Need a good laugh? Don’t miss Faith-Filled Funniness with The Morning Thing!

All this week, The Morning Thing is bringing you Faith-Filled Funniness to the 8am hour.

We are featuring some comedy bits from some of your favorite Christian comedians.

Enjoy! Laugh! Have a great day!

Click HERE to hear Mark Lowry share the hilarious details of his first encounter with a tornado, while living on a houseboat!

Click HERE to hear Tim Hawkins share a hilarious and relatable bit about pumping gas.

Click HERE to see Anita Renfroe sing her famous song “Momisms”. she sums up all the things that a Mother says to her children in a 3-minute song, set to the tune of the William Tell Overture!

More laughs coming tomorrow at 8am!
The Morning Thing is a GREAT way to start your day!

MVNU Update with Dr. David Wilson

The Morning Thing hosted the monthly MVNU Update on Friday, 7/7/23.

Dr. Wilson also gave us a rough timeline for the installation of a new president. The hope is to announce the new president by mid-fall.

MVNU’s Interim President, Dr. David Wilson shared a campus update.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation.
He shared the scope of his role during this transitional period at the university. He also shared an update on the Presidential search. A search firm is helping MVNU through this process.

He talks about the commitment from the MVNU Board of Trustees and the need for prayer. He invited all of us to join him in prayer and fasting as we face this important decision and transition.

Stay connected to MVNU online HERE.

WNZR Talks with Cast Members from MTVarts Sister Act!

WNZR was honored to chat with several cast members about their experience in this fantastic show.

The actors talked about their characters and how they prepared to play these roles. They shared their history with the stage and how they got involved with theater.

The actors shared their favorite songs from the show. They also share why the community should come to see this fun tale come alive on The Woodward Opera House stage!

We spoke with:

Deloris Van Cartier … Shauna Marie

Mother Superior … Megan Evans

Sister Mary Robert … Sage Szucs

Curtis … Steve Herbst

Ensemble … Judy Diehl

Listen to their full conversations HERE.

Sister Act Show Times:

Saturday, July 8, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 9, 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday, July 12, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 13, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, July 14, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 15, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 16, 2:00 p.m.

Buy tickets HERE.

Director Bruce Jacklin

Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! Featuring original music by Tony- and eight-time Oscar winner, Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors), this uplifting musical was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be a found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood. Filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing and a truly moving story, Sister Act will leave audiences breathless.  A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to REJOICE!

*WNZR Disclaimer – This show has some adult themes and mild profanity. It is better suited for adults.
If you have questions, please contact Station Manager, Marcy Rinehart at 740-392-9090.*

July First Friday is TONIGHT in downtown Mount Vernon

Lacey Filkins, Executive Director of Experience Mount Vernon, was a special guest on The Morning Thing today. She shared all the details of tonight’s July First Friday.
The theme is “Wild July”!
Lacey gives us an overview of the schedule, parking information, details about this month’s Classic Car Cruise-In, and food choices.
The event is from 6pm – 9pm on Friday, 7/7 in downtown Mount Vernon.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Click HERE to see more details about tonight’s event, plus see what is in WNZR’s “Clean Up, Drink Up, Soak Up and Frame Up” prize basket!

The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – 7/7/23

For our Friday Favorites today, The Morning Thing hosts celebrate the Columbus Zoo’s visit to July First Friday.
Alyssa and Marcy share their favorite animal to see when visiting the zoo.
Don’t miss a chance to see animals tonight on the Public Square in downtown Mount Vernon.

Click HERE to hear about penguins and manatees!

July First Friday is tonight from 6pm – 9pm!
Click HERE for more details about tonight’s event and how to register for WNZR’s “Clean Up, Drink Up, Soak Up and Frame Up” Prize Basket!

