(614) June 2022 by 614mediagroup

← Tom Parr, inside of his oversized trap sculpture

TaKorea owner Kevin Kim embraces his Korean roots—and a childhood love for Mexican fare— in new Clintonville kitchen By Bella Czajkowski / Photos by Aaron Massey Story Design by Emma Quinn

t’s 32 feet long, 9 feet high, and weighs around 4,000 pounds. And while the Guinness Book of World Records hasn’t officially named it the World’s Largest Trap, it is undoubtedly the biggest one you will ever see. Tom Parr, owner and curator of the Trap History Museum in Galloway, has over 4,000 traps in his collection, but the towering steel structure sitting outside is what captures people’s attention first. Don't worry: It’s not functional, so snapping a selfie from the jaws is perfectly safe. “A gentleman in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan made it, and then brought it to the fairgrounds during our yearly National Trappers Association meeting in 2008,” shared Parr. “It was on display at the entrance, but no one realized it was for sale. He put a price tag on it on the last day, and when my friend let me know about it, I ended up buying it.” It arrived at his museum on a flatbed truck and has been the signature attraction ever since. But there’s far more to see once you venture inside Parr’s museum, including over 4,000 animal traps, memorabilia, trapping tools, baits, and an entire library, along with a man who has spent most of his life studying the history of the fur trade and loves sharing his knowledge with others. →

After a decade working in the restaurant business, Kevin Kim has reached a critical moment in his career, with not one, but two ventures as owner/operator. →

"I SAW THE NEED IN MY COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE AUTHENTIC, GENUINE MOMENTS..."

To see more Vulgar Vegan creations, follow @vulgarveganbakery

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BIG PICTURE A spread of indulgent eats from Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce. To learn more about Kane’s popular Columbus speakeasy and supper club—and his unique journey in Central Ohio. TO READ MORE GO TO (Pg. 37) PHOTO BY AARON MASSEY

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Contents C O V E R PA C K A G E

48 43 71 81 14

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STARS ON STAGE

MAKERS SPACE: THE PLANT GAYS

SELTZER ROUNDUP

GINGER RABBIT

FORTY DEUCE

BEST GAY BARS

KAYAK ADVENTURE TOURS

DOO DAH PARADE

ODDITIES EXPO

GETAWAYS

SOTTO TERRA

ON THE COVER:

Shot By Sarah Pfeifer

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

J AC K M C L AU G H L I N Editor-In-Chief

HI jack When I was younger, up until my teenage years, really, I had a pretty serious speech impediment. When I was nervous, or unsure about myself—which happened all the time at that age—I would stutter. A lot. I knew what I wanted to say, but the words just wouldn’t budge. I remember in 5th grade, I was chosen to read an essay in front of not only my entire class, but the whole school, and even a smattering of parents (humblebrag alert). I think you can see where this is going: It was a disaster. I can painfully recall thrashing my way through this 400 word essay, one excruciating word at a time. As a self– defense mechanism, I had learned how to avoid stuttering over and over on the same sound. This meant I would incorporate a lot of weird pauses into my speaking instead, which is fine when you’re making up words as you go in a conversation. When you’re reading from a prewritten document though, it’s not. This meant that not only other students—my peers, my friends even—but also some of the parents were laughing at me in the beginning of my speech. It was pretty terrible. The essay was for a program called PRIDE. Truthfully, I don’t remember a lot of the details, as this happened more than two decades ago, but I know it was some sort of youth drug prevention group, similar to DARE. And because of this, for so long, I associated the term Pride with that feeling, with that terrible day. And while bad memories eventually fade, this one stayed painful for a while. It stayed that way until two things happened: My little sister came out as gay, and I moved to Columbus, both of which took place only months apart. I can distinctly remember my first experience with Columbus Pride, as it was one of my first real memories of living in Columbus. I had lived in the city for only a few months and didn’t know a ton about it at all. I didn’t know how big Pride was here, how much it meant.

That summer, I ended up—for a reason I don’t remember—near the Scioto Mile on a weekend in June. And there were thousands of people there. I ended up taking it all in, the energy, the enthusiasm, the kindness everyone showed toward someone like me who was pretty clearly lost and pretty clearly a newcomer. As I drove away from the event that day, I remember looking out the window and watching a group of people paddling down the river in a kayak, with the sun hanging low and bathing them in light. I thought about my sister and her journey too. What I remember most about the experience was how positive it was. I didn’t precisely know why, but I left with this feeling that not only my sister—but also myself, as a newcomer to Columbus—would be alright. A while after this, something funny happened. It must have been gradual, too, but I can recall once, probably close to a year later, seeing the word Pride and thinking of my experience on the Scioto Mile, not the terrible one from my childhood. And sure, I can still remember how bad that speech was if I recall it purposefully at this point, but my visceral reaction to Pride is now a positive one. It’s weirdly fitting that all of this happened around the word it did, because there’s a bigger lesson here: whether you want to call it love, or acceptance or just goodwill toward other human beings, that really can overcome pain. And loss. And anger. And shame. I’m walking, talking, long-winded proof of it. Proof of the fact that a little bit of acceptance and understanding— whether someone looks differently than you, loves differently, or talks differently—we owe it to each other to show a little kindness, now and then. Or heck, maybe all the time. And a little understanding of someone’s journey. You might be surprised what it can do.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jack McLaughlin COPY EDITOR Sarah Sole CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jen Brown, Leonardo Carrizo, Aaron Massey, Sarah Pfeifer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jack McLaughlin, Melinda Green,

Jaelani Turner-Williams, Sarah Sole, Jim Fischer Laura Hennigan, Ellyn Briggs, Amanda Kern CREATIVE DESIGNER Bryce Patterson FREELANCE DESIGNERS Emma Quinn Paul Barton VIDEO PRODUCER / EDITOR Austin Black DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Justynne Pride MARKETING COORDINATOR Julia Attanasio ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Nikki Harris Mindy Wilhite ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Paul VanHorn BRAND MANAGER, 614 LAGER Lizzy Saunders OFFICE MANAGER Janae Brown Questions about advertising? Scan here!

Created by

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614now.com www.614now.com 21

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� S TA F F P I C K S

Our staff picks Since June is Pride month–and our Pride issue here at (614) Magazine–we asked our team about their favorite memories of

ON the WEB Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should. Every day we’re posting Columbus’s top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and suscribe to our daily email!

Columbus Pride. Here’s what they said.

“My best Pride memory was my first Pride memory in 2019. The overwhelming positivity, love and acceptance I felt for the first time was unbelievable and I still think about it to this day.” — Austin Black, Video Producer

“When I was an active volunteer with nonprofit cat and go rescue Pet Promise, I marched with other volunteers. The energy I felt marching with so many other groups was unlike anything I experienced before> it’s a beautiful memory for me.”

→ Owner of Meatball Mafia creating new Jimmy Hoffa-themed bar and kitchen The 15-tap Dublin bar, which is slated to open in late June, is located at 55 S. High St., in the former home of Vine and Tap.

