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!
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!
Mayor Matt Starr recently sat down with Eric Brown on WNZR for the January Spotlight on Mount Vernon, sharing updates on winter weather, city operations, and what residents can expect in the months ahead.
Unsurprisingly, the conversation started with snow—a lot of it. Mayor Starr said Mount Vernon is dealing with its heaviest snowfall in nearly a decade. City crews have been working long hours to move massive snow piles from major routes like South Main Street, High Street, and Public Square to secondary locations, while also clearing alleys and addressing drifting snow. He reminded drivers to slow down, especially near intersections where snowbanks limit visibility, and encouraged homeowners to shovel sidewalks to help keep everyone safe. Above all, he asked for patience and thanked city employees for their hard work during tough conditions.
Starr also highlighted several recent appointments and reappointments that help strengthen communication between the city and key community organizations. Amber Keener was reappointed to the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and John Ruckman to Experience Mount Vernon—both serving as non-voting liaisons that connect city leadership with tourism and economic development efforts. Greg Yashnyk was confirmed to the Municipal Planning Commission, a citizen-led board that helps guide zoning, growth, and long-term planning while balancing public and private interests. Starr emphasized how important civic engagement and thoughtful planning are to Mount Vernon’s future.
Another important topic was the Volunteer Peace Officers Dependents Fund Board, a state-required group that supports families of volunteer officers who are killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The board helps review claims and ensure benefits—such as disability payments or survivor support—are delivered quickly when needed. Starr also discussed the city’s lease agreement at 1 East High Street, which allowed the Almost Famous candy shop to transition to new ownership without interrupting utilities or operations. He said it’s a good example of how the city supports downtown businesses and local entrepreneurs who keep Public Square vibrant.
On the legislative side, Starr explained that recent resolutions related to bill payments and supplemental appropriations are mostly procedural but necessary to keep the city running smoothly. Some expenses—like utility costs tied to the H2Overhaul water meter project—arrive before purchase orders are finalized and require council approval. These steps allow the city to continue replacing outdated water meters while responsibly managing finances. He also noted that City Council remains active in community outreach, including the upcoming “Coffee with Council” event, where residents can connect directly with local leaders.
Public safety updates rounded out the discussion. Starr shared that the police department has an open officer position and encouraged qualified candidates to apply. Despite winter weather, traffic incidents have remained relatively low, though residents are urged to slow down on icy roads and check on elderly neighbors during cold snaps. The fire department continues responding to medical calls and mutual aid runs, and Starr reminded residents to follow safety guidelines when using space heaters, electric blankets, and wood-burning stoves.
Looking ahead to February, Starr outlined several priorities, including the city’s move into the new municipal building on South Main Street in partnership with Central Ohio Technical College. Renovations are underway, and planning continues for the future relocation of municipal court operations. He also mentioned upcoming legislation related to police station financing and highlighted community events such as the Washington Forum, dinner theater performances, downtown shopping events, and outdoor activities at Ariel Foundation Park.
Mayor Starr closed by thanking city workers, first responders, volunteers, and neighbors for supporting one another through winter challenges. He encouraged continued patience and cooperation.
Click HERE for the City of Mount Vernon’s website.
Downtown Mount Vernon’s growth is driven by people who invest their time, talent, and heart into the community—and on January 23rd, Experience Mount Vernon celebrated those individuals and organizations at its Annual Awards and Investor Reception at the Woodward Opera House.
From lifetime service and volunteer leadership to outstanding local businesses, community beautification, and nonprofit impact, the evening highlighted the stories behind downtown’s momentum. Honorees included John Nixon, Holly Krajenski, Lisa Lloyd, Happy Bean Coffee Shop, Burrata Woodfired, CES Credit Union, the Knox County Land Bank, and Habitat for Humanity of Knox County—each recognized for helping shape a more vibrant, connected Mount Vernon.
The Walter Rudin Downtown Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by Park National Bank:The Walter Rudin Award is presented annually to an individual who has shown exceptional dedication to the revitalization and enhancement of downtown Mount Vernon and its surrounding community. This prestigious award honors those who, through their years of service and commitment, have made noteworthy contributions that have positively impacted the growth and vibrancy of downtown Mount Vernon. Recipients of this award are recognized not only for their efforts in community engagement and support but also for their role in advancing the Experience Mount Vernon initiative, which aims to promote local culture, businesses, and events. This award serves as a testament to the recipient’s lasting influence and unwavering commitment to making downtown Mount Vernon a better place to live and visit.
