Mount Vernon Nazarene University is preparing for its 2026 Homecoming Weekend, featuring class reunions, campus activities, athletic events, and special celebrations. WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Mike Cheek, MVNU’s Executive Director of Alumni and Major Gifts, about the weekend’s schedule and opportunities to reconnect.
Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!
Highlights include the Golden Grad Luncheon, Homecoming Chapel, the Before the Bird 5K, the WNZR 40th Anniversary Alumni Reunion, and Cougar basketball games. Saturday evening will also feature A Night with Nashville, a concert benefiting Cougar Baseball. Songwriters Brian White, Andy Chrisman, and Tony Wood will perform Christian music hits and share the stories behind the songs.
Click HERE for more information about MVNU’s Homecoming Weekend!
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with the two former Cougar baseball players, Mike Cheek and Brian White, about their time at MVNU, life after graduation, and the special events planned for Homecoming.
Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!
Cheek now works at MVNU and helps oversee alumni events, while White moved to Nashville after college to pursue songwriting and youth ministry. White shared how his Christian music journey began, including writing his first song, “Pardon By The King.” Both alumni reflected on how MVNU has changed over the years while emphasizing that students’ passion and fire for Christ remain the same.
One highlight of Homecoming Weekend will be A Night with Nashville – Benefitting Cougar Baseball with the Hits. Cheek and White shared how the event came together as an opportunity to bring alumni together through music while supporting Cougar Baseball. They also discussed why Homecoming is so meaningful, celebrating life change, friendships, and memories made at MVNU.
Click HERE for more information about MVNU’s Homecoming Weekend!
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.
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.
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.
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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.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Lauryn VanHoose, Head Coach of Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Women’s Basketball team, about the upcoming season and the growth of the Cougar program. Click HERE or click on the picture below to hear the full conversation on our first Cougar Conversation of basketball season!
Entering her second year as head coach, VanHoose is focused on staying present, continuing to develop her players, and preparing the team for the physical and demanding competition of the Crossroads League. With seven new players, including five freshmen and two transfers, the team is working to build chemistry and learn to compete together. VanHoose says one of the team’s greatest strengths is how closely connected the players are, both on and off the court.
As the Cougars prepare for the season, the coaching staff is emphasizing mental toughness, defensive play, and the ability to respond to mistakes and challenges. VanHoose is especially encouraged by the leadership of the team’s four upperclassmen, who bring valuable Crossroads League experience. She hopes fans will notice the team’s effort, energy, and commitment to competing for all 40 minutes. Beyond basketball, VanHoose also wants her players to grow in their faith and learn to rely on God through both the challenges and successes of life. She asks for prayer for the team’s safety, health, and mental and physical strength throughout the season.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Kylie Bisutti, former Victoria’s Secret model, ahead of her appearance at Tragedy Into Triumph at Mount Vernon Nazarene University on Monday, November 2nd!
Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!
Kylie shares her journey of choosing a relationship with Jesus Christ over fame and the challenges she faced with identity, shame, and the pressures of the modeling industry. She also discusses how God used difficult seasons in her life to redirect her path and help her discover her true identity in Christ.
Today, Kylie serves as a motivational speaker, sharing her testimony and encouraging others who may be struggling with eating disorders, identity issues, and the pressure of living up to the world’s expectations. She hopes attendees at Tragedy Into Triumph will be reminded that their circumstances and past do not define them. Instead, true peace, value, and identity are found in Jesus Christ.
Click HERE to see information about the Tragedy into Triumph event!
Mayor Matt Starr Shares Updates on Mount Vernon Projects, City Services and Upcoming Events
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WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr about the latest projects, improvements and happenings around the city. Mayor Starr provided updates on several ongoing construction projects, including improvements to Burgess and Hamtramck Streets, sewer infrastructure work on West Gambier Street, progress on the new Riverside Park pickleball courts and remediation work at the Knox Cattle Company Dam. He also discussed construction of the new Mount Vernon Police Department facility, which is expected to be operational in 2028, along with plans for future municipal court facilities at 40 Public Square.