— Sarah Sole, Senior Writer

“My favorite Pride memory was attending a show at District West during Pride month last year!” — Lizzy Saunders, Brand Manager, (614) Beer.

“I moved to Columbus a few years ago not knowing that much about the city. One of the things I didn’t know, in particular, was just how seriously the city takes Pride. I remember stopping by a Pride event and being amazed by the number of people present, and the sheer energy. It really stuck me, and is one of my favorite Columbus memories.”

→ Movies by Moonlight coming to Easton this summer Easton Town Center’s returning Movies by Moonlight is exactly that, and the event’s 2022 lineup has been released.

— Jack McLaughlin, Editor

“I was at a small work Christmas party about three years ago, when a friend and co-worker decided to tell us he was gay. It took a second for it to click with some of us because he didn’t just come right out and say it. But seeing his level of comfort and relief come through, and everyone’s response was truly a great feeling and memory.” — Paul VanHorn, Account Executive

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→ International Korean corn dog chain opens in Short North Myungrang Hot Dog, an international Korean corn dog chain that’s quickly planting its flag in the US, opened its first Ohio location on May 13

#AsSeenInColumbus

@ahernandezart

@itsglittertits

@ groovyplantsranch

SS PLA

@vegfoodie614

61 4 VI D E O Did you know that (614) launched a YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. Keep an eye out for more on our (614) Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, check out the newest videos on our channel: now playing...

• Tasting Columbus—NEW episode! Have you checked out our TV show “Tasting Columbus?” Join food scientist Matt Teegarden as he eats his way through Columbus’ food scene. A NEW episode dropped on APR. 29th. Make sure to tune in at tastingcolumbus.com or scan the QR code above. 614NOW.COM

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Open Mon - Fri 10 to 8; Sun 12-5 our buy counter closes an hour before the store closes

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THANK YOU COLUMBUS!

The Plant Gays have branched out into their first-ever brick and mortar storefront, and they’re here to stay By Ellyn Briggs / Photos by Jen Brown Story Design by Bryce Patterson

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↑ Plant Gays owners Aidan Robinson (L) & David Erbe (R)

avid Erbe and Aidan Robinson are experts: Erbe in landscape architecture, Robinson in interior design. Last month, they opened a one-stop greenery shop in Columbus’ East Market— offering everything from concrete pottery and plants to home decor and interior design consultation. The Plant Gays, as the pair have dubbed themselves and their business, met at Ohio State’s Knowlton School in 2017. But it wasn’t until the COVID-19 lockdown that their entrepreneurial spirit kicked in. In September 2020, they started an Instagram account under the same name and began posting tips and tricks about proper plant care as a way to ward off pandemic boredom. It just so happened that their passion project was extremely well-matched with the culture of the moment. “There wasn’t much anyone could do inside, so people started going to nurseries and gardening as a safe activity,” Erbe said. “It became a really hot hobby. We saw that popularity reflected in the nearimmediate response we got on social media.” By November 2020, just two months later, the Plants Gays' page had developed a following large enough to fuel thoughts of making a move from part-time blog to full-time business. →

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← Process of potting a new plant

The first step in this pursuit was to set up an online site and fulfill orders in small, handmade batches. Erbe had learned how to make silicone molds as an undergrad, so they leveraged this skillset to settle on stylish concrete planters as their initial product offering. “We kept our design rotation fairly simple for a while, but we’ve definitely branched out as of late,” said Robinson. The Plant Gays now sell a wide range of pottery, both in style and color. Their recently released “body planters” (pots in the shape of various human forms) have been especially popular. After a few months of successful sales, Erbe and Robinson expanded their inventory and began frequenting in-

person markets, which they found to be a meaningful way of engaging with the Columbus community. “Pop-up events are so great to meet new customers and other small business owners in the area,” said Robinson. “Every vendor brings their own distinct following, and we all feed off of each others’ foot traffic. It’s really energizing.” The Plant Gays’ affinity for such a collaborative environment was a big part of their decision to choose East Market as their first retail store site. The Franklin Park food-and-vendor hall, which formally opened this spring, has a “permanent popup vibe”. Plus, Erbe did a report on the location while at OSU.

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“We kept our design rotation fairly simple for a while, but we’ve definitely branched out as of late,”

“That felt very full circle—like it was meant to be,” he said. The pair leveraged their devoted following—both online and here in central Ohio—to help cover final construction costs for their store via GoFundMe. It’s a financing model that many small businesses are using at the moment, they noted. The additional space means the Plant Gays can now carry a larger, more diverse inventory. “Any products that we don’t make ourselves, we try to source from women or LGBTQIA+-owned vendors. We’re really excited to exercise more of that support through the store,” said Erbe.

↑ Plant Gays owners Aidan Robinson (L) & David Erbe (R)

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Body Planters ↓

Another aspect of the business that will be further solidified by the brick-andmortar presence? Their plant-focused interior design services. Robinson currently heads this practice, which starts with a 30-minute in-home consultation. A custom design proposal is then curated according to clients’ specific space, light, and maintenance requirements. Once plant selections are made, they’re potted, delivered, and staged. An ongoing care guide is also provided. “Buying plants can sometimes be a stressful experience, and we make that transition easier,” Robinson said. “We want people to immediately feel the benefits of adding plants to their space—like air purity and increased productivity and general liveliness—without the hassle.”

Plant Gays booth space inside the East Market ↑

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Product offerings ↑

Long-term plans for The Plant Gays include acquiring another mixed-use space in Columbus to act as both a retail store and production studio, and opening additional locations around Ohio. But right now, Erbe and Robinson remain focused on the success of their first shop, and more broadly, on the success of the local LGBTQIA+ community. “We went with the name 'The Plant Gays’ for several reasons—but first and foremost on the list was to promote LBGTQIA+ visibility,” said Erbe. “We donate a portion of our proceeds to The Kaleidoscope Youth Center. We look forward to continuing our support as we grow.” To learn more, visit theplantgays.com

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KittyPaw hard seltzer ↑

Meet your new favorite hard summer seltzers from around Columbus By Sarah Sole Photos by Sarah Pfeifer Story Design by Emma Quinn

Summer is the season when crisp, refreshing hard seltzer truly shines. Whether you’re out on the beach or in the backyard with friends, these drinks go down easy—and man, are they delicious. Arriving on the market as a tasty trend, hard seltzer has proven its staying power, both nationally and locally, as multiple Columbusarea breweries carry the drinks in stores and in their taprooms. Check out the list below to see some selections you might already be familiar with, and a few that you might not have tried. And then stock up for the summer. Cheers! →

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SEVENTH SON Kitty Paw 4.2% ABV These babies are made with only real fruit, water, and yeast, and (bonus) they’re also gluten free. Six-packs are available at a variety of retail outlets in Key Lime Guava, Cherry Passionfruit, Pineapple Tangerine, and Raspberry.

NOCTERRA Flashlight Hard Seltzer 5% ABV Nocterra’s hard seltzers are also made with real fruit. Flavors include Passion Fruit/Blood Orange, Key Lime with Lemon & Coconut, R a s p b e r r y / B l a c k b e r r y, and Mango. The historic downtown Powell brewery has Passion Fruit and Mango on draft at its taproom and available to go in cans as well. Nocterra rotates between the four flavors, and they vary in availability.

