From Humble Beginnings to Something Bigger: The WNZR Story Across Generations

There’s something meaningful about watching a vision grow, especially when it carries across generations. That’s the story of WNZR through Jim McMillan and his son, Jayme.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Jim McMillan, now principal at Grove City Christian, has spent nearly 29 years in education. But his connection to media goes back much further. As a student at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (Class of 1983), he helped build WNZR from the ground up.

In the early days, the “station” was a cleared-out 4×8 closet with a turntable, a microphone, and a four-channel board. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to get started. What mattered more was the energy around it. Students believed in what it could become.

During his sophomore year, Jim went through the application process to formally join the station. It meant research, preparation, and commitment. A turning point came during a weekend trip to the NRB Convention in Minnesota with Professor Dr. Smith. Somewhere along the way, it stopped feeling like just a project and started to feel like a calling.

Jim eventually served as production director and later station manager while WNZR was still taking shape. As construction on a real studio began, the anticipation across campus grew. Students broadcast over the breezeway so others could listen in passing. By his senior year, they were calling play-by-play for sports. It felt real.

At the time, WNZR operated on a limited carrier current system, but the goal was always to become a full FM station. Being there at the beginning made it even more meaningful to see that vision come to life.

Years later, that story continued with his son.

Jayme McMillan, Class of 2012, grew up hearing about WNZR, but living it was different. By the time he arrived, the station had grown, but it was still evolving. Sports broadcasting was central, and much of the work was hands-on. Running cables, setting up equipment, figuring things out as you went.

Video production started gaining traction during his later years, helping shift WNZR into something broader than radio. The station expanded its FM reach, and while online streaming existed, it was still finding its place. Even so, there was a clear sense of momentum. Leadership’s excitement, especially from Marcy, carried through the entire team.

One major step forward was “Big Blue,” the mobile broadcast unit. Before that, students packed gear into cars and vans for every event. Big Blue gave WNZR a visible presence and made the operation feel more established.

Some of the most memorable moments, though, were personal.

During Jayme’s freshman year, station leaders trusted two freshmen to keep things running while they were away. When the other student couldn’t make it, Jayme stepped in and ended up hosting an afternoon drive show with his dad. At the time, it was about handling responsibility. Looking back, it was something more.

For Jim, it was nerve-wracking. Even with experience, he didn’t want to let anyone down, especially Jayme. But it also gave him something he never had as a student, the chance to be on air, and to share it with his son.

Moments like that reflect what WNZR has always been about. It’s grown into radio, TV, and live streaming, but at its core, it’s about people and shared purpose.

There’s even a bit of friendly competition in the story. Jayme was named employee of the year twice. Jim earned it once. Jim jokes that someone had to build the foundation first. From a small student-built studio to a full media operation, the difference is hard to miss.

Through all that growth, one thing hasn’t changed.

Both Jim and Jayme point to the role faith has played in WNZR’s journey. Built in a small market with limited resources, the station has grown beyond what anyone expected, supported by both campus and community.

Jayme hopes that support continues, along with prayers for the station’s future. As technology changes, he wants WNZR to keep growing while staying true to its mission of serving and uplifting others.

Looking back, Jim doesn’t remember doubt in those early days. What stands out is the excitement. The belief that something meaningful was being built.

Decades later, that belief still holds.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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WNZR Matching Challenge Conversation: Eric Street in honor of Harry Street

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart sits down with her brother, Eric Street, during Lifeline 2026—where he’s offering a $5,000 matching challenge in honor of their father, Harry Street.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The conversation starts light, with a funny family memory. Eric shares a song Marcy made up as a teenager—“I Live in a Trailer”—that’s somehow been passed down to his young son and even made a comeback over Easter. Marcy jokes she might sing it on-air if the challenge is met.

From there, the conversation moves into something deeper

Eric reflects on their dad as a man who truly lived out his faith. One memory that stayed with him—sitting with his father late at night while he read the Bible—didn’t seem extraordinary at the time, but later revealed the depth of his devotion. That example continues to shape Eric’s faith today.

