Feature focus: Brian’s picks

1) Do you really think we’re going to suggest anything for this weekend ahead of the Bartholomew County 4-H Fair that opens Friday? Whether it’s the midway, the mix of food vendors, the live music, the animals, children’s activities, contests, grandstand events, or just people watching, you’ve to figure it’s going to feel a little sweeter being out on the grounds at County Road 200 South after missing the event last year due to COVID-19. Information: bartholomewcountyfair.com

2) What better time to stroll amid the serene beauty of Irwin Gardens than now? The century-old surroundings are now open 2 to 6 p.m. Sundays and Tuesdays through October at 608 Fifth St. in downtown Columbus. The artistic statues, including four marble busts, fountains and more seem to have a great ability to slow people’s frenetic pace. Admission is free. Information: irwingardens.com

3) As a pilot’s son, I recommend this as an over-the-top adventure, because I did it a few years ago and loved every second — and was whisked back to my childhood and my Dad’s single-engine Cessna. The 1928 Ford Tri-Motor plane, revolutionary in commercial air travel, is offering rides to locals through Sunday at Columbus Municipal Airport. Tickets range from $52 to $77 for the excursions, but, if you can swing the expense, you’ll thank me later. Information: https://www.eaa.org/shop/Flights/FlyTheFord.aspx