SOMEWHERE IN PARTICULAR BREWING Co.

Jesus on the Rocks

All the Fizz

5.5% ABV

5% ABV If you head on over to the Dierker Road brewery on the northwest side of Columbus, make sure to try their crisp and refreshing Tangerine hard seltzer. Then take your glass outside and play some bocce, giant Jenga, or cornhole.

OLENTANGY RIVER BREWING Lazy River 5% ABV Olentangy River Brewing’s answer to hard seltzer is meticulously on-brand, and seems like a great candidate for a kayak beer, if we say so ourselves. You can find Mango, Cherry Lime, Raspberry, and Lemon at the brewery, or purchase them by the six-pack from their taproom or through select retailers.

CROOKED CAN Cold Crick Seltzer 5% ABV Crooked Can rotates their gluten-free seltzers as each flavor runs out, but you can count on Cucumber Mint to stick around this month.

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HOLY TRINITY BREWING Co.

Holy Trinity describes their hard seltzer as “a cocktail served over ice.” The drinks are gluten-free, but they are prepared using the same equipment as the rest of the Holy Trinity Brews. Visitors can start with a base seltzer and choose from several different ever-changing flavors, such as Key Lime, Mojito Libre, Raspberry, Wild Strawberry, Prickly Pear, Black Cherry, Passion Fruit, Blood Orange, and White Peach —or mix and match to create a unique flavor blend. The brewery has even offered options with a spicy kick in months past. Can I get an amen?

SPIRES SOCIAL 5.7% ABV The light and crisp Spires Social house seltzer is naturally gluten-free and, according to the brewer, “goes great with sunshine and good times.” Visitors can choose from Black Cherry or Blueberry.

KittyPaw seltzers ↑

Lazy River seltzers ↑

Flashlight seltzers ↑

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Down a rabbit hole Jazz artist performs at Giner Rabbit ↑

Welcome to Ginger Rabbit, a jazz-soaked, basement-level lounge from the owners of Chapman’s Eat Market that’s just as cool as it sounds By Melinda Green/Photos by Aaron Massey/Story Design by Paul Barton

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own the staircase, below the hustle of summer in the Short North, is a plush, pinkand-green, turn-of-the-20th-century speakeasy that’s quickly becoming one of the most soughtafter reservations in town. And it’s no surprise that Ginger Rabbit is so popular. It’s owned by BJ Lieberman and Bronwyn Hanes, the driving forces behind another wildly popular local favorite, Chapman’s Eat Market. A little over two years ago, Lieberman and Hanes were looking at a basement space on Buttles Avenue. “And then—the pandemic happened,” Lieberman said. “We figured that nobody wanted to be in a basement bar, so we put the idea on ice.” Meanwhile, Chapman’s opened, and the owners were busy. Then, in May 2021, “when the pandemic ended the first time,” Lieberman joked, they resurrected their idea of an underground bar. “We knew cocktails would be front of mind,” Lieberman said. “It’s in a basement, so Prohibition also comes to mind. No matter what, you can’t get around speakeasy vibes, walking into a basement. “There’s a misunderstanding about what a speakeasy is,” he continued. “A lot of people think you need a secret handshake to get in. But speakeasies were, like, raucous parties. It was people breaking the law, often in more than one way, just crazy stuff.” That’s not what they set out to do here, though. The cocktails are polished, the vibe easygoing. The music is present enough to be enjoyed and ambient enough to allow for a lively intellectual discussion. The pink-and-green decor is retro, yet fresh. 614NOW.COM

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↑ Photo by Brock DuPont

↓ Photo by Brock DuPont

Ginger Rabbit coktail ↑

Lieberman and the team decided to make gin the backbone of Ginger Rabbit’s cocktail program. “Pre- and post-Prohibition, gin was the thing, and we definitely wanted to lean into that,” he said. So the bar’s name came easily: Ginger for gin, Rabbit for underground. Seth Laufman, beverage director at Chapman’s, established an aggressive bar program. Ten pre- and post-Prohibition cocktails start the menu—including lesser-known classics such as the Jabberwocky, with its flavorful punch of orange bitters. “It’s been really neat to learn about where the names came from, where [the cocktails] fit into history,” Lieberman said. “One of my favorite things about the restaurant industry is how history shapes culture, and culture shapes history, and food is right there at that intersection.” Then, there are 10 original cocktails, including the namesake Ginger Rabbit, deliciously carroty and gingery with herbal notes of manzanilla. And finally, Lieberman insisted on a build-your-own martini option. Guests can choose from at least half a dozen gins and vermouths, with three garnishes, to craft the perfect martini experience. The missing piece of the puzzle was the live music. The owners pitched the idea of a jazz lounge to Hanes’s cousin Hayden Huffman, who’s part of the local jazz community. Huffman immediately jumped on board. Early on, he

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helped the team determine how to design the 50-seat space to optimize musical performances, and now, he manages booking. Ginger Rabbit operates six nights a week, and jazz is at the forefront. Sometimes it’s a solo artist; sometimes it’s a duo, like Tony Hagood and Andy Woodson, or a small combo—or even “jazz-adjacent” musicians like a jazz DJ. “What we say is that we’re a jazz lounge first, a gin joint second,” Lieberman said. Since the space doesn’t have a kitchen, the dining menu contains such light fare as charcuterie, olives, hummus, and a substantial list of conservas such as Limfjord Blue Mussels and Cockles in Brine. Almost everything except the conservas is sourced from local farms and artisans. The bar staff prepares the snacks as well as the cocktails. This is Lieberman’s first bar, and, he said, his easiest opening. And, within a few weeks, he was turning hundreds of people away on weekends and moving to a reservations-only policy. On one Monday afternoon, he looked around the empty lounge and asked, “What’s better than a plush, comfortable dining room, a gin martini, and jazz?” The answer? Not much.

To learn more, visit gingerrabbitjazz.com

Drinks being prepared at Ginger Rabbit ↑

Food offerings ↑

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↑ Kanes' food creations

Ivan Kane has dedicated an extraordinary amount of time to his Columbus venue—and he’s not done yet By Sarah Sole / Photos by Aaron Massey Story Design by Emma Quinn

Since opening his first venue in 1997, Ivan Kane has made his mark in big cities across the country. But when he introduced his brand to Columbus in January 2020, something strange happened. The nightlife innovator, so accustomed to creating concept after

concept, was forced to stay put for a while when the pandemic hit and potential projects dried up. “I was able to focus primarily on the Columbus Forty Deuce,” Kane said. “I was able to really constantly make these adjustments.” →

