Tag: News

WNZR’s April Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

During the April Spotlight on Mount Vernon, WNZR’s Eric Brown sat down with Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr for a wide-ranging update—and it’s clear the city is moving full speed ahead into a busy spring season.

Click HERE for the full conversation!

One of the biggest updates comes from the aftermath of the March 13th storms. Mayor Starr says cleanup is now officially complete, after crews worked through every street in the city. What was expected to take about a week stretched into three and a half weeks, but the effort paid off. Starr credited teams from Public Works, Parks, and other departments for tackling the large amount of debris and getting things back in order. He also noted repairs at the Curtis family gravesite in Mount Vernon Cemetery and reminded residents to take part in spring cleanup efforts as the city prepares for Memorial Day.

Looking ahead, attention is turning to long-discussed demolition projects north of Public Square. Starr says bids are due May 7th for the removal of several condemned buildings. While those structures will soon come down, pieces of history are being preserved. Materials from the Curtis Building have been saved, and detailed 3D scans were completed to document the structure before demolition begins.

Environmental work is also a major focus. Starr discussed ongoing brownfield efforts—projects aimed at cleaning up former industrial sites before redevelopment. The city has applied for grant funding to address areas along South Sandusky Street and Long Phillips Drive, where past use left contamination behind. If approved, those funds would help prepare the land for future development while protecting the surrounding environment.

Safety improvements around schools are also underway. Through the Safe Routes to School program, work is happening near Saint Vincent de Paul School, including resurfacing, curb upgrades, and new safety features like bump-outs and flashing beacons. Additional projects are planned along Martinsburg Road, including bridge repairs, resurfacing, and future sidewalk installation—all part of a broader push to improve infrastructure in school zones.

And speaking of infrastructure, road construction season is officially in full swing. Crews are addressing erosion issues, repairing and resurfacing streets, and upgrading traffic signals along Coshocton Avenue with new radar technology. Work is also happening on brick streets, Blackberry Alley, and in neighborhoods across the city. Starr acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasized that these improvements are designed to benefit the entire community long-term.

There’s also plenty happening in Mount Vernon’s parks and public spaces. New swings have been installed at Riverside Park, and the splash pad will reopen from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hiawatha Water Park is set to open June 2nd. Maintenance work—including painting and equipment repairs—is ongoing, while Public Square is being prepared with fountain and lighting updates. Starr also shared an ambitious goal of planting more than 400 trees this year and encouraged residents to attend an upcoming neighborhood meeting tied to a grant application for additional street and infrastructure improvements.

At the city government level, Starr says City Council has officially begun meeting in the new municipal center. Recent actions include approving road salt purchases, managing impounded vehicle disposal, and continuing traffic and infrastructure studies. Updates are also moving forward on the North Sandusky intersection project, South Sandusky improvements, and new curbside recycling requirements.

Public safety remains a priority as well. Starr says police and fire departments are staying busy, especially with warmer weather bringing increased activity. Training continues, including rescue simulations for the fire department. The city has also selected a new assistant fire chief, and a new medic unit is expected soon—with a traditional push-in ceremony planned to mark its arrival.

Beyond city operations, there are plenty of opportunities for community connection. Starr highlighted events like the Songwriters Circle at the Woodward Opera House and reflected on the recent Rwanda remembrance event hosted in partnership with MVNU, calling it both powerful and humbling. He also pointed to Celebrate Trails Day and National Bike to Work Day as ways residents can get involved and stay active.

Coming up soon, the citywide yard sale trail will take place May 2nd and 3rd, with free permits available for participants. City Cleanup Day is scheduled for May 9th at Ariel Foundation Park. Starr also invited residents to attend the Washington Forum on April 28th, focused on land and conservation, in partnership with MVNU and Kenyon College.

As the conversation wrapped up, Starr reflected on the often unseen work of public service. While much of it happens behind the scenes, he says it plays a critical role in maintaining and improving the community. He asked residents to keep city leaders in prayer for wisdom and stewardship and encouraged everyone to stay connected through the city’s website, social media, and direct communication with city offices.

