For many kids, summer camp means swimming, boating, archery, and making lifelong memories with new friends. At Flying Horse Farms in Mount Gilead, those same camp traditions are made possible for children living with serious illnesses.
WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Liv Malmsten about the organization’s unique medical specialty camp and the impact it has on children and families.
Flying Horse Farms provides a traditional camp experience—complete with activities like swimming, boating, archery, and arts and crafts—while also ensuring campers are supported in a medically and emotionally safe environment. The goal is simple: give kids the chance to just be kids while still receiving the care they need.
A key part of that support is the camp’s on-site Wellness Center. The facility is staffed by medical and psychosocial professionals who help meet campers’ physical, emotional, and behavioral needs. With that level of care available, children can safely enjoy the full camp experience even while managing serious health conditions.
During the conversation, Malmsten explained that the camp carefully adapts activities so every child can participate. Whether it’s modifying equipment or adjusting how an activity is run, the staff works to ensure each camper can join in and experience the fun alongside their peers.
Looking ahead to the upcoming summer season, Flying Horse Farms is encouraging families to apply soon. The priority application deadline is March 16, although applications will still be accepted after that date as space allows.
The camp is also currently seeking adult volunteers who want to help support campers throughout the summer. Volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming and encouraging environment for children and their families.
Click HERE to learn more about the camp, apply, or explore volunteer opportunities!
United Way of Knox County Executive Director Katie Ellis sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to address the organization’s current challenges and future plans, including staffing reductions, continued programs, and upcoming community initiatives.
Ellis explained that the nonprofit recently made the difficult decision to reduce staff as part of broader efforts to address economic pressures. Like many organizations, the United Way has faced financial strain and needed to make spending adjustments. While the cuts were unfortunate, Ellis emphasized that they were necessary to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Despite the changes, Ellis reassured the community that the United Way’s core programs will continue. In fact, new partners have stepped forward to help support several initiatives, ensuring that services remain available to local residents.
One program that has already seen strong participation this year is the organization’s free tax preparation service. During walk-in days, volunteers and staff have worked long hours assisting residents with filing returns, completing more than 150 tax filings so far. Ellis encouraged anyone interested in receiving free tax assistance to visit the United Way’s website at uwayknox.org, where a pop-up allows residents to submit their information and get started.
The organization is also continuing to expand its community presence from its new headquarters at 305 East High Street in Mount Vernon. Ellis said the building provides additional opportunities to increase services and support for the community.
She also addressed recent rumors suggesting a potential merger between the United Way organizations in Knox and neighboring Licking County. Ellis clarified that there are no plans for such a merger and that the Knox County organization remains focused on serving its local community.
Looking ahead, the United Way is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary, a milestone that will include special campaigns and events throughout the year. Ellis said 2026 will also feature expanded initiatives, including work with the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and other community programs.
One of the next opportunities for the public to connect with the organization will be its annual meeting on March 17 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the Ramser 4‑H Activity Center. The meeting is open to the community and will include a recap of 2025 accomplishments as well as a look at the organization’s future plans.
Another major focus is the upcoming grant cycle. Ellis said the United Way plans to allocate more than $500,000 to 21 programs across Knox County, supporting initiatives in education, health care, financial stability, and other vital services.
Volunteers remain a cornerstone of the organization’s mission. Ellis emphasized that community involvement is critical to meeting local needs and encouraged residents to get involved. Those interested in volunteering can contact the organization by emailing liveunited@uwayknox.org
Ellis summed up the mission simply: the United Way exists because of the community and for the community—and its work depends on people coming together to support one another.
Click HERE to find out more about the United Way of Knox County!
Senior Naomi Kinne is no stranger to WNZR. She has been serving as our Graphic Designer for the past year, but she has now joined our WNZR On Air Staff!
Naomi is from Circleville, Ohio and is a Graphic Design Major. Her minor is Communication and Digital Media. Naomi enjoys public speaking and is excited to get the opportunity to use those skills on the radio. She is also serving as the social media manager for the MVNU Basketball and Cheer Teams.
Noami shares some of her favorite memories on campus including the Block Party. She talks about making memories with other WNZR Staff Members on a trip to the CMB University Conference (Christian Music Broadcasters).
Naomi’s favorite artists at WNZR include Elevation Worship, Josiah Queen and Forrest Frank. She shared other favorites including Mexican food and her 3 sisters. Naomi is the oldest!
Naomi’s life verse is Colossians 3:2. It reminds her to focus on eternity and focus on God.
