As summer fades into fall, the campus invites community members, alumni, and friends to gather for an evening celebrating the craft of pairing exceptional wine and cuisine. Ohio State Marion will host The Art of the Pair on Monday, October 5, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Guthery Community Room in Maynard Hall.
The event will feature a curated wine‑pairing experience showcasing select wines from Bokes Creek Winery in Raymond, Ohio, complemented by expertly prepared dishes from Fort 88 of Upper Sandusky. Together, these pairings will create a memorable evening of flavor exploration, conversation, and community.
Guests will enjoy presentations from Jennifer Johnson, a Marion native now living on California’s Central Coast, who brings her passion for pairing wine, food, and music to inspire connection. She will guide attendees through the evening’s selections and share insights into how thoughtful combinations can elevate the dining experience. Mike Frasca, owner of Bokes Creek Winery, will also present, offering the story of how he and his wife, Diane, founded the winery in 2010 and sharing the philosophy and craftsmanship behind the wines featured throughout the evening.
Proceeds from this special evening event will benefit WOSB 91.1 FM, part of the WOSU-FM Classics Network, helping strengthen classical radio access for listeners in Crawford, Marion and Wyandot Counties.
Tickets are $75 per person and include guided wine and food pairings, fellowship with friends and colleagues, and an engaging evening celebrating local food, wine, and community. A silent auction will also be held, with proceeds benefiting initiatives that enrich educational opportunities and community engagement throughout the region.
Tickets must be purchased in advance, with a registration deadline of September 21. Guests may register by completing and mailing the enclosed form with payment to The Ohio State University at Marion, 1465 Mt. Vernon Ave., Marion, OH 43302, with checks made payable to The Ohio State University and “The Art of the Pair” noted in the memo line. Tickets may also be purchased using the online registration link or by contacting The Ohio State University Engagement Center at 1‑614‑292‑2281 for credit card payments. Questions may be directed to Cathy Gerber or to Jodi Somerlot at 740‑725‑6156 or somerlot.30@osu.edu, as well as the Engagement Center at 1‑614‑292‑2281.
Ohio State Marion looks forward to welcoming guests for an evening that celebrates the beauty of pairing great wine, delicious food, and good company.