100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
Hal Muetzel, owner and operator of Express Employment Professionals, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Located at 124 Main Street in Oxford, Express Employment Professionals is a staffing company focused on helping people find jobs and providing workforce solutions to businesses. Services include a full range of employment solutions, including full-time, temporary and part-time employment in a wide range of industries.
The staffing company is available to assist you in your job search and has the means to conduct the majority of the employment process, including an initial interview, remotely.
Following up on a Town Talk interview conducted in April, Muetzel said the job market situation is starting to improve slowly but surely.
“I think we are starting to see things slowly come to life,” said Muetzel. “A lot of employees in the area are taking a wait-and-see attitude, so not really taking on new staff at this point and looking at where their orders are and where they will be in the next 30, 60 and 90 days.”
Previously “holding his breath” for the April job report, Muetzel said it was startling to see the number of Americans currently unemployed.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ recently released April 2020 employment report, total nonfarm payroll employment fell by 20.5 million people, while the unemployment rate rose to 14.7 percent. This sharp decline in employment is mainly contributed to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bureau also reported that unemployment rose in all major industry sectors, with the leisure and hospitality industry facing particularly heavy job losses.
“The job report shows April was a very tough month for everyone – community and nationwide,” stated Muetzel. “Unemployment is the highest it has been in 75 years.”
While some businesses such as Walmart, Amazon and home improvement companies have weathered the storm well and, in some instances, have even seen growth, Muetzel said other industries such as food and travel have not been as fortunate.
“The food industry is a very chaotic situation right now with food processors trying to get things to market but not having all the tools in their toolbox as far as restaurants, schools and large facilities to buy their products. The travel industry, including lodging and transportation, will also be slow to recover as people start to look at how they are going to travel, how close they will sit to each other, etc.”
Muetzel explained industries deemed “essential” by the government, including manufacturing, distribution, food, pharmaceutical, logistics, infrastructure and healthcare, are still the best bet for employment opportunities at this time.
For assistance in finding employment, Express Employment Professionals can be reached by phone at (919) 693-1730 or online at www.expresspros.com/oxfordnc/
To hear the interview with Muetzel in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.
(This is not a paid advertisement)
Town Talk 05/13/20: VGCC Dean Receives Doctorate; Discusses ‘Culture of Support’
/by Kelly Bondurant100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
Dr. Jeffrey Allen, dean of Student Retention and Success at Vance-Granville Community College, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Allen recently received his Doctorate in Adult and Community College Education from North Carolina State University. His dissertation focused on African-American males enrolled in a community college who were persisting towards degree completion.
“Many times, the literature talks about the barriers or what is preventing African-American males from being successful,” said Allen. “I wanted to flip it and look at it from a standpoint of why are they being successful so we can use that information to make others successful.”
According to Allen, the results showed that the most successful of the study group were those who “had a goal and were focus-driven” and those that “knew the college supported them.”
Supporting college students in achieving their goals, whether it be to transfer to a four-year university after completing a two-year degree at VGCC or finding employment after graduation, is part of Allen’s role as dean.
Allen, who has served in various roles at VGCC since 2012, currently oversees an area that includes advising, counseling, male success initiative, student activities, athletics, testing and tutoring.
Along with other VGCC departments, Allen and staff are currently focusing much of their efforts on “educating, inspiring and supporting” students through the coronavirus crisis.
With VGCC’s classes switching to an online format mid-way through the spring semester and all upcoming summer classes scheduled as online sessions, the change has been an adjustment for all involved, Allen said.
“One of the things VGCC has done very well is put out resources for students to make them feel as comfortable as possible and supported during this crisis,” Allen continued. “VGCC has done an excellent job – the faculty, staff and various departments – in making sure students have what they need.”
To hear the interview with Allen in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.
Maria Parham Health Celebrating National Hospital Week May 10-15
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
-Press Release, Maria Parham Health
Maria Parham Health (MPH) is proud to join the American Hospital Association and healthcare organizations around the country in celebrating National Hospital Week, which is observed May 10-15.
Each May, National Hospital Week provides an opportunity to pause and honor the millions of healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to taking care of people in their greatest times of need and to recognize the positive difference hospitals and healthcare organizations make in the communities they serve.
“As our community continues the fight against COVID-19, the pivotal role our healthcare workers play in the well-being of society is clearer than ever,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “Their tireless efforts on the front lines of this disease and their commitment to quality care and patient safety year-round are critical to our mission of Making Communities Healthier. We proudly honor these heroes during National Hospital Week and commend their inspiring efforts to serve others.”
Maria Parham Health in Henderson and Maria Parham Franklin will be marking the national observance with special gifts and prizes for all staff. Community members are encouraged to leave a special note of thanks for hospital employees at www.thankahealthcarehero.com.
As one of the region’s economic leaders, the organization employs approximately 800 staff and contributed more than $8 million in taxes to the local and state economies last year. Additionally, it is proud to sponsor a number of local community organizations and non-profits.