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Kane for a good while during the pandemic focused on just keeping the doors open at 3959 Brighton Rose Square in Easton Town Center. And as business leveled out, he was able to not just hold onto Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce Cafe and Speakeasy, but build on the original design. And he’s still working to make it an even bigger experience for guests. “I don’t know if I’ll ever stop that,” he said. A cafe and speakeasy club, Forty Deuce in Easton was designed to be experiential. And Kane has focused his creativity on the menu as much as the entertainment. The name Forty Deuce pays homage to Kane’s childhood—it was a nickname for 42nd street at Times Square, where Kane and fellow classmates would often go when they cut school. Kane created the cafe’s menu in partnership with good friend and L.A. Chef Neal Fraser, and it’s a love letter to Kane’s memories of New York. The gourmet burgers have names such as The Times Square, The Broadway, and The Rockefeller Center. When he grew the items on the menu, the naming convention stayed put. Kane wanted to show Columbus the fine eats one could find at some of his favorite New York haunts. In addition to adding more whimsical burgers to the menu, he added munchies, sandwiches, salads, and New York-style Pizza (“The Pizon” is a freshbaked, 8-inch pizza made with housemade sauce, a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese, old world pepperoni, and parmesan reggiano sprinkled on the top). Forty Deuce’s Skyscraper Shakes are as 38

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↑ A burger fully stacked

↓ Delicious sandw

ich and fries

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↑ Famous shakes

much a staple of the menu as the gourmet burgers are, and they come topped with all manner of sweet treats such as entire brownies, lollipops, and intact cake slices. Kane recently added two shakes and a rootbeer float to the menu, and they push the envelope in much the same way as the existing offerings do. There’s “The Pippin” (sweet white icing rim rolled in orange sprinkles, handmade vanilla and orange cream swirl ice cream topped with gummy orange candies, orange flavored wafers, and a frozen Orange Creamsicle 40

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ice cream pop), “The Big Apple” (sweet white icing rim rolled in Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, caramel drizzle, handmade vanilla and apple pie ice cream, Sugar Rush caramel apple pie cookie, made-to-order warm housemade churro, and an optional Fireball mini airplane bottle), and “The Soda Jerk,” Kane’s take on the classic American rootbeer float that features rich and creamy vanilla ice cream in a frosted mug, topped with a gourmet spiced root beer pop and a dollop of whipped cream. For Kane, attracting customers for

the entertainment experience as well as the inventive culinary delights is about ensuring they’re getting “the bang for their buck.” Since opening in Easton, Kane has continued to build brand awareness here, and he’s found his niche. “It’s been a really rich experience for me here,” he said. ♦

To learn more, visitfortydeuce.com

Take a stroll through some of the most welcoming—and most fun—LGBTQIA+ bars in Columbus By Ellyn Briggs / Photos by Jen Brown Story Design by Emma Quinn

With Pride Month finally here, we thought it was a perfect time to highlight a few of our favorite LGBTQIA+-owned and -friendly spots around the city. This list is by no means exhaustive—there are so many great gay bars in and around Columbus— but we wanted to offer a rundown of some of the most popular and interesting gathering places in a centralized location for our readers. →

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Union Cafe is located in the heart of the Short North, and one could argue that it’s also the symbolic heart of the city. First opened in 1996, the hybrid bar/restaurant/club is routinely one of Columbus’ most popular Uber destinations—and rightfully so. Union offers tasty modern American cuisine, a massive drink menu, a spacious patio, and bubbly staff. Flat-screen TVlined walls that feature a diverse range of content—from sports to ‘80s music videos—make the atmosphere even more lively. Events and entertainment take place almost every day of the week, including their “famous” Drag Brunch on Saturdays. All are welcome daily from 11 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.

↑ Facade of the Tremont Lounge

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Patrons dine on Union Cafes' patio ↑

Originally a steakhouse, Tremont Lounge in 1987 transitioned into the beloved gay-owned and -operated bar that it is today—making it the oldest establishment of its kind in the capital city. The Brewery District joint is known for its laid-back vibe, inexpensive drinks (you can get a beer for $2.50), and friendly, long-tenured bartenders. Visitors can enjoy karaoke on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and live shows on Thursdays and Sundays. The historic venue is open from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. on weeknights and until 2:30 a.m. on weekends.

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Slammers, operating out of the same Downtown location since 1993, is the only surviving lesbian bar in Ohio. With an establishment slogan of “All Walks, One Groove,” Slammers prides itself on being a welcoming gathering place for people of every gender and identity. And while it’s known best for its thin-crust pizza, the East Long Street eatery also offers a long list of mouthwatering appetizers, salads, and subs. Carry-out and delivery are available, but pool, live music, and a large patio can be enjoyed by those who choose to stay awhile. Weekday hours are 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. The bar is open until 2:30 a.m. on weekends. ↑ Patrons on Slammers' patio

Classics come together at Cavan’s Irish Pub. The Merion Village watering hole combines the inclusive atmosphere of an LGBTQIA+ space with the warmth and energetic service of a traditional Irish pub. Cavan’s, which first opened in 2009, features a rotating selection of 12 draft beers from local and Irish breweries. Their newly-renovated, covered patio is open during all four seasons and frequently acts as a stage for various events—including karaoke and Musical Mondays. Columbus’ only Irish-themed gay bar is open until 2:30 a.m. seven days a week. ↑ Drinks being prepared at Cavan's

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Also in Merion Village, Southbend Tavern describes itself as “your favorite corner bar.” The cozy neighborhood joint can play host to nearly every kind of event—from drag shows and open mic nights to charity benefits and holiday parties. And on more typical evenings, the Tavern offers a comprehensive suite of bar games including darts, pool, and bingo. Southbend also routinely sponsors two recreational softball teams—the Stallions and the Misfits. But if sports aren’t for you, have no fear; the nightly drink specials should suffice. Visitors can stop in anytime from noon to 12 a.m. on weekdays and from noon to 2:30 a.m. on weekends.

↑ Southbend Tavern Patron

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COVER SPLASH Welcome to Stars on Stage, the cover section of our Pride issue. We’ve told the stories of five standout Columbus drag stars, in all of their beautiful twists and turns. Photos by Sarah Pfeifer Story Design by Bryce Patterson

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How one artist’s breakup-fueled search for creative freedom has led him to explore all that he encompasses By Sarah Sole/Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

As a young boy, Jared Bradley idolized Barbie dolls, for their superstar personas as much as for their limitless possibilities. Boy toys were often one-dimensional: trucks, tractors, soldiers. But Barbie? She had wide-option potential. “I wanted to be her,” Bradley said. “I wanted to feel her freedom.” Now 26, the Columbus resident is making a name for himself by constantly pushing the limits of the energy and creativity within himself. And in the exploration, he’s gone outside of himself, creating distinct personas for his art. As the gender-neutral musician Kilyo, they’re working on a soon-to-be-released new album called “Anti-Celebrity.” And as the drag queen Saranade Tits, she’s celebrating the freedom of femininity and a different sort of celebration of music. →

Saranade Tits →

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“They’re artistic extensions of me as a person,” Bradley said. As a musician, Bradley has had the opportunity to share his own stories. Kilyo’s electronic sound is heavily influenced by Bradley’s love of dance and house music, but Bradley said the persona is also singer-songwriter. “I’m definitely a lyricist,” he said. “I love writing.” Kilyo released their first album, “Harpoon,” in December of 2016. A second album, “Anti-Celebrity,” is nearly finished. “This album, more than previous work, is more dance focused,” Bradley said. The sound is inspired by the joy Bradley found, postbreakup, in hitting the Columbus nightlife scene with his friends—getting dressed, getting made up, and getting out on the dance floor. The album is about being on stage, as well as power and fame. Bradley has also been able to explore a new relationship with the stage by branching out into a third identity as a drag queen. The process began during a brief stint in Chicago during 2016, when Bradley was recording Kilyo’s album, “Harpoon.” It was the first time Bradley had lived away from his parents, and he found himself taking advantage of the freedom, performing in his bedroom with wigs and makeup. He developed a drag persona and named her Paris Phernalia. Bradley would never perform as Paris, but the experience would stay with him.

