Category: Inspirational

Former MVNU Softball Standout Stephanie (Johnson) Smith to Join Cougar Wall of Fame

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with former MVNU softball standout Stephanie Johnson Smith, who will be inducted into the Cougar Wall of Fame during Homecoming Weekend.

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

Smith shares that she grew up in Tallmadge, Ohio, near Akron, and came to MVNU after learning about the university through friends and the opportunity to play softball. She earned degrees in Health and Physical Education and Exercise Studies and remained an additional semester to complete student teaching.

After graduation, Smith accepted a position at Worthington Christian School in Columbus and has remained there for 20 years. She teaches physical education, health, fitness, nutrition, and weight training classes and says she has enjoyed a long career helping students develop healthy habits and life skills.

Smith discusses her experiences coaching after college, including nearly a decade coaching high school soccer and softball. After stepping away from coaching to focus on raising her family, she recently returned to the sidelines through girls flag football and youth softball.

She also updates listeners on her family life. Smith and her husband Brad have been married for 16 years and have two children, Brinley and Beckett, who attend Worthington Christian School. She says their family stays busy traveling to sports and activities, with both children actively involved in athletics.

Smith reflects on her softball career, which began in tee ball as a young child. She credits her father, who coached her through much of her youth and high school career, for helping develop her love for the game and teaching her the importance of hard work and preparation.

She also looks back on her four seasons as the Cougars’ shortstop. While she enjoyed many successes on the field, Smith says her favorite memories center on the friendships she built with teammates and coaches. She recalls team trips, bus rides, and time spent together as some of the most meaningful parts of her college experience.

Smith reacts to the many honors and records she earned during her Cougar career, including several all-conference and academic recognitions as well as numerous places in the MVNU softball record book. She says she had not thought much about those accomplishments in recent years and views them as a reflection of the teammates and coaches who helped her succeed.

She also discusses learning that she would be inducted into the Cougar Wall of Fame. Smith says she was surprised when she received the phone call and was especially excited to learn she would be inducted alongside former teammate and close friend Heather. She describes the recognition as both humbling and meaningful.

Click HERE for more information on MVNU’s Homecoming events!

Stephanie (Johnson) Smith played for the softball team from 2003-2006 as a shortstop.


She holds MVNU records for:

– Most career at bats with 550
– Most career doubles with 57
– 5th in most games played with 163
– 4th in highest career batting average with an average of .400
– 3rd in career hits with 220
– 2nd in career RBI’s with 141
– 2nd most career in assists with 403.

As a freshman in 2003, Johnson was named:

– American Mideast Conference Honorable Mention
– American Mideast Conference Freshman of the Year
– NCCAA East Region Team
– NCCAA Honorable Mention All-American
– Cougar Sports Associates’ “Freshman of the Year,” and
– the 2003 Team Most Valuable Player as a Freshman!

In 2004 as a sophomore, she batted .359, had a team best 14 doubles, five triples, two home runs, 29 runs scored, and 34 RBIs. She was also named to:

– the AMC South Division Second Team
– NCCAA East Region Team, and
– NCCAA Honorable Mention All-American Team.

In 2005 as a junior, Johnson was named:

– American Mideast Conference South Division Second Team
– NCCAA East Region Team
– NFCA Great Lakes Region Second Team
– NCCAA All-American First Team
– American Mideast Conference All-Academic Team
– NCCAA All-America Scholar-Athlete
– NAIA All-America Scholar-Athlete, and
– ESPN The Magazine© Academic All-District IV First Team. In 2006, as a senior, she was named:
– American Mideast Conference South Division First Team
– NAIA Region IX Team
– NCCAA East Region Team
– NCCAA East Region Player of the Year
– NCCAA All-American First Team
– American Mideast Conference All-Academic Team
– NCCAA All-America Scholar-Athlete and
– NAIA All-America Scholar-Athlete

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Kevin Henthorne Recognizes Veterans Day with WNZR!

WNZR’s Marcy Rineheart talks to Kevin Henthorn, Executive Director of Knox County Veterans Services, about the importance of Veterans Day and honoring the men and women who have served our country.

Click HERE to listen to the entire conversation or click the image link below!

Kevin Henthorn discusses the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a day to recognize those who have served and passed. Veteran Day is a time to recognize those who have served and are currently alive. Kevin discusses the Knox County Veterans Services and what his job entails. The KCVS’s main objective is to advocate for Veterans. Kevin says his job is to “spoil” veterans.

