The Morning Thing celebrates President’s Day with powerful quotes.

Today, we celebrated President’s Day by sharing the history behind this holiday. 
Click HERE to find out how this holiday started in 1879!

We will also read some of the best quotes about leadership from our U.S. Presidents. There is great power in our words!
Click HERE to see the complete list of quotes from teambuilding.com

Here are some of our favorite quotes:

“Ninety-nine percent of failures come from people who make excuses.” ― George Washington

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” ― Abraham Lincoln

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” ― Calvin Coolidge

“In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.” ― Theodore Roosevelt

“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” ― Franklin D. Roosevelt

“The harder the conflict, the greater the triumph.” – George Washington

“Honesty is the first chapter of the book wisdom.” ― Thomas Jefferson

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are a leader.” ― John Quincy Adams

“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” ― John F. Kennedy

“Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” ―Theodore Roosevelt


    The Moring Thing Friday Favorites – celebrating National Library Lovers Month

    For our Friday Favorites today, The Morning Thing is celebrating National Library Lovers Month! The hosts shared one of their favorite books by reading a small portion of the book.
    We hope you find a few good books to enjoy this weekend!

    The Morning Thing Talks About the True Meaning of Love from the Bible!

    “In the Bible, love is the essence of God’s character and the defining quality of his selfless, life-giving relationship with humanity.” – The Bible Project

    We thought it was fitting to share all about the true meaning of love for Valentine’s Day on The Morning Thing. The Bible Project has great insight, read the full article HERE.

    Happy Valentine’s Day from WNZR and The Morning Thing!

    Need a unique idea for your Valentine?

    The Morning Thing is here to help you get ready for Valentine’s Day! Today, we shared ideas for any relationship stage.
    There are 79 different ideas in this article from theknot.com
    Click HERE to see the full list.

    Here are some of our favorites. We hope you find a special way to say I Love You this year!
    (Disclaimer – some of these ideas are specifically for married couples)

    Cute Valentine’s Day Ideas to Show Off Your Love

    We know a thing or two about swoon-worthy gestures, including which cute Valentine’s Day ideas will wow your S.O. Big and small, these Valentine’s Day things to do and cute Valentine’s date ideas will make your person feel cherished and adored.

    1. Wake Them Up to a Romantic Message

    Start Valentine’s Day on a strong note by leaving your partner a romantic (or sultry!) message to wake up to. Write something in lipstick or steam on your bathroom mirror, or leave them a handwritten note in bed to kick off your day of romance. And if you don’t live together or are in a long-distance relationship, consider a good morning text for her or him.  .

    2. Surprise Them With Lunch at Work

    Since February 14, 2024, falls on a Wednesday, most will have to work on V-Day. Give your partner a smile in the middle of the day by surprising them with lunch. You can use apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats or call for delivery to make the drop remotely. Or, if you’re able to, bring them lunch yourself—and you can throw in a kiss, too.

    3. Pen a Personal Valentine’s Day Card Message

    What’s V-Day without a special card? Make sure your partner knows just how much you mean to them by purchasing a Valentine’s Day Card and writing a thoughtful message on the inside.

    4. Post to Instagram

    We know you’re itching to post all those cute couple pics on the ‘gram, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity. Using one of our Valentine’s Day captions, craft an ode to your S.O. and spread the love on social media.

    5. Make a Valentine’s Day Playlist

    When you just can’t seem to come up with adequate words yourself, let music do the talking. If you need a cute Valentine’s Day idea, create a Valentine’s playlist of your favorite love songs and share it when the holiday arrives.

    6. Serve Up Breakfast in Bed

    Let’s be real: Everyone loves the thought of getting served breakfast in bed, especially on Valentine’s Day. Wake up early to prepare a delicious spread of your partner’s favorite breakfast foods and deliver it first thing in the morning. (Bonus points if your meal is accompanied by a stunning arrangement of flowers.)

    7. Send Flowers

    Speaking of flowers, delivering red roses to your love is one of the most romantic Valentine’s Day ideas of all time. Head to your local florist or source a bouquet from an online seller to ensure your partner wakes up to a gorgeous display of fresh blooms.