Saranade Tits ↑

“

They’re artistic extensions of me as a person

” Jared Bradley ↑

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Much later, when a long-term relationship had ended, Bradley was fully reconnecting with the creative energy he had suppressed during his partnership. While making a music video for one of the songs in “Harpoon,” Bradley became connected with the Columbus drag queen Glitter Tits, who appeared in the video. The meeting was his foray into the drag scene. Bradley soon became friends with Glitter Tits and provided backup dancing in group numbers at Axis. January of 2020 marked the first time Bradley performed solo as Saranade. Becoming a drag queen, Bradley said, has shown him more about who he is as a person. “I needed more,” he said. “I needed to be more.” To see more follow @kilyo_

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For Dante Dinucci, a small reversal of fortune opened up a series of big opportunities By Melinda Green /Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

Dante DiNucci grew up on the east side of Columbus, acting and dancing in theater. He worked as a makeup artist for Macy’s and as Artistic Director for Imagine Productions, but store hours left little time for theater. He needed a different way to use his talents. Along the way, he went to a few drag shows and fell in love with their art and expression. Before long, he took the plunge and signed up for So You Think You Can Drag at Axis Nightclub. He created his drag name, Mimi Sharp, from his favorite character in “Rent” and a longrunning joke about singing off-pitch. “At the time, I was doing a lot of makeup, but it was beauty makeup on cis women. I had no idea how to convert that into a drag setting,” he recalled. So he called a friend for help. But a lot more went into the art and expression than he thought. “I showed up with my little bottle of drugstore foundation…” He trailed off and laughed. “Like, ‘here’s what we have to work with!’” →

Mimi Sharp →

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Dante DiNucci ↑

“There’s pictures my friends will constantly send me, of me in a wig and costume with no makeup and my hairy legs out.” That sold-out event was DiNucci’s first time ever in drag, and to make matters worse, he drew the first slot in the program. The judges included such local icons as Virginia West, and the contestants (from all over Ohio) were critiqued in front of the audience. “It was the scariest thing I think I’ve ever done,” DiNucci said. “It was me, not knowing what I was doing.” He performed “Show Me How You Burlesque,” with choreography he remembered from Vaud-Villities, a Columbusbased variety show. DiNucci wore “disgusting” platform disco boots with chunky heels, on which he had glued cheap, craftstore rhinestones. “They didn’t even shine because I put them on with super glue,” he recalled, laughing. At one point, his wig fell off. “It all went downhill from there,” DiNucci said. “I think I placed dead last.” But a few months later, after many open mic nights, DiNucci was back. In a complete reversal of the previous competition, he drew the last slot on the program and won big. He credits his firstplace finish with breaking out a Carrie Underwood song for the “cis white women who’d been drinking all night” in the audience. That night kick-started Mimi’s career. Today, four years later, she participates in production shows at District West, serves as hostess on alternate Wednesdays, and hosts shows with drag sisters Hollywood West and Boyonce.

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Mimi is currently Miss Gay Heart of Ohio America as well, and in November, she’ll compete at the next level for Miss Gay Ohio America. Both are preliminaries for Miss Gay America, a symbol of excellence in drag pageantry. DiNucci enjoys competing. The pageant promoters are expert advisors on appearance, gowns, presentations, talent productions, and everything else Mimi needs to be her best, and DiNucci aspires to win Miss Gay America. Meanwhile, outside of the stage, DiNucci is now a teacher support professional, working with children who have an Autism diagnosis. “This is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” he said. “I’m changing a kid’s life—I’m changing a family’s life. I love seeing how happy [parents] are, that their kid has a better quality of life.” DiNucci adds a big dose of that same heart to drag’s art and expression. “I love that someone can be having the worst day, and I’m creating a safe space for them,” he said. “They can come in for a show, have a good time, and forget the troubles of the world.” To see more follow @ddinucci

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With an attention-grabbing name and the energy to match, Lady Queef is ready to show Columbus a different side of drag By Jaelani Turner-Williams/Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

The idea for Lady Queef’s drag name clicked when she reflected on her personality. “I'm very abrupt and kind of loud; I grab people's attention a lot of the time when I enter a room. I was like, ‘What is loud and abrupt but feminine? A queef!’” Aaron Mackey joked. “It originally started out as ‘Queef Latifah,’ but I feel like that was too much, and it was kind of camp, which isn't really my brand. I came up with Lady Queef, and it stuck almost as soon as I thought of it.” Lady Queef has taken over Ohio drag culture, with notable performances at Bossy Grrl's Pin Up Joint and Axis. Now with upcoming showcases at Delaware Pride, GlamGore: All American Trash and Geek Out 2022, Lady Queef—whose legal name is Aaron Mackey—recalled her humble beginnings in drag performance when she started out as a “Baby Queen.” “I was kind of exposed to drag beforehand with “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” but when I started going out to the club after I turned 21, I got introduced to the local scene first-hand and [met] a drag queen named Flatty Patty. She is a trans woman; she's one of my best friends,” Lady Queef said. “She saw me performing when I was brought up on stage by Anisa Love to entertain the crowd as an intermission. [Flatty Patty] said that I should start doing drag. I started meeting more people and picking up tips for more people, but Flatty Patty was the one who gave me the big push—she took me under her wing and showed me around.” With Flatty Patty’s blessing, Lady Queef also received another push from her grandmother, Arlene Richardson, who passed away in February 2020. →

← Lady Queef

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“

I saw that a lot of people were building a character that could help showcase the art and what they love doing...

” Lady Queef ↓

Aaron Mackey ↑

“She was my supporter before I even knew what I wanted to do. We spent so much time together, even when we weren't together. We were always talking on the phone, a lot of communication,” Lady Queef said. “We would watch [RuPaul’s] ‘Drag Race’ together and she'd say things like, ‘I could see you winning the show,’ and I never really thought anything of it. She was always like, ‘You're a character, you're funny; you just need to hone in and build on it.’ She was a strong force behind me, always pushing me and wanting the best for me.” With her grandmother and Flatty Patty convinced that Lady Queef was destined to become a star, Lady Queef took the leap of faith and performed religiously at Axis four months into her drag career. But Lady Queef’s love for performance began in her childhood, and although her family was unable to afford dance classes, she watched popular music videos on repeat, studying Rihanna’s charisma and adopting it for her on-stage personality. “When I got into the world of drag, I saw that a lot of people were building a character that could help showcase the art and what they love doing,” Lady Queef said. “That’s kind of what inspired me, like, ‘Okay, if I put on some makeup, get on stage and dance, people will look at me and pay me for it.” Now well-established in her drag career—and a newmember of drag and burlesque Haus of Whatsherface—Lady Queef’s ability to captivate an audience comes from her growing visibility. The performer also wants alternative drag culture to become recognized, as the ‘pretty’ side of drag has become oversaturated.