Ensuring that everyone has access to the high-quality and compassionate care they need is a top priority for the organization and fundamental to its mission. In 2019 alone, Maria Parham Health provided more than $62 million of charity and other uncompensated care, regardless of patients’ ability to pay.
“We are privileged to have a significant impact on its health and economic well-being,” said James Johnson, chair of MPH’s board of trustees. “As we celebrate National Hospital Week amid unprecedented challenges this year and begin to look to the future, we are aware that healthcare – like other aspects of life – might look a little different. What will not change, though, is our mission and our commitment to this community. We will continue to put the health and well-being of our neighbors first, ensuring safe places of care and a healthier community for us all.”
Noon News Audio: 05/13/20
/by John C. RoseWIZS – YOUR COMMUNITY VOICE
1450AM / 100.1FM / Click on Listen Live at WIZS.com for local news at Noon, 5pm and 8am; M-F
Noon News Audio for May 13, 2020
First Degree Murder Arrests
Henderson Rec Players
Shopping Angels
Oxford Commissioners’ Meeting Recessed to Allow Public Comment on Annexation
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
-Information courtesy Cynthia Bowen, City Clerk, City of Oxford
The Tuesday, May 12, 2020 meeting of the Oxford Board of Commissioners was recessed until Thursday, May 14 at 9:15 a.m. to allow the public 24 hours to comment on the requested annexation of the property at the corner of the on-ramp of I-85 and Hwy 158.
Please email any comments to the City Clerk’s office at cbowen@oxfordnc.org.
Please note that the recessed meeting will be an electronic meeting and you are able to join this meeting with the following information:
Join Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82301578683?pwd=d3RGUXh4ZHF0c29MMlc1WXJ2MlRuUT09
Meeting ID: 823 0157 8683
Password: 414128
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US
Password: 414128
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keDpRbM7aB
All those interested are invited to join electronically.
Families Living Violence Free ‘Still Here’ to Assist Victims of Abuse
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
-Information courtesy Families Living Violence Free
Families Living Violence Free is “still here” during the coronavirus crisis and is available to help those who feel unsafe at home and may be the victim of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Families Living Violence Free will remain open during normal business hours to respond to client needs. After hours, the crisis line will remain open. Clients are strongly encouraged to conduct business via phone or email when appropriate.
If further services are needed, you can contact advocates on the hotline at (919) 693-5700 (English) or (919) 690-0888 (Spanish).
The hotline will be fully operational 24/7 for advocacy, connection to resources, supportive counseling and safety planning. Services will be provided by advocates.
If you are in immediate physical danger, please call 911.
Franklin Co. Sheriff’s Office Arrests Warren Co. Man on Felony Drug Charges
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
-Information courtesy Franklin County Sheriff’s Office
On May 6, 2020, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group arrested Warren County resident Tyrone Neal on three felony drug charges.
The arrest came as a result of a vehicle stop in the White Level area of Franklin County. The Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group was conducting enforcement patrol after receiving complaints and information regarding drug activity occurring throughout that area of the county.
On May 6, 2020, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group arrested Warren County resident Tyrone Neal on three felony drug charges. (FCSO photo)
Mr. Neal’s vehicle was stopped and, as a result, approximately 58 grams of Powder and Crack Cocaine, as well as US Currency, were seized. The street value of the drugs seized is estimated to be $5,800.
Sheriff Kent Winstead stated, “Our Special Operations Group continues to be responsive to information provided by the citizens of our county. This type of information allows our enforcement to be strategic and raises the chances we can be successful in removing these dangerous drugs from our neighborhoods.”
Tyrone Neal was placed in the Franklin County Detention Facility under a $65,000 secured bond.
Tyrone Neal (48)
213 Neal Ln.
Warrenton, NC 27589
Charges include:
Trafficking in Cocaine (2 counts)
Maintain a Vehicle for the Purpose of Selling Controlled Substances
For more information concerning this investigation or to report drug activity in your neighborhood, please contact Sgt. Ken Pike at (919) 496-2186.
Henderson Rec Players Cancels Summer Season; McGregor Hall Opens Phone Lines
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
The McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center recently provided updates regarding the Henderson Rec Players’ 2020 Summer Season and the opening of the center’s phone lines.
Henderson Rec Players
In an effort to protect our beloved actors and patrons, the summer season of the Henderson Rec Players has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
While we are sad to see this break in a nearly 50-year tradition in our community, be assured that this is a temporary pause, and the Rec Players will be back to entertain and provide a creative outlet for all ages as soon as it is safe to do so.
Stay strong and we look forward to shining the spotlight on our local talent again very soon.
McGregor Hall Phone Lines
As Phase One of North Carolina’s Road to Re-Opening begins, we are excited to announce that McGregor Hall’s office phone lines are opening again.
Phone lines are now open Monday through Friday from 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. You can reach McGregor Hall at (252) 598-0662.
Our Box Office will remain closed to the public for the safety of our patrons and employees until June 1, 2020.
