Tag Archive for: #towntalk

Oxford Christmas Parade

Town Talk 12/04/19: Granville Plans Busy Weekend With Parades, Shows & More

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Wednesday at 11 a.m. to discuss a few of the many weekend holiday events happening in Granville County.

Granville Little Theatre’s FrUiTCaKes

The Granville Little Theatre will present FrUiTCaKes, a Christmas production, at the Oxford City Hall Auditorium on December 7 & 8, 13-15, 2019.

Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen Christmas trees, 10,000 outdoor Christmas lights, a chickenpox epidemic, two southern spinsters, an estranged old man, a lost cat named Tutti Frutti and a Christmas hog named Buster, and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled and touching evening of holiday cheer.

A moving story of alienation, understanding and reconciliation, FrUiTCaKes provides audiences with a heaping helping of holiday warmth and Christmas cheer.

Oxford Christmas Parade and Lighting of the Greens

A magical night is planned this Friday, December 6, 2019, for the 14th Annual Lighting of the Greens and Christmas Parade sponsored by Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corporation (DOEDC), the City of Oxford and partner Granville Health System. Events are scheduled from 4 until 9 p.m. in downtown Oxford.

The Christmas parade will take place rain, snow or shine, so please plan accordingly.

Event Schedule:

4 – 6:30 p.m. – Vendor Market opens

5:30 p.m. – Line up begins for parade participants

6:30- 6:45 p.m. – Welcome and opening comments

6:45 – 6:50 p.m. – Lighting of the Greens

7 p.m. – Parade starts

The parade will start on Belle Street, travel down Williamsboro Street, then Hillsboro Street, and end by taking a right on McClanahan Street to the Public Works Parking lot. Please note that there will be no parking in the Public Works parking lot (127 Penn Avenue) on the evening of the event.

Butner Christmas in the Park

Butner Gazebo Park – 416 Central Avenue in Butner.

This is a beautiful evening, which includes a children’s time of visiting with Santa, Christmas music and entertainment, a reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” and the official lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.

Children can visit with Santa from 5 until 6:45 p.m. Program begins at 7 p.m.

Delrayno Baptist Church’s “A Journey Back to Bethlehem” Live Nativity

Delrayno Baptist Church – 1315 College Street in Oxford.

Enjoy a reenactment of the first Christmas with a drive-through nativity scene featuring actors and live animals. Nightly performances December 7-9 from 6 – 8:30 p.m.

For more information on these and other Granville County events, please visit www.visitgranvillenc.com.

To hear Allen’s interview in its entirety, including information on additional upcoming events, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Town Talk 12/03/19: ‘Shop With A Cop’ Raffle Winners Announced

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk featured the “Shop With A Cop” raffle winner announcement recorded at 10 a.m. this morning at Sadie’s Coffee Corner in downtown Henderson.

This annual event is sponsored by the Henderson Police Department, Vance County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce and Maria Parham Health. This year’s fundraiser will provide local law enforcement with $5,000 to take 40-45 disadvantaged youth Christmas shopping at Walmart later this month.

Photo courtesy H-V Chamber of Commerce

Participating youth are selected by the Vance County Department of Social Services each year through a referral process. DSS partners with local law enforcement and monetarily assists Shop With A Cop to help make this experience a reality for the children it serves.

Changing up the fundraising format this year, 180 “envelope” tickets with various dollar amounts were sold. The higher the dollar amount on the envelope, the higher the potential raffle prize money for donors. Cash prizes included a drawing for $200, $500, $1,000 and $2,000.

The Chamber was happy to announce, thanks to the generous support of the community, all 180 tickets were sold and the 2019 fundraising goal was met.

Names were drawn at random and the raffle winners were:

$200 – Lauren B. Roberson

$500 – Alice Sallins

$1,000 – Michael Waters

$2,000 – Dr. William Wooten

To hear the Shop With A Cop segment in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Town Talk 12/02/19: Free Adoptions at Vance Co. Animal Shelter!

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Frankie Nobles, Chief of Vance County Animal Services, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Monday at 11 a.m.

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Nobles was happy to announce that adoption fees at the Vance County Animal Shelter have been covered for harder-to-adopt, large-breed adult dogs and cats now through December 23, 2019.

“We are offering free adoption for the community for adult dogs and cats. This does not include puppies, kittens and smaller breeds because they are easier for us to adopt,” Nobles said.

Those interested in adoption will still need to complete the application process which includes a vet check and landlord approval (if applicable).

“The application process will still need to be completed to ensure the animal is going to a good home,” explained Nobles. “Once the application process is completed and approved, pets that are already spayed or neutered will be able to go home that day. If they are not, an appointment will be made with a vet and the new owner can pick their pet up after the appointment.”