The Morning Thing Shares Ways to Manage Stress

In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, stress has become an integral part of our lives. From work deadlines to personal responsibilities, it’s no surprise that stress levels are on the rise. However, managing stress is essential for our overall well-being and happiness. The Morning Thing shared 5 ways to help manage your stress from imom.com!

Read the full list by clicking HERE.

Managing stress is a lifelong journey that requires self-awareness and a commitment to self-care. By knowing that God is in control, recognizing the signs of stress, prioritizing self-care, practicing effective time management, cultivating a supportive network, developing healthy coping mechanisms, adjusting your mindset, and seeking professional help when needed, you can regain control over your stress levels and find balance and peace in your life. Remember, stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to define your life.

100 Things To Do in Ohio this Summer

July is here, and that means that the summer days are quickly passing by on our calendars.

There are SO many opportunities for family fun here in Ohio.

We found a list of 100 things to do this summer from Ohio.org

Click HERE to see the great ideas!
You can have fun in the sun, enjoy culinary adventures and make family memories this summer!

Check out the list and let us know if you find a great new location or activity. Send us an email at wnzr@mvnu.edu

June 2023 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 6/30/23.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

  • A discussion about current construction projects for the city
  • Update on the removal of traffic signals on Mansfield Ave.
  • The recent vandalism at City Parks and how the city is combatting this problem. If residents see vandalism, please call 740-397-2222.
  • The City’s new sign restrictions
  • The new initiative called Pour It Forward with the City of Mount Vernon and The Salvation Army. This new program allows residents to help their neighbors by assisting with their utility bills.
  • Updates from Mount Vernon City Council including recent discussion on DORA and the signage for designated areas.
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Police Department
  • Updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department
  • The City’s plans for the 4th of July.
  • Parking and departure from Ariel Foundation Park on July 4th
  • Upcoming events in July for Mount Vernon
  • News that Mount Vernon is getting a Hampton Inn.
  • Goals for the month of July
  • Mayor Starr tells us how we can pray for his team as they head into the month of July.
  • Residents can stay connected to the City of Mount Vernon on their brand new Linked In page, City of Mount Vernon, Ohio. You can find routine updates, job postings, and more.
    Citizens can still check the City’s website and Facebook.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

  • Website – http://www.mountvernonohio.org
  • Facebook – The City of Mount Vernon
  • Twitter – CityMV1805
  • YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
  • LinkedIn – City of Mount Vernon, Ohio

The Morning Thing Shares Details on 4th of July Celebrations in Mount Vernon

The City of Mount Vernon will commemorate this nation’s independence from Great Britain on Tuesday, July 4, culminating with a fireworks celebration shortly after dusk at Ariel-Foundation Park. The city shared details in the map below and also frequently asked questions that we shared on The Morning Thing on Thursday. Find all the details listed below.

What time will the streets close?
Streets will be closing at 4:00 p.m. at the following locations:

  • Norton Street
  • Woods Parkway westbound heading towards Harcourt Road
  • Pittsburgh Avenue will be closed to through traffic beginning at 2:00 p.m. Local access only.

Park entrances will be open to the public at Madison Street, Pittsburgh Avenue and Harcourt
Road. Columbus Road will be closed to southbound traffic at 9:30 p.m. and will not reopen until the
park clears. The Lakes area gate at Madison will be closed at 10:00 p.m. Simultaneously, the
North Loop Path will be opened westbound, exiting at Harcourt Road.

Where can I park?
There is very limited first come-first served parking inside Ariel-Foundation Park. Parking is free
and can be found at a multitude of public lots downtown off Gay Street and at the high school.
When lots are full they will be closed. Depending on weather conditions, there may be back-in
parking on the grass along the roadway coming off Harcourt Road.


Will there be additional ADA parking available?
Limited ADA parking will be available inside the park. The Urton Clockhouse parking lot off
Pittsburgh Avenue by the Columbus Road entrance will be filled first. ADA parking will be on a first
come-first served basis at this limited-space lot. Once this parking lot is full, drivers will be directed
to the Schnormeier Event Center (SEC) parking area, where 20 ADA spots will be set aside on a
first come-first served basis. When this lot is full motorists will be directed to the lake area for
further options.


