Mayor Matt Starr Highlights Housing, Road Work, and New Police HQ on WNZR’s May Spotlight on Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon continues to see growth across nearly every corner of the city, and Mayor Matt Starr says that momentum is showing no signs of slowing down.

During the May Spotlight on Mount Vernon with WNZR’s Eric Brown, Starr shared updates on several housing, infrastructure, beautification, and public safety projects currently underway throughout the city.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

One of the biggest topics remains housing development. Starr says projects like Liberty Crossing along State Route 13 and continued expansion at The Retreat on the east side are already attracting new residents from across the country. Many of those families are relocating for jobs with major local employers including Kenyon College, Kokosing Construction, MVNU, and Knox Community Hospital.

The city is also looking ahead to future development opportunities with projects like Founders Grove and Arista Villas. At the same time, Starr says smaller housing investments are happening throughout Mount Vernon thanks to zoning updates aimed at encouraging infill development and additional housing options.

Road and infrastructure improvements are also a major focus this year. Starr highlighted ongoing work on North Main Street, Mulberry Street, and Sandusky Street, along with improvements near the former middle school site along West Burgess and West Hamtramck streets.

In the coming months, demolition work is expected to begin along South Sandusky Street as part of the future State Route 13 corridor project. Several streets are also being considered for resurfacing this year, including Mansfield Avenue, Nash Street, West Vine Street, Upper Gilchrist Road, Yager Road, and Eastwood Drive.

Beautification efforts continue across the city as well. Starr says Mount Vernon’s Shade Tree and Beautification Commission plans to plant 400 trees this year. Code enforcement crews also remain active addressing mowing violations, unsafe structures, and property maintenance concerns.

According to Starr, many of those situations are resolved with a simple phone call or letter. He also praised volunteers and church groups who continue helping elderly residents maintain their properties.

The mayor also discussed a new partnership involving Knox County’s electric and natural gas aggregation program. Mount Vernon is now working alongside the Knox County Commissioners and neighboring communities to negotiate better utility rates for residents. Starr says bringing more customers into the program creates stronger negotiating power and could ultimately help families save money on monthly bills.

Several recent actions by Mount Vernon City Council were also highlighted during the interview. Council approved applying for a Small Cities Grant that could help expand the city’s street resurfacing program. Officials are also partnering with the Knox County Land Bank on improvements near Heartland Commerce Park along North Norton Street.

Starr additionally shared details on O’Reilly Auto Parts’ planned expansion along Coshocton Avenue, which will include additional entrances and expanded inventory space.

One of the largest projects discussed during the spotlight was the city’s new police headquarters.

Starr says Mount Vernon has officially completed financing paperwork for the new police station project, marking a major milestone for one of the largest public safety investments in city history. He noted the current station has long outgrown its space and no longer meets the needs of a modern police department.

The new police HQ will include updated technology, improved security systems, expanded evidence storage, modern training areas, and additional workspace for officers and staff. Starr says the facility is designed not only to meet current needs, but also to support Mount Vernon well into the future as the city continues to grow.

Groundbreaking could begin later this summer, with construction expected to continue into 2028. Starr says city leaders, architects, and department officials have spent years carefully planning the project to ensure it remains functional while also being financially responsible for taxpayers.

The mayor also shared updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department, including the promotion of Nate Hines to assistant fire chief and the arrival of a new medic unit after a nearly three-year wait.

Looking ahead to summer, Starr previewed several upcoming events and projects, including renovations at the future municipal center on South Main Street and continued planning work at 40 Public Square.

He also encouraged residents to participate in community events like First Fridays, Movies in the Park at Ariel-Foundation Park, and the return of the Front Porch Concert Series on East High Street. City officials will also host a booth during First Fridays where residents can ask questions about road construction, development projects, and the new police headquarters.

As construction season ramps up across Mount Vernon, Starr asked residents for patience and continued prayers for city leaders, workers, and the community.

He says the city remains committed to communication, transparency, and serving residents well during this period of significant growth and investment.

Click HERE to find out more about the City of Mount Vernon!

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Beyond the Cornfields: Knox County CVB Showcases Ohio Golf’s Hidden Gems

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Olivia Toth, executive director of the Knox County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, about the growing opportunities for tourism across Ohio and right here in Knox County.

