Ohio Village Independence Weekend Festivities

Written by

Dani and Andrew Livelsberger

Photography by

Andrew Livelsberger

Background

The Ohio Village is a seasonally open section of the Ohio History Center that recreates life in the era of the 1890's America.

During the weekend of July 6th, the Ohio Village opens its doors to fun games and activities for the family, an opening ceremony, and an 1890's era base ball game with period appropriate rules.

Impression

A step outside the Ohio History Center's doors to the pathway to the Ohio Village is always a treat.  Even during times when there is no special events going on, there is a lot to take in.  When there is an event, much like the Independence Weekend  Festivities, you'll need to pace yourself!  Luckily, the agenda for the day's activities will help you decide which events you'd like to attend and when.

Opening Ceremony

The mayor of the town addressed those in attendance.  Giving a rousing Independence Day speech and a toast.

He also introduced political candidates and gave women's suffrage supporters an opportunity to speak about their cause.

Ohio Village Muffins Base Ball

The Ohio Village Muffins Reds and Whites played a game on this day as well.  The game is similar to modern baseball, but the rules are slightly different.  Pitching is done underhanded, and if a ball is caught after being hit and one bounce, that is considered an out.  The equipment is also different as the ball is much softer and no gloves are used.

Other Images From The Day

Here are some other shots from the day.

The Women of the Arnold Sport Festival 2017

Written by Dani & Andrew Livelsberger

Photography by Andrew Livelsberger

Background:
The Arnold Sports Festival in its 28th year is back at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.  Over 20,000 athletes compete in 70 sports.  To cheer them on, over 200,000 people attend the event.

Impression:
Female athletes play a large role in the Arnold Sports Festival.   This was enhanced this year with the inclusion of a Strong Woman category.

Strong Woman
The top 4 Strong Woman competitors,  Brittany Diamond, Rebecca Roberts Jenny Todd, and Sumer Johnson, so impressed the Strongman Committee that they all received their Pro cards!

These women showed their power by lifting 165+lb kegs over their heads, running with 400+lb yokes, and 400+lb farmers carry.

Fierce competition among the athletes was shown, but as in all Strongman/Strongwoman events, there is comradery too, allowing the athletes to root for their competitors.

Figure/Physique Competition
Pushing their bodies to the limit, these women show their amazing musculature and posing routines. Strenuous training and impeccable diet for months on end bring these women to the pinnacle of their form.  Dedication to the sport is apparent and they leave it all out there on the stage.  Hoping for that first place finish.

Pole Championship Series
Combining strength training, dance and acrobatics this event is very underrated.  Not only do you get a show of physical strength, but the performances also have theme to them and bring along with them an emotional component.

Fitness
High energy dance, gymnastics and performance are all showcase the physical prowess of the athletes here.

Dance
Over at the Ohio Fairgrounds, dance companies come and perform their complicated and high energy routines.