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Lady Queef ↓

“When I was [cast] in ‘Beautiful Garbage’ at Axis, we focused more on the shock value of drag, the sort of counterculture of drag and making fun of pop culture,” Lady Queef said. “‘Dragula’ is a TV show that celebrates the alternative side of performance art, and I've been obsessed with it since I first saw it in 2019. I was shown that there are different sides of nightlife entertainment that aren't just ‘RuPaul's Drag Race’ [or] pretty, model-esque drag artists—there’s a whole other side to it, and it’s really fun.” Seeking more connections and collaborations in the drag performance world, Lady Queef’s drive has taken her far, and she plans to go even further. “When I first started out, I was doing mostly hotspots and open stages because nobody really knew who I was, and I hadn't really gotten down to the type of character that I wanted to be. Once I really started to figure out who I was as a performer, what my brand was, what I liked, I started to build on that, started getting more bookings [and] more recognition,” she said. “That's the key, and that's what I was always told—to have persistence and those things will come if you want it bad enough. It's about being in the right place at the right time, so you’ve got to make sure you're in as many places as you can be.”

To see more follow @ladyqueef

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How a Texas-born drag performer is bringing John Wayne Gacy glam to Columbus By Amanda Kern/Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

In June 2021, while the rest of the city cautiously emerged from a long winter of pandemic-induced hibernation, an endearing yet chilling character crept into the light of the Columbus alternative drag scene. Imagine Ed Gein caked in a day’s worth of grime in a stained wife-beater, but with a mug beat to high heaven. This ‘70s-horror-film-inspired king dubs himself Notre Dom (as in, notyer-dom, a playful double entendre thats sure to get a giggle out of anyone familiar with the BDSM community). →

Notre Dom →

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RJ Davila ↑

But slasher films aren’t the only aesthetic inspiration for this grungy drag artist. There’s a rich celebration of cultural heritage and childhood nostalgia underneath the truck-driver-from-hell exterior. Long before Notre Dom started serving horror-tinged glamor, RJ Davila, the mastermind behind the character, was a Mexican-American Texas boy hailing from the Rio Grande Valley in the southern portion of the state. “‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ was my favorite movie growing up, so I love doing John Wayne Gacy-inspired, grittylooking men. But Notre Dom also turned into the men I grew up around in Texas,” RJ explained. “He resembles my dad a lot, and I’ll even wear his old clothes from the ’90s. There’s a drunk Mexican uncle number I’ve done a few times to a song my dad and uncles used to play at barbecues. People really get the character; they find it so entertaining, and I love being able to share that part of my culture with the community.” Four years ago, RJ left Texas to attend Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) and study film. “Before studying film, I did special effects makeup, so I’d been doing different makeup styles for years. In December 2019, I decided to do a digital drag number for one of my finals, with prosthetics and everything. It was technically my first performance ever.” But a film degree and admiration for old horror movies does not a drag artist make—we have the fashion-forward, punk-rock Haus of Tits to thank for refining who we know today as Notre Dom. RJ met fellow drag performer Saranade Tits and her drag mother Glitter Tits at their Girl on Girl show at Daddy’s Bar. After seeing Saranade work with other videographers in Columbus, the two talked about RJ’s desire to perform drag. 64

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“

People really get the character; they find it so entertaining, and I love being able to share that part of my culture with the community

”

Notre Dom ↑

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Notre Dom ↑

Glitter, matriarch of the Haus of Tits, invited RJ to perform at one of their shows. With the seasoned hand of a supportive drag family to help refine and elevate RJ’s creative concept, the character Notre Dom took full form. “When people think of drag, they think pretty. Sometimes I’ll look at myself and think, dang, I look pretty. It’s just pretty in a way that’s different from what people expect. I’ll even dirty my look up to make it look lived in and gross, so I’m really selling the character,” RJ said. “Notre Dom is all about taking something that people think is gross and trying to make it pretty.” So what exactly can you expect from a Notre Dom show? If you can picture a sly-cowboy-casanova-polished-bag-of-dirt, then you’ve got the right idea. “Expect to be confused,” RJ said with a laugh. “I really grab the audience by their heads and make them watch me. There’s always going to be some element of shock or horror, and you can always expect cool video visuals. I’m a filmmaker, so my visuals push and elevate; they sell the performance as a whole professional work of art. You can still be scary and dirty and punk rock, but there’s still a way to polish it up to make it look professional.” Columbus is privileged to have such a wealth of grassroots drag families like RJ’s. And while international prime-time sensations like “Dragula” and “Ru Paul’s Drag Race” have helped build mainstream appreciation for the drag community, drag is at its core a grassroots movement. “There are so many amazing queens you don’t see on TV. Drag started out being something political and shocking, so it’s important to preserve that in the community,” RJ said. To see more follow @notredom_

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Queen Mikayla Denise works royal magic with hair By Sarah Sole/Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

Mikayla Denise has performed at venues across the country, but this month marks the first time the drag queen will take part in a national pageant. →

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On June 11, Mikayla will compete for the title of All-American Goddess in Louisville, Kentucky as the First Alternate for Ohio, along with Emma Sapphire, who was the state’s winner. “I’m very, very, very excited,” she said. Mikayla shines on and off the stage, as she’s managed to fuse her love of drag performance with her long-time career in hair. As Mikayla DeStylez, she provides high quality wigs for fashion shows, those battling cancer, and yes, a plethora of queens. “Most drag queens love wigs,” she said. Long before Mikayla considered a future in drag, she was making her way in a career in hair as well. “It’s always my number-one priority,” she said. Mikayla started her career in 2005, graduating from the Aveda Institute Columbus and also attending The Ohio State University’s School of Cosmetology. She made a name for herself doing cuts, styles, and wedding day ’dos. As she got into her drag career, Mikayla began moving more into wig work. She primarily does custom work, and the process can take anywhere between a few hours to a couple of days. Though Mikayla enjoys creating big hairstyles for fellow queens, she herself enjoys styles that tend toward the realistic. For her drag persona, Mikayla Denise channels musical icons Tina Turner, Lil’ Kim, Beyonce, and Brandy. Like those largerthan-life performers, Mikayla exudes emotion, and wants to give everything she has while on stage.

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“

As she got into her drag career, Mikayla began moving more into wig work. Mikayla Denise ↑

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”

It was a friendship with fellow queen Maria Garrison that inspired her to take to the stage in the first place. Her first performance was in August 2008 at one of Maria’s shows. Mikayla’s mom, sisters, and friends came out for the event. “I had a really, really good time,” she said. That first year, Mikayla traveled all across the country doing shows. Now, she’s likely to be spotted at Union Cafe, Axis, District West, and Southbend Tavern on the weekends. She’s also since done her part to help lift up other up-and-coming queens, becoming a mother to performers Zhane Dawlingz and Robyn Culture. “Being able to see your children excel in their artistry is the best gift of being a mother,” she said.

