The Morning Thing Friday Favorites 3/20/26 – We celebrate the First Day of Spring!

Today is the First Day of Spring! We celebrate with the Big Blue Crew by talking about how we plan to enjoy the new season!

Click HERE to hear from our WNZR Staff members OR click on the image below.

We shared a list of ideas on how to enjoy this beautiful new season.

1. Watch for the First Robins

Robins are one of the classic signs of spring. Take a few minutes to watch and listen for birds returning after winter.

2. Open the Windows

Let fresh air into your home for the first time in a while. It’s a simple way to refresh your space and welcome the new season.

3. Try a “No Jacket” Walk

If the weather cooperates, enjoy a short walk without a winter coat and appreciate the warmer air.

4. Visit a Farmers Market

Some early markets begin opening in spring. Pick up fresh bread, honey, or early greens.

5. Make a Spring Bucket List

Write down 5–10 things you want to do before summer arrives—festivals, hikes, day trips, or projects.

6. Change Your Seasonal Decor

Swap out winter décor for lighter colors, flowers, or greenery around the house.

7. Take a “Signs of Spring” Photo Challenge

Look for buds, puddles, birds, flowers, or sunshine and take photos of the first signs you see.

8. Make a Bright Spring Meal

Cook something colorful like a salad with fresh greens, strawberries, or citrus.

9. Call Someone You Haven’t Talked to in a While

Spring is about renewal—reach out and reconnect with someone.

10. Read Outside

Even if it’s just for 10 minutes, grab a chair on the porch or sit in the sun with a book or devotional.

🌱 Bonus idea: Write down one thing you want to grow in your life this spring—patience, kindness, faith, creativity, or health—and pray or reflect on that throughout the season.

MORE IDEAS:

The first day of spring is the perfect excuse to reset your routine, get outside, and celebrate something fresh 🌱 Here are a mix of fun, meaningful, and easy ideas you can actually do:

🌸 Get Outside & Enjoy the Season

  • Take a walk at a local park and look for the first signs of blooms
  • Have a picnic (even if it’s a little chilly—blankets help!)
  • Watch the sunrise or sunset to mark the new season
  • Visit a farmers market or garden center
  • Start a small garden or plant flowers in pots

☀️ Refresh Your Life

  • Do a mini spring cleaning (just one room or even one drawer!)
  • Swap out winter clothes for lighter, brighter outfits
  • Open the windows and play music while you tidy up
  • Rearrange a room for a fresh feel

🌼 Simple Joys & Self-Care

  • Buy yourself fresh flowers
  • Try a new spring recipe (salads, fruit dishes, lemon desserts)
  • Journal about what you want this new season to look like
  • Set a few light, realistic goals for spring

🌷 Connect with Others

  • Invite a friend for coffee or a walk
  • Write a handwritten note to someone
  • Do something kind for a neighbor

🎉 Make It Fun & Memorable

  • Create a “spring bucket list”
  • Take photos to document the day
  • Start a new playlist with upbeat, fresh songs
  • Have a themed dinner (spring colors, fresh foods)

🌿 Meaningful/Reflective Ideas

  • Spend time in prayer or quiet reflection
  • Think about what you want to “let go of” from winter
  • Focus on gratitude for new beginnings
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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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Habits for Happy Couples!

Today on The Morning Thing, we highlighted great habits for couples! These are some small things that you can do to continue having a wonderful relationship.

Some of our favorites:

  • They hug each other for no reason.
  • They look into each other’s eyes while talking.
  • They plan small surprises — not expensive ones.
  • They sit close, not apart.

We hope that you can adopt a couple of these great habits and take your relationship to the next level.

Look below for the full list!

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Zane Menzie!

It’s time for Meet the Staff Monday, and this week we’re introducing Zane Menzie, one of the newest members of the WNZR radio team!

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Zane is from Marion, Ohio, and transferred to Mount Vernon Nazarene University after realizing his previous school in Columbus wasn’t the right fit. After visiting campus, he felt MVNU was the place for him and decided to make the move.

Zane joined WNZR through one of his classes and decided to give radio a try—and now you can hear him on the air Thursdays from 1–3pm. Outside the studio, he stays busy as the president of the Theatre Club, something he’s very passionate about. He even had the opportunity to direct his own play, which gave him the chance to see theatre from the other side of the curtain. Zane hopes to pursue a master’s degree in directing and producing, with dreams of becoming a professor or working with smaller theatre productions in the future.

This spring he’s also involved with the theatre production of Big Fish: The Musical, happening March 26–29. The show tells the story of a larger-than-life storyteller and the relationship between a father and son as they discover the truth behind the tall tales. You can search for MVNU Theatre tickets online if you’d like to attend.

When he’s not on the air or working with theatre, Zane enjoys making homemade sushi, playing video games on the weekends, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite song right now is “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

One interesting fact about Zane is that he was born with nerve damage in one ear and can only hear about 25% from it. He also shared how God has been helping him grow in his faith—learning to make it his own rather than simply following the faith of his family.

Be sure to tune in and hear Zane on WNZR Thursdays from 1–3pm!

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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WNZR congratulates the 2026 EmpowHER Award Winner Carrie Brown

Carrie Brown was the winner of the 2026 EmpowHER Award.
She was nominated by her friend Sandy Boone.
Click HERE to hear WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talk with Carrie.

Carrie is a registered nurse and leads a non-profit organization for at-risk youth called PELIA Equine. They have a summer camp, 4H club and after school programming.

Sandy volunteers with PELIA Equine. She talks about why she nominated Carrie for this award. She talks about how Carrie helped her out of a trauma experience with horses. Sandy also shares how Carrie has an incredible heart for the kids and takes the message of “love your neighbor” to a new level.