Catch her on air Fridays 2pm – 3pm.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation or click on the picture below.
Meet Isabel Johnson, one of the newest voices you’ll hear on WNZR!
Click HERE to hear the full conversation between Isabel and WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!
Isabel grew up in Bucyrus, and she’s been around MVNU since she was little. She decided to attend MVNU, because she felt the community was open and focused on faith. She is a double major in Music Performance and Communication and Digital Media at MVNU.
Isabel wants to pursue radio broadcasting so joining WNZR was a no brainer. She also wants to write songs and tell stories in her future.
When it comes to music, one of Isabel’s favorite artists is Josiah Queen. She also loves hearing Black Sheep by Ben Fuller.
Outside the studio, Isabel is involved in collagens corral which is an ensemble choir, and she is excited for their upcoming performance, Big Fish. Her favorite food is fried chicken with some mac and cheese and fries. On the weekend, she likes to read, make crafts, and read her Bible.
Isabel shared how God has been helping her with her self-worth, and how he has helped through tough times. She feels now that she is unique and loved by God! Her two favorite verses are Psalms 46:5 and Psalms 46:10a:
“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” – Psalms 46:5
““Be still, and know that I am God” – Psalms 46:10a
You can catch Isabel on-air Tuesday nights from 11 p.m. to midnight and on Friday from 11 a.m. to noon.
Mount Vernon is moving from a busy winter into what Mayor Matt Starr calls a season of momentum and transition.
During his February Spotlight interview with WNZR’s Eric Brown, Mayor Starr reflected on the city’s response to a challenging winter. Crews handled 31 weather events so far in 2025, logging roughly 810 hours of overtime. The good news: salt supplies remain strong as the city shifts toward spring operations.
One of the biggest developments is the move from 40 Public Square to Mount Vernon’s new Municipal Center at 236 South Main Street. Administrative offices have already relocated, and council chambers are nearing completion, with final technology upgrades still underway. The city expects to be fully operational in the new building by the second quarter.
The move will also allow Municipal Court to return to Public Square—something long anticipated. Mayor Starr described the new facility as warm, welcoming, and energizing for both staff and residents.
Planning, Infrastructure, and Redevelopment
City Council has formally adopted the updated Knox County Hazard Mitigation Plan, a required five-year update that keeps Mount Vernon eligible for disaster recovery grants. Flooding remains a top concern, and updated data ensures the city is prepared.
The city is also pursuing nearly $1 million in federal brownfield funding to demolish buildings north of City Hall and along South Sandusky Street. Cleanup near the former Kokosing Ironworks site will be required as part of corridor redevelopment efforts. If grant funds are approved, demolition could begin in the third quarter.
Progress continues on the State Route 13 (Sandusky Street) project, aimed at reducing truck traffic downtown and improving safety. Crash data from 2012 through early 2026 shows increased incidents on the north end, including one fatality. The intersection near Castle Road and Upper Fredericktown Road is now in the design phase, a process expected to take about a year, followed by construction pending funding in partnership with ODOT. Plans include sidewalks and expanded non-motorized transportation options, potentially connecting to the bike path.
The city has also applied for a Safe Routes to School grant for Martinsburg Road, seeking approximately $500,000 to improve sidewalks near the high school, Career Center, and the MVNU archway—an area that has experienced pedestrian and bicycle crashes.
Police, Fire, and Public Services
Council has begun the approval process to finance a new $25 million police station on Secor Road. The city plans to initially use short-term bond anticipation notes before refinancing at a lower fixed rate. The new facility will replace the outdated North Gay Street location while maintaining strong financial reserves.
The fire department is currently hiring to fill vacancies amid rising service calls, especially in the northeast corridor where the senior population is growing. Long-term plans include a possible east-end fire station, supported in part by third-party billing revenue.
Council also approved restructuring the Clerk of Council role into a full-time City Clerk position to better manage public records requests and serve multiple boards and commissions.
Spring Street Work and Pothole Reporting
As warmer weather arrives, Mount Vernon will begin its chip-and-seal program. Work will focus on New Gambier Road and several south-end residential streets near the university, addressing stormwater and embankment concerns in a cost-effective way that aligns with upcoming utility work.
Residents who need to report a pothole can contact the City Street Department directly at 740-393-9501.
2026 State of the City Address
Mayor Starr is preparing to deliver the 2026 Mount Vernon State of the City Address on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the 4-H Ramser Center, 700 Perimeter Drive. The event is hosted by the Knox County Chamber of Commerce.