To see more follow @

Mikayla Denise ↑

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Peaceful Paradise The kayak enterprise taking advantage of Alum Creek's stunning beauty By Sarah Sole/Photos by Leonardo Carrizo/Story Design by Paul Barton

First person view of an Alum Creek Adventures trip ↑

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hen your son’s a serial entrepreneur, you might just wind up owning one of his

businesses. That’s sort of what happened to Paul and Lori Scheutzow, who were living outside the Cleveland area before they eventually moved to Delaware and became owners of local kayak rental outfit, Alum Creek Adventures. For $25, visitors can get a two-hour getaway into one of the most picturesque waterways in central Ohio. “It’s a beautiful, quiet trip heading north up Alum Creek,” Lori said. It was the proximity of the creek to their son Josh’s farmhouse that was the inspiration for the kayak rentals. In the summer of 2018, Josh and his wife had just purchased an old farmhouse near the creek, which was in their backyard. Josh—who started the furniture business A Carpenter’s Son and later the vacation property business ACS Getaways—was trying to brainstorm a new venture for himself and his dad. The idea for kayak rentals was born. “That was how it all started,” Paul said. Paul and Lori eventually moved to central Ohio to be closer to their family and to be more involved in the business venture. And at Josh’s request, they took over the business last summer and are officially co-owners of Alum Creek Adventures. The kayak rental season is weather contingent but typically runs from Memorial Day through the end of October. Visitors sign up online to rent a single, sit-in kayak and are met by one or both of the Scheutzows at the Howard Road boat ramp, 5940 Howard Rd. The launch system enables kayakers to sit in their kayaks and enter and leave the water without any mud or mess.

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↓ Customers enjoying their adventures ↑

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Happy kayakers hitting the water ↑

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“ The area is just a bird watchers paradise. ”

“It’s very user friendly,” Paul said. From the landing, most kayakers head north, to the no-wake zone. The peaceful atmosphere allows visitors to see ospreys, eagles, great herons, and more. “The area is just a bird watcher’s paradise,” Paul said. The experience has attracted a variety of people to get out on the water, from couples on dates to businesses looking to host team-building exercises. Families come out as well—children just have to be old enough to pilot their own kayaks. For the Scheutzows, Alum Creek Adventures has become a great retirement business, enjoyable because their customers adore the experience of being out on the water. “I don’t think we’ve had anybody come back and not love it,” Paul said.

To learn more, visit alumcreekadventures.org

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Around *

*Parading *

Satire and silliness reign at the 39th annual Doo Dah parade By Sarah Sole /Photos provided by The Friends of Doo Dah

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* *

he Doo Dah is likely the only parade where you might find participants moving against the procession. Mz Doo Dah, ChairChick & Queen of Doo Dah (that’s parade organizer, for the layperson) Deb Roberts has seen it happen. A few years ago, Wild Goose Creative staffers got together and decided to be Salmons Against Doo Dah. (Get it?) “I about died,” Roberts said. The almost-anything-goes event championing free speech, satire, and kooky creativity returns July 4 to the Short North. The 39th annual Doo Dah Parade, featuring 2022 Less-Than-Grand Marshal Angela An of WBNS 10TV, will offer live music from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the pond at Park Street and Lincoln Avenue. The parade is slated to step off at 1 p.m. on Park Street, and food vendors will be stationed by the gazebo on Park Street at Goodale Park. As always, the event is free for attendees and participants—and everyone is encouraged to participate. “The creativity of the people in this town is just mind blowing,” Roberts said. Celebrating liberty and satire in the Short North has been a tradition since 1984, when a group of folks at the Short North Tavern—perhaps fueled by alcohol— decided to deck themselves out in silly outfits, bang some pots and pans, and blow into kazoos in a makeshift parade. The Doo Dah was born. Roberts wasn’t part of the event that first year, but she joined in the ninth year of the parade. By the 14th year, she was given the baton to become the orchestrator of the UnOrganizers, the volunteers who help produce the parade. Roberts renamed that group the DisOrganizers. Then Roberts and her husband, Charlie Loutzenhiser, obtained 501(c)3 non-profit status for the group, which became The Friends of Doo Dah, the organization that produces the annual Doo Dah Parade. 614NOW.COM

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“ The fun and the laughter that I see people having— that’s what it’s about. The joy, ”

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** * Since Roberts joined up, the number of spectators and participants have grown, and costumes and float decor have become much more elaborate. “There’s so many faces that I’ve seen for decades,” Roberts said. “I don’t know names. But I just love seeing those faces. And I love to read people’s signs and get a damn good belly laugh.” And it’s not only the costumes that up the ante, it’s the performances as well. One year, Roberts recalled, the popular parade group The Marching Fidels—all dressed like late Cuban leader Fidel Castro—kidnapped Columbus news anchor Andrea Cambern. Though the Doo Dah seems to run on chaos, there are a few actual rules for participating. You don’t have to register. You can jump in the parade at any time, with or without a costume. But you should do your best to keep pace and avoid leaving big gaps between groups. Leave the dog and cat at home, but feel free to bring along furry friends with hooves. That’s right, the parade has had ponies, a goat, and even an elephant one year. “The fun and the laughter that I see people having— that’s what it’s about. The joy,” Roberts said. To learn more, visit doodahparade.co

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ODDITIES

This traveling eclectics expo returned to Columbus for the first time in three years 614NOW.COM

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" Columbus just likes, you know, "

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Oddities and Curiosities Expo vendors ↓

↑ Sword swallower at the expo

pring might be in the air, but if you’re feeling wistful for something darker, we have an expo that might be more up your alley Returning to Columbus for the first time since 2019 was the Oddities & Curiosities Expo. It returned to the Ohio State Fairgrounds’ Bricker Building at 717 E. 17th Ave. Michelle Cozzaglio, who co-owns the expo with her husband, Tony, said the event exclusively highlights the strange, unusual, bizarre, and creepy. “You definitely won’t find any tupperware at our show,” she said. Featuring over 200 vendors, the expo featured a wide range of strange and unusual items, from taxidermy to strange antiquities. You can find original artwork, Halloween-related items, strange and unique jewelry, and clothing that appeals to your goth side. “I like to say that our show is for the lovers of the strange and unusual,” Cozzaglio said. Though the expo travels across the country, Columbus is one of the bigger shows, attracting around 10,000 visitors. Oddities & Curiosities first came here in 2018, and attracted so many people that by 2019, it was housed in a bigger location. “Columbus just likes, you know, weird stuff,” Cozzaglio said. 614NOW.COM

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↑ 2022 Oddities and Curiosities Expo ↓