Will the timed public parking spaces be enforced?
Vehicles parked in timed public parking spaces will not be ticketed on July 4.


Can I reserve a spot in the park?
The Park National Pavilion can be reserved for up to 50 guests for $100 on a first come-first
served basis no later than June 27. Call 740-501-9293 to reserve.


What time is the free concert?
The SEC will be closed for sound checks and other related activities during the day. Doors will
open at 5:00 p.m. to allow people to enter and find seating with their own chairs. The concert
series will begin at 5:30 p.m. with openers McLennon, a Beatles tribute band, followed by the
Sirens Duo, an R&B-blues-country act, at 6:15 p.m. Headliners Parrots of the Caribbean, a Jimmy
Buffett tribute band, will take the stage at 7:00 p.m. The fireworks show will begin about 10:00 p.m.

Where are the restrooms?
Portable restrooms will be available on the west side of the SEC as well as on the north side of the
SEC parking lot, just west of the Urton Clockhouse, and outside of the Kiwanis Pavilion on the
lakeside as well as the public restrooms in the pavilion.


Will there be food trucks available?
A vast array of food trucks will be available on the east side of the SEC in the parking lot as well as
in the lakes area near the Kiwanis Pavilion and in the west area of the Urton Clockhouse. Food
trucks will be open at 4:00 p.m.

Where are the trash receptacles?
Please do your part to keep the park clean by disposing of all trash and recyclables in the trash
cans along the sidewalks in and around the park. There will be workers emptying trash barrels
throughout the day. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Can I bring food/picnic in the park?
Yes.

Can I barbecue in the park?
Bring your own barbecue, but not under any roof in the park. This will be strictly enforced by the
Mount Vernon Fire Department.

Can I bring alcohol to the event?
Alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park or streets around the park. There will be a bar set up
inside the SEC where you can purchase adult refreshments from 5:00-9:30 p.m.


Can I bring fireworks?
Fireworks are prohibited in all City parks per Mount Vernon Codified Ordinances Chapter 1519.

Can I set up a canopy/umbrella?
Yes, except on the grassy area outside the SEC, within 15 feet of the wire fence, and absolutely
not on the concrete area.

When can I sit on the pavement of any road in or around the park?
Even with street closures no sitting on the pavement of paved roads in or around Ariel-Foundation
Park will be allowed.

Can I bring my dog to the fireworks show?
Bringing dogs to the fireworks is not recommended, as the sound of the fireworks usually scares
the dogs. If you do bring your dog, make sure it is kept on a leash at all times.

What measures will be taken for spectator safety during the fireworks?
Keep your seats; efforts will be made to turn off street lights just before the start of the show. To
ensure the safety of all spectators, please be seated no later than 9:45 p.m. and remain seated
until the show is over and the street lights have been turned back on. We expect a very energetic
and exciting finale!

How do I exit the park in my car?
Immediately after the fireworks show traffic can go out Pittsburgh Avenue towards Columbus
Road. Cones will be set to direct motorists either right (south) or left (north) on Columbus. Going
west on Pittsburgh motorists will have to make either a left (south) or right (north) turn on Harcourt
Road. Motorists exiting on North Madison Avenue will be required to turn left only, going into town.
The Center Lake Loop road will be opened at 10:15 p.m. for westbound traffic only towards
Harcourt Road. Exiting on Harcourt, motorists can turn left (south) or right (north). The Lakes Area
gate at Madison will be closed at 10:00 p.m. Exit from the Lakes Area can only be made via the
North Loop Path westward to Harcourt Road. Traffic markers will be out. All drivers exiting should
stay to the right of these markers.

We hope you have a great 4th of July weekend and a Happy (and safe) Independence Day celebration with those you love!

-The Morning Thing

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