WNZR’s Joe Rinehart spoke with John Nixon, recipient of the Walter Rudin Lifetime Achievement Award. Nixon expressed humility and gratitude for the honor and reflected on a lifetime of service in Mount Vernon’s arts and community projects. He credited faith, family, and friendships as guiding principles and shared how his early experiences in technical production led to decades of involvement in local events, organizations, and cultural initiatives.
Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year Award – Sponsored by Huntington Bank: The Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year Award honors an outstanding individual whose selfless dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on our community. This award recognizes a volunteer who goes above and beyond to support local initiatives, events, and organizations, embodying the spirit of service and community engagement. Through their unwavering commitment, this individual inspires others to get involved and fosters a culture of giving back in Mount Vernon. The recipient of this award exemplifies the true meaning of volunteerism, demonstrating passion, compassion, and a profound love for our community, making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Holly Krajenski, recipient of the Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year award. Krajenski shared that volunteering has become a meaningful family tradition involving her children and reflected on her service as a board member and events committee chair for Experience Mount Vernon. She highlighted her involvement in downtown events and encouraged others to get involved, emphasizing the positive impact volunteerism has on the community.
(Also listen to Holly’s Kids ask their mom for something very important during the interview)
Legacy Service Award in Honor of Lisa Lloyd (Inaugural Award)- Presented by the Experience Mount Vernon Staff
The Legacy Service Award recognizes an individual whose extraordinary commitment, leadership, and long-term dedication have shaped the success and advancement of Experience Mount Vernon. This award honors a person who has invested countless hours, energy, and passion into strengthening the organization, supporting its mission, championing its initiatives, and ensuring its continued impact in the community.
Given at the discretion of the Experience Mount Vernon staff and not necessarily presented every year, the Legacy Service Award in Honor of Lisa Lloyd celebrates those whose service reflects uncommon devotion and a lasting influence on the organization’s effectiveness and future. Recipients of this award embody the spirit of stewardship, consistency, and personal investment that help Experience Mount Vernon thrive.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Lisa Lloyd, recipient of the Legacy Service Award. Lloyd reflected on her twelve years of service with Experience Mount Vernon, including roles as treasurer and president. She emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and shared her excitement about the continued growth and transformation of downtown Mount Vernon.
Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by The Mount Vernon Grand Hotel: The Small Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 10 or fewer employees. This award celebrates an outstanding local business that demonstrates exceptional dedication to our community, commitment to customer service, and innovative business practices. This award recognizes a small business that not only contributes to the local economy but also embodies the spirit and values of Mount Vernon, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The recipient of this award is a leader in their field, an advocate for positive growth, and a valued member of the Mount Vernon community, setting an example through resilience, creativity, and unwavering community support.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Clayton Christopher, a manager at Happy Bean Coffee Shop, following the announcement of the Small Business of the Year award. Christopher expressed pride in the recognition and credited owner Jill Ballenger’s leadership and commitment to the community. He highlighted the business’s growth from its downtown location to a second shop at Mount Vernon Nazarene University and emphasized the strong connection Happy Bean has built with both students and the local community.
Click HERE for more information about Happy Bean Coffee.
Mid-Size Business of the Year – Sponsored by Knox Community Hospital: The Mid-Size Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 11-49 employees. This award honors a business that exemplifies excellence and dedication within our community. This award is presented to a mid-sized business that has shown remarkable leadership, commitment to innovation, and a passion for supporting the Mount Vernon area. Through their outstanding service, growth, and contributions, this business enriches the local economy and enhances the community’s vitality. The recipient is recognized as a role model for its dedication to quality, and community engagement, inspiring others to build a stronger, more vibrant Mount Vernon.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Erica Grigsby, owner of Burrata Woodfired, after she received the Medium Business of the Year award. Grigsby described the recognition as emotional and meaningful, reflecting the hard work of her team.
She shared that Burrata Woodfired, located just north of downtown Mount Vernon, offers wood-fired pizza and scratch-made Italian dishes and recently celebrated its two-year anniversary. She also expressed gratitude for the community’s support.
Click HERE for more information about Burrata Woodfired.
