Each contestant this season will be competing for a supersized donation of $200,000, provided by The Palette Fund, to a charity of their choice. Nina West, known for her philanthropic spirit and engaging performances, has selected The Trevor Project, a leading organization focused on suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth.

West, a beloved Columbus local and a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, has not only made a name for herself through her participation in Season 11 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” where she was crowned Miss Congeniality, but also through her extensive work in promoting kindness and acceptance.

Her commitment to these causes makes her participation in this season of “All Stars” not just a quest for the crown, but a mission to further the impact of The Trevor Project.

The Trevor Project is renowned for its crisis intervention and suicide prevention services, offering 24/7 support to LGBTQ+ young people. By competing for this cause, West is not only representing Columbus on a global stage but also championing a vital lifeline for many in the community.

This season of “All Stars” promises an exciting mix of fashion, drama, and heart, with queens utilizing their drag superpowers to champion significant social issues. Nina West’s return to the mainstage is especially thrilling for Columbus fans, who have followed her journey from local performances to national acclaim.

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In addition to the main episodes, fans can get an exclusive peek behind the scenes with “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars: Untucked,” which will also be available on Paramount+ following the main show. This offers viewers a glimpse at the backstage dynamics and the queens’ reactions as they await their fate each week.

As Nina West gears up to slay the competition with her top-notch acting chops and killer comedy skills, Columbus supporters are sure to be rooting for their hometown hero as she uses her platform to promote a cause close to her heart. Stay tuned, and don’t forget to catch the premiere on May 17 to support Nina and witness the fabulous fierceness she brings to the “RuPaul’s Drag Race” stage once again.

The post Columbus’ Own Nina West Takes Center Stage in “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

During her historic flight, she traveled 23,103 miles in just under 30 days. The trip lasted a total of 29 days, 11 hours, and 59 minutes. She was the first woman to pilot an aircraft solo around the world.

Jerrie Mock was one of the first aeronautical engineering students at the Ohio State University. Her husband, Russell Mock, was a pilot and not only inspired Jerrie to become a pilot herself, he encouraged it.

The mother of three deemed herself “the flying housewife” and worked hard to get 750 hours of flight time under her belt by the time she made her trip in 1964.

With some help from her husband and his colleagues, Jerrie Mock found herself in the cockpit of The Spirit of Columbus. The Cessna 180 had been given several updates to help prepare the aircraft for the long distance journey. This included a new engine, radio direction finders, and both long and short-range radios for communication.

The pilot also brought along a typewriter so that she could type personal letters and articles for the Columbus Dispatch while she traveled. Mock and her family lived in Bexley when she left for her excursion.

Every hero has a rival

The Newark, Ohio native discovered a rival in Joan Merriam Smith. They were unaware of the competition until they were filing their routes with the National Aeronautic Association and learned of the other’s plans. Both began racing to become the first woman to successfully fly around the world.

The National Aeronautic Association did not sanction Smith’s flight. However, she planned to begin what she called a sightseeing expedition around the world. She took off from a field near San Fransisco and planned to follow the same flight path as Amelia Earhart. Smith began her journey two days before Mock on March 17, 1964.

Despite her rival’s head start, Jerrie Mock was given the title as the first woman to fly solo around the world on April 17, 1964. Throughout her travels, she experienced minor technical difficulties and her plane needed a handful of repairs along the way. She was greeted at the Port Columbus Airport by thousands.

Mock’s success came 27 years after Amelia Earhart’s ill-fated attempt to fly around the world in 1937.

In an interview before her death in 2014, Mock was asked how she had felt about the achievement, looking back on it 50 years later. Her response was simple.

“I didn’t think it was such a great thing; it was just lots of fun. It was a good, practical thing that dozens of women, both in the United States and other countries, could have done before I did,” she said. “You just use your common sense, know how to fly the airplane, do what you’re supposed to do, know the routes and all the rules and regulations. Just nobody else had the sense—or shall I say, the stupidity—to try it [laughs]. There were women who told me that they flew because of me. I’m glad I did what I did, because I had a wonderful time.”

