the entrance to showcase the early history of the game. Maybe the best part is the $20 admission fee that allows you to play as much as you’d like for as long as you’d like each day you visit. “From the minute we open to the minute we close, you could stay and play 8 to 10 hours,” Berk says. “It’s a very unique thing that we brought to the community … It’s a chance to relive the past.” 419 N. State St., Girard 44420, 330/7654121, pasttimesarcade.com

Ancient Wonders

Walking among the creations of prehistoric cultures that once lived in what is now Ohio, you can’t help but feel the weight of time. Almost 2,000 years ago, Indigenous people built elaborate earthworks that aligned to the sun and moon and served as gathering places. On Sept. 19, 2023, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization named eight Ohio earthworks collectively identified as the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks to its World Heritage list. The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe, Fort Ancient Earthworks in Oregonia and Octagon and Great Circle Earthworks in Newark join the list of wonders that span the globe. nps.gov/hocu, ohiohistory.org

BOOKS: PERIWINKLE PHOTOGRAPHY 58 WEST: HOCKING HILLS WINERY

Kids Zone W

ith its big picture windows and bright blue window trim, the white siding of Beanbag Books stands out from the surrounding brick exteriors on Winter Street in Delaware. While the storefront has lived a past life as a bookstore for local teachers to stock up on classroom resources, its newest renovations have brought Beanbag Books to life for local families and modernized the 1860s storefront. Although she opened the store in 2019, Jody Everett, along with her husband, Michael, renovated it in 2021 to create a brighter space geared toward kids and continue to make upgrades to the shop. “There’s a lot more space that’s accessible to families now,” Jody Everett says. “We have a designated children’s area where we do our story time so we can set up beanbags and rugs on the floor for the children.” Red, blue, green and yellow paint covers the walls, and reading nooks invite a place for a great story as well as a place to climb and explore. The surrounding shelves hold children’s books along with young-adult and adult novels as well as toys, games and activities geared toward families. “It’s one of my happiest moments, when everyone can walk [in] and go, ‘Wow,’” Everett says. 25 W. Winter St., Delaware 43015, 740/3630290, beanbagbooks.com

Local Flavors

owntown Logan’s 58 West offers a one-stop shop for food and drinks when visiting the Hocking Hills. In addition to the restaurant, its owners operate sister companies Hocking Hills Winery and Hocking Hills Brewing Co. and partner with the local Motherwell Distilling Co., all of which have a presence on-site. “Our focus is on local,” explains Laura Davidson, who operates the Hocking Hills Winery family of brands along with her husband, Drew, his brother Blaine Davidson and Blaine’s wife, Allison. “People love to go on those wine trips, those brewery hops, tasting tours. This is a way to do all three in one.” 58 West makes its home in a century-old building that operated as a car dealership for most of its life. The space has been refurbished to include a dining room and bar, production spaces in the rear and a large, all-season patio. “We wanted to be part of the revitalization of downtown Logan, so we wanted to restore it,” Davidson says. “That’s what spurred us to buy the building.” The goal was to create an approachable space that is good for any occasion. “If you want to come in and be dressed up for date night or come in right off the trails, you’ll fit in,” Davidson says. 58 W. Second St., Logan 43138, 740/216-5360, 58west.com

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

FERRANTE WINERY & RISTORANTE

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery

. d n i w n u 2376 St. Rte. 850 Bidwell, Ohio 740-245-9463 merryfamilywinery.com

4599 S. Madison Rd. Madison, Ohio 440-296-9175 laurentiawinery.com

Merry Family Winery

Gervasi Vineyard

Come sip, sit, relax at Gallia County’s first winery/brewery. Take in the picturesque views of the countryside and stroll through the vineyard. Sample handcrafted wines and beers and try our homemade root beer soda. With so many great varieties to choose from, you are sure to find something to love!

This winter, escape to Gervasi Vineyard and experience the beauty of a unique, Tuscan-inspired winery resort and spa. Three distinct restaurants offer casual and upscale cuisine paired with award-winning wines and spirits. Retreat to a luxurious suite and enjoy the comforts of high-end amenities and an outdoor patio providing beautiful lake views. Treat yourself to a tranquil spa treatment or the intimate wine-tasting room in The Cave.