Large Business/Corporate Investor of the Year – Sponsored by Flappers Bar & Grille: The Large/Corporate Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 50+ employees. This award recognizes an exceptional organization whose influence and dedication significantly benefit the Mount Vernon community. This award is presented to a large or corporate business that demonstrates outstanding leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to responsible growth. By fostering local partnerships, supporting community initiatives, and investing in the area’s economic vitality, this business exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner. The recipient of this award is celebrated for setting a high standard in corporate citizenship, strengthening Mount Vernon, and inspiring others to contribute meaningfully to the community.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Mike Copley, president and CEO of CES Credit Union, following the announcement of the Large Employer of the Year award. Copley described the recognition as an honor and highlighted CES Credit Union’s long history in Mount Vernon and its commitment to community involvement through partnerships with local organizations. He noted that the award reflects decades of service to members and the community.
Click HERE for more information about CES Credit Union
Community Pride Beautification Award – Sponsored by Griffin Insurance: The Community Pride Beautification Award celebrates a business or organization that has made a remarkable impact on the beauty and charm of Downtown Mount Vernon. This award is given to a business that has shown exceptional dedication to enhancing the downtown aesthetic through thoughtful renovations, beautification efforts, or creative design. Their commitment to creating an inviting and vibrant environment not only enriches the area’s appeal but also fosters a sense of pride among residents and visitors alike. The recipient of this award exemplifies what it means to invest in the heart of our community, making Downtown Mount Vernon a more attractive and welcoming place for all.
WNZR’s Joe Rinehart spoke with Sam Filkins of the Knox County Land Bank, recipient of the Community Pride Downtown Beautification Award. Filkins highlighted the Land Bank’s mission to transform vacant and abandoned properties into community assets. He shared updates on major redevelopment projects, including the Heartland Commerce Park and the former Mount Vernon News building, and emphasized the role of collaboration in strengthening neighborhoods and driving economic growth.
Click HERE for more information about the Knox County Landbank
Non-profit of the Year – Sponsored by Kidwell & Cunningham: The Non-Profit of the Year Award is presented to an investor or downtown Non-Profit Organization. This honors a remarkable organization that tirelessly serves and uplifts our community. This award recognizes a non-profit whose dedication, compassion, and impactful initiatives make a profound difference in the lives of Mount Vernon’s residents. Through their commitment to service, advocacy, and positive change, this organization embodies the spirit of community and enriches Mount Vernon as a whole. The recipient of this award is celebrated for their selflessness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to a better Mount Vernon, setting a powerful example of what it means to serve.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Sarah Scott, director of community engagement for Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, after the organization was named Nonprofit of the Year. Scott reflected on a year of growth and transition, including the move to downtown Mount Vernon. She highlighted the organization’s partnerships with local businesses and community groups and reaffirmed Habitat’s mission to strengthen neighborhoods through housing and volunteer engagement.
Click HERE for more information about Habitat for Humanity.
Click HERE for more information about Experience Mount Vernon!
Jim Riggle, the Principal of Academics, Attendance, and Discipline at the Knox County Career Center, recently chatted with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart about this year’s big event.
Jim has been involved with the basket auction for seven years and shared why it’s such a highlight for the community. The auction officially kicked off at midnight on Cyber Monday, and bidding will wrap up on December 12th.
Here is a complete list of the baskets up for bid during the auction!
Jim Riggle shared some insights about the Food for the Hungry Basket Auction. He explained how easy it is to check your bids and get involved, and he made sure to give a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helps make the auction possible.
He also talked about why these baskets are such a big deal. They give students in different Career Center labs a chance to showcase their skills, gain hands-on experience, and have some fun in the process. Jim highlighted how incredible the students are and shared a special moment from the first Chance Application Night, where former students returned to make the evening truly memorable.
Wrapping up, Jim expressed his gratitude for the community’s support. He said he feels especially blessed this year and is excited to celebrate 44 years of the Food for the Hungry program. He also reflected on what FFTH’s slogan means to him, emphasizing the sense of community and shared purpose behind the auction.
Click HERE to find out more about Food For The Hungry!
Downtown Mount Vernon is getting ready to sparkle—fairytale style. Lacey Filkins, Executive Director for Experience Mount Vernon, recently sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to share everything we can expect from this year’s Winter in Downtown theme: “Once Upon a Holiday.” Think whimsical storefronts, magical parade floats, and that cozy, storybook feeling that only small-town holidays can deliver.