Click HERE for the City of Mount Vernon’s website!

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New Leadership Search Underway as Food for the Hungry Continues Year-Round Impact

Food for the Hungry is stepping into a new season, and there are some important updates for the Knox County community.

During a recent conversation on WNZR, Marcy Rinehart talked with Lisa Lloyd, Vice President of the Board of Directors, about a leadership transition and what’s ahead for the organization.

Click HERE for the full conversation!

Executive Director Kathy Brechler is moving into full retirement. While she has served in the role for the past two years, her connection to Food for the Hungry goes back to 2011, when she helped launch the Snowflake Gala. She also created Pantry Partners Access Meetings, bringing local food pantries together to share resources and better serve the community.

As the organization looks ahead, the board is now searching for an Annual Drive and Community Relations Director. This role will oversee the December drive, manage community relationships, coordinate events, and help lead grant programs. The goal is to have someone in place by early summer, with a soft application deadline of April 24th.

At the same time, April is a busy month. The Summer Grant Program is open now through noon on April 30th. These grants support organizations providing meals during the summer, especially for students who no longer have access to school breakfasts and lunches.

It’s a reminder that Food for the Hungry serves Knox County all year long—not just during the holidays.

You can stay connected through their Facebook page or by visiting the website, where you’ll find pantry listings, volunteer opportunities, event information, and applications for both the open position and summer grants.

Click HERE to learn more about Food For The Hungry!

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March 2026 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Matt Starr to talk through some of the biggest updates impacting the city—from storm recovery to future planning.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Storm Cleanup Still Ongoing

Following the March 13th windstorm, Mayor Starr shared that 41 trees fell across Mount Vernon, leaving behind a significant cleanup effort. Crews are already hard at work, but with the amount of debris, it could take a couple more weeks to fully clear the city.

Because of the scale of the damage, the city plans to make one full pass through neighborhoods rather than multiple pickups. Starr encouraged residents to lend a hand where possible—especially by taking debris to the Knox County Compost Site—as crews continue balancing storm cleanup with their regular duties. He noted this storm ranks among the most impactful since the 2012 derecho.

Curtis Building Condemned

The conversation also turned to damage at the historic Curtis Building. High winds caused part of the façade to separate, raising serious safety concerns.

After inspection, the city’s appeals board unanimously voted to condemn the buildings just north of City Hall, with demolition expected within 90 days. While Starr acknowledged the emotional weight tied to the Curtis family’s legacy, he emphasized that public safety must come first. The city plans to explore ways to honor that history in the future.

Strong Financial Outlook

On a more positive note, Starr highlighted strong financial performance during his State of the City address. In 2025, Mount Vernon saw record tax revenue exceeding $22 million, driven by payroll withholdings, business taxes, and commuter contributions.

Additional growth came from lodging taxes—boosted by new hotel activity—as well as grants, permits, and utility revenues. Combined with more than $17 million in private housing investment, Starr says the city is in a solid position for continued growth.

Progress Across the City

Starr also pointed to several key accomplishments. The Public Works Department responded to 31 winter weather events, keeping roads clear despite heavy demands. Meanwhile, community amenities continue to grow, including the popular Captain Hunter Splash Pad and ongoing improvements on the city’s west side.

Looking ahead, the city is pursuing funding for projects like Arch Avenue Park and upgrades to Memorial Park. Safety services are also advancing, with increased training and more certified operators across departments.

Connecting with the Community

Mayor Starr is taking his message directly to residents, scheduling presentations with businesses, churches, and community groups. He says these face-to-face conversations are key—especially as discussions continue around downtown development and the South Sandusky corridor.

New City Role Focused on Growth

The city is also hiring a Community Development and Public Information Officer. Starr described the role as more than communications—it’s about building partnerships, strengthening community engagement, and identifying new revenue opportunities through sponsorships and fundraising.

City Council Updates

Recent action from City Council includes approving sidewalk improvements on Martinsburg Road through the Safe Routes to School program. A $500,000 grant will also support a study of a dangerous intersection on North Sandusky Street.