1700 55th St. NE Canton, Ohio 330-497-1000 gervasivineyard.com

Three Rivers Wine Trail

432 N. Whitewoman St. Coshocton, Ohio 740-622-4877 threeriverswinetrailohio.com

4573 St. Rte. 307 E. Geneva, Ohio 440-415-0661 laurellovineyards.com

Enjoy the wide-open spaces of the Appalachian foothills and explore the eclectic mix of seven unique wineries and a craft brewery, all within a short drive of one another in beautiful Coshocton County. It’s the perfect romantic getaway or girls’ weekend adventure. Free Passport Program and hotel packages are available.

Ravenhurst Champagne Cellars

34477 Shertzer Rd. Mount Victory, Ohio 937-354-5151

You’ve tasted the rest, now taste the best. With a wall of medals to prove it, we are the only Ohio winery reviewed in Opus Vino (4000 Greatest Wineries in the World), a three-time Wine of the Year winner and more! We are dedicated to Methode Champenoise Champagnes and dry vinifera wines. Open every Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.

Laurello Vineyards

Plum Run Winery

Laurello Vineyards is a familyowned winery providing handcrafted, award-winning wines and specially prepared foods as well as beer on tap. Laurello’s offers premium, vinifera wines in addition to unique blends and delicious ice wines. We invite you to stop by to experience our boutique winery.

A locally owned boutique winery in the heart of downtown Grove City, featuring 22 varieties of house wines and ciders, 40 taps of artfully crafted beers, along with a full scratch kitchen and large pet-friendly patio. Plum Run is a great space for meetings and private events as well!

3946 Broadway Grove City, Ohio 614-991-0338 plumrunwinery.com

Wyandotte Winery

4640 Wyandotte Drive Columbus, Ohio 614-476-3624 wyandottewinery.com

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery is located within the Grand River Valley. We are situated upon 48 acres of estate vineyards which cultivate our abundant varietals. Laurentia’s award-winning wines, such as our Double Gold Stoltz Block Cabernet, may be perfectly paired with a variety of boards, shared plates and artisan flatbreads. From vineyard to barrel, come experience Laurentia’s expansive patios and tasting room.

As Central Ohio’s pioneer winery, we offer handcrafted wines in a charming neighborhood setting. Weekly live musical acts and happy hour specials enhance the experience of savoring a diverse selection. From luscious reds to crisp whites, dry to sweet, traditional grape to fruity blends, Wyandotte celebrates your individual taste!

The Winery at Spring Hill

6062 S. Ridge Rd. W. Geneva, Ohio 440-466-0626 thewineryatspringhill.com

In both the Grand River Valley and Lake Erie wine growing regions, we are an upscale country winery with a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. We offer our dry vinifera wines and sweet Labrusca and fruit wines, hard ciders, craft beers and cocktails. Enjoy food from our kitchen, on our patio or in front of our two indoor fireplaces.

OHIO LOVE

s pecial adve rti s i ng s ection

There’s plenty to adore about life in our state, and these destinations offer great opportunities to make plans together in the new year.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE DESTINATIONS LISTED

PLEASANT HILL LAKE PARK J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

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Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa Nestled in the heart of Canton, Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa is a luxurious escape that blends rustic charm with modern elegance. As an award-winning destination, Gervasi Vineyard offers an immersive experience for guests seeking relaxation, culinary delights and a taste of the vineyard lifestyle. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and lush landscapes, the

resort boasts a Tuscan-inspired aesthetic that transports visitors to the enchanting countryside of Italy. The meticulously designed suites and villas feature upscale amenities, ensuring a comfortable and indulgent stay. Guests can unwind in the elegant spa, where a range of rejuvenating treatments and therapies cater to both the body and soul. At the heart of Gervasi Vineyard is its winery, producing a diverse selection of wines that guests can savor during tastings or pair with exquisite dishes at the on-site restaurants. The culinary experience is elevated at The Bistro, a fine-dining establishment offering a chef-cu-

Plan a winter getaway

More than buggies Shopping, Food & Brews, Places to Stay, and more.

to Ohio Amish Country – home to heartwarming holiday traditions, unique shopping experiences, and your favorite seasonal flavors.

