Sidebar: Mid-morning, one Saturday, I decided to pack up my camera gear and go downtown. My goal was to park somewhere, then walk a few blocks taking pictures and getting a much-needed change of scenery due to the COVID-19 related stay at home order. I parked my car at Bicentennial Park because I saw a man playing a guitar at the bus stop. By the time I parked and unloaded my gear, he was gone.

There were a few people walking on the sidewalks. In the park, it seemed like exercise was the main purpose of people’s visits.

Sidebar: I approached the group, believing it was a martial arts class.

Interview with Londell Towns.

What is the name of the group?

The Towns family.

Are all of you related?

Yes. This is the father right here, leading. Golden glove champion boxer, Ohio University hall of famer.

We go to Linden McKinley High school Monday thru Friday at 5:00 am where we exercise and keep kids in shape mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Today is not Monday through Friday; so, what do you do on the weekend?

On the weekend, we have service. Wherever we, go we talk about love, truth, and God for 30 minutes. We will then entertain any questions. Then, we start the fun.

Do they compete because a couple of the young men look like they box for real.

One student set the mile record for Columbus Catholic Schools. Another student attends Linden McKinley and plays basketball as a sophomore. Their team went to the city championship. Another student, who attends Gahanna Lincoln, is one of the top 5 recruits.

Anything else?

My father is L.B. Towns. He has 19 children. We are all out here as a family. We range in age from 44 to 1 year old. My father was Buster Douglas’ corner man when he fought Tyson.

We do not believe in being mediocre. We believe in pushing ourselves to the max. None of the children have under a B grade at school. We challenge our children. One student attends Columbus Alternative School where he played football and soccer in the same season while earning a 4.1 grade point average. Another student attends Cristo Rey High School where maintains a 3.8 grade point average taking college preparatory classes.

We are trying to be obedient by practicing social distancing while having fun.

Sidebar: I observed that it is difficult for young children to understand the need for being 6 feet apart from others. Some walkers wore masks, some did not. It was nice to have a change of scenery, get fresh air, and observe a family having fun together.