Jer-Zee Drive-In Opens for 75th Year

A couple and a single man stand in front of the Jer-zee. They are bundled up in coats. — David and Terry Persinger, left, and Kevin Ellinwood, right, wait for the Jer-zee to open.

Under cold skies with temperatures just above freezing, Marion residents lined up for the opening of the Jer-zee Drive-In at 923 East Center Street for its 75th year. Kevin Ellinwood was first in line on Valentine’s Day.

“I’ve been coming here on Opening Day for 49 years,” Ellinwood said.

As a child, Ellinwood grew up in the Chateau neighborhood near the Jer-zee. While he has moved, he always stops in on Opening Day to get his favorite orange slush.

Terry and David Persinger of Marion were next in line. The couple has been coming on Opening Day for many years.

“I had a friend and we would take turns to pick up stuff. I try to make it here and say, ‘Hi!’ to her in my heart. It’s our favorite shop,” Terry said.

They ordered foot-long coneys and a peanut butter milkshake as they celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary.

Kathy is a smiling white woman with short brown hair, sunglasses, and a gray puffy jacket with a small, red block "O". — Kathy Neff

Kathy Neff of Marion was fourth in line. She has lived here for 44 years and has been coming to the Jer-zee ever since.

“I’ve been here on Opening Day every year except when my son was graduating from boot camp,” Neff said.

While the Jer-zee offered many special Valentine’s Day treats, the regulars ordered their long-time favorites. Neff ordered a foot-long coney and a chocolate soda.

“It’s one of the few places that makes sodas they way they did when I was growing up in southern Ohio,” Neff said.

The long-time fans were grateful to have sunshine instead of years where they stood in snow or rain to wait for the Jer-zee staff to hand out their favorite treats.

Opening Day Origins

The opening in February was started nearly 60 years ago, said owner Barb Pine.

“It was tradition from the previous owners who had it for 30 years. I carried it on,” Pine said. “We make more sales in February and March instead of August. Everybody’s ready for it after being closed for five months. It feels like spring if the ice cream places are open.”

75th Celebration Planned

On June 29, 2024, the Jer-zee will have a celebration with a live band and tents. Hot dogs and and ice cream cones will be available for just 75 cents to mark the 75th year of serving Marion,

“We’re going to have a little bit of fun and give back to the community,” Pine said.

A black and white photo of the Jer-zee from decades ago.

For more info:

Phone: (740) 387-8356

Facebook page

Learn more about the Jer-zee’s history here.

MarionMade! is a program of Marion Technical College.

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