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!
Rise and Shine 
Leave a comment