Small Business Saturday: Shop Local, Find Treasures
The celebration kicks off with Small Business Saturday, which Lacey describes as part shopping event, part treasure hunt. The goal is simple: support the heart of Mount Vernon—our small businesses and local shop owners. Many stores downtown will be open and offering surprises throughout the weekend.
Sunday’s Holiday Parade & Downtown Festivities
Sunday’s schedule is packed with charm and activity.
The Holiday Parade begins at 4 PM, running north and ending at Public Square.
With 52 entries—including floats, trucks, and of course, horses—it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest parades yet.
Parade judges will be out selecting winners for several award categories, each supported by local sponsors.
For safety, visitors are asked not to park downtown due to the number of horses, vehicles, and people involved. The best viewing spots? South Main Street and around the Square.
Free Photo Booth Fun
From 1–6:30 PM, stop by the lower level of the Mount Vernon Grand for a free photo booth experience—complete with themed props provided by community sponsors. It’s a great chance to capture those holiday memories with friends and family.
Lighting of Public Square & Santa Sightings
Immediately after the parade—around 5 PM—the community will gather for the lighting of Public Square. Santa himself will help flip the switch to kick off the season.
You can also snag free photos with Santa:
Sunday, after the lighting ceremony until 7 PM
Wednesday, December 10, from 5:30–7 PM, both at the Mount Vernon Grand
If you’d like to give back, you can bring Food for the Hungry donations to designated collection points downtown. FFTH will also be represented with a parade float.
Festival of Lights Returns
Another much-loved tradition is back: the Festival of Lights.
Registration to participate is open until December 8.
Community voting happens December 12–14.
You can vote and view the full map of participating homes and displays at: experiencemv.org/2025-festival-of-lights.
Lacey also explained a few voting guidelines to keep things fair and fun for everyone.
Rain Plan
If Sunday’s parade gets rained out, it will be rescheduled to the following weekend. However, the lighting ceremony will still take place Sunday night, rain or shine.
A Look Ahead
Before wrapping up, Lacey shared gratitude for Experience Mount Vernon’s partners and team members whose work makes all these events possible. She also hinted at big things coming in 2026, including First Fridays and celebrations tied to America’s 250th birthday.
To stay connected, follow Experience Mount Vernon on social media or visit their website for updates, volunteer opportunities, and event announcements.
This season, Mount Vernon isn’t just celebrating the holidays—it’s stepping right into a storybook. And you’re invited to be part of every chapter.
Click HERE to learn more about Winter in Downtown!
WNZR’s Eric Brown speaks with Stacey Keyser with Flying Horse Farms. Stacey talks about the camp located near Mount Gilead and is a medical specialty camp. They serve kids with chronic and serious illnesses that can’t go to traditional camp settings.
She talks about how the camps has grown in 15 years and has served over 10,000 campers including having family camps in both the spring and fall.
Stacey says camp is not just good medicine for kids and families to heal and grow, but it is great medicine. She says camp gives these kids a sense of belonging and just focus on being a kid.
She says this past summer marked the most camp sessions in the camp history including adding more opportunities for family camps.
Stacey says 1/3rd of campers experience camp for the first time at Flying Horse Farms and she talks about being a part of these kids “firsts.” She said they see as many tears from parents as they do from the campers.
She says that trust is a huge part of making the kids and families trust the staff.
She said they have campers from 15 different states due in part because camp is COST FREE thanks to donors of the farms.
Stacey says that demand exceeded availability this year and explains who their new rolling admissions works and how it allows more campers to attend camp.
She says that family camp welcomed 19 families this summer. She says when a child experiences an illness, the whole family is impacted. When families come together, the entire family can bond with different families, and it can grow into friendship.
Stacye says they had over 300 volunteers contributed this summer and how they build the “magic” for campers so they and their families can have fun and are the “Lifeline of what they do.
Stacey says that Flying Horse Farms recently joined the ACA’s Program quality cohort and explains how that benefits the campers and their families.
Stacey explains a unique ceremony they do at Flying Horse Farms to celebrate the campers dreams, hopes and essentially a way for you to pray for the Farms
Click HERE to find out more about Flying Horse Farms!