Click HERE for the complete conversation!

Toth highlighted the Ohio Golf Trail, which showcases public golf courses across the state and encourages travelers to experience the diverse landscapes Ohio has to offer. She explained that many people picture Ohio as nothing more than flat farmland, but the state offers much more — including rolling hills, forests, scenic countryside, and unique small-town experiences.

She also discussed how different communities throughout Knox County offer completely different tourism experiences. Areas like Centerburg and Howard provide distinct settings for golf outings, weekend trips, and outdoor recreation, making Knox County an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway.

Toth emphasized that tourism does not always mean traveling far from home. She encouraged local residents to become “tourists in their own town” by exploring attractions, restaurants, trails, and experiences they may not have considered before. She said affordability and accessibility make local tourism especially appealing for families and residents looking for something new close to home.

Another featured attraction was the Knox County Coffee Trail, which includes eight coffee stops throughout the county. Many of the locations are accessible from the Heart of Ohio Trail, creating an opportunity for visitors to bike between destinations while experiencing local coffee shops and small businesses along the way.

Toth also highlighted several summer events coming to Knox County, encouraging both residents and visitors to take advantage of the many outdoor activities, festivals, and attractions happening throughout the season.

Click HERE for the Ohio Golf Guide!

Click HERE for the Knox County CVB!

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Local Seniors Can Now Sign Up for Monthly Food Assistance Through Interchurch Social Services of Knox County!

As food costs continue to rise, a new partnership in Knox County is working to provide extra support for local seniors.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Carolyn Fergus about a new food assistance opportunity available through Interchurch Social Services of Knox County.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Interchurch is partnering with Mid-Ohio Food Collective to offer the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which provides monthly food boxes to income-qualified adults age 60 and older.

According to Carolyn, the program is designed to help seniors stretch their food budgets while still receiving nutritious food items each month. Seniors who qualify will receive boxes filled with a variety of staple foods, including cereal, oats, pasta, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and protein sources. The contents of the boxes will vary from month to month, but the goal remains the same: helping supplement a senior’s diet with reliable food assistance.

Carolyn explained that participants will need to provide identification and proof of residency during the sign-up process, while income is self-reported on the application. She encouraged seniors who may qualify to begin signing up now ahead of the first shipment, which is expected to arrive in early June.

While the first delivery is expected to include around 90 food boxes, Carolyn says there is room for growth if community demand increases. She emphasized that the program is meant to serve as an additional resource for seniors and does not replace Interchurch’s regular pantry services.

In fact, she encouraged eligible seniors to continue utilizing the Interchurch food pantry, which offers fresh foods, frozen meats, and other grocery items throughout the month. The organization hopes the new program will provide even more stability for seniors facing rising grocery costs and financial pressures.

Food distribution will be available not only at the Mount Vernon office, but also through Interchurch locations in Centerburg, Fredericktown, and Danville, making the program more accessible to seniors across Knox County.

Carolyn also asked the community to continue praying for Interchurch, its staff, volunteers, and the families they serve as food assistance needs continue to grow throughout the county. She noted that volunteers are always needed to help distribute food and support daily operations.

For more information about the Commodity Supplemental Food Program or other Interchurch services, residents can call 740-397-4825 or click HERE!

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WNZR shares a special conversation about Memorial Day with Kevin Henthorn, Executive Director of Knox County Veterans Services

Memorial Day is a day to remember our fallen service members, prisoners of war, those missing in action, and veterans who have passed away. Kevin Henthorn, Executive Director of Knox County Veterans Services joined The Morning Thing to talk about the importance of this special holiday.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation or click on the link/picture below.

He also highlighted the services that his office provides to veterans and their families in Knox County.

Kevin shared the plans for Mount Vernon’s Memorial Day Parade and the special Service of Remembrance happening after the parade at the Knox Memorial Building.

You can reach the Knox County Veterans Services Office at 740-393-6742 or visit them at 105 East Chestnut Street in Mount Vernon. Their website is http://www.ksvo.com

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Velvet Ice Cream and Utica Ice Cream Festival Celebrate 50th Anniversary!

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart speaks with Velvet Ice Cream President Luconda Dager and Brand Manager Ben Mitchell.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Luconda shares the history of Velvet Ice Cream, which began more than 112 years ago when her great-grandfather immigrated from Lebanon and started making ice cream in downtown Utica.