In addition, council approved borrowing up to $29 million for a new police station, with current estimates closer to $26 million. Planning is moving forward as the city continues addressing infrastructure and safety needs.

Focus on Safety and Training

The Safety Services Department remains focused on training, particularly in de-escalation techniques—helping reduce use-of-force incidents. The department has earned recognition from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, including praise for scenario-based training led by Officer Rex Young.

Training also extends to specialized situations, like grain bin rescues, ensuring teams are prepared for a wide range of emergencies.

Looking Ahead to Spring Events

As the city moves into spring, several events are on the horizon. A tire recycling event will take place at Ariel Foundation Park, along with the Washington Forum on March 31, featuring speakers from multiple levels of government.

Families can also look forward to the Joy and Jerry Klinger Easter Egg Hunt at Hiawatha Park, along with increased activity across local parks. Starr also reminded drivers to stay alert for cyclists as warmer weather returns.

A Final Thought

When asked how the community can support city leadership, Starr emphasized the need for wisdom and good stewardship. As Mount Vernon continues to grow and address challenges, he reflected on the importance of making thoughtful decisions that will benefit future generations.

Click HERE to keep up with the City of Mount Vernon!

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From Local Voices to New Adventures: Knox County CVB Invites You to Explore and Celebrate

There’s something special happening in Knox County right now, and it centers around the stories that shape the community. Recently, Eric Brown from WNZR spoke with Olivia Toth from the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau about a project designed to preserve those stories for generations to come.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The Visitors Bureau, working alongside the local library, is creating an audio time capsule and inviting residents to contribute their own experiences and memories. It’s an opportunity for people across Knox County to share moments that reflect how the area has grown and changed over time. The plan is to collect these stories throughout the year and eventually turn them into a book or presentation that will be archived in the library. It’s a simple idea with a lasting impact—giving future generations a chance to hear directly from the people who lived it.

Some of the stories already collected highlight just how meaningful this effort can be. They touch on changes within the community, memories connected to national conflicts, and local achievements that have helped shape Knox County’s identity. Together, they paint a picture of a community that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its history.

This focus on storytelling comes at a meaningful time, as Knox County prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Throughout the year, there will be parades, picnics, and a variety of events designed to bring people together. The state of Ohio is also introducing themed celebrations, connecting local communities to the broader national milestone. One event already drawing attention is a showing of Bye Bye Birdy at Ariel-Foundation Park on July 26 as part of the “Ohio Goes to the Movies” initiative, offering a fun way for families and friends to gather and celebrate.

At the same time, the Visitors Bureau is helping people experience Knox County in new ways. This year’s county guide, titled the “New Adventures Guide,” takes a fresh approach by removing advertisements and focusing entirely on content. Instead of ads, readers will find stories, interviews, and features that highlight the people and places that make the county unique. The goal is to not only inform but also inspire both residents and visitors to explore more deeply.

Even those who have lived in Knox County for years may be surprised by what they haven’t discovered yet. There’s a strong emphasis on showcasing lesser-known attractions—the kinds of places that might not always get the spotlight but are well worth a visit. To make exploring easier, digital trail passes have been introduced, offering curated experiences across the area. One of the newest additions is the Knox County Coffee Trail, which features seven different stops and gives people a fun, interactive way to explore local coffee spots.

All of these efforts—from collecting personal stories to creating new ways to explore—are about strengthening the connection people have to Knox County. Whether it’s sharing a memory, attending a community event, or discovering a hidden gem, there are more ways than ever to be part of what makes this area special.

Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County CVB!

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Building Inclusion Through Community: Special Olympics Game Highlights Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Brittany Coon, Public Outreach Manager for the Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities, to talk about something important happening this month—and right here in our community.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a nationwide observance that dates back to 1987 when President Ronald Reagan first established it. The goal is simple but powerful: to promote opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to reach their full potential.

Brittany explains that developmental disabilities can include a wide range of conditions, such as autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and Down syndrome, along with other physical, learning, or behavioral challenges. But here in Knox County, the focus isn’t just on definitions—it’s on inclusion. She describes the community as one where people of all abilities can truly live, work, and grow together.