He also talks about the impact of Christian radio, sharing how often a song comes on at just the right moment—meeting him exactly where he is. It’s one of the ways, he says, God connects with people in everyday life.

Music played a big role in their family. Eric remembers his dad’s love for hymns like “Amazing Grace,” but also a powerful moment hearing “My Redeemer Lives” for the first time—watching his dad respond in a way that left a lasting impression.

As the conversation wraps up, Eric points to the importance of legacy—how his father’s example now guides him as a parent, and why supporting WNZR matters. Because through ministries like this, lives are impacted, faith is strengthened, and people are drawn closer to Christ.

Marcy adds that it’s exactly what Lifeline is all about—continuing the work God has already started.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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Lifeline 2026 is THIS WEEK! For our Friday Favorites, the Morning Thing hosts shared our favorite Lifeline Theme Song from WNZR and how that song has impacted our life.

  1. Xander – Keep Me In The Moment by Jeremy Camp – Lifeline 2021
  2. Josiah – Fix Our Eyes – Fix My Eyes by for King & Country – Lifeline 2018
  3. Eric – Testify To Love by Avalon – Lifeline 1999
  4. Marcy – The Proof of Your Love by for King & Country – Lifeline 2013

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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More Than a Club: How Apple Core Ladies Are Making an Impact in Apple Valley

If you want a snapshot of what strong community looks like, the Apple Core Ladies of Apple Valley are a great place to start.

During a recent WNZR conversation, Ethan Hershberger and Brookabella talked with several members of the group—and what stood out is simple: this is a place where women stay connected, keep learning, and continue making an impact.

Click HERE to hear the full conversations!

Joyce serves as the group’s communications coordinator, sending updates and helping keep everyone organized. But more than that, she naturally connects with people—something she’s done for years alongside her husband’s ministry. Whether it’s greeting someone at a meeting or making sure information gets out, her role helps keep the group relational and welcoming.

Karen, a former electronic filing manager with the Ohio Department of Taxation, has served as president, vice president, and more. She shared that Apple Core has grown to over 70 members, thanks in part to its variety—monthly breakfasts followed by engaging speakers, plus trips throughout the year to local destinations. From historical performances to practical demonstrations, every month offers something different.

Audrey, who retired after a long career with Huntington National Bank, highlighted the group’s commitment to giving back. While Apple Core is primarily social, members support local charities each year through donations and service. Recent efforts have included supporting The Main Place in Mount Vernon, along with contributions to shelters and animal organizations, showing how the group extends its impact beyond its own members.

Sue, a former teacher of 30 years, helps lead one of the group’s biggest events—the Apple Valley Family Palooza. What started as a simple idea has grown into a full community event with games, activities, and family-friendly fun. She also shared how Apple Core helped her find connection after moving to the area, turning what could have been an isolating transition into a place of belonging.

At the end of the day, that’s what defines the Apple Core Ladies. It’s not just what they do—it’s how they bring people together.

Click HERE to find out more about the Apple Core Ladies!

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From Hopelessness to Hope: The Story Behind Afterglow Christian Mission House

There are some stories that stop you in your tracks—and this is one of them.

Dave and Stephenie Maggert, co-founders of the Afterglow Christian Mission House, recently sat down to share their testimony during Prayer and Praise Wednesday on Lifeline 2026.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart and Ethan Hershberger!

It’s a story told in three parts: a journey through deep hopelessness, a turning point of hope, and ultimately a calling to serve others right here in the community.

Dave’s story begins in a place many people quietly understand but rarely talk about—feeling different, alone, and unworthy from a very young age.

He remembers sitting in a classroom as a child, looking around and thinking, “I’m nothing like them. They belong… I don’t.” That feeling followed him through childhood and into adulthood. He tried everything he could think of to fix it—changing himself to fit in, chasing success, even turning to alcohol to numb the pain.

But nothing worked.

“I thought if I became a husband, that would fix it… if I became a father, that would fix it,” Dave shared. “But it didn’t.”

Behind it all was deep trauma and years of internal struggle. Despite seeking help through counseling, medications, and multiple treatment centers, the hopelessness only grew. Eventually, it led him to a breaking point—lying in a hospital bed, convinced there was no way out.