    8. Give Them a Cute Valentine’s Day Gift

    Presents and Valentine’s Day go hand-in-hand. Browse our roundup of the best V-Day gifts to find something special that’ll make any boyfriend, girlfriend, fiancé or spouse feel loved.

    9. Mark Something Off Your Bucket List

    For a once-in-a-lifetime Valentine’s Day date idea, plan an activity that’s on your bucket list. From traveling somewhere exciting to making a reservation at that special restaurant you’ve been dying to go to, this cute activity will seriously impress your S.O.

    10. Buy Their Favorite Food

    You know your person better than anyone. Whether they have a serious sweet tooth or they’re always asking for sushi take-out, make sure they get a taste of their favorite food on Valentine’s Day.

    Unique Valentine’s Day Ideas for Couples

    Looking for something a little more out of the box? We’ve got plenty of unique ideas for Valentine’s Day right here. Your partner won’t suspect a thing if you opt for one of these creative dates.

    11. Take a Pottery Class

    In lieu of spending money on gifts this year, put those funds toward a couple’s pottery class. You’ll be able to get creative (and messy!) and can gift one another your pieces of pottery after frying/drying.

    12. Get Dreamy at the Planetarium

    Take a cue from Ross and Rachel (no, not with the whole break thing) and gaze up at a planetarium’s stars on a date. This unique idea for Valentine’s Day will allow you to gaze at the romantic night sky even if you live in a city or chilly location.

    13. Plan a Romantic Getaway

    What could be cooler than going on a romantic getaway to mark Valentine’s Day? While this activity will take some planning ahead of time, your S.O. will be totally blown away by your thoughtfulness.

    14. Go to a Concert

    Music lovers, take note. Valentine’s Day is the perfect chance to go see a concert or a show. (Bonus points if you’re able to snag tickets to a performer you both love.)

    15. Book a Cooking Class

    When you can’t think of unique ideas for Valentine’s Day, enroll in a local cooking class. Not only is this a fun way for the two of you to pick up some new skills, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious dinner at the end. How’s that for a win?

    16. Buy Museum Passes

    Art and history buffs alike will love this creative Valentine’s Day idea. Buy passes to a local museum or exhibit, and you’ll have so much fun leisurely strolling around and learning new things together.

    17. Head to the Movies

    You can’t go wrong by heading to the movie theater for a fun idea for Valentine’s Day. Stock up on popcorn, soda and your favorite candy to enjoy as you take in a new flick.

    18. Explore Your Hometown

    Sometimes, the best Valentine’s Day ideas are hidden in your backyard. There’s so much fun to be had in your hometown—all you need is a little curiosity. Head out on an expedition of your local town or city in search of something new to do that you haven’t experienced yet. You never know what adventures you’ll have along the way.

    19. Take a Workout Class Together

    If your love language is getting a good sweat in, Valentine’s Day is a great time to do it together. Book a class at your local spin studio, head out on a long run, or slow things down with a hot yoga session to get those endorphins flowing.

    20. Plan a Spa Day

    Valentine’s Day can be an occasion for rest and relaxation, so enjoy a little R&R together at your local spa. Book a couples massage, enjoy some time in the sauna, or indulge in a facial with all the extras. You two deserve it.

    21. Go to a Comedy Show

    Laugh until your stomach hurts by snagging tickets to a comedy show on Valentine’s Day. Follow it up by getting post-show dinner and drinks at a nice restaurant for a memorable V-Day activity.

    22. Adopt a Pet

    Couples who are ready to grow their family by a few paws (or fins, or scales) may be intrigued by the idea of adopting a pet on Valentine’s Day. After all, nothing says love quite like welcoming a furry friend into your home and hearts.

    23. Go Camping

    Adventurers in search of cool things to do on Valentine’s Day need not look further. Connect with the great outdoors by pitching a tent and sleeping among the stars—if you live in a warm enough climate, that is.

    Valentine’s Day Dinner Ideas for Couples

    V-Day is pretty much synonymous with bubbles, chocolate and fine dining—so a romantic dinner date is always a good idea. Here, find some of our favorite things to do on Valentine’s Day that involve food.

    31. Play TikTok’s Date Game

    If you’re on TikTok, there’s a chance you’ve seen the date game: an activity where couples play rock, paper, scissors to decide who picks where they’ll get drinks, appetizers, entrees and dessert. This Valentine’s Day dinner idea is particularly apropos for indecisive foodies.