She says the company expanded into grocery stores during the 1950s and now distributes products across five states. Luconda also talks about the importance of family within the business, explaining that several members of the Dager family still work together at the company today.

She says one of the things she enjoys most is working alongside longtime employees and staying connected to the communities of Utica, Licking County, and Knox County.

Luconda says Velvet Ice Cream now employs about 150 people and continues expanding into grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants, colleges, and healthcare facilities throughout the region.

She also shares the history of Ye Olde Mill, which opened in 1970 after travelers began stopping by to sample ice cream at the company’s production facility.

Today, Ye Olde Mill includes a restaurant, candy shop, museum, and outdoor grounds where families can relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Luconda says the attraction is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart speaks with Velvet Ice Cream President Luconda Dager about the 50th anniversary of the Utica Ice Cream Festival.

Luconda explains the festival originally began as a fundraiser for the local Sertoma Club, which wanted to create one large community event instead of hosting several smaller fundraisers throughout the year.

She says the festival has always focused on family-friendly fun and community involvement. Over the years, proceeds from the festival have helped fund scholarships, hearing aids, and other local projects throughout the Utica area.

Ben says the festival will once again take place on the grounds of Ye Olde Mill at 11324 Mount Vernon Road in Utica. He explains that while some layout changes are happening this year, attendees can still expect the same family-friendly atmosphere.

Festival hours will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with Monday’s hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ben also says parking and shuttle services will continue to operate similarly to previous years.

Ben says two new ice cream flavors — blueberry pie and coconut almond — will debut during the festival. He also highlights returning attractions including live entertainment, the popular ice cream eating contest, inflatables, Highland cows, and the Performance Dogs of Ohio shows.

He says organizers are excited to continue offering activities for families and visitors of all ages throughout the weekend.

Ben says the parade will travel through downtown Utica beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday morning and encourages visitors to arrive early for parking and viewing spots.

He says Velvet Ice Cream will once again hand out thousands of ice cream novelties during the parade, with more than 75 floats expected to participate this year. Ben also says dozens of Velvet employees and volunteers help distribute treats and support festival operations throughout the weekend.

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart continues with Velvet Ice Cream Brand Manager Ben Mitchell, who thanks the volunteers, community organizations, and sponsors that help make the Utica Ice Cream Festival possible each year.

Ben says local sports teams, civic groups, and businesses all play important roles in helping with parking, concessions, trash collection, and other festival activities.

He also recognizes sponsors including The Energy Cooperative, Ariel Corporation, Park National Bank, CES Credit Union, and Peoples Bank for supporting the longtime community tradition.

The two discuss favorite Velvet flavors, including Dutch Chocolate, Triple Chocolate Chunk, Buckeye Classic, salted caramel toffee, and the festival’s new blueberry pie and coconut almond flavors.

Ben says organizers are hoping for good weather, strong community turnout, and another successful weekend benefiting local organizations and volunteer groups. Luconda says she especially looks forward to enjoying the live entertainment and festival atmosphere.

Click HERE for more information!

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Josh Callahan Foley Shares Alexander T. Wolf’s Side of the Story!

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Josh Callahan Foley, who plays Alexander T. Wolf in Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.

Click HERE to hear the full story!

Josh says theater has been part of his life for years through both school and community productions in Mount Vernon. Along with his stage experience, he also studied film in college and now works professionally as a photographer and videographer while continuing to stay active in local theater.

Taking on the role of the Wolf has come with some unique challenges. Josh says one of the biggest adjustments has been the amount of narration throughout the show, since much of the production involves directly telling the story to the audience. To help shape the character, he says he approached the Wolf as a charming southern gentleman who audiences can connect with — even while hearing “his side” of the famous story.

Josh says storytelling is what continues to fuel his passion for both theater and film. He believes live theater creates a special experience because audiences get to watch real people tell stories right in front of them in a way that feels personal and immediate.

He also encourages others to get involved in theater, saying every production comes with awkward moments and challenges, but the friendships, teamwork, and sense of community make it worthwhile.

Josh says audiences should come see The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs because it offers a funny and creative twist on the classic fairy tale while showcasing performers of all ages sharing their talents on stage.