Mayor Starr also highlighted several city service updates, including the start of leaf pickup on November 2, improvements to neighborhood property maintenance and plans to address pedestrian safety through additional sidewalks and bridge repairs. He shared updates on city council decisions, police and fire department activity, and the city’s decision not to renew its contract for Flock license plate reader cameras while privacy and data ownership questions remain. In addition, Mayor Starr reflected on Mount Vernon’s 250th anniversary tree dedication at American Heritage Park, discussed upcoming memorial additions to the park and encouraged residents to attend the annual Veterans Day ceremony and visit the traveling Eyes of Freedom exhibit. Looking ahead, the city will continue focusing on infrastructure improvements, transportation projects, and development of the 2027 budget.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Brit Eaton, Executive Director of United Way of Knox County, and Lindsey Lamp, Executive Director of New Directions of Knox County!
Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!
They talk about the impact of local giving and the importance of domestic violence awareness. As United Way celebrates 75 years in Knox County, Eaton highlights how donations supported 29 programs through 19 local partner agencies last year, helping children succeed, families stay financially stable, and local food pantries serve those in need.
Lamp shares how New Directions provides free, confidential services to individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. The conversation also highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Purple Chair Campaign, and the importance of recognizing healthy relationships and supporting survivors.
Both leaders emphasize how community donations, partnerships, and volunteers help provide safety, resources, and hope for individuals and families throughout Knox County.
Click HERE to learn more about United Way of Knox County!
Click HERE to learn more about New Directions of Knox County!
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Wendell Brown, District Superintendent of the North Central Ohio Church of the Nazarene and founder of Tragedy Into Triumph.
Wendell shares about his journey into ministry, serving as a pastor from 1994 to 2017 before being appointed District Superintendent 10 years ago and he explains the process of selecting and maintaining the role ass District Superintendent.
He explains the large footprint of the North Central Ohio Nazarene District, which includes communities from Delaware and Mount Vernon to Port Clinton, Ashtabula, Wooster, and Holmes County.
Wendell shares how the idea for Tragedy Into Triumph began while he was serving in Tennessee. Inspired by the story of former NFL player Siran Stacy, who lost his wife and four children in a tragic accident, Wendell felt God calling him to create an event focused on stories of hope and transformation through Christ.
Wendell shares how God has worked through Tragedy Into Triumph over the years, highlighting stories of people who have overcome addiction, loss, and difficult life circumstances through faith in Jesus Christ.
He tells the story of a woman whose life was transformed after attending an event. Through her faith journey, she found hope, recovery from addiction, and restoration with her children. Wendell explains the ministry’s message that no matter the tragedy, whether caused by personal choices or circumstances beyond our control, God can bring healing and transformation.
Wendell shares details about the 2026 Tragedy Into Triumph event happening November 2-4 at R.R. Hodges Chapel on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
Doors open at 6:15 p.m. with services beginning at 7 p.m. each night. The event will also be streamed worldwide through a nationwide simulcast.
He shares that last year’s event reached more than 1,000 churches and approximately 1.5 million viewers, with over 12,000 making the decision to follow Christ.
Wendell introduces the first featured speakers:
Former Victoria’s Secret model Kylie Bisutti, who will share her testimony about identity, purpose, and finding true worth in Christ.
Carey Nieuwhof, one of the world’s top podcasters and church leadership voices, will share his personal struggle with anxiety, depression, and burnout, and how God brought healing and restoration.
The final night will feature Sonny Sandoval, lead singer of P.O.D., who will share how God transformed his life despite growing up in difficult circumstances surrounded by drugs and violence and how he overcame it.
Wendell explains how this year’s topics were chosen to address struggles many people face, including identity, mental health, and overcoming obstacles in life.
Wendell reminds us that the services are on November 2, 3, 4 at the R.R. Hodges Chapel/auditorium at MVNU and he shares the mission of Tragedy Into Triumph: to share real-life stories of transformation so people can find hope, believe in Christ, and overcome life’s struggles.
He emphasizes that everyone faces difficult seasons and that hearing authentic stories of God’s work in people’s lives can provide encouragement and direction.
Wendell explains that while people may debate theology or religion, personal testimonies of changed lives provide powerful evidence of God’s transforming work.
Wendell highlights additional resources available through Tragedy Into Triumph, including the book Living in Triumph, podcasts, free Bible studies, and ministry curriculum for churches, youth, and children.
He shares details about the ministry’s growing documentary series, including an upcoming episode featuring Brian “Head” Welch of the band Korn and a future release featuring former football coach Mark Richt.
The Tragedy Into Triumph event is free and open to the public November 2-4 at R.R. Hodges Chapel on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Wendell asks you to pray that people who need hope will attend and that lives will be transformed through the stories shared during the event.
Livestream information, event details, and ministry resources are available at tragedyintotriumph.com.