Kevin talks about Veterans’ benefits and services. He helps veterans know what services and benefits they qualify for. He also shares how veterans can connect with their offices.

Kevin shares what special celebrations and recognitions are taking place for Veterans Day in the Knox County Community. The KCVS aids the local schools in their Veterans Day ceremonies. Kevin shares some final thoughts for Veterans; Kevin emphasizes that Veterans are not alone in their struggles and the KCVS is there for all veterans.

Click HERE to learn more about Knox County Veterans Services!

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Knox Community Jazz Orchestra to Host Food For The Hungry Benefit Concert

The Knox Community Jazz Orchestra will bring an evening of classic big band music to Kenyon College on Saturday, November 14, with a benefit concert supporting Food For The Hungry. WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Ted Buehrer, founder and director of the orchestra, about the group’s history and its continued commitment to serving the Knox County community.

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

Founded by Buehrer in 2017, the Knox Community Jazz Orchestra is celebrating its 10th year. Buehrer serves as the organization’s president and music director while also playing trumpet. The 18-member ensemble brings together students, educators, working professionals, and retirees who share a love of music and a desire to make a difference in their community.

The free concert, titled “When You’re Smiling,” begins at 7 p.m. in Ross Hall at Kenyon College. The evening will feature beloved jazz standards, including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” and “Embraceable You.” Kenyon College senior Benjamin Priestland will also join the orchestra as a vocalist for several selections.

This year marks the fifth time the orchestra has partnered with Food For The Hungry for its annual benefit concert. Although admission is free, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or make a financial donation to support the campaign.

Buehrer says the partnership reflects the orchestra’s desire to be a positive presence in the community. He emphasizes the importance of working together, sharing resources, and using individual talents to help neighbors facing food insecurity. The concert also reflects this year’s Food For The Hungry theme, “Working Together to Care for Our Neighbors.”

Community members are invited to enjoy an evening of music while supporting an important cause in Knox County!

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Cougar Conversations – MVNU Men’s Basketball Coach Jared Ronai Reflects on 13 Years of Coaching, Faith, and Family

WNZR’s Xander DeVault talked with Jared Ronai, Head Coach of Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Men’s Basketball team, about his 13 years leading the program, the impact of faith and family on his coaching journey, and what fans can expect from this year’s team.

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

Ronai reflected on some of his favorite memories at MVNU, including seeing former players return to scrimmages and games to encourage and invest in current players. He also discussed how his coaching philosophy has developed over the years, shaped by significant moments and experiences in his life. While basketball remains an important part of his work, Ronai is grateful for the opportunity to use the game as a vehicle to develop young men and help them grow.

Ronai also shared how God has been working through his family following the tragic passing of his youngest daughter. Over the past year, his family has been able to organize events for children with Down syndrome and their families, creating opportunities for connection and encouragement. Those experiences have influenced his perspective and continue to shape the way he approaches coaching. As he looks ahead to the new season, Ronai discussed the makeup of this year’s team, including its personnel, playing style, and emerging leaders. He also described the team identity he hopes to build both on and off the court, emphasizing the importance of developing players beyond basketball.

Looking ahead to the home opener, Ronai shared some insight into his game-day routine, which includes setting aside quiet time for prayer and reflection. He also talked about what he hopes to see from his players as they take the court at Ariel Arena and how much the support of the home crowd means to the program. After 13 years at MVNU, Ronai says his passion for coaching remains strong because he continues to find joy in investing in the lives of young men. He hopes his current and former players leave the program with lessons that extend well beyond the basketball court. Ronai also shared ways listeners can pray for him, his family, and the team throughout the season.

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Food For The Hungry Kicks Off 45th Anniversary Campaign in Knox County

Food For The Hungry officially kicked off its 45th anniversary campaign on November 6, bringing the Knox County community together to address food insecurity and care for neighbors in need. WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Food For The Hungry staff members Tanner Cooper-Risser and Olivia Stern about this year’s campaign, its impact on local families, and the many opportunities for community involvement.

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

Tanner Cooper-Risser, FFTH Annual Drive and Community Relations Director shared that his responsibilities include coordinating volunteers, recruiting community partners, and helping organizations and civic groups understand the ministry’s mission. As a longtime volunteer, he is excited to experience his first full campaign behind the scenes. Stern oversees communications, marketing, event promotion, and media coverage throughout the campaign season, helping keep the community informed about collections, fundraising milestones, and upcoming activities.

