🏈 The Columbus Team That Helped Launch the NFL

Plus: 💦 7 Must-Visit Lazy Rivers

Author

Chelsea Wiley
July 14, 2025

Sponsored by Columbus Recreation and Parks 🎶
Your favorite ’90s bands (sort of) are back. Tribute Tuesdays is bringing free live music, food, and drinks to Bicentennial Park all summer long. Catch tribute sets of Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and more. It’s all happening along the Scioto Mile and admission is totally free. Music starts at 6:30, but come early for happy hour vibes at 5. Please click here for more info.

Hello, Monday! Chelsea here.

Long before the NFL had end zone dances and fantasy leagues, it had the Columbus Panhandles. A football team made up of railroad workers who tackled like they meant it and practiced on their lunch breaks. No frills, no fame, just a lot of grit (and probably a few sore backs). Here's how one of Ohio’s scrappiest teams helped kick off pro football, literally.

Navigator Feature Story: 🏈 The Columbus Team That Helped Launch the NFL

😍 This Permit-Only Destination Is One Of Ohio's Best Hidden Gems
Raven Rock is one of Ohio’s best-kept secrets. It’s a rugged trail with big payoffs. From natural arches to sweeping river views, this hidden gem has all the makings of your next great weekend adventure.

💦 7 Must-Visit Lazy Rivers On A Hot Summer Day
Ready to truly relax this summer? We rounded up the best lazy rivers in and around Columbus, from local gems to road trip-worthy floats. Just grab your tube and let the current do the rest.

Headlines 📰 

🎥 As the new “Superman” movie highlights Ohio’s cinematic appeal, a grassroots effort is underway to bring more film productions to the state’s southeast region. Erin O’Neill is launching the Mid-Ohio Valley Entertainment Commission to attract filmmakers and boost local economies by showcasing the area’s scenic landscapes and historic charm. (WOSU)

📍Geocaching turns 25 this year, marking a quarter-century of GPS-powered treasure hunts that have taken adventurers like Columbus teacher Brian Klinger up trees, through swamps, and across the country. With over 3 million caches hidden worldwide (nearly 700 in Columbus alone) the hobby continues to thrive as an accessible, customizable way to explore the world. (Axios Columbus)

🖤💛 Columbus stormed back from a 2–0 hole to beat Cincinnati 4–2 in the Hell is Real Derby, with Taha Habroune sealing the win in stoppage time. A weather delay, an own goal, and a little Crew grit… just how we like it. Columbus 'til we die! (NBC4)

🌧️ Weather: 86 and rainy, with heavy rain possible before 4 p.m.

Coming Up 📆

Today's Photo 🤳

⚾️ Over the weekend, the German Village Hobnobbers beat the Ohio Village Muffins in a “thrilling come from behind victory” at Schiller Park. The vintage teams have matches throughout the year, with the Hobnobbers calling Schiller Park home field, and the Ohio Village Muffins playing home games at the Ohio History Center.

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- Chelsea