The address will highlight major accomplishments from 2025 and outline goals for 2026. The city saw record income tax collections—not from raising taxes, but from job growth and higher wages. Those funds are being reinvested into parks, streets, public buildings, and city services.
Click HERE for more details about attending the State of the City event!
Community Momentum
Mayor Starr also highlighted several March events, including the Washington Forum celebrating Ohio’s eight presidents and the Chamber of Commerce Awards. He emphasized continued redevelopment along South Sandusky Street, leasing activity at 49 Public Square, and upcoming bond discussions related to city facilities.
As the city settles into its new Municipal Center, Mayor Starr says the focus remains on steady progress, responsible financial management, and investing in Mount Vernon’s future.
Residents can stay connected through the city’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages, with Instagram launching soon. The mayor’s podcast, “Chat with Mayor Matt,” is also expected to return after a brief pause during the transition.
Click HERE to find out more about the City of Mount Vernon!
Meet Anna Boynton, one of the newest voices you’ll hear on WNZR!
Click HERE to hear the full conversation between Anna and WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!
Anna grew up in Grove City, but five years ago her family made the move to Mount Vernon. Coming to Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) felt like a natural step—her family are alumni, and she strongly felt that God was leading her here. Now, as a true freshman majoring in Communication: Digital Media (with some CCP experience already under her belt), she’s diving right in.
Interestingly, Anna wasn’t always sure about joining the station. She was a little skeptical at first—but that quickly changed. What started as uncertainty has turned into a truly enjoyable experience. She’s currently an on-air DJ and is also exploring other ways to get involved around campus as she finds her footing.
One of her favorite memories so far? Serving as a runner during Food for the Hungry. She loved getting to meet generous donors on Drive Day and seeing firsthand how the community comes together to make a difference. Those moments left a big impression on her.
When it comes to music, Anna’s top pick is for King & Country. She’s even seen them live in concert! Two of her favorite songs are Priceless and God Only Knows—both meaningful tracks that she keeps on repeat.
Outside the studio, Anna loves ice cream (especially Graeter’s Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip), spending time with friends, and working on photography. She enjoys heading out into nature to capture beautiful moments through her lens. Above all, she says her favorite people in the world are her parents, whose love and support mean everything to her.
Having moved several times—including living in Missouri—Anna reflects on how those transitions, along with homeschooling and CCP classes during high school, have shaped her. She feels that God has been teaching her patience and what it means to let Him take control. Her favorite Bible verse, John 14:27, reminds her daily to rest in God’s peace:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
You can catch Anna on air every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon!
Recently, Joe Springer, Executive Director of The Winter Sanctuary, sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to talk about something close to his heart — serving our homeless neighbors and inviting the community to get involved.
Joe has been the Executive Director for just over a year, but his connection with The Winter Sanctuary runs much deeper. He’s been serving there for a decade. The Sanctuary is a seasonal emergency homeless shelter and advocacy program — and notably, it’s the only homeless shelter within 25 minutes of Mount Vernon. During the coldest months of the year, it becomes a lifeline for individuals who would otherwise be facing the brutal Ohio winter alone.
One of the biggest ways the community can support this mission is through the Coldest Night of the Year event, happening February 28th. This meaningful 5K walk (you can run or walk!) begins and ends at Gay Street United Methodist Church, located at 18 North Gay Street. The event kicks off at 4:00 PM, with walkers stepping off at 5:00 PM — and yes, there will be food afterward!
The event isn’t just about logging miles. It’s about awareness. It’s about stepping outside — literally — to experience just a glimpse of what winter can feel like for someone without shelter. Joe shared how many people don’t realize what it’s like to live outside in the woods during freezing temperatures. The walk is meant to build empathy while raising the funds needed to keep the shelter open and fully staffed.
Participants form teams and raise funds — $150 per adult and $75 per child — to support the mission. If you’d like to donate or start a team, visit CONY.com. You can also learn more through their website, thewintersanctuary.com, which links directly to the event page.
Although the shelter operates seasonally and closes at the end of April, their advocacy program runs year-round, helping guests move toward independence and stability. And right now, they need volunteers — people willing to lend their time and hands to make a difference.
Joe even brought along one of the event’s signature knit hats that participants receive — a simple but powerful symbol of warmth and solidarity.
Beyond donations and participation, Joe has one more request: prayer. Pray for the fundraiser. Pray for the volunteers. Pray especially for those currently experiencing homelessness. And pray as The Winter Sanctuary works toward securing a permanent location to continue expanding its impact.