Living life simply. Holmes County & beyond.

Explore the Possibilities visitamishcountry.com

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S P EC I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S EC T I O N rated menu with Italian influence. Additionally, The Crush House provides a more casual setting, perfect for enjoying handhelds, salads and entrees. Beyond the delectable cuisine and luxurious accommodations, Gervasi Vineyard hosts events, weddings and gatherings at its charming venues, creating memories against the backdrop of rolling vineyards. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a culinary adventure or a tranquil retreat, Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa invites you to savor the finer things in life amidst the beauty of Ohio. For more information, visit gervasivineyard.com.

Historic Downtown Millersburg During the cold winter months, it’s easy to stay cooped up at home as the temperature drops, windowpanes get frosty and cabin fever starts to set in. Combat the seasonal boredom by grabbing friends and family and heading to Historic Downtown Millersburg for its Girls Day/Night Out event on Saturday, Feb. 24. The fun starts at 10 a.m. and sends you on a journey through town where you can shop, participate in activities and enjoy food and beverages at every stop along the way. Play games and compete for a variety of prizes,

or purchase and fill out a punch card 75% of the way in order to be entered into raffle drawings for a chance to win one of two Coach purses. Earn free admission to the event by booking an overnight stay at any hotel or Airbnb rental in Millersburg. Punch-card holders can also enjoy complimentary shuttle service to and from Sunny Slope Winery in Big Prairie, which offers a large selection of food and wine. The event ends at 6 p.m. but be sure to stick around for live entertainment and music provided by the local pubs to keep the fun going all night long. For more information, visit historicdowntownmillersburg.com.

The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard is a great place to rejuvenate (opposite page). Millersburg offers a range of shops and eateries (above).

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

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Helping Hands preserves the art of Amish quilt-making (above). Darke County honors the life of Annie Oakley (opposite page).

Ohio Amish Country If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, head to Ohio Amish Country for a chance to slow down and enjoy a leisurely day trip or weekend away.

Bundle up for winter’s chill in the warm embrace of generations of quilting love. Since it opened in 1974, Helping Hands Quilt Shop in Berlin has been preserving Amish Country quilting traditions in addition to selling high-quality fabrics, patterns, handmade quilts and gift items. Also located in Berlin, Plaid Sheep Co. is sure to inspire your next creative endeavor or supply your latest craze with its selection of products. Get creative with Weaver Leather Supply in Millersburg, where you can express yourself through hobbyist leatherworking and leathercrafting. Whether you’re an experienced leatherworker or just starting out, this store has everything you need, from hardware and machinery to leather and finishing materials. They also offer online tutorials and in-person classes to put you on the right path. For a unique dining experience in Amish Country, head to Rebecca’s Bistro in Walnut Creek. Located in an 1800s-era log cabin in the heart of Holmes County, this eatery offers breakfast and lunch options that range from soups and sandwiches to savory breakfast platters and quiches. The menu changes frequently and utilizes seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables. With dozens of options for shopping, dining, lodging and more, a trip to Ohio’s Amish Country will keep you entertained all season long. For more information, visit holmescountychamber.com.

y a w a t e G r Winte Plan Your

at Pleasant Hill Lake Park’s Luxury Log Cabins

Snuggle around a blazing fireplace, enjoy the bubbling hot tub, and spend time together in a cabin at the lake. Your winter getaway awaits at Pleasant Hill Lake Park!

Hike in the sparkling snow, warm up in a hot tub, and enjoy making memories that will last a lifetime!