On any given day, Nobles approximates 40 dogs and 10-15 cats are available for adoption and are in need of a good, loving home.

The adoption fee is typically $150 for dogs and $100 for cats. Fee includes the spay or neuter procedure (if not already completed), microchipping and other tests and treatments.

According to Nobles, there has already been increased interest since the recent free adoption announcement; however, he cautions those who are looking for a new pet to fully consider the implications prior to making such a large commitment.

“Make sure you are ready for cleaning up after them and feeding them. You need to make sure you are financially ready to provide for them. If you aren’t ready for that, you aren’t ready for a life change. It is a life-changing experience when you bring an animal home,” stated Nobles.

The Vance County Animal Shelter is located at 1243 Brodie Road in Henderson. Hours of operation are Mondays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The shelter is closed on Fridays and Sundays.

Please visit www.vancecountyanimalshelter.com or the shelter’s Facebook page for more information.

To hear the interview with Nobles in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk. Nobles’ segment begins at the 11:30 mark. 

Town Talk 11/27/19

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Town Talk 11/25/19: Granville Tourism Announces Thanksgiving Week Events

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Monday at 11 a.m.

When asked to briefly describe her job, Allen laughed and replied, “I tell people exactly how to have fun and where to find it.”

Some of those “fun” Granville County events are planned for the last week of November and include:

The 15th Annual Turkey Trot will take place in downtown Oxford on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2019. This annual tradition benefits Area Congregations in Ministry (ACIM), Granville County’s food bank.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at Oxford United Methodist Church on College Street. Walkers and runners set off on the roughly 2-mile course at 9 a.m. and end the race back at the church.

The entry fee is two cans of food or a cash donation in any amount to ACIM.

Pre-Thanksgiving Lunch Buffet at Thorndale Oaks in Oxford on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season early with your family, friends, and coworkers.

Menu items include – smoked whole roasted turkey with gravy, sliced ham with honey glaze salad, fresh fruit and holiday mixed green salad, homemade stuffing, Southern-style green beans, homemade mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, assorted pies and peach cobbler.

Reservations required; call (919) 603-3701 or email thorndaleoaks@aol.com.

The Granville County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast will be held Wednesday, November 27 at 7:30 a.m. in the Family Life Center of Oxford Baptist Church, Main Street, Oxford.

Attendees are requested to bring non-perishable food donations (canned food) for Area Congregations In Ministry (ACIM).

Small Business Saturday will be held on November 30 to support small, local, independent businesses in Granville County, NC.

Understanding the important contributions small businesses make to their communities, the Granville County Chamber of Commerce encourages consumers to take part in Small Business Saturday® by supporting small, local businesses.

Continuing a five-year tradition, shopping bags with promotional items for Small Business Saturday will be available at the Chamber’s Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast on November 27.

Tobacco Wood Brewing Company, 117 Wall Street in Oxford, has several exciting events planned for the week including a Thanksgiving Market featuring produce, baked goods, etc. on Wednesday, November 27 from 3 until 5 p.m.; an Open Mic Night on Wednesday, November 27 at 7 p.m.; and the release of a special Black Friday beer at 6 p.m. on Friday, November 29.

For more information on Granville County events, please visit www.visitgranvillenc.com.

To hear Allen’s interview in its entirety, including information on additional upcoming events, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Town Talk 11/21/19: ‘Most Influential Fisherman’ Speaks to Vance Co. Students

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Pastor Bobby Fletcher, with First United Methodist Church of Henderson, and Clay Dyer, described as “the most inspirational fisherman on the planet” were the guests of honor on Thursday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.

Dyer, whose life motto is “If I can, you can,” shared his message with students at AdVance Academy today, visits Vance County Middle School tomorrow and will be the guest speaker at First United Methodist Church on Sunday.

Photo courtesy Clay Dyer

Born with no left arm, a partial right arm and no lower limbs, Dyer said he has never let his physical build limit his potential as a human being, an award-winning fisherman or a man of God.

“There’s nothing in life that can get you down unless you allow it to,” said Dyer. “Handicapped or disabled is a state of mind. You’re only as handicapped or disabled as you allow yourself to be.”

According to Dyer’s website (www.clay-dyer.com), he started fishing at age five and began competing in fishing tournaments at age 15. He fished with FLW from 2000 to 2010 and began his career with BASS in 2012.

His television appearances include ESPN, Fox, CNN Headline News, Versus, the Outdoor Channel, Fox Sports South, the 700 Club and CBS.

Published articles on his fishing prowess have appeared in USA Today, Newsweek, Bassmaster and FLW Outdoors Magazine.

Video examples of Dyer’s fishing technique and tips can be viewed by searching his name on YouTube.