If you’re looking for a tangible way to make a difference this winter, this is it. Bundle up. Show up. Walk in solidarity.
Click HERE to find out more about The Winter Sanctuary!
When WNZR’s Eric Brown and Marcy Rinehart sat down with Eric’s longtime friend Kyle Paladino, they weren’t just talking about a trip overseas—they were unpacking an experience of a lifetime. Kyle had just returned home after volunteering with Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy, and his stories offered a meaningful look at what happens behind the scenes of one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Kyle shared a little of his journey leading up to this moment. He served as a physical therapist in the Zanesville area from 2002 to 2024 before relocating to Northeast Ohio for a new opportunity that also allows him to support his mom more regularly. Today, he works with ABC Therapy Limited, partnering with public and charter schools and serving adults with developmental disabilities. Recently, he even helped connect one of his Cleveland-area schools with Cleveland Heights hockey standout Layla Edwards, highlighting her historic Olympic impact and inspiring students in the process.
So how did Kyle end up volunteering for Team USA? He credits a childhood friend, Professor Charles Campisi of Baldwin Wallace University, who encouraged him to apply. Kyle went through the official Olympic volunteer portal, completed interviews, screenings, and training, arranged his travel, and—with strong support from his employer—made his way to Italy for the 2026 Games.
His role with Team USA was mostly behind the scenes, supporting athletes during what’s called the Team USA Welcome Experience, often referred to as “TUI.” Because venues and training sites were spread out—especially with Cortina located several hours from Milan—Team USA didn’t operate one central hospitality house like they did during the 2024 Summer Olympics. Instead, volunteers helped create a safe, organized space in Milan where athletes could briefly gather before heading to the Olympic Village. Kyle’s responsibilities were largely supervisory and logistical: managing the space, preventing intrusions, moving boxes, taking out trash—whatever was needed to create the best possible environment for the athletes.
Two moments made the experience especially real for him. During his very first shift, members of the figure skating team arrived while athletes from Team USA women’s hockey were also present. The welcome was deeply emotional, especially considering the hardship U.S. figure skating has endured over the past year. Kyle specifically mentioned Maxim Naumov and the tragic loss of his parents in a 2025 plane crash. The atmosphere, he said, was powerful and supportive as athletes, staff, and volunteers rallied around one another. The second unforgettable moment was the Opening Ceremony, where he felt the energy of tens of thousands cheering—not just for their own countries, but for others as well. It was a reminder that even in competition, there can be unity.
Looking back, Kyle said Team USA prepared volunteers well, and the experience matched what he expected. What stood out most was the gratitude and positivity among the volunteer community. The work felt manageable, enjoyable, and meaningful. He now encourages others to consider volunteering for future Games, including the 2028 Summer Olympics.
He also came away impressed by the athletes themselves. His biggest takeaway? They were genuinely kind and appreciative. Volunteers are trained not to ask for photos or autographs during official duties, respecting the athletes’ privacy and focus. Still, Kyle described friendly public interactions that showed just how approachable they were. He even shared a lighthearted moment involving the curling team—he accidentally wore a curling-themed shirt on the wrong day but later got to show it to them, and they loved it. Moments like that, he said, revealed the athletes’ warmth and humor.
Of course, Eric and Marcy couldn’t let him go without asking about the food. Kyle admitted he’s not necessarily a “foodie,” but he enjoys trying whatever looks amazing. Breakfast often meant pastries—especially the cornetto, similar to a croissant, filled with chocolate, fruit, jam, or even cinnamon. Lunch usually involved sandwiches stacked with Italian meats and cheeses, often chosen simply by pointing at what looked best. Dinners leaned toward pasta and pizza, with dishes like risotto and carbonara making the list. And since Milan is known for its chocolate, he made sure to bring some home for friends and family.
Thanks to a lighter volunteer schedule than expected, Kyle was also able to explore. He spent time in Milan and took a day trip to Turin, host of the 2006 Winter Olympics, where he toured the royal palace and admired the Piedmont region near the mountains. He ventured into Switzerland to ride the famous Bernina “red train” through the Alps, stopping in St. Moritz. In Milan, he visited the breathtaking Milan Cathedral—the iconic Duomo seen so often in Olympic broadcasts. He was struck by its centuries-long construction and the prominent statue of the Virgin Mary atop the cathedral. Milan maintains a tradition of placing additional Virgin Mary statues on other tall buildings so the Duomo remains symbolically dominant in the skyline.