Reserve a cabin today at MWCD.org

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Darke County The birthplace of one of 19th-century America’s most famous female sharpshooters, Darke County offers visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of Ohioan Annie Oakley by traversing the newly opened, nine-part Annie Oakley Trail. The journey begins about 15 miles south of Oakley’s childhood home, in the town of Greenville, where the National Annie Oakley Center at Garst Museum shares stories of her youth and eventual rise to stardom, most notably her time spent touring with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. Walking through town, you will find Annie Oakley Park at the intersections of Martin, Broadway and Washington streets, and a nearby mural by artist Tim Wells commemorating the sharpshooter is painted on a Martin Street-facing wall of the Sure Shot Tap House. Oakley’s lasting impact has also been memorialized through a barn mural that can be seen while driving along state Route 127. Continuing north on this route, you will encounter a roadside marker near North Star where Oakley’s childhood home once stood. Another stop on the journey takes visitors to Yorkshire, where Oakley’s parents’ and siblings’ gravesites are located. Oakley’s own final resting place serves as the last stop on the tour and can be found in Brock Cemetery where she is buried next to her husband of 50 years, Frank Butler. For more information, go to visitdarkecounty.org.

Experience art, history, and culture immersed in attractions, museums, and galleries across Stark County. Several unique museums and one convenient, digital ticket delivered to your mobile phone.

museum pass

VISITCANTON.COM

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

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Pleasant Hill Lake Park Escape to the cozy and serene Pleasant Hill Lake Park in Perrysville, Ohio, to experience the perfect winter getaway in a deluxe log cabin. Book a romantic retreat or bring the family for an adventure. Ten cabins are available year-round, and each offers rustic yet modern accommodations within a quiet, wooded setting only a short distance from the lake, trails and local attractions including Snow Trails ski resort in Mansfield. Cabins are available in two different sizes, designed to accommodate six or eight people, and a few select cabins are pet-friendly and ADA accessible. Each cabin is equipped with a full kitchen, complete with breakfast bar, fridge, dishwasher, microwave and cooking necessities like pots and pans. Each cabin features an indoor gas fireplace, outdoor fire pit, and hot tub on the covered outdoor deck, making the log cabins a perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of winter activities with family and friends. Wi-Fi and satellite TV are included as well, but for guests who prefer to go off-the-grid and immerse themselves in nature, Pleasant Hill Lake Park offers outdoor activities like swimming, boating and fishing. Don’t forget to grab your outdoor gear as the nearby hiking trails transform into cross country skiing trails in the winter months. Book your stay today and experience the perfect winter getaway. For more information, visit mwcd.org

Winter Weekend Getaway D I N E ∙ S TAY ∙ P L AY

CANTON, OH 52

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Visit Canton Home to engaging and thought-provoking museums, galleries and other attractions, Canton and Stark County offer a plethora of opportunities to immerse yourself in art, history and culture. Opened in 1963, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is recognized as America’s premier sports Hall of Fame, with visitors traveling from across the globe to view exhibits that honor football’s legends. Located just 8 miles from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Massillon Museum has dedicated a permanent exhibit space to one of the greatest football coaches of all time, Paul Brown. Dubbed “The Paul Brown Museum at MassMu,” this addition features original artifacts from Brown’s own collection, including uniforms, photographs and more. To learn more about our nation’s first ladies, visit the First Ladies National Library & Museum, which pays tribute to these women through educational exhibits and programs. On display through April 27, “Beyond Camelot: The Life and Legacy of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis” provides an intimate look into the life of famed first lady Jackie O. A lesser-known gem, located in Alliance, is The Troll

Hole Museum, a 6,000-square-foot museum that holds a Guinness World Record for the largest collection of troll dolls. This colorful and whimsical troll-filled wonderland will delight kids and adults alike. For easy access to these destinations and others, check out the Canton Museum Pass, available in one- or threeday options. For more information, go to visitcanton.com. ●

Pleasant Hill Lake Park’s cabins make for scenic retreats (opposite page). The Massillon Museum houses artifacts from Paul Brown’s life (above).

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

HEAD

HILLS

Escape to the enchanting Hocking Hills for a winter romantic getaway. Explore scenic trails adorned with snow-covered pines, then cozy up in a secluded cabin with a crackling fire. Discover frozen waterfalls and stargaze from your private hot tub. Embrace the magic of winter in the Hocking Hills. Don’t miss the 59th Annual Winter Hike on Jan. 20. After the hike, head to historic downtown Logan for the Annual Logan Frozen Festival, featuring ice sculptures, ice games, food and family fun. Explore the Hocking Hills, Ohio’s Natural Crown Jewels.