The generosity of Knox County residents continues to make Food For The Hungry possible. FFTH Digital Content and Marketing Director, Olivia Stern highlighted last year’s nearly $400,000 campaign total as an example of how the community comes together to support local families. Cooper-Risser added that he has been encouraged by the willingness of volunteers, churches, businesses, and community organizations to go above and beyond when asked to help.

Both guests emphasized that the need for assistance continues to grow as families face rising grocery prices and other living expenses. Stern shared that the Salvation Army served approximately 1,300 children in 2025 through its youth programs, providing thousands of meals and snacks. Local food pantries, including Interchurch Social Services, have also experienced significant increases in the number of people seeking assistance. These growing needs make community support more important than ever, especially for families, seniors, and caregivers working to make ends meet.

The 2026 campaign goal is $345,000 in recognition of Food For The Hungry’s 45th anniversary. Under the theme “Working Together to Care for Our Neighbors,” the campaign supports food pantries, hot meal programs, and community ministries throughout Knox County. Food For The Hungry partners with organizations such as Interchurch Social Services and The Salvation Army while also providing grants to smaller food pantries, meal programs, and local ministries. Cooper-Risser explained that campaign funds stay in Knox County and directly benefit local individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Through partnerships with the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, every donated dollar creates approximately $4.56 in food purchasing power. The organization also distributes grants throughout the year, helping local agencies address specific needs and provide food assistance to children, families, and individuals.

Community members can support the 45th anniversary campaign in many ways, including donating, volunteering, organizing food collections, and attending fundraising events. Several special events are planned throughout the campaign season, including the Knox County Jazz Orchestra concert, Patsy Cline tribute performances at the Woodward Opera House, the MVNU Turkey Trot, Fire & Ice, the Mount Vernon Holiday Parade, and the Snowflake Gala. Local high schools and middle schools will also participate in collection drives. Food For The Hungry encourages individuals, businesses, churches, and community groups to organize their own food drives and fundraising events. The organization is happy to help promote these community efforts and share stories about the difference they make. The official Drive Day will take place on December 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Knox Memorial Theatre.

Cooper-Risser and Stern encourage everyone to find a way to participate, regardless of the size of their contribution. Whether someone gives financially, donates food, volunteers their time, or attends a fundraising event, every effort helps provide resources for neighbors in need. They also ask the community to pray for volunteers, donors, staff members, and the families receiving assistance throughout the campaign season. Stern said the theme, “Working Together to Care for Our Neighbors,” is a reminder of the hope that comes from bringing people together. Cooper-Risser agreed, emphasizing that caring for one another and working together are important in every season. To learn more about the 45th anniversary campaign, upcoming events, collection locations, and ways to get involved, visit foodforthehungrycares.org. Community members can also email director@foodforthehungrycares.org or follow FFTHCares on Facebook and Instagram.

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Centerburg High School Students Lead a Food For The Hungry Collection

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Danielle Mincks, intervention specialist and high school student council advisor at Centerburg High School, about the school’s participation in the 2026 Food For The Hungry campaign.

Click HERE to listen to the conversation, or click the image link below!

Mincks has been teaching for 20 years collectively, she’s been at Centerburg for four years. She shares how her role as the High School advisor to help with supporting the community and being a key piece of Knox County. Next week the middle school and high schools will be collecting for Food For The Hungry during first period classes.

Their drive next week is only Monday through Friday, and only in the morning because they really want to build up a solid collection before Thanksgiving. She talks about how students want to help the community and they have extra motivation with classroom competitions, teachers matching donations, and the countywide pizza party awarded to top participating classes.

Minks mentions how Centerburg focuses on generosity, respect, integrity, and thoughtfulness through its school culture and positive behavior programs. Rather than setting a specific fundraising target, the school hopes to surpass its previous contributions and continue building support for local families facing food insecurity. She wants students and community members to continue working together to care for our neighbors in Knox County and talks about last year’s campaign and how a student wanted others to benefit from food assistance and to donate a his dinner from last night, a box of macaroni and cheese.