Since 2013, the Columbus Foundation has awarded the Spirit of Columbus Award, in honor of Jerrie Mock, to recognize those who exhibit exemplary community spirit through their efforts and accomplishments.

Mock was named the first recipient in 2013, along with Jeni Britton Bauer and David Brown. Additional award recipients include the late Denny Griffith, former Mayor Michael B. Coleman, Tanny Crane, Jane Grote Abell, Michelle Alexander, Columbus’ leading African American artists, those who contributed to the “Save the Crew” movement, Dr. Amy Acton, and more.

For more information about Jerrie Mock and her plane, visit the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum website. For more info about The Spirit of Columbus Award

The post In 1964, Jerrie Mock Took Off From Columbus And Became The First Woman To Fly Around The World appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The talented chef of Service Bar will be headed to the Top Chef kitchen where he’ll compete to win it all. The new season was filmed in Portland and will begin airing on April 1st.

If Barua is the winner, he’ll not only take home the glory of being called Top Chef, but he’ll also win $250,000. Service Bar has long been a favorite here in Columbus and Barua is known for his delicious food and creativity in the kitchen.

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So who will he be going up against? Other contestants include:

• Dawn Burrell (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
• Gabe Erales (Austin, Texas)
• Nelson German (Oakland, California)
• Byron Gomez (Aspen, Colorado)
• Sasha Grumman (Houston, Texas)
• Roscoe Hall (Birmingham, Alabama)
• Sara Hauman (Portland, Oregon)
• Kiki Louya (Detriot, Michigan)
• Maria Mazon (Tuscon, Arizona)
• Shota Nakajima (Seattle, Washington)
• Gabriel Pascuzzi (Portland, Oregon)
• Jamie Tran (Las Vegas, Nevada)
• Chris Viaud (Milford, New Hampshire)

This is the 18th season of Top Chef, and due to coronavirus, the series had to make some changes. Instead of guests and judges flying in and out, the season will feature a rotating judging and dining panel, full of all-star winners, Top Chef finalists, and other fan favorites.

Judge Tom Colicchio says this “could be one of the best collections of chefs we’ve had on the show in 18 seasons” in the trailer for the new season, which you can watch below.

Top Chef will return April 1 and airs on Bravo. For more info, please click here..

Congratulations Chef Barua! We’re all rooting for you!

The post Service Bar Chef Avishar Barua Is Headed To Top Chef appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Jack Hanna has been an integral part of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium since 1978, serving as both director and director emeritus over the years. Although his retirement may come as a shock to the public, Hanna knew that now was the right time to take a step back.

“As I approach my mid-70s with more than four decades at the Columbus Zoo, I believe it is time to wind down and officially step back while CEO Tom Stalf and the Zoo’s great leadership team continue to guide the Zoo into the future. Together with many friends and partners, we’ve come a long way to make the world a better place for people and wildlife,” said Jack.

His last day at the zoo will be December 31.

Some of Jack Hanna’s most iconic moments didn’t happen here at the zoo, but rather out on late-night television for the whole world to see. We thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of his wildest late-night appearances throughout his decades-long career in animal conservation.

Jack Hanna on The Late Show with David Letterman (1988)

Jack Hanna on The Late Show with David Letterman (1995)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izUiroeP6gM

Jack Hanna on The Late Show with David Letterman (2008)

Jack Hanna on The Late Late Show with James Corden (2016)

The post Take A Look Back At Some Of Jack Hanna’s Most Iconic Late Night Appearances appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

There’s a sort of magic that happens late at night. Everything is still and the world holds its breath. During the day everything vibrates, buzzing along loudly, deafening out the smaller, beautiful nuances of our environment. Nuances like the creaking of a door, the soft patter of sneaking footsteps, the thud of your own heartbeat as you realize that you aren’t alone.

Yes, The wee hours of the night can be terrifying, but they can also be soothing, especially in a constantly moving world like ours. No one knew that more than Frederick C. Peerenboom, or as he’s more famously known by the weird and hip, Fritz The Night Owl.