And that’s where everything changed.

In what he describes as a moment he’ll never forget, Dave cried out to God—not even fully sure what would happen next. But something did.

“For the first time in my life, I felt hope,” he said.

That moment didn’t instantly fix everything, but it started a new path. With the support of his wife Stephenie—who says God called her not to fix Dave, but simply to love him—he entered a Christ-centered recovery program where he began confronting the pain he had carried for years.

When he returned home, Dave spent nearly a year immersed in Scripture, searching for truth, healing, and understanding.

And what he found changed everything.

“I came out of that year completely healed and delivered,” Dave said. “Only Jesus could do that.”

Stephenie’s journey, while different, also carried its own challenges. After walking through a difficult first marriage and becoming a single mom, she met Dave in what she describes as a “love at first sight” moment in December of 2013.

Even in Dave’s darkest seasons, she saw something different—hope.

“He always spoke words of life,” Stephenie said. “Even when his own life was hurting.”

Together, their shared experiences and faith began shaping something bigger than themselves.

That calling eventually led to the creation of the Afterglow Christian Mission House.

What started as a simple weekly meal at their church has now grown into a full-time ministry based in Mount Vernon. In December of 2024, they opened the doors to a home on East Gambier Street—a place designed for one simple purpose: loving people.

Today, Afterglow is open throughout the week, offering meals, community, and connection to anyone who walks through the door.

It’s not just about meeting physical needs—it’s about something deeper.

“We always say it’s a place where you have a meal to eat and somebody to eat it with,” Stephenie explained. “And honestly, that second part is the most important.”

The ministry welcomes people from all walks of life—those facing homelessness, addiction, grief, or simply loneliness. There’s no pressure, no expectations—just genuine connection and care.

And that’s exactly the point.

“We’re not hitting people with the gospel,” Stephenie said. “We’re just loving them—and they see something different.”

From Sunday dinners that feel like “going to grandma’s house,” to weekday breakfasts and community gatherings, Afterglow has become a place where people can belong.

And as Dave puts it, that’s what he was searching for all along.

Now, it’s what they’re helping others find.

If there’s one message they want people to hear, it’s simple: no matter how broken or hopeless life may feel, there is still hope.

And sometimes, that hope starts with something as simple as a meal—and someone to share it with.

Click HERE to learn more about Afterglow Christian Mission House!

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Small Town, USA Returns: A Wartime Film Project Brings Mount Vernon’s Past Back to Life

There’s something special about seeing your hometown on screen—especially when that footage dates back more than 80 years. That’s exactly what’s happening as Small Town USA, a restored film series, returns to the Knox Memorial Theater.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with author and historian Michael Sherfy to talk about the origins and significance of these fascinating films.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Sherfy explains that the project dates back to 1944, right in the middle of World War II. At the time, the U.S. government created these films as part of a “good neighbor” effort aimed at Latin America. The goal? Strengthen relationships and encourage support for the Allied cause. The films eventually reached far beyond that audience, translated into 17 languages and shown in 33 countries.

So why Mount Vernon? According to Sherfy, it checked all the right boxes. Filmmakers were searching for what they considered a “typical” American town, and Mount Vernon offered just that—a balanced mix of agriculture and industry, a thriving community, and a picturesque setting. From its inviting public square to its neighborhoods and local businesses, the city helped paint an idealized version of small-town American life.

One of the most unique aspects of the films is their authenticity. There were no professional actors involved. Instead, real Mount Vernon residents stepped in front of the camera, giving the films a natural and relatable feel. For audiences at the time—and especially for locals now—that authenticity adds an extra layer of connection.

The scope of what was captured is equally impressive. Filmmaker Julien Bryan shot more than 100,000 feet of film, though only a small portion made it into the final cuts. What remains offers a vivid snapshot of daily life in the 1940s. Viewers will see workers at Cooper-Bessemer, a doctor making house calls and administering vaccinations, scenes from Election Day, classrooms in action, and even agricultural work through the lens of a county extension agent. Together, these moments create a rich portrait of community, work, and everyday life.