    32. Find a Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu

    Many restaurants offer prix fixe menus in honor of Valentine’s Day—in other words, a meal of several courses at a fixed price. A quick Google search for special prix fixe menus in your area will present you with a variety of restaurants worth dining at for an extra-special V-Day experience.

    33. Reserve a Table with a View

    Up the ante of your Valentine’s Day dinner date by requesting a table with a nice view. While not all restaurants may be able to guarantee where your spot will be, it won’t hurt to give them a call ahead of time to see what they can offer. Or, plan your Valentine’s Day date at a restaurant that offers stunning views from every seat in the house.

    34. Order a Home Meal Kit

    Not into the idea of going out for dinner on Valentine’s Day? Bring the fine dining experience to your kitchen with a meal kit service. These pre-made boxes come with every ingredient you need for a stellar recipe, thus taking the guesswork out of cooking. Don’t underestimate how accomplished you’ll feel after preparing a delicious dinner from scratch.

    35. Order Take-Out

    When you can’t even be bothered to cook on Valentine’s Day, treat yourself to take-out. You won’t regret a cozy night at home with your favorite bottle of wine and yummy pad Thai.

    36. Host a Potluck Dinner With Friends

    Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your besties? Yes, please. We love the idea of hosting a potluck dinner with your nearest and dearest. Invite everyone to celebrate the holiday at your place and ask them to bring their favorite dish for one big, unforgettable meal.

    37. Recreate Your First Date

    Take it back to the beginning with this creative Valentine’s Day idea. Reminisce on your very first date with your S.O. What did you do? If you met for dinner and drinks, go back to that same restaurant to relive your early days as a couple.

    38. Have a Pizza Taste Test Game

    Here’s a Valentine’s Day dinner idea for pizza lovers: Grab a pie from all of your favorite pizzerias, and do a blindfolded taste test at home to see how well you really know your local slices. That’s amore!

    39. Create Your Own Wine Tasting Experience

    Bring the winery to your kitchen by setting up your own tasting activity for V-Day. Grab a few bottles of different blends and enjoy your sips with homemade charcuterie and crudités.

    40. Make Each Other’s Favorite Meals

    This Valentine’s Day date idea is fitting for the couple who can never decide on a place to go out to eat. Let’s say you love Italian, but your partner prefers Mexican—challenge yourselves to create your partner’s all-time favorite dinner dish. Not only will this fun date force you to get creative in the kitchen, it may inspire you to cook outside your comfort zone more often.

    41. Host Your Own Bake-Off Challenge

    Can’t get enough of The Great British Bake Off? Celebrate February 14 with this adorable Valentine’s Day idea inspired by the beloved competition series. Select a dessert for you and your partner to make, and see whose is better. (Pssst…There are no losers in this game, because you’ll both have a sweet ending to another great Valentine’s Day together.)

    Romantic Valentine’s Day Date Ideas for Every Budget

    How much you spend on your Valentine’s Day activity is completely up to you. While you can splurge on luxe gifts or a fancy date night, you certainly don’t have to spend a lot of money to show your partner how much you love them. Whether you’re looking to save or splurge, here are our favorite Valentine’s Day ideas for a variety of budgets.

    Under $50

    • 42. Head to your local coffee shop for lattes and pastries.
    • 43. Do a puzzle together.
    • 44. Play trivia at a local bar.
    • 45. Go stargazing in your backyard.
    • 46. Get your favorite takeout delivered.

    $50 – $100

    • 47. Create a scavenger hunt in your hometown that ends with a romantic dinner.
    • 48. Go to a drive-in.
    • 49. Plan a DIY wine and charcuterie night.
    • 50. Get materials for a craft night at home.
    • 51. Go thrift shopping.

    $100 – $200

    • 52. Indulge in a wine tasting experience at a winery.
    • 53. Go brewery hopping.
    • 54. Book a couples’ massage.
    • 55. Go on a double date with friends.
    • 56. Head to a local theme park.

    $200 – $500

    • 57. Plan a romantic staycation in your hometown.
    • 58. Enjoy fine dining at an elevated restaurant.
    • 59. Book a boudoir photoshoot.
    • 60. Take a day trip somewhere within driving distance.
    • 61. Get tickets to a local comedy or theater show.