The World's Largest Traveling

" Michelle and Tony Cozzaglio, who also own and operate a screen printing business in addition to a record store and even a punk music festival, began collecting oddities and curiosities themselves, and decided to launch an event out of their new-found hobby. The Expo is also home to Rainy Day Revival and its Museum of Marvelous Mutations, a 1600 square foot carnival sideshow inspired by big top circuses of the past. For an extra fee, guests were able to experience “The World’s Largest Traveling Freak Show” as well as encounter Simon the Cyclops Lamb and Beefcake the Bulldog Calf. The event was also home to a full-day taxidermy class where participants were able to try their hands at creating a two-headed duck of their own. And don’t worry, every animal involved in the taxidermy event was sourced ethically and died of natural causes. And while the event is family friendly, parental discretion is advised due to the creepy and scary nature of the expo. This year’s event, which was held in late April, has already passed, but if you’re like us here at (614) Magazine, it’s never too early to start looking forward to the event in the future. While next year’s schedule of expos hasn’t been determined yet, vendor submissions for 2023 open–very fittingly–this Halloween. To learn more visit odditiesandcuriositiesexpo.com

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Four Ohio getaways to dive into this summer By Ellyn Briggs Story Design by Emma Quinn

There’s nothing like the beauty of Ohio in the summer, and Columbus is teeming with opportunities for fun in the sun. Although central Ohio is home to many scenic waterways, sometimes you just want to jump in a lake or take a dip in an off-the-grid watering hole. Here are some ideas for a splashy summer getaway not too far from home. →

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Decide how much you want to rough it (or not) with a stay at an Ohio State Park. With 75 state parks, (many offering lodging) you can find a great campsite on the shore of a calm lake (check out Kiser Lake State Park) book a room at a lodge (enjoy the gorgeous outdoor pool area at Salt Fork State Park Lodge, an area known for its Bigfoot sightings), or stay in your own yurt on majestic Lake Erie at Kelleys Island State Park.

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Each of these islands, situated a little over three hours away from Columbus, has a different vibe—and each is worth exploring. The Lake Erie Islands are an archipelago composed of South Bass, Middle Bass, and Kelleys Island, among many others. Party it up on PutIn-Bay at the world’s longest bar at Beer Barrel Saloon or dig into the history of Johnson’s Island, a sleepy and small island known for its prison during the Civil War. Kelleys Island is a perfect family destination, where you can hike coastal trails, relax on the sandy beaches, and fish for the walleye that abound in the area.

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If you’ve never swam in a crystal clear rock quarry, you haven’t lived. Lucky for us, we have several quarries within driving distance to enjoy. Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville is a privatelyowned park, which hosts festivals and other events all summer long. Camp near the turquoise waters of the quarry, lie on the sandy beach, or jump off the tall rocks into the quarry below. Get your scuba on at White Star Quarry in Gibsonburg. This hidden gem boasts an area designated for scuba diving, and is a popular local destination for dive training. If a day of leisure is all you’re after, head to the designated swimming area or simply work on your tan.

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↑ Photo(s) courtesy of Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

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Take a day trip to Indian Lake (about an hour away) or Buckeye Lake (about a half hour away). You can rent a pontoon boat or kayak and enjoy a cocktail at one of the many local restaurants and bars—the tropical vibes help you pretend you are on vacation for a day. Both lakes have beach areas for swimming and bike trails for cycling. Check out the local events calendars for concerts and festivals held throughout the summer.

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Underground on the

Town

This new subterranean speakeasy offers everything from drag shows to spelling bees in the basement of a former church By Melinda Green/Photos by Sarah Pfeifer Story Design by Paul Barton

← On-stage performer at Sotto Terra

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t the corner of Neil Avenue and Goodale Street, in the basement of an old church, is a new kind of speakeasy. Sotto Terra (Italian for “underground”) is not just a “random bar,” according to Ace Carli, manager and event host. It’s an event space. Whitney Sims, who serves as manager, event planner, and bartender, added, “We want to give people an experience.” While the term “speakeasy” usually evokes images of yesteryear, Sotto Terra feels more like a contemporary underground theater. Its exposed brick walls, black ceiling, and colored uplighting are casual yet classy, modest yet welcoming. Disco ball lights spin across the room, and catchy pop/ rock music flows from the speakers. The small bar is tucked into a corner, and in the single restroom, a sassy red neon light above a table stocked with Tootsie Pops, Pixy Stix, and other candy admonishes “DON’T DO COKE IN THE BATHROOM.” Sotto Terra’s short term goal, Sims said, is to build a community around their unique space, finding out what Columbus is interested in and curating those things. Events such as drag bingo, karaoke, and a fundraiser for Ukraine have been successful. But the backbone of the events, at the moment, is trivia night. At 8 p.m. every Friday, Sotto Terra presents 50 questions of themed trivia, mostly from the world of entertainment. “The Office” and “Friends” trivia will pack the space to its 80-occupant capacity and have people dancing in the aisles between rounds, Carli said. A recent “Seinfeld” trivia night wasn’t packed, but the atmosphere still was jovial, with one participant taking the stage for a few minutes of standup comedy between rounds. Participants reserve tables for teams of up to eight people. The staff assigns tables, prints placecards, and provides bowls of snack mix. But this isn’t your typical, select-answers-onyour-phone trivia, in which participants zone out staring at a screen. No, this trivia challenge is old school, with pens, paper answer sheets, a grading team, and, most importantly, no phones. 614NOW.COM

JUNE 2022 (614) MAGAZINE

“ it's been A BLAST! ”

↑ Sotto Terra performers ↓

“Everybody’s present,” Carli said. “I think it brings this vibe to [the event], this nostalgic, old-school trivia. And it’s also in a speakeasy, in the basement—it’s like a fun, new secret.” Carli sources all of the questions herself, spending many hours scouring the internet and watching TV episodes to ensure quality questions. And the theme doesn’t stop with the trivia questions. In addition to classics like an Old Fashioned or a Margarita, the bar offers a few themed cocktails and shots for the occasion. “Seinfeld” trivia night featured the Peach Cosmo Kramer and the Art Vandelay, a refreshingly sweet blue drink garnished with rainbow ribbon candy. Both managers hold full-time jobs outside of their work with Sotto Terra. “I work multiple jobs—don’t we all, nowadays?” Sims said, laughing. She’s also heavily involved with sister company Danceville, which occupies the space upstairs, so taking on event planning for the new company was a natural fit. Carli, an actor, event planner, and bartender, came to Columbus from New York City. She intended to leave after a few months, but found herself staying. She now does voiceover work from home. “[Trivia] has been such a fun weekend event, getting out of the house, after not seeing people all week,” she said. The long-term goal is to be open nightly, both for events and for locals to drop by for a cocktail. Sotto Terra is partnering with drag queens from the Columbus and Dayton areas, like Amiya Sexton, for drag contests and other events, and the company hopes to add speed dating to its lineup. Upcoming events include a Dolly Parton look-alike contest on June 16 and a “Boozy Bee Spelling Bee” on July 7. So far, the space is beginning to see a crowd of regulars from around the city showing up for the experience. “It’s been a blast,” Sims said. “Every night, we have so much fun.”

↑ Original cocktail To learn more, visit: sottoterraatthesanctuary.com

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