Thank you, once more, for your support during this difficult time. We look forward to speaking with you and seeing all of you soon!
WIZS is in talks with Henderson Rec Players and McGregor Hall representatives to bring you a special edition of Town Talk next week. Please stay tuned to WIZS for more details.
Franklin Co. Sees Largest Single-Day Community Coronavirus Case Increase
/by WIZS Staff100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
-Information courtesy Franklin County Government
On Monday, May 11, 2020, the Franklin County Health Department received notice of seven (7) new coronavirus cases within the community. As of the date and time of this press release, this is the largest single–day increase in coronavirus cases for Franklin County since the onset of the pandemic within Franklin County on March 20, 2020, when the county reported four (4) initial cases.
While the county has had larger increases in total cases reported during the pandemic, these prior larger numbers were associated with facility outbreaks. The current seven (7) cases are NOT associated with any facility outbreak and are not linked together. This is a stark reminder that even though North Carolina has entered into “Phase 1” of re–opening, we must remain vigilant in our adherence to personal protective behaviors.
As North Carolina seems poised to enter Phase 2 of our state‘s phased re–opening on Friday, May 22, 2020, the Franklin County Health Department urges everyone to remember the virus has NOT left Franklin County, and there is still no vaccine.
“Flattening the Curve” simply means there is room for you in the hospital if you get very sick with the virus. The best way to ensure you and/or your loved–ones remain virus-free is to strictly adhere to:
Look for more updates on this outbreak from the Franklin County COVID–19 EOC as more information becomes available.
Henderson and Best Arrested, Charged with 1st Degree Murder
/by WIZS StaffWIZS – YOUR COMMUNITY VOICE
Local News at 8 a.m., 12 noon, 5 p.m. — 1450 AM / 100.1 FM
Press Release – May 12, 2020
Last night (5/11/2020), at approximately 9:30 PM, Officers of the Henderson Police Department were dispatched to 277 Lincoln Street, Lincoln Height Apartments, in reference to a person suffering from a gunshot wound. When Officers arrived, they located the deceased, Zechariah Alexander (age 20), with a single gunshot wound.
Investigators responded immediately, and quickly developed suspect information through the cooperation of our citizens.
Warrants were soon obtained for the arrest of Demetrius Henderson (age 36) and Saivion Best (age 19) for First Degree Murder.
As of this afternoon, both Demetrius Henderson and Saivion Best have been arrested, served, and placed at the Vance County Jail without bond pending their first court appearance.
As always, assistance from the public was vital in solving this case. We are still asking for anyone with information to contact us through social media, Crime Stoppers (252-492-1925), Henderson Police Department (252-438-414), or the P3 App.
Authority: Chief M.W. Barrow
Town Talk 05/12/20: Staffing Professional Sees Job Market ‘Slowly Coming to Life’
/by Kelly Bondurant100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL
Hal Muetzel, owner and operator of Express Employment Professionals, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Located at 124 Main Street in Oxford, Express Employment Professionals is a staffing company focused on helping people find jobs and providing workforce solutions to businesses. Services include a full range of employment solutions, including full-time, temporary and part-time employment in a wide range of industries.
The staffing company is available to assist you in your job search and has the means to conduct the majority of the employment process, including an initial interview, remotely.
Following up on a Town Talk interview conducted in April, Muetzel said the job market situation is starting to improve slowly but surely.
“I think we are starting to see things slowly come to life,” said Muetzel. “A lot of employees in the area are taking a wait-and-see attitude, so not really taking on new staff at this point and looking at where their orders are and where they will be in the next 30, 60 and 90 days.”
Previously “holding his breath” for the April job report, Muetzel said it was startling to see the number of Americans currently unemployed.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ recently released April 2020 employment report, total nonfarm payroll employment fell by 20.5 million people, while the unemployment rate rose to 14.7 percent. This sharp decline in employment is mainly contributed to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bureau also reported that unemployment rose in all major industry sectors, with the leisure and hospitality industry facing particularly heavy job losses.
“The job report shows April was a very tough month for everyone – community and nationwide,” stated Muetzel. “Unemployment is the highest it has been in 75 years.”
While some businesses such as Walmart, Amazon and home improvement companies have weathered the storm well and, in some instances, have even seen growth, Muetzel said other industries such as food and travel have not been as fortunate.
“The food industry is a very chaotic situation right now with food processors trying to get things to market but not having all the tools in their toolbox as far as restaurants, schools and large facilities to buy their products. The travel industry, including lodging and transportation, will also be slow to recover as people start to look at how they are going to travel, how close they will sit to each other, etc.”
Muetzel explained industries deemed “essential” by the government, including manufacturing, distribution, food, pharmaceutical, logistics, infrastructure and healthcare, are still the best bet for employment opportunities at this time.
For assistance in finding employment, Express Employment Professionals can be reached by phone at (919) 693-1730 or online at www.expresspros.com/oxfordnc/
To hear the interview with Muetzel in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.
(This is not a paid advertisement)