Performances will take place: Thursday, May 21st, and Friday May 22nd at 7 p.m. at the Crossroads Theater inside the Mount Vernon Developmental Center Administration Building. 

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. General admission tickets are 10 dollars. 

Click HERE to learn more about the Orange Barrel Production Company!

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Maggie Lauth Takes On the Role of Sizzle Bacon in “The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs”

Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs is bringing together familiar fairy tale characters, plenty of laughs, and for one cast member, a full-circle family moment.

WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Maggie Lauth, who plays Sizzle Bacon in Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.

Click HERE to listen to the full conversation!

Maggie describes Sizzle Bacon as the only surviving pig sibling who takes Alexander T. Wolf to court. She says the character is sassy, fashionable, and more focused on herself than anyone else. Maggie also says she enjoys playing characters with attitude and personality, which made the role especially fun for her. She says one of her favorite parts of the production is the courtroom scene because of the humor, the larger role her character has in the scene, and the chance to interact more with the cast.

Eric continues with Maggie Lauth, who says this is her first major stage production with Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.

Maggie says one of her favorite rehearsal memories involved a funny courtroom scene adjustment from director Michelle Banko that had the cast laughing during practice. She also says it has been fun being involved in the production alongside her cousin, who plays Goldilocks.

She encourages other kids to give theater a try, saying Orange Barrel Productions is a great place to start because rehearsals are manageable and the experience is both fun and rewarding.

Maggie also says the community should come out and support the production because the cast has worked hard to create a fun experience for audiences of all ages.

Performances will take place: May 21st, and 22nd at 7 p.m. at the Crossroads Theater inside the Mount Vernon Developmental Center Administration Building.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. General admission tickets are 10 dollars. For more information, visit Ohio Drama-dot-com or call 740-504-8847.

Click HERE to learn more about Orange Barrel Production Company!

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WNZR joins local law enforcement to support the Click It or Ticket Initiative

WNZR went “On The Road with Big Blue” to the Mount Vernon Farmer’s Market to talk about the 2026 Click It or Ticket Campaign. This is a safety initiative to educate the public about the importance of seat belt safety.
We talked with representatives from local law enforcement:

  • Deputy Tom Queen from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office
  • Trooper Jared Myers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol
  • Officer Jackie Nauman from the Mount Vernon Police Department
  • Community Risk Reduction and Inspector Ross Wind from the Mount Vernon Fire Department

Click HERE to hear our conversation or click on the link below.

They shared some eye-opening stats on seat belt usage and how important it is to buckle up. We also talked about the importance of seat belts in all scenarios including summer travel, nighttime driving, and with teen drivers. They shared common misconceptions of seat belt usage including the interaction with air bags, proper child restraints and booster seats, and the importance for back seat passengers to buckle up.

One of the safest choices YOU can make is to buckle up!
Buckle up all the time – for short trips and long trips, and in every seating position.
For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/SeatBelts

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Kids to Parks Day Returns to Mount Vernon with Outdoor Activities for Families

Families are invited to get outside and kick off the summer during Kids to Parks Day in Mount Vernon.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Jeff Derr, Recreation Director for the City of Mount Vernon, about the annual event, which is part of a national effort encouraging families and children to spend time outdoors and enjoy local parks and recreation opportunities.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Kids to Parks Day will take place Saturday, May 15th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature a wide variety of free activities for children and families throughout the day.

Derr says several community organizations are partnering together to make the event possible. Knox County Fish and Game will offer youth fishing activities, while Cub Scout packs and Scouting America troops from Muskingum Valley Council will provide scout activities, water bottle rockets, BB guns, and games. There will also be demonstrations and activities from PAK United, 4-H, and the Mount Vernon Fire Department.

Derr says one of the goals of the event is to encourage people of all ages to get outdoors, stay active, and enjoy healthy lifestyles through parks and recreation opportunities.

The Mount Vernon Exchange Club will also provide free hotdogs at noon during the event.

Looking ahead to the rest of the summer, Derr says Hiawatha Water Park and Pool is scheduled to open June 2nd, and the city is also hoping to bring back “Evenings at the Park” events this summer.

Derr says Kids to Parks Day continues to grow each year and hopes families will take advantage of the opportunity to spend time together outside while connecting with local organizations and activities throughout the community.

Click HERE to find out more through the City of Mount Vernon’s webpage!

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