Carrie talks about the EmpowHER Event Theme – Vogue Presence – Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows. She talks about how your words are powerful. They have a saying in the barn – “Say what you mean, mean what you say”. She shares encouragement for women working with youth and how valuable it is to serve others.

EmpowHER Award:
This award is given to a Woman of Inspiration!
Belief is a powerful engine. This woman believes so strongly in the outcomes she seeks that her beliefs mold her path to get there. The recipient of this award champions for women in her network, workplace, and community. She is a team player and active mentor who paves the road to empowering women in leadership roles. She is a woman of inspiration that is true to herself, and her example is so noteworthy as to inspire others spontaneously. Her passion channels her actions and her voice as she strives to empower the women and girls of Knox County.

Thanks to New Directions of Knox County for hosting the 2026 EmpowHER Awards.

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WNZR congratulates the 2026 EmpowHER Event Grit and Grace Award Winner Amy Hull

Amy Hull was the winner of the 2026 Grit and Grace Award.
She was nominated by her sister, Lindsey Lamp.
Click HERE to hear WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talk with Amy.

Amy serves as the Senior Director of Operations for Tim Hortons. She works with 32 restaurants and 4 district managers. She talks about how she serves her team members and the community while balancing the life of a single Mom.
She also tells us about her sons Oakley (age 11) and Magnus (age 9).

Lindsey talks about why she nominated Amy for this award. These ladies are twin sisters! Lindsey talks about Amy’s influence over all the children in their family and how she advocates for others with grace. She also shares how Amy pours into her employees and gives life-changing second changes to empower her workers to a successful path.

Amy talks about the EmpowHER Event Theme – Vogue Presence – Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows. She talks about how she is living out this theme in her career and life. She talks about the power of words as she works with youth and encourages her sons.
She also shares encouragement for single Moms and women in leadership in business.
Grit and Grace Award:

This award is given to a single-parent mom who has overcome adversity and demonstrates resilience. She has transformed her life and the lives of her children with dignity and grace. She leads by example. She is a picture of selflessness and courage to all who encounter her.

Thanks to New Directions of Knox County for hosting the 2026 EmpowHER Awards.

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WNZR congratulates the 2026 EmpowHER Raising the Bar Award Winner Erin Skillman

Erin Skillman was the winner of the 2026 Raising the Bar Award.
She was nominated by her daughter, Chloe Skillman.
Click HERE to hear WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talk with Erin.

Erin has been serving as a hair designer and salon owner for 30 years. She owns a salon and spa in Westerville. She talks about how she loves the chance to make people feel good every day.

Chloe talks about why she nominated her Mom for this award. She talks about how Erin is an amazing volunteer with MTVarts and has done makeup and hair for SO many young performers and shows.

Erin talks about the EmpowHER Event Theme – Vogue Presence – Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows. She talks about grit, perseverance, starting over and being humble to learn from others. She also gives advice to women wanting to go into this field.

Raising the Bar Award:
This award is given to a Woman with 20+ years of experience in their field! The recipient of this award is an extraordinary woman who has manifested a legacy that continues to inspire others. She has dedicated her life to the advancement of those around her and paved the way for the leaders of tomorrow. She is recognized as an ambassador for women through her extraordinary dedication, personal achievements, and service to others through mentorship, philanthropy, and business. This award recognizes a woman who has spent more than 20 years in her field.

Thanks to New Directions of Knox County for hosting the 2026 EmpowHER Awards.

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WNZR congratulates the 2026 EmpowHER Event Heart Award Winner Karen Cherup

Karen Cherup was the winner of the 2026 Heart Award.
She was nominated by her daughter Katie Green.
Click HERE to hear WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talk with Karen.

Karen has served as a Registered Oncology Nurse for over 30 years! She has always desired to help others.
Katie talks about why she nominated her Mom for this award. She talks about how Karen is a living example of a servant leader.

Karen talks about the EmpowHER Event Theme – Vogue Presence – Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows. She talks about how women want to excel and be better within their fields. She gives advice to women who are interested in going into the nursing field.

Heart Award:
This award is given to a Front-Line worker! The Heart Award was born out of COVID19 and the need to acknowledge greater endeavors in support of our humanity with a focus on others over self. This woman has a commitment and passion for service while making an impact and leads with purpose. She has dedicated her life as a successful front-line worker. She has proven her endless dedication to her field.

Thanks to New Directions of Knox County for hosting the 2026 EmpowHER Awards.

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WNZR congratulates the 2026 EmpowHER Event Vision Builder Award Winner Olivia Breckler

Olivia Breckler was the winner of the 2026 Vision Builder Award.
She was nominated by her business partner, Stacey Rosselot.
Click HERE to hear WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talk with Olivia.

Olivia owns Wildflower Wellness Therapy Services. Olivia and Stacey are both Occupational Therapists. They offer mobile based occupational, speech and pelvic floor/lactation support services with a focus on women and children.

Stacey talks about why she nominated Olivia for this award. She talks about Olivia’s vision for providing services for women and babies.

Olivia talks about the EmpowHER Event Theme – Vogue Presence – Where Your Voice Leads, Change Follows. She talks about how she is living out this theme in her career and life.

Vision Builder Award:
Vision shapes our future. The recipient of this award is a woman with less than 10 years of experience in her field who has wasted no time making an impact and breaking down barriers. She emphasizes building honest relationships, values input, has the mindset of a leader, and leads by example with an immense amount of courage. She has valued what she’s learned from her mentors and wants to pay it forward as a mentor to others. She is changing the landscape in which women serve.

Thanks to New Directions of Knox County for hosting the 2026 EmpowHER Awards.

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