Call or click for your free Visitor’s Guide: 1-800-Hocking | ExploreHockingHills.com

WINTER TRAVEL

s pecial adve rti s i ng s ection

Cozy inns, snowy trails and vibrant arts await in theses dynamic destinations that help make the most of the snowy season.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DESTINATIONS LISTED

BLUE HERON BREWERY, MEDINA

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S P EC I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S EC T I O N

Portsmouth & Scioto County This time of year, the winter blues can creep up and make things seem dull and dreary. But Portsmouth and Scioto County breathe life into winter with colorful expressions of art and culture. Discover a world of creativity and expression throughout Scioto County, where arts and cultural organizations flourish. From contemporary art galleries to historical museums, this county’s rich tapestry of artistic endeavors offers an immersive experience that captivates the senses and enriches the soul. The Southern Ohio Museum in Portsmouth houses two permanent exhibits featuring the largest collection of works by American painter Clarence Holbrook Carter as well as “Art of the Ancients,” a display of 10,000 prehistoric Native American objects. Three other galleries house group and solo exhibitions for contemporary Ohio and regional artists. Scioto County is also home to a wealth of performing arts centers where you can catch a live show from an internationally touring act or a local performance. The Portsmouth Area Arts Council has been contributing a lively arts and culture scene to the area for over 50 years and offers educational opportunities through

the Portsmouth Area Children’s Theatre, which immerses kids in the creative theatrical process and allows them to tap into their imaginations and connect with their peers. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about different cultures and forms of expression, Scioto County is a haven for exploration and inspiration. For more information, visit explorescioto.com.

Scioto County has a variety of museums and galleries (above). Carlisle Inns in Sugarcreek and Walnut Creek offer comfortable lodging options (opposite page).

Enjoy Doyle Yoder Photography

AN UNEXPECTED WINTER DESTINATION When winter is frosty and hushed, Ohio’s Amish Country is still picturesque with bursts of unparalleled beauty.

Restaurants, Shops, Inns, & Theater CarlisleGifts.com | DutchValleyGifts.com 56

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Dutchman Hospitality Group After the rush of the holidays, the winter often drags out in a seemingly endless haze of darkness and cold. Those may be the conditions outside, but inside, it will be cozy and warm during your stay at Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek or Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek, located in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country. Look at your calendar and make plans to rest, relax and rejuvenate at a Carlisle Inn. Whether you’re looking for some alone time or a getaway for two, a stay at one of the Carlisle Inns will give you a chance to enjoy coffee, tea or cocoa by the fire, sleep in or lounge around, shop for hours, enjoy delicious food or get out and see a live show at Ohio Star Theater. Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek and Sugarcreek have fitness rooms in addition to Carlisle Inn Sugarcreek’s beautiful, glass-enclosed pool and hot tub that are open year-round. Nothing is better than sitting in the hot tub while watching snowflakes fill the air. Each location has a restaurant and shop located next door with the addition of Dutch Valley Market and Ohio Star Theater at the Sugarcreek location. When booking, reserve a professional massage by a licensed massage therapist that can be enjoyed in the privacy of your own room. For more information, visit carlisleinns.com.

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

S P EC I A L A DV E R T I S I N G S EC T I O N

Medina County Located in the heart of northeast Ohio, Medina County provides a convenient location to meet up with family and friends for some winter fun. For those looking to embrace the chill, the snow-covered trails in Medina County’s 18-plus parks provide ample opportunities for cross-country skiing. And more outdoor fun awaits at the Medina Ice Festival, which sees dozens of hand-carved ice sculptures displayed in the historic downtown in mid-to-late February. After a day of braving the cold, cozy up with dinner and drinks inside an eight-person “igloo” at Blue Heron Brewery or settle in for a board-game night at Great Oaks Tavern (pictured left), where you can choose from a selection of over 1,000 games. Or if you’re looking for a longer stay, book a reservation at the newly opened Broadway House, a quaint bed-and-breakfast located just two blocks from Medina’s historic square. Medina County has you covered with more active indoor pastimes as well. Foundry Social offers classic games like bocce ball, duckpin bowling and pool, and High Voltage Indoor Karting brings the thrill of a high-speed go-kart ride in an indoor setting. And while the outdoor greens at Bunker Hill Golf Course may be closed for the season, you can still practice your swing on the indoor golf simulator. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or indoor entertainment, a trip to Medina County will make the wintertime shine. For more information, go to visitmedinacounty.com. ●