    $500 and up

    • 63. Pull out all the stops with a romantic, over-the-top proposal.
    • 64. Charter a helicopter ride.
    • 65. Splurge on a nice suite in a fancy hotel room.
    • 66. Book an international trip you’ve both been wanting to take.
    • 67. Rent a boat for the day.

    Free Valentine’s Day Activities

    In the words of JLo, love don’t cost a thing. There are plenty of cool and romantic Valentine’s Day date ideas that are completely free—it just takes a little creativity to bring them to life. Here are some of our favorite date ideas for Valentine’s Day that won’t set you back a cent.

    68. Book Club with Bae

    A couple of weeks before Valentine’s Day, choose a romantic book you’ve both been wanting to read. (You can borrow them from the library.) Then, host a cute book club date just for the two of you when Valentine’s Day rolls around—themed treats and all!

    69. Take a Hike

    Lace up your boots and immerse yourselves in nature by heading out on a Valentine’s Day hike. The photos you get from the summit will be well worth the effort, especially if you hit it right at sunrise or sunset.

    70. Go Skating

    Depending on where you live, you might be able to head to a local ice rink or skate park free of charge. Or, if you live somewhere warm, grab your rollerskates and hit the town for a spin. (Looking at you, West Coasters.)

    71. Tour Art Galleries

    Not all art galleries have entrance fees. Do some research to discover nearby museums that are free of charge. This affordable Valentine’s Day date idea will also allow you to immerse yourself in local culture, a huge win if you’re new to the area (or if you just want something creative to do).

    72. Play Truth or Dare

    Remember this childhood favorite? Not only is truth or dare is totally free, the memories you make will be priceless. Plus, you’ll have a great time connecting to your inner child with this Valentine’s Day activity.

    73. Watch a Movie

    Homebodies will adore this cute Valentine’s Day day date idea. Transform your living room into a cozy oasis of blankets, pillows and candles to set the mood for a movie night in the comfort of your own home. (And we’d be remiss not to recommend watching some of our all-time favorite wedding movies.)

    74. Have a Picnic

    You’re never too old for a good, old-fashioned picnic. In fact, you don’t have to splash out on a fancy dinner just because it’s Valentine’s Day. There’s something extra romantic about preparing a meal together—especially if you or your partner are aspiring home chefs.

    75. Make Playlists for Each Other

    Consider this one of our favorite Valentine’s Day ideas of all time. Since music is closely intertwined with memory and emotion, set aside time for you and your S.O. to make playlists for each other. Think about the songs that remind you of them. Is there a tune you heard on your first date? Do you have a shared karaoke hit? What song always makes you think of them when it comes on the radio? Compile your top picks, then listen to the playlists together. It’s totally free, and it’ll give you all the feels.

    76. Have Deep Conversations

    A holiday dedicated to love is a great time to strengthen your bond, so pop a bottle of bubbly and have some deep conversations.

    77. Create an At-Home Spa

    The costs of a spa day can quickly add up, so if you need a Valentine’s Day idea that won’t break the bank, bring the experience to you. Create an at-home spa by dimming the lights, sparking some candles, drawing a bubble bath, and giving each other massages.

    78. Volunteer Together

    One of the best ways to mark Valentine’s Day is to spread love to others. Volunteering is totally free and is an impactful way to make a difference. Those looking for things to do on Valentine’s Day might find it fulfilling to spend time giving back on this special day.

    79. Go Star-Gazing in Your Backyard

    When night falls on Valentine’s Day, bundle up and head outside to look at the stars. This underrated Valentine’s Day date idea costs absolutely nothing and is perfect for astrology and nature lovers alike.

    Do you know an amazing Woman? You need to know about the EmpowHER Event with New Directions

    Alyssa Sidle of The Morning Thing talked with Lindsey Lamp, Executive Director of New Directions.
    Lindsey talked about the recent transitions for New Directions and announced the good news that the organization is fully staffed. She shared the inspiration behind the EmpowHER event and described each award that will be given out. Lindsey also talked about the scholarships that will be given to high school senior girls.

    Click HERE to hear the entire conversation.

    There are multiple EmpowHER awards. Click HERE to nominate an amazing woman that you know.

    Nominate 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.