In real life, Frederick Peerenboom was born in Nekoosa Wisconsin, serving a stint in the U.S. Army before starting his broadcasting career here in Columbus. His alter ego, however, Fritz, was born on the planet Zontar and made his home on the WBNS Channel 10 television tower. After everyone left the station he would creep down into the studio, borrowing movies from the station’s film department, and broadcast them over the city to all the other lonely insomniacs and night owls in the city. From 1974 to 1991, Peerenboom played the beloved character, showcasing horror flicks, westerns, and (what would later be referred to as) indie films.

He started off his career as a radio personality and DJ, playing, what he refers to as “the heavy duty stuff”. Modern jazz that excluded the smooth tunes of Kenny G, preferring to play the more hardcore acts of Charles Mingus and Miles Davis. Soon after, he found his calling playing the eccentric alien hosting late-night movie screenings for television. Peerenboom’s soft but solid voice laid over jazz samples fit perfectly, captivating audiences and entertaining them with his oddball and slightly trippy antics. The late-night showings soon became a Columbus staple, earning him multiple Emmy awards and wide recognition in the circles of cult film fanatics.

Eventually, the show ran its course, ending in 1991 after 17 long years. But in 2010, after 19 years of being separated from his Fritz persona, Peerenboom once again resumed hosting movie showings, this time performing live at Grandview Theatre. Now, you can catch Fritz the Night Owl at various live performances throughout the year. He keeps company a whole new generation of insomniacs, night owls, and weirdos. Soothing us with those ultra-cool jazz samples, making us laugh with his bizarre, even-tempered rants.

So if you’re ever up way too late at night, and you need someone to help keep that weary boredom away, go online to download episodes or even head out to a live show. You might even get to say hi to the cool cat E.T., old Fritz himself.

The post Just Who Is Fritz The Night Owl?? appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

In case you haven’t heard, drag queen, philanthropist, and all around amazing person Nina West has had a pretty spectacular year. She splashed onto the national stage during RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 11 and although she didn’t take home the crown, she was named Miss Congeniality.

Around here, she starred as Ursula in The Little Mermaid, teamed up with Jeni’s Ice Cream for an exclusive flavor, and released two new albums.

From celebrity fans like Rihanna and Leslie Jones to political fans like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-NY), people all around the world have fallen in love with the sweet, caring queen.

As Nina West, Andrew Levitt has been performing in Central Ohio and around the US for 18 years. The Nina West Foundation has raised over $2 million for charities, continuing that theme of goodwill and genuine concern for others that Nina West embodies.

In honor of all of the joy and kindness Nina West is infusing into the world, the City of Columbus recently renamed Hull Alley at High Street “The Nina West Way”. Crowdfunding on social media paid for the $800 sign, and when the campaign surpassed the required amount, the remaining proceeds were donated to charity.

“Nina West is not only a pillar in the Short North Community, but a leader for equality and kindness,” said Betsy Pandora, Executive Director of the Short North Alliance. “To those of us who have known her kindness for years, it is a joy to watch the nation discover it through her recent success. We join many in our community to celebrate her success and showcase her message with the renaming of Hull Alley as The Nina West West Way.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByimrsDn38O/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

This year, Nina West will act as the Grand Marshall of the Pride Parade here in Columbus. This year’s theme is the Power of Pride.

“Nina embodies what Pride stands for,” said AJ Casey, Executive Director of Stonewall Columbus. “Through showing unbelievable kindness and leadership, Nina has shown Columbus what it means to uplift others. Her visibility has only grown, and will continue to grow, but we are so glad that we get to keep a little piece of Nina West’s kindness in our neighborhood. Go Big. Be Kind. Go West.”

The sign will be officially unveiled at the start of the pride festival, Friday at 3 p.m.

The post Travel Down Columbus’s Newest Street, The Nina West Way! appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Nina, aka the pride of Columbus, was named Miss Congeniality at the Season 11 finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race last week. This came as a surprise to absolutely no one, as it was clear from day one that she was going to be the one to beat for that particular honor.

Her acceptance speech, in true Nina fashion, was both heartfelt and hilarious.