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Friday Favorites: The Morning Thing’s Favorite Basketball Memory

Friday, November 6th is National Basketball Day and the MVNU Men’s Basketball Team has their home opener on this night! For this week’s Friday Favorites, The Morning Thing hosts will share their favorite basketball memory.

Click HERE to listen to this week’s Friday Favorites, or click the image link below!

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Fredericktown High School Students Lead a Food For The Hungry Collection

Students at Fredericktown High School are coming together to support local families in need through the school’s annual Food for the Hungry collection. WNZR talked with Truth Yarman and Elisha McGuckin, members of Fredericktown High School’s National Honor Society, about the upcoming collection and how students are working to make a difference.

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

The collection will take place November 9–13 and will include both monetary donations and canned goods. Students in the middle school and high school will participate in classroom competitions to see which group can collect the most donations. Posters, flyers, and daily announcements are being used to encourage participation, and a surprise prize awaits the winning group. While the competition adds excitement to the project, Truth and Elisha emphasized that the main goal is to help families facing difficult circumstances.

This year, the students hope to surpass last year’s collection total and make an even greater impact in the community. They highlighted Food for the Hungry’s slogan, “Working Together to Care for Our Neighbors,” as a reminder that everyone can play a part in helping others. Even a small donation can make a significant difference when many people come together to give.

Truth and Elisha encourage students, families, and community members to support the collection in whatever way they can. They are looking forward to the Food for the Hungry broadcast on December 11, when students hope to celebrate a successful collection and share the impact of the community’s generosity.

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P.O.D.’s Sonny Sandoval Shares a Story of Faith, Redemption, and Restoration

WNZR’s Xander Devault speaks with Sonny Sandoval, lead singer of the metal band P.O.D., ahead of Sonny’s appearance at Tragedy Into Triumph on Wednesday, November 4.

Click HERE to listen to the entire conversation, or click the image link below!

Sonny reflects on his 35 years with P.O.D. and the many different musical genres the band has been part of throughout its career. He shares how he encountered God at an early age and eventually recognized an opportunity to use music as a way to share God’s love with others. Sonny also explains what P.O.D. means when describing themselves as “too Christian for the world and too secular for the church,” and how the band has remained committed to its message while reaching people from all walks of life.

When reflecting on the meaning of Tragedy Into Triumph, Sonny describes it as a picture of redemption and restoration, representing the journey from being lost to being found. Looking back on his own life, he recognizes the ways God rescued him from where he was headed and gave him a new purpose.

Sonny also opens up about his personal faith journey and the lasting impact his mother had on his relationship with God. He remembers how she continued to praise and thank God throughout her battle with leukemia, even as her health declined and she eventually passed away. Her example encouraged Sonny to make his own faith a priority by spending time in prayer and reading his Bible. As his relationship with Christ grew, he began to understand how God could use his life experiences and the platform he had through P.O.D. to reach others with the message of Jesus.

Although Sonny admits that being in the spotlight is not always comfortable, he recognizes the responsibility that comes with the opportunity to influence others, even if it means reaching just one person. He encourages people to bring all their emotions to God, whether they are experiencing anger, hurt, or disappointment, and reminds them that difficult past experiences do not disqualify anyone from being used by Him.

Sonny points to the many people in the Bible who were far from perfect but were still called by God, emphasizing that it is His goodness, grace, love, and Spirit that qualify us for His purposes. Having been involved in some of the first Tragedy Into Triumph events, Sonny has maintained a connection with founder Wendell Brown and hopes to encourage those who may want nothing to do with God to experience a change of heart. Above all, he wants people to understand their identity in Christ, discover the freedom that comes through knowing Jesus, and recognize that God can use their stories, including their tragedies, to bring hope and encouragement to others.

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Place for Grace Offers Hope and Support to Mothers in Crisis

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talks with Kandee Popham, founder and executive director of Place for Grace, about the ministry’s work supporting mothers facing difficult circumstances.

Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!

Beyond providing maternity housing, Place for Grace builds relationships with women by offering encouragement, parenting guidance, practical assistance, and long-term support. Kandee shares how the ministry helps mothers find stability, build confidence, and create healthier futures for themselves and their children.

Kandee also discusses the ministry’s largest annual fundraiser, Flannel Fest, which helps provide housing, food, and essential resources for the women and children they serve. She encourages the community to show compassion toward single mothers and shares ways to support Place for Grace through volunteering, giving, and prayer.

Click HERE for more information on Place 4 Grace!

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