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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Allison Burak Finds a Full-Circle Family Moment 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 recently spoke with Allison Burak, who plays Snow White’s evil stepmother in the upcoming production. Allison says the show is especially meaningful for her family because her older children were involved in the original production 10 years ago. Now, she is sharing the stage with her youngest daughter, Lainey.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Although this is Allison’s first major theater production, she says stepping into the role of the evil stepmother has been a fun challenge. The character is dramatic, humorous, and far different from her real-life personality. To prepare, Allison says she spent time researching classic portrayals of Snow White’s stepmother and watching different performances for inspiration.

Some of her favorite moments in the show happen during the jail scenes, where several well-known fairy tale villains interact with each other — and with the Wolf — creating plenty of entertaining moments for the audience.

Allison says much of her previous acting experience came through church skits and reading stories to her children while they were growing up. Looking back, she says those experiences helped her learn how to bring characters to life and express emotion through storytelling.

She also credits Orange Barrel Production Company director Michelle Banko for encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone and try theater for the first time. Allison says the experience has helped her grow creatively while building friendships with the cast and crew.

One of the highlights for Allison has been sharing the experience with her daughter while becoming part of the close-knit teamwork that develops during rehearsals. She says audiences may not even recognize her once she appears on stage in full costume, featuring dramatic makeup, a flowing robe, crown, and magic mirror inspired by the classic evil queen look.

As a first-time theater performer, Allison encourages others not to be afraid to try acting, even if they feel nervous. She says theater helps build confidence, creativity, friendships, and a sense of community.

She also encourages the community to come out and support the production, saying live theater creates a family-friendly experience that is energetic, unique, and a great opportunity to support young people who are using their talents and creativity in positive ways.

Performances will take place: May 14th, 15th, 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.

Click HERE to find out more about Orange Barrel Production Company!

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Joy Kanagy Takes on the Role of Judge Judy in “The True Story of the Three Little Pigs”.

WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Joy Kanagy who plays the part of Judge Judy in the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs which is the latest installment of the Orange Barrel Production Company.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Joy, a 14-year-old eighth grader at Inspirations Academy, says her character helps decide the outcome of the Wolf’s case based on how the jury votes during the courtroom scenes. Joy says she has been preparing for the role by practicing her lines and working on her delivery. While she enjoys the whole character, she admits her favorite part is getting to bang the judge’s gavel during the show. She also says the courtroom scene is one of her favorite moments in the production.

Joy talks about playing the part of Judge Judy in the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs which is the latest installment of the Orange Barrel Production Company.

Joy has previously appeared in Orange Barrel Production Company’s A Little Princess along with several church productions. While she currently sees acting as more of a hobby, she says theater has been a lot of fun and a great experience.

Joy says one of her favorite parts of being involved with this cast has been getting to know the other actors and spending time together during rehearsals. She also encourages other kids to give theater a try, even if it feels a little scary at first.

Joy says the community should come out and support The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs because the cast has worked hard and the show is funny and family friendly.

Performances of the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs will take place: May 14th, 15th, 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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Brooklyn McDonald Brings Two Very Different Characters to Life in The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs

WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Brooklyn McDonald, who plays both Mrs. Smith—who “cried wolf”—and a reporter in The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, the latest production from the Orange Barrel Production Company.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Brooklyn is a 14-year-old homeschool student and says the two roles are completely different from one another. She explains that the reporter is much closer to her real personality, while Mrs. Smith is far more dramatic and over-the-top, complete with a hippie-style accent and personality.

One of Brooklyn’s favorite parts of the show is the courtroom scene, where the audience gets involved and helps decide whether the Wolf is innocent or guilty. She says those moments are especially fun because the cast gets to feed off the crowd’s energy while bringing plenty of humor to the stage.

Brooklyn has previously appeared in productions including Charlotte’s Web, Honk Jr., Anne of Green Gables, and A Little Princess. While she hopes to continue acting, she says theater is something she currently enjoys doing for fun.

She says one of the best parts of this production has been the friendships formed during rehearsals and all the fun moments shared with the cast. Brooklyn also enjoys the contrast between her two costumes—from a professional reporter look to colorful hippie-style clothing and accessories for Mrs. Smith.

Brooklyn encourages kids who might feel nervous about theater to still give it a try, saying it becomes a lot of fun once you get involved. She says audiences can expect a funny, interactive show that the whole family can enjoy.

Performances of the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs will take place: May 14th, 15th, 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

Click HERE to find out more about Orange Barrel Production Company!

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Lainey Burak Takes the Case as Lauren Order in The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs

WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Lainey Burak, who plays defense attorney Lauren Order in The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, the latest production from the Orange Barrel Production Company.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Lainey is a 13-year-old seventh grader at Mount Vernon Middle School and describes Lauren Order as confident, professional, and very direct. She says getting ready for the role has taken plenty of work, both during rehearsals and at home while learning lines and building the character.

One of her favorite parts of the show is the courtroom scene, where she gets to interact with the rest of the cast while defending the Wolf. Lainey says those moments make the performance especially fun because of the energy and chemistry between the actors.

This is Lainey’s second theater production and her first with Orange Barrel Production Company. While she enjoys acting, she says she currently sees theater as more of a hobby than a future career path.

She says one of the best parts of the experience has been building friendships with the cast and getting comfortable performing together on stage. Lainey also encourages other kids to give theater a try, even if it feels intimidating at first, because it becomes rewarding once you step in front of an audience.

Lainey says audiences can expect a fun, family-friendly show with audience participation, where the crowd helps decide whether the Wolf is innocent or guilty.

Performances will take place: May 14th, 15th, 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.

Click HERE to learn more about Orange Barrel Production Company!

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