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Dayton

“THAT EVENING SUN GOES DOWN” PETER CLARKE

These three museums across Ohio host interesting and educational exhibitions that offer insight into the African American experience and African art in America. By Hosna Sadaqat

FISK UNIVERSITY GALLERIES, NASHVILLE, GIFT OF THE HARMON FOUNDATION, 1991.313, © 2022 PETER EDWARD CLARKE / DALRO, JOHANNESBURG / ARTISTS RIGHTS SOCIETY (ARS), NEW YORK COURTESY OF AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS FUNDING FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THIS ARTWORK WAS GENEROUSLY PROVIDED THROUGH A GRANT FROM THE BANK OF AMERICA CONSERVATION PROJECT

BLACK HISTORY

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BLACK HISTORY African Americans Fighting for a Double Victory

National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center, Wilberforce

ar posters and solider uniforms from World War II line the walls at the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center in Wilberforce. Along with antique furniture, period artwork and other artifacts, they help tell the story of how African Americans serving in the military during this pivotal period in history were also waging another battle. “African Americans Fighting for a Double Victory,” which will be on display through 2025, examines how the service of Black military members during World War II served as a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement in the decades that followed. The exhibition is organized chronologically and begins with the American Revolution. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they learn about Black military members of all American eras and gain insight into what life on the homefront was like during World War II for African American families who bought war bonds, worked in defense plants and grew victory gardens but also faced racism and discrimination while doing so. The exhibition includes works created by African American artist Charles Alston, whom the United States Office of War Information commissioned to create illustrations that boosted African American support for the war effort. It also highlights activists who sought to end discrimination within the military and war-time production employment, part of what they called a campaign to achieve a “Double Victory” over both enemies abroad and discrimination at home. The exhibition shares the stories of African Americans who served in the military or on the homefront who later helped shape Black civil rights. “We want [visitors] to walk away with that deeper understanding — deeper appreciation — for what those soldiers went through because it wasn’t what other sol60

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diers went through,” says Charles A. Wash Jr., director of the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center, “They were fighting two different wars simultaneously, which you rarely see in U.S. history.” 1350 Brush Row Rd., Wilberforce 45384, 937/376-4944, ohiohistory.org/naamc

African Modernism in America

Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati

igerian sculptor and painter Ben Enwonwu gained worldwide recognition during the 20th century and is among the most influential African artists of the time. In 1955, painter Alexander “Skunder” Boghossian received an Ethiopian government scholarship to study in Europe, where he created art for more than a decade before returning to his home country in 1966. Works by both pioneering artists are featured in “African Modernism in America,”

TOP: MATTHEW ALLEN; LEFT: FISK UNIVERSITY GALLERIES, NASHVILLE, GIFT OF THE HARMON FOUNDATION, 1991.1234, COURTESY THE BEN ENWONWU FOUNDATION AND AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS

COLLECTION OF WES AND MISSY COCHRA, COURTESY OF AKRON MUSEUM OF ART

which opens at Cincinnati’s Taft Museum of Art on Feb. 10 and runs through May 19. The exhibition features over 60 pieces created by African artists between 1947 and 1967. It offers a window into how the Harmon Foundation and New York’s Museum of Modern Art as well as Fisk University in Tennessee and other historically Black colleges and universities exhibited the work of African artists of the era. “It’s about the impact of cultural diplomacy on African and African American artists in the years following World War II against the backdrop of the interlocking histories of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, decolonization movements across Africa and the global Cold War,” explains Perrin Lathrop, who co-curated the exhibition. It is the first major traveling exhibition to examine the connections between African artists and American patrons, artists and cultural organization of the time. Visitors to the exhibition will first encounter an interpretation of a show of Afri-