Of course, Sherfy is quick to point out that these films weren’t just documentaries—they were patriotic propaganda. Initially created to promote America during World War II, they were later repurposed during the early Cold War to highlight the American way of life. Even so, they remain a valuable historical record, offering insight into both reality and aspiration in 1940s America.

Modern viewers may notice a bit of 1940s “hokiness,” but they’ll also likely recognize familiar streets and settings. That blend of past and present is part of what makes this screening so compelling.

The April 8th event promises more than just a film showing. It will include an introduction from Mayor Matt Starr, historical context to help frame the experience, screenings of three of the five restored films, and a panel discussion with audience interaction. It’s not just about watching history—it’s about engaging with it.

Small Town USA will be shown Wednesday, April 8th at 6:30 p.m. at the Knox Memorial Theater.

For more information, contact the Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County at (740) 392-2665 or click HERE.

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How MVNU and WNZR Helped Launch Mike Basko into Christian Radio

Mike Basko’s journey into radio didn’t start in a studio—it started as a kid listening to Christian radio and imagining what it might be like to be behind the mic.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Fast forward a few years, and that curiosity turned into something much bigger during his time at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. As a 2024 graduate, Mike became part of something special at WNZR, including being on the team when the station earned Station of the Year in 2023.

What stands out most about Mike’s experience is just how hands-on it was from the very beginning. He didn’t have to wait years to get real experience—he was on air during his first year. That early exposure made a huge difference. By the time he started looking for jobs, he already had practical skills and confidence that set him apart. It’s a big reason why he’s now working at River Radio, a Christian station reaching listeners across much of Ohio.

Even though Mike says he wasn’t heavily involved in the official CMB entry for Station of the Year, he clearly remembers the energy surrounding it. His classmates poured themselves into the project, working together to tell the story of WNZR. Being there to accept the award was a meaningful moment, not just because of the recognition, but because it represented the collective effort of students and faculty. For Mike, events like Momentum go beyond radio—they’re about building connections across the entire Christian media landscape.

He’s also quick to point out the people who made a lasting impact. Faculty members like Marcy and Joe invested deeply in their students, and Mike sees the Station of the Year award as a reflection of that dedication. It wasn’t just a win for the station—it was a spotlight on the culture of mentorship and excellence that defines WNZR.

Of course, not every moment was smooth. Mike still laughs about his first time on air, remembering just how nervous he felt. Thankfully, his mentor was right there with him, offering calm guidance and reassurance. By the end of that first shift, everything was still standing—and Mike had taken his first real step into broadcasting.

Beyond the studio, it’s the relationships that stick with him the most. The class of 2024 was one of the largest WNZR had seen, and it created a tight-knit, energetic group. Whether they were working, learning, or just hanging out, those shared experiences made his time unforgettable.

Looking back, Mike’s story is one of growth, opportunity, and community. From a kid listening to Christian radio to a professional voice on the airwaves, his journey shows what can happen when passion meets the right environment.

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Mondays w/Noah Warkentine

Noah Warkentine a sophomore communications major at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and he’s quickly becoming a fun and recognizable part of the WNZR radio team.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Originally from Uhrichsville, Ohio, Noah says his decision to come to MVNU was rooted in his desire to attend a Christian college. It also didn’t hurt that his dad once attended MVNU, and a close high school friend made the same choice—making the transition feel a little more like home.

Noah’s interest in radio didn’t just happen overnight. He was inspired by someone he knew growing up—Richy Johns—who also made his way to WNZR. Seeing someone from his hometown get involved sparked something, and Noah decided to follow in those footsteps. Now, he’s on the air himself, hosting from 11pm to midnight on Mondays and Thursdays.

Beyond the radio booth, Noah also occasionally helps out with the video crew for sportscasting, showing he’s just as comfortable behind the scenes as he is on the mic.

But if you ask Noah about his favorite parts of college life, he’ll probably bring up the memories made in Oakwood dorms. One story that stands out? An RA stepping in after someone created a fan Instagram account for him—claiming he was single. It’s the kind of random, hilarious moment that seems to follow Noah wherever he goes.