THAT'S OUR MISS CONGENIALITY!! @NinaWest @RuPaulsDragRace #DragRace pic.twitter.com/ey8Lj5gLT7

— Josie (@jrhodescook) May 31, 2019

After the “meh” heard round the world, Nina went on to say,

“Kindness is king and love leads the way. I cannot thank you guys enough for this.”

During the course of the show, the whole world has had the chance to see the role model and activist we all know and love. From politicians to comedians to everyday fans, Nina showed exactly what you can achieve when you live your life with kindness.

In our house, we name a Queen of Hearts @NinaWest that is YOU!

Thank you for being a relentless example of kindness, consciousness, compassion, and courage.

Thank you for using your gifts to focus on voices + issues that deserve all the shine and elevation in the world. https://t.co/Mxc4O9Y56n

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) May 11, 2019

It would be the best of both wields I think!! Cause you can slay in drag and out boo!!!

— Leslie Jones (@Lesdoggg) May 4, 2019

And the love only grew once she was named Miss Congeniality!

YOU are magic, miss nina. you deserve this and so much more. you truly are the pride of season 11 and we love you infinitely.

— clown baby (@1920sbuster) May 31, 2019

#ninawest deserves the world.

— aly (@aly_badger) May 30, 2019

If you don't love @NinaWest then you are dead inside and I want nothing to do with you. #DragRace #NinaWest

— Brad Pritchett (@bradpritchett) May 31, 2019

https://twitter.com/MentalYoga82/status/1134524903980523521

We could do this all day.

As for what comes next for Nina West, there are a few dreams we can all get behind. Nina just released two albums, one is a comedy album called John Goodman, and one is a children’s album called Drag is Magic.

Locally, she’ll be the Grand Marshall of the Stonewall Columbus Pride Parade this year and she’s also teaming with Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on a special Pride flavor, Nina West’s Dream Puff.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByK434onbwd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

So long story short, Nina West is making big waves. From all of us here at Columbus Navigator, we just wanted to say that we’re all so proud of you, Nina. We couldn’t have asked for a better representative of our city and we can’t wait to watch you rise!

The post Kindness Is King And Love Leads The Way appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Now, the rest of the world will get to know what Columbus already knows, that Nina is QUEEN.

We, along with everyone else in this city, had been speculating that Nina would appear on the show after her mysterious disappearance from social media last May.

https://youtu.be/G58z_1bRLyA

Nina appeared on the live stream announcing the new cast today, hosted by Olympic athlete and perfect human Adam Rippon.

“This is a dream come true. this is my ninth time auditioning,” Nina told Rippon. “I’m really thrilled that I get to represent Columbus, Ohio, my hometown, and my drag family (The West Family) and be here on this global stage to celebrate the art form that has really shaped my entire life.”

Adam Rippon went on to share a story about how the first time he went to a gay bar, Nina West was performing there.

SAME, Adam. SAME.

The new season doesn’t have a premiere date quite yet, but it should air this spring. If you’ve never had the chance to see Nina perform live, you’re in luck. She’ll be taking on the role of Ursula next month in The Little Mermaid, presented by Pleasure Guild of Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsnzGGiA8wb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The show will run at the Palace Theatre on February 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. All proceeds from The Little Mermaid will go to Nationwide Children’s Hospital Hospice and Palliative Care Programs.

You can get your tickets here.

The post Confirmed: Nina West Is On RuPaul’s Drag Race This Season, And She’s There To Werk appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

As you all know, Bradley had been fighting Acute Myeloid Leukemia since March of 2017. He passed away on Wednesday at his home. He is survived by his loving husband Jason Bradley-Krauss and children Spencer and Maria.

Bradley’s last update came on November 18, when he announced he would be ceasing treatment for the disease and moving home with hospice care.

Dear friends,
It’s difficult to write this post. I wish I had better news to share with you. After 21 months battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia, we’ve simply run out of options to treat this disease. I have an aggressive form of Leukemia and it is relentless and sneaky. We’ve done everything we could do to fight this beast. 5 rounds of chemo, a failed stem cell transplant, failed clinical trials and a failed immunotherapy trial.