“African Americans Fighting for a Double Victory” (above left); “American Domestic” by Willie Cole (above) in “RETOLD: African American Art and Folklore”; “Head of Samson Imade” by Ben Enwonwu in “African Modernism in America” (opposite page bottom)

can art that was staged in the United States in 1961 and features the same works. From there, the exhibition delves into the wide range of artistic mediums and approaches. This variety is reflected in pieces such as Enwonwu’s “Head of Samson Imade,” a portrait bust that takes inspiration from early West African sculpture, and South African artist Peter Clarke’s “That Evening Sun Goes Down,” which uses abstract shapes and bold colors to depict a setting sun. “Hopefully it will challenge our guests’ knowledge and understanding of African art that was made during the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s” says Ann Glasscock, installing curator for the exhibition at the Taft Museum of Art. “We want them to get a broader idea of what was produced during that time period

and let them know about some really amazing artists.” 316 Pike St., Cincinnati 45202, 513/241-0343, taftmuseum.org

RETOLD: African American Art and Folklore Akron Art Museum, Akron

rtist Willie Cole alters perceptions in his work that often makes use of household objects to reflect African art and culture and brings viewers face to face with the echoes of our nation’s history of slavery. He has created images of African fauna out J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

BLACK HISTORY

History surrounds you in friendly, beautiful Belmont County. From historic landmarks to museums, you will discover the stories of unsung local heroes and the important role Belmont County had in helping enslaved people cross into freedom in Ohio .

STRONG ROOTS BRIGHT FUTURES

Belmont

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)

OHIO, published monthly except February, October and December, at 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115, as filed October 1, 2023. The general business offices of the publisher are located at 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115. The names and addresses of the Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor are: Publisher, Lute Harmon Jr., 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115; Editor, Jim Vickers, 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio 44115; Managing Editor, Jim Vickers, 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio 44115. The owner is Great Lakes Publishing Company, 1422 Euclid Ave, Ste 730, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. The names and addresses of stockholders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of stock are: Lute H. Harmon Sr., 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115; Sue Harmon, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115; George Sedlak, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115; Lute Harmon Jr, 1422 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44115. The known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities are: None. The average number of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months are: a) Total Number of Copies (Net press run): 46974 b) Paid Circulation 1). Paid OutsideCounty Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: 20089. 2) Paid In-County Subscriptions: 0. 3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mail Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 4596. 4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: 0. c) Total Paid Distribution: 24685. d) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 1) Outside County as Stated on Form 3541: 7469 2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541: 0. 3) Other Classes Through the USPS: 10306. 4) Outside the Mail: 0 e) Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 17775. f) Total Distribution: 42460. h) Copies Not Distributed: 4514 i) Total: 46974. j) Percent Paid: 58.14%. The actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date are: a) Total Number of Copies (Net press run): 32209 b) Paid Circulation 1). Paid Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: 21028. 2) Paid In-County Subscriptions: 0. 3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mail Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 4780. 4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS: 0. c) Total Paid Distribution: 25808. d) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution by Mail: 1) Outside County as Stated on Form 3541: 4978 2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541: 0. 3) Other Classes Through the USPS: 0. 4) Outside the Mail: 0 e) Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution: 4978. f) Total Distribution: 30786. h) Copies Not Distributed: 1423 i) Total: 32209. j) Percent Paid: 83.83%. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete. JENNIFER ROBERTS, BUSINESS MANAGER