That spirit of inclusion will be front and center at a special event tonight. At 6 p.m., Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University will host a Special Olympics basketball game featuring the Knox County Eagles. The evening will also include cheerleaders and a lineup of local community leaders joining in the fun.

The event is made possible through partnerships with MVNU and community supporters like Paul McNeil, and it brings together a wide range of familiar local faces—from healthcare and law enforcement to business and public service. It’s shaping up to be a high-energy, meaningful night centered on connection and support.

As Brittany shared during the conversation, Special Olympics is about much more than sports. It creates a sense of belonging—not only for the athletes, but for everyone involved. Through competition and teamwork, athletes build physical fitness, leadership skills, and confidence, while also forming lasting relationships.

Events like tonight’s game also serve another important purpose: they create an easy entry point for the broader community. For many people, it may be their first time attending a Special Olympics event or interacting with individuals with developmental disabilities. That exposure helps build understanding, break down barriers, and strengthen the entire community.

Eric and Brittany also talked about what support looks like beyond just one month or one event. Brittany emphasized that awareness is only the beginning—what really matters is action. That can mean listening, advocating for accessibility, supporting inclusive workplaces, volunteering, and making a conscious effort to include others in everyday life, whether at work, community events, or places of worship.

She encourages everyone to come out to the game, not just for the fun of it, but for what it represents. Showing up sends a powerful message to the athletes that their community is behind them.

The game tips off at 6 p.m. at Ariel Arena, and admission is free, making it an easy way for families and community members to get involved and be part of something meaningful.

Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County DD!

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United Way of Knox County Builds Stronger Futures Through Education, Health, and Financial Stability

When you hear about the United Way, you might think of fundraising campaigns or workplace giving—but as Katie Ellis shared at this year’s United Way of Knox County Annual Meeting, it’s really about something much bigger: building a stronger, healthier community for everyone.

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart had the chance to sit down with Ellis, the organization’s Executive Director, to talk through the heart of United Way’s work—and it all comes down to three key pillars: education, health, and financial stability.

Click HERE to hear the full interview with Katie, Outgoing Board Chair Sam Filkins, and 2026 Board Chair Todd Taylor!

Starting with education, Ellis explained that their focus begins early—really early. United Way is committed to walking alongside children and families from birth all the way through graduation. That includes programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which puts free books into the hands of young children across Knox County, helping spark a love for reading from the very beginning.

But it doesn’t stop there. Through partnerships with organizations like Head Start and the Salvation Army, United Way is helping families build strong foundations during those critical early years. And as students grow, so do the opportunities. Programs like ROX are helping young girls build confidence and emotional resilience as they transition into middle school, while free after-school tutoring is giving 3rd through 5th graders extra support as they prepare for state testing.

All told, nearly $295,000 was invested into education initiatives in 2025—showing just how serious United Way is about helping kids succeed at every stage.

That same level of commitment carries over into the health pillar. Ellis shared that the goal here is simple: make healthy living accessible for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

That includes offering free or low-cost health screenings for women, newborns, and new mothers through partnerships with Knox Public Health, Head Start, and NoCo Health. But it also means thinking creatively about what “access” really looks like.

From wheelchair-accessible garden beds at the community garden to programs like Cycling Without Age, United Way is working to remove barriers and create opportunities for people to stay active and engaged. They’ve also partnered with the YMCA to provide scholarships and memberships so that finances don’t stand in the way of healthy lifestyles.

One of the biggest highlights? Every first grader in Knox County will now learn how to ride a bike in PE class thanks to the All Kids Bike program.

In 2025 alone, more than $272,000 was invested into health initiatives.

The third pillar—financial stability—focuses on helping individuals and families move forward, especially during difficult seasons.

Ellis explained that this work combines immediate assistance with long-term support. United Way partners with organizations like the Winter Sanctuary and New Directions to help people find stable housing, while also offering financial coaching to help them stay on track.