    Nominate a woman who is 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. Do you know a woman with commitment and passion for service while making an impact and leading with purpose? Has she dedicated her life as a successful front-line worker? Has she proven her endless dedication to her field (healthcare worker, educator, etc.)?Nominate a woman front-line worker you know today for the Heart Award presented at New Directions’ EmpowHER Event held on March 1st. Each winner is provided free entry to the event and a gift for being her amazing self!

    Nominate a single mother today!
    Do you know a single-parent mom who has overcome adversity and demonstrates resilience?
    Has she transformed her life and the lives of her children with dignity and grace?
    Does she lead by example?
    Is she a picture of selflessness and courage to all who encounter her?
    Nominate her today for the Grit & Grace Award presented at New Directions’ EmpowHER Event held on March 1st. Each winner is provided free entry to the event and a gift for being her amazing self!

    Nominate 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.
    Nominate a woman with 20+ years of experience in their field for the Raising the Bar Award presented at New Directions’ EmpowHER Event held on March 1st. Each winner is provided free entry to the event and a gift for being her amazing self!

    Nominate a woman with less than 10 years of making an impact and breaking down barriers!
    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.
    Nominate a woman you know today for the Vision Builder Award presented at New Directions’ EmpowHER Event held on March 1st. Each winner is provided free entry to the event and a gift for being her amazing self!

    Are you a female high school senior who uses her girl power to empower others? Apply for our Girl Power Scholarship! The recipient of this scholarship will receive $2500 to go towards furthering their education!

    Wednesday, 2/14 is the deadline to submit nominations.
    Click HERE to nominate an amazing woman that you know.

    The Morning Thing shares ways to make Valentine’s Day sweet for your family

    Valentine’s Day is next Wednesday! YES – 1 week away!
    Today, The Morning Thing shared some fun ideas on how to make this day extra special for your family.

    Thanks to imom.com for their wonderful and creative ideas!
    Let us know if you try any of the ideas. We would love to share your family’s story!

    The Morning Thing Shares Ways to Show Your Child Love this Valentine’s Day!

    “Feeling loved is key to a child’s healthy development. There are many ways to show you care that go beyond candy and cards. Here are 14 tips for Valentines Day—or any day.”

    The Morning Thing highlighted some of these great tips from Healthy Children! Read the full article HERE.

    We hope you have a happy and lovely Valentine’s Day!

    NO is a beautiful word!

    Do you have a problem saying NO? (All The Morning Thing hosts answered yes to this question)

    On today’s show, we shared some powerful reasons why “NO” is a beautiful word.
    Here is a list of 9 Powerful Reasons Why “No” Is a Beautiful Word from Crosswalk.com
    Click HERE to see the full article.

    1. No can add life to your years.

    2. No creates space, slows the pace, and saves face.

    3. No can lead to joy after the pain.

    4. God says no, so you can too.

    5. Jesus shows us how saying no protects our focus.

    6. When God says no, there is a blessing in it.

    7. Saying no isn’t negative, it’s positive!

    8. Saying no is a yes to something better.

    9. You can find comfort, freedom, and peace in your faithful no.

    What will you say NO to today?

    WNZR presents the February 2024 MVNU Presidential Update

    This month’s MVNU Update was special. We had the wonderful opportunity to talk with MVNU President, Dr. Carson Castleman and Rev. Dave Mills, our new Vice President for Spiritual Life and Church Relations.

    Dr. Castleman talks about the start of spring semester and how he feels about his team heading into the second month of 2024. He also discusses his top priorities for MVNU for the month of February.

    Rev. David Mills tells us a bit about himself, including the reason he decided to pursue ministry, and the story of how he came to be at MVNU.

    Our update reveals the special connection between Dr. Castleman and Rev. Mills and how they are sharing a living space while they wait on their families to arrive full-time in Mount Vernon.

    Rev. Mills discusses his role as head of Church Relations and his goals to connect with local churches and Nazarene Churches within the MVNU region. He also shares what is on his heart as he takes on the important role of ministering to the students of MVNU.

    Our MVNU Update includes messages for students, faculty and staff and prayer requests for the Castleman and Mills families.

    Click HERE to enjoy the entire conversation.

    Click HERE to stay up to date with news from MVNU.

    Click HERE to see a list of job openings at MVNU.

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