And that’s kind of his thing—bringing humor into everyday life. In fact, one of his signature moves is showing up to events in a full gorilla costume… just to confuse people and get a laugh. It’s unexpected, a little ridiculous, and completely on brand.

When he’s not on air or making people laugh, Noah enjoys the music played on WNZR and keeps things pretty simple when it comes to food—he’s a big fan of burgers from Steak ‘n Shake, topped with onions, cheese, and just a bit of ketchup.

He also spends part of his weekends giving back in a unique way—regularly donating plasma.

Ask him who he enjoys spending time with most, and he’ll quickly mention Zach Townsend. Whether it’s hanging out, joking around, or just enjoying college life, those friendships are a big part of what makes his experience meaningful.

One more thing that might surprise you—Noah has been serving in the National Guard for the past 2 years, adding another layer of commitment and discipline to his already full schedule.

From late-night radio to gorilla costumes, Noah Warkentine brings a mix of energy, humor, and heart to WNZR. If you haven’t caught his show yet, make sure to tune in—you never quite know what you’re going to get, but it’ll definitely be entertaining.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – our favorite Easter Memories

On this Good Friday, The Morning Thing hosts shared their favorite Easter memories. It is a special Easter edition of Friday Favorites!

Click HERE or on the link below to hear from Marcy, Xander, Josiah and Eric.

The WNZR Staff wish you and your family a Happy Easter!

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From Launch to Leadership: Alan Reed Was There As WNZR Took Shape

Sometimes, the path you end up on isn’t the one you started—but it turns out to be exactly where you were meant to be.

That was the case for former WNZR Station Manager and MVNU graduate Alan Reed. Before arriving at Mount Vernon Nazarene College, Alan had already started his college journey elsewhere. But in the fall of 1985, everything shifted. After visiting MVNU and its campus radio station, WNZR, he saw something different—something that made him want to be part of it. With just two weeks before the semester began, he made the decision to transfer and jump in.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

At the time, WNZR was still finding its footing. Broadcasting on 560 AM, the station was designed primarily for campus use. The signal could reach parts of Mount Vernon, but it didn’t extend very far beyond that. Still, there was a bigger vision taking shape behind the scenes.

That vision became reality in 1986.

Alan was there during one of the most defining moments in the station’s history—when WNZR officially went on the air at 90.9 FM. After efforts to secure an FM signal, the excitement quickly turned into action. Alan remembers Dr. Smith walking in with the news that they had received approval, and from there, everything moved quickly. By early May 1986, the station launched on FM, expanding its reach across Knox County and transforming what WNZR could be.

It wasn’t just growth—it was a turning point. And Alan was right there to witness it.

He also recalls the physical construction that made it possible. The FM tower, built on the southeast corner of campus, rose piece by piece until it stood 300 feet tall. It was an exciting and unforgettable time, even including the memory of Dr. Smith climbing the tower during construction. For those involved, it felt like they were building something meaningful from the ground up.

Alan’s role with WNZR continued to grow as well. In the spring of 1988, when the station manager stepped away, Alan stepped in as interim station manager. While he understood the technical side of radio, working closely with students brought new experiences and challenges. One moment, in particular, stuck with him—while covering a shift during an inspirational segment, something malfunctioned, and a student test broadcast unexpectedly aired rock music. It was unplanned, but it became one of those classic live-radio stories you never forget.

Through all the changes and milestones, one thing remained constant: the mission.

Alan emphasizes that WNZR has always been more than a campus station. From the beginning, it was an outreach to the community—a way to connect, encourage, and share a message beyond MVNU. That purpose shaped the station then and continues to define it today.

Being part of WNZR helped shape Alan’s own path in broadcasting and education. It gave him a sense of identity and purpose within the industry, and a connection to something bigger than himself. Now, 40 years later, he’s still at MVNU as a professor in the same department. While he no longer works directly with the station, being around it again feels familiar in the best way.

Like coming home.

Looking back, Alan finds it remarkable not just how much has changed—but how much hasn’t. The technology has advanced. The reach has expanded. But the mission remains the same: to spread the word of Christ to the campus and the community.

What started as a small AM signal—and a last-minute decision—has grown into something lasting, meaningful, and still making an impact today.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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