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of kitchen chairs and a depiction of a slave ship out of iron marks. His 2016 piece, “American Domestic,” works in the same way, reinventing artist Grant Wood’s iconic “American Gothic” — a 1930 painting depicting a man and his daughter standing in front of their farmhouse — by giving its subjects African masks and putting an ironing board between the two figures in the center of the composition. The painting is one of more than 70 works featured in “RETOLD: African American Art and Folklore,” which is on display at the Akron Art Museum through March 24. The exhibition features a selection of art from the collection of Wesley and Missy Cochran of LaGrange, Georgia, and focuses on the four themes of Remembering, Religion, Racialization and Resistance. “I truly believe that once — as cultures — we learn [from] each other and get to know each other and get to be able to understand and empathize with each other, then that will begin to break down some of those walls of discrimination and separation that we still have,” says Tameka Ellington, guest curator of the exhibition. “The main goal is for people to learn about African American culture and to humanize African American culture.” Jacob Lawrence’s 1989 frenetic and powerful screen print on paper, “Revolt on the Amistad,” and Beverly Buchanan’s undated oil pastel on paper, “Pink Windows Are Lucky,” which seems to draw from a childhood memory, show the range of the pieces featured. As museum visitors enter the exhibition, they encounter an atmosphere meant to evoke Africa with textured, burnt orange-colored walls and decorative elements that resemble raffia — a plant-based material that is widely used on the continent. “Visitors who’ve seen the space before I think will be really struck by its transformation,” says Jeffrey Katzin, senior curator at the Akron Art Museum. “All of this was designed with our team and Tameka’s input to mirror the works of art and also to give a sense of a connection to Africa.” 1 S. High St., Akron 44308, 330/376-9186, akronartmuseum.org

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PUBLIC DOMAIN PHOTO FROM OHIO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES DIGITAL ARCHIVE COLLECTIONS

Martin Luther King Jr. Visits Ohio University From Dec. 27, 1959, to Jan. 2, 1960, more than 3,000 college students gathered to consider a variety of modern topics from a Christian perspective.

or a period of seven days between late 1959 and early 1960, Ohio University in Athens welcomed 3,609 college students from across the globe to participate in the 18th Ecumenical Student Conference on the Christian World Mission. Minister and civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. was one of several speakers who participated in the conference. In an April 27, 1959, article published in the Chillicothe Gazette months before the event, reporter Jack Gilbert noted that students would be converging on Athens from places like Nigeria, Nepal, Paris, Milan, Tokyo and Hong Kong to “explore the tense issues of the times,” which he noted ranged from evolving technology and race relations to militant religious groups and new nationalism.

“The church can no longer think in conventional terms,” said Margaret Flory, program chairman and secretary for student work for the United Presbyterian Church. “We must listen to what the people of the world are saying and attempt to understand the crucial world situations which are calling for a response.” In addition to King, the conference’s featured speakers included Kermit Eby, a professor at the University of Chicago; student leader Bola Ige of Nigeria; Richard Shaull of Brazil and Rev. Harry Daniel of India. During a press conference following his address to the assembly of students, King explained the NAACP’s goal for 1960 was to register 1 million Black Americans to vote. “… the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. said, ‘such a program will force white political leaders to give more attention to the [Black] vote in the future,’” The Newark Advocate reported in its Dec. 31, 1959, edition. Douglas McCoard, a resident of Circleville and student at Ohio State University, attended the conference as a delegate representing the university’s Westminster Foundation. He told The Circleville Herald for its Jan. 5, 1960, edition that the conference was “an inspiring and challenging experience. It made the delegates think seriously about the problems of modern society.” — Nathan Havenner

(Left to right) Martin Luther King Jr. with Winburn Thomas and Bola Ige at the Ohio University conference

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2024

african modernism america February 10–May 19, 2024 taftmuseum.org/Exhibitions/ AfricanModernism

This exhibition is co-organized by the American Federation of Arts and Fisk University Galleries. Major support for the exhibition is provided by Monique Schoen Warshaw. Additional support is provided by grants from the Marlene and Spencer Hays Foundation, the Mellon Foundation and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.

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The Sutphin Family Foundation SEASON FUNDERS The H.B., E.W., and F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation, Fifth Third Bank, Trustee

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This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

IMAGE: Yusuf Grillo (Nigerian, 1934–2021), Untitled (Yoruba Woman) (detail), about 1960s, oil on canvas, 48 x 30 in. © Yusuf Grillo, Courtesy Mimi Wolford and American Federation of Arts