The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – Our Favorite Memories from the 2023 Knox County Fair!

For our Friday Favorites this morning we focused on the Knox County Fair and our favorite memory from this year’s fair so far.

Listen to our memories HERE.

We hope you make some fun memories with your family and friends at the Knox County Fair this year!

Jim Blanchard Talks the 2023 Sale of Champions and Junior Fair Sale Day!

Jim Blanchard, President of the Sales Committee at the Knox County Fair, shares all the details about the 2023 Sale of Champions including what it looks like to be a buyer.

He also previews and gives us an overview on Junior Fair Sale Day as a whole.

Jim wraps up with telling us last year’s total and this year’s goals for Sale Day.

Listen to our full conversation with him HERE.

Ansley Daubenmier Talks the Limitless Livestock Show at the Knox County Fair!

Ansley Daubenmier shares about her experience with the Knox County Junior Fair over the years.

She also talks about a show that she started for this year’s fair: the Limitless Livestock Show. This show allows for community members with Development Disabilities to have the opportunity to show pigs, goats, and rabbits, without the obligation of purchasing the animal.

The goal is the pair the showman to a 4-H or FFA member so they can compete in a friendly livestock show. A mentor will be with the showman all along the way — teaching, helping, and guiding.

This show will take place at the Multipurpose Building at the fairgrounds on July 26th, 3pm.

Listen to our full conversation with Ansley HERE.

Plans With Your Grandkids This Summer? We’ve Got You Covered!

As the warm sun casts its golden glow and school bells chime their final ring, the summer season arrives with boundless opportunities for quality time and cherished memories with your grandkids. Embracing the joy of summer together fosters deep connections and creates a treasure trove of shared experiences.

The Morning Thing is focusing on Summer Fun all week long and today we shared 16 fun things you can do with your Grandchildren this summer. Find the full list HERE.

As summer unfolds its warm embrace, seize the opportunity to forge beautiful memories with your grandkids. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, engaging in creative activities, or simply spending quality time together, the key is to relish every moment. The laughter, the joy, and the bonds you create will last far beyond the fleeting days of summer. So, let your heart be filled with the wonder of the season and embark on an unforgettable journey with your beloved grandkids. Happy summer!

-The Morning Thing

More Laughs from Faith-Filled Funniness on 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.

This morning we featured the comedy of Anita Renfroe, John Crist, and Tim Hawkins. You can find their clips linked below.

Click HERE to listen to Anita Renfroe talking about motherhood.

Click HERE to listen to Tim Hawkins perform songs that should NOT be performed at a wedding.

Click HERE to listen to John Crist talk about how hilarious it would be if we fought the Civil War today.

Enjoy! Laugh! Have a great day!

Faith-Filled Funniness Continues on 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 listen to John Crist shares his perspective on the story of Lazarus.

Click HERE to listen to Kenn Kington share about his wife, Heather, mixing up common phrases.

Click HERE to listen to Mary Lowry tell the story of growing up as a hyperactive child.

More laughs coming tomorrow at 8am!

The Morning Thing is a GREAT way to start your day!

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!

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.*

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.

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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