From late January through early February, Kyle packed in sightseeing, service, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. Reflecting on it all, he said volunteering changed how he sees the Olympics. Watching on television is one thing. Standing in a crowd of roughly 75,000 at the Opening Ceremony—knowing only about 10 people personally but feeling connected to everyone—is something entirely different. The shared cheering, the unity among nations, the emotional weight of the moment—it made the global competition feel deeply human.
For anyone interested in volunteering at a future Olympic Games, Kyle recommends starting at the official Olympic website and looking for volunteer opportunities, especially as information for Los Angeles 2028 becomes available. His message was simple: it’s truly the trip—and the experience—of a lifetime. And volunteering is one powerful way to help others perform at their very best.
Click HERE to learn more to be an Olympic volunteer in LA in 2028!
Here are just a few of the pics from Kyle’s Trip! (source: Kyle Paladino)
Joey Bennett is bringing energy, enthusiasm, and heart to the WNZR radio team this year. A freshman Communication and Digital Media major at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Joey is already making her mark as a DJ. You can catch her live on WNZR every Wednesday from 2–4 PM, where she shares great music and an uplifting presence with listeners.
Originally from Weirton, West Virginia, Joey has long felt a special connection to MVNU. Her home church was deeply involved with the university, and she says she always felt at home whenever she came to visit campus. That sense of belonging made her decision to attend MVNU a natural one.
Joey discovered her interest in radio through her communication classes. Curious and willing to try something new, she stepped into the studio—and quickly found her place behind the mic. Now as part of the WNZR team, she’s embracing the opportunity to grow her skills and connect with others through broadcasting.
Outside of the studio, Joey is just as active. She cheers on the MVNU game day and competition squads and has been involved in cheerleading since elementary school. In fact, she has even spent time coaching along the way. One of her favorite MVNU memories so far has been attending Sonfest and reconnecting with friends from her home church.
When it comes to music, Joey’s favorite artist is Katy Nichole, and her favorite song is “Have Your Way.” She even had the opportunity to see Katy Nichole live at the K-LOVE Center—an experience she describes as incredibly exciting and unforgettable.
Joey’s interests don’t stop there. She loves crawfish and crab legs (though chicken is always a good option, too), enjoys sleeping in when she can, and values taking time to relax and reset for the week ahead. She credits one of her former teachers, Mrs. Hores—who taught life skills, food prep, and sewing clubs—as someone who made a lasting impact on her life.
A fun fact about Joey? She has a unique hidden talent—she can contort her body! But beyond her talents and activities, her faith is what guides her most. Joey shares that God has been teaching her to trust Him fully and “let God take the pen back” in writing her life story.
Two of her favorite Bible verses reflect that trust:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Looking ahead, Joey dreams of becoming a TV news reporter and anchor. With her passion for communication, heart for ministry, and growing experience at WNZR, she’s already well on her way.
Be sure to tune in Wednesdays from 2–4 PM to hear Joey on WNZR!
Halle Krajenski, Director of Programs for New Directions, recently joined WNZR’s Eric Brown to talk about one of the organization’s most anticipated events of the year—EmpowHER.
Having served in her role for just over 1 year, Halle oversees New Directions’ prevention team, which works directly in local schools to educate youth on healthy relationships, recognizing warning signs of unhealthy behavior, intervention strategies, and personal safety.
This year’s EmpowHER event takes place on Friday, March 13th at the Kenyon Lowry Center. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., giving guests time to shop a vendor marketplace featuring women-owned local businesses before dinner is served at 6:15 p.m. The evening continues with presentations and awards designed to uplift and amplify the voices of women and girls across Knox County.
Created in celebration of International Women’s Day, the EmpowHER Awards focus on empowerment, community, and celebration. The 2026 theme—“Vogue Presents: Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows”—sets the tone for a night centered on confidence, leadership, and positive impact. Guests can also expect a full buffet dinner prepared by Kenyon by AVI, offering a wide variety of high-quality options.
Now in its fifth year, EmpowHER has grown into a highly anticipated annual celebration for New Directions. Halle says the event provides a dedicated time each year to intentionally empower women while bringing the community together in meaningful ways. Tickets are $75 for individuals, with half-table and full-table options available. Sponsorship opportunities and vendor spots are still open, though limited. Tickets, sponsorships, and vendor inquiries can be made by emailing empowhernewdirections@gmail.com, with payment options including Venmo, PayPal, or invoice.
Beyond EmpowHER, New Directions remains active year-round through awareness initiatives such as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and their annual summer Color Run.
Click HERE to learn more about the 2026 EmpowHER event!
Rise and Shine 