He talks about major construction projects on Mansfield Avenue and Fairgrounds Roads. He also talks about a comprehensive infrastructure initiative regarding water lines and culvert replacements. The bid for the shared use path is also now open.
Mayor Starr then talks about the current municipal building and the safety of the building. He says that they need to move from the building as soon as possible.
Mayor Starr says renovations at Memorial Park have started and things are moving along nicely. The Harmony Playground is doing well and at Riverside Park the Splash Pad is almost done and should be open in May and the opening of Hiawatha Water Park.
Mayor Starr talks about Issue 2 which is on the statewide ballot this May. Issue 2 is a proposed change to the constitution that would let the state government borrow $2.5 billion over ten years—up to $250 million each year—to help local governments cover costs for public infrastructure projects.
Mayor Starr gives an update on city council. He talks about council working on a grant for the police station. He also says that a property transfer to the Land Bank has been a hot topic, an update on the Knox County Comprehensive Plan.
Mayor Starr gives an update on the police department and their new facility.
Mayor Starr gives an update on the fire department and the large amount of training they have been doing. They’ve also applied for a First Responder grant.
Mayor Starr says that one of his goals for May is coming up with a plan to vacate the municipal plaza building. He also talks about some other projects around town.
Mayor Starr says that they are going to be applying for a $2.5 million grant for the Waste water Treatment Plant.
Mayor Starr talks about upcoming events for the city including the Yard Sale Trail which is this weekend.
Mayor Starr talks about how we can pray for him, city council and others trying to improve the lives of citizens of Mount Vernon. He also shares how you can stay up to date online.
Click HERE to visit the City of Mount Vernon’s website.
Lacey Filkins, Executive Director Experience Mount Vernon stopped by WNZR to give us a highlight of Winter in Downtown Mount Vernon. Click HERE to hear the full conversation or click on the link below.
Lacey talked about this year’s theme – A Vintage Holiday Celebration. She highlighted the exciting schedule: Saturday 11/30 – Shop Small Saturday Sunday 12/1: 3:45pm – Annual Holiday Parade 4:15pm – Festive Family Fun 5:00pm – Lighting of the Public Square 5:30pm – 7:00pm – Pictures with Santa at the Mount Vernon Grand Hotel
Lacey shared about the parade route and the best place to be seated. There are 60 different floats signed up for this year! There are 10 different awards including Best Overall, Judges Choice and Best Youth (sponsored by WNZR/MVNU). The parade is a Food For The Hungry collection point. FFTH will push carts in the parade so that people can donate while they walk through downtown. If there is rain, the parade is rescheduled for Sunday, December 8th at the same time and location.
Lacey talks about the Festive Family Fun. After the parade the public square will be filled with the Dogwood Blossoms singing carols. There will be ornament craft tables, letters to Santa, three different food trucks and a holiday market.
The lighting of the public square will take place when it gets dark. Santa and Mayor Star will be there. Santa is in the lower lobby of the Grand Hotel at 5:30-7:00pm. Pictures with Santa are free!
The event starts at 6:00pm on December 14th. They have four different categories. Best Storefront, Best Classic White Light Display, Best Vintage Inspired and Best Light Up the City Display.
The public is invited to vote as well as the assigned judges. The 14th, 15th and 16th are the voting dates.
The winners will be announced on the Experience Mount Vernon Facebook page on the 17th by 5pm. Winners will also be emailed directly.
Lacey wants to thank Park National Bank, Burrata Woodfired, Knox Community Hospital, Dumbaugh Insurance, Shelter Insurance, Ariel Corporation for their sponsorship. She would also like to thank the City Streets Department and MVPD for coordinating the parade. Lacey would like to thank their volunteers and for Santa.
Lacey would like to thank True Cut Landscaping and for volunteers for hanging the lights and ornaments in the square.
Lacey talks about future events that Experience Mount Vernon is planning for 2025. They are already planning their First Fridays. July First Friday will take place on a Thursday in 2025 to plan around July 4th weekend.
You can signup to the Experience Mount Vernon newsletter to keep up to date on all Experience Mount Vernon events. They also post updates on their website and Facebook page. https://www.experiencemv.org/
For our Friday Favorites today, The Morning Thing hosts celebrated National Road Trip Day. They shared their favorite road trip memories. Where will YOU go today?
Rise and Shine 