In times of crisis, partnerships with Interchurch Social Services, the Red Cross, and the Salvation Army help provide rent and utility assistance. And through their resource navigation program and the 2-1-1 hotline, residents can quickly connect with the services they need.

In 2025, over $301,000 was invested into financial stability programs—making it the largest of the three pillars.

Of course, none of this happens alone.

Ellis emphasized that United Way’s impact is truly a community effort. Local businesses, organizations, and volunteers all play a role—from major contributors like Ariel Corporation, Park National Bank, and Kokosing Construction to institutions like Kenyon College and Knox Community Hospital.

And it’s not just about dollars. In 2025, volunteers gave 972 hours of their time—supporting everything from tax preparation through VITA to community events like the Day of Caring.

One standout example? The Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities, which has achieved 19 consecutive years of 100% employee participation in giving.

As the conversation wrapped up, Ellis shared a look at the bigger picture. United Way passed its 2024 audit with strong results, keeping administrative costs low and ensuring that more than 86 cents of every dollar goes directly back into community programs.

And perhaps most importantly, she reminded listeners that United Way is bigger than any one person or campaign. It’s a movement that’s been part of Knox County for 75 years—investing millions of dollars and helping shape the community in lasting ways.

There’s also a sense of momentum moving forward.

Outgoing Board Chair Sam Filkins reflected on his long connection to United Way and reassured the community that even with recent transitions, the mission remains strong and local. Incoming 2026 Board Chair Todd Taylor echoed that confidence, sharing a vision focused on sustainability, collaboration, and listening closely to community needs.

As United Way looks ahead to its 75th anniversary in 2026, the message is clear: the work is ongoing, the partnerships are strong, and the impact is real.

Click HERE to read the United Way’s Annual Report!

Click HERE to learn more about the United Way of Knox County!

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United Way of Knox County Celebrates 75 Years While Continuing to Serve the Community

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.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

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!

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February 2026 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

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.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

A New Municipal Center Takes Shape

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!

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From Ohio to the Olympic Stage: Kyle Paladino’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience with Team USA in Italy

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.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

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)

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What Mount Vernon City Schools Is Planning Next — and Why a May Levy Is Part of the Conversation

Mount Vernon City Schools Superintendent Bill Seder recently sat down with WNZR’s Eric Brown to walk through the district’s long-term facilities plan and a proposed 1-percent earned income tax levy expected to appear on the May 2026 ballot.

Click HERE for the full conversation!

According to Seder, the proposal is the result of more than a year of planning, community input, and financial analysis aimed at addressing aging buildings, outdated learning spaces, rising maintenance costs, safety concerns, and limited accommodations for students with special needs.

Seder explained that the district’s master facilities plan includes building three new elementary schools, renovating the high school, and adding a new auditorium to better support growing participation in arts and extracurricular programs. The total estimated cost of the project is $118 million, reflecting current construction prices. About $38 million would come from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, with the remaining costs covered locally under strict state guidelines. While renovations were explored, Seder said rebuilding most elementary schools proved more cost-effective under Ohio’s two-thirds funding rule.

The proposed levy would be a 1-percent earned income tax, which Seder said was chosen to create a more balanced and sustainable funding model while protecting residents on fixed incomes. Property tax revenue is capped by state law, making income-based funding a more reliable long-term option. He also noted the district delayed placing the levy on the November ballot due to uncertainty surrounding the state budget and property tax changes, later determining May would provide more clarity.

Acknowledging the emotional and generational ties families have to existing school buildings, Seder emphasized the district’s desire to honor that history. Elements from older schools could be incorporated into new designs, blending tradition with modern learning environments. Plans also call for four elementary schools strategically placed across the city to meet safety, transportation, and site-size requirements.

If approved, the project would follow a multi-year timeline, beginning with design and planning before construction starts. If the levy does not pass, Seder said there would be no immediate cuts since this is a capital project, but the district would continue maintaining current buildings and consider future options. Residents will have multiple opportunities to learn more through district resources, building tours, and a citizen-led levy committee.

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