Dyer currently fishes the Bassmaster Open Series and select charity events but spends the majority of his time sharing his life experiences through motivational and leadership presentations to various charities, churches and schools.

“I’m just trying to have a positive impact on God’s kingdom by encouraging people and showing them that no matter what adversity they may face in life, they can overcome,” Dyer stated.

Fletcher said bringing Dyer’s positive message of resiliency to the community is just another step in making Vance County an even better place to live.

“Vance County has a lot of potential; we need to let the good things be known. Bringing in an outstanding, world-known speaker like Clay will greatly encourage the kids. He will show them how to be a champion.”

To hear the interview with Dyer and Fletcher in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

Town Talk 11/20/19: Cardinal Innovations & Baskerville Funeral Home Form Partnership

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Gina Dement, community engagement specialist with Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, and Charlie Baskerville, Jr., owner of Baskerville Funeral Home and a former Vance County magistrate, were the guests of honor on Wednesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.

Dement and Baskerville discussed their respective organizations’ recent partnership to offer free, monthly community engagement sessions at the funeral home located at 104 S. Chestnut Street in Henderson.

Recent meetings have included hard-hitting topics such as opioid use, trauma and resiliency, suicide prevention and guardianship rights and responsibilities.

In last night’s guardianship session, participants learned when guardianship is appropriate, how to start the process, guardians’ rights and responsibilities and available alternatives and strategies.

Dement said Cardinal Innovations is grateful to have an accessible place in the community to offer these sessions. “We are so thankful that Mr. Baskerville came to us. He said he wanted to give people a way to be engaged in their community.”

“I wanted a way to inform residents about favorable things happening in Henderson,” Baskerville explained. “People talk about the negatives, but we have some good things and good services available to the community.”

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare offers services for those with substance abuse disorders, mental health disorders and intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD). A 24-hour helpline staffed by licensed counselors is available by calling 1-800-939-5911.

For more information on Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, visit www.cardinalinnovations.org.

For additional information on the community sessions or if interested in hosting a similar program at your organization, contact Gina Dement with Cardinal Innovations Healthcare at (919) 215-0721or Gina.dement@cardinalinnovations.org.

To hear the interview in its entirety, including general discussion on community and mental health-related topics, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

Town Talk 11/19/19: Mast Drug Anticipates Dec. Opening of Dabney Dr. Location

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Richard “Dicky” Flye, president and CEO of Mast Family Drug Company, was on Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss the upcoming grand opening of the new Mast Drug Store.

The multi-generational business, part of the Henderson community for over 50 years, will be moving from its current location at 501 S. Chestnut Street to its new location on Dabney Drive.

New Mast Drug Store on Dabney Dr. in Henderson undergoes finishing touches before its anticipated December 2019 grand opening. (WIZS photo)

With an anticipated early December opening, the company is waiting on the final permits to be signed and approved by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy before announcing an official date.

The new building is located on the Mast Drug-owned property beside Quick Print, and is being constructed by H.G. Reynolds Company, Inc, a group that Flye said, “has done a fine job and are good folks from Henderson.”

At 4,500 square feet, the new location will be more than double the size of the current Chestnut Street building, thus allowing for a bigger pharmacy area, larger storefront and a gift shop.

Flye said it is fair to say that while the location will be changing, the services and the community feel will only continue to grow.

In fact, customers will see many of the same familiar faces when the new location opens, including long-serving Mast Drug employee Gayle Cheek, pharmacy manager, and David Vick, retail manager.

Briefly describing the history of Mast Drug, Flye said there was a time when the current Quick Print Building was a Henderson Drug location owned by his father-in-law Bill Mast and partner Charles Barnett.

When Mast and Barnett parted ways, Mast continued to operate the pharmacy [current Mast Drug] on Chestnut Street while Barnett ran the drug store at the Dabney Drive location for a number of years before moving his business farther down the road.

“We’ve missed being on Dabney; it was time to come back. Dabney is growing and there is going to be a lot of construction there in the next couple of years. It’s a busy area and it makes business sense to do it,” said Flye.

The most important thing to the family, according to Flye, is that Mast Drug is able to expand its coverage and its services while remaining local.

“We have family members involved – a generation below me. This is for them to take forward. I’ll still be around for a good while, I hope! This will set it up so we can continue in Henderson. It means a lot for us to be in Henderson and stay here. We are Henderson folks and we look forward to seeing you at our new store.”

(This is not a paid advertisement)

To hear Flye’s interview in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

Granville Vance Public Health Logo

Town Talk 11/18/19: Granville Vance Public Health Talks Flu Shots, Health Priorities

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Lisa Harrison, health director for Granville Vance Public Health (GVPH), was on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss flu season and the department’s 2018 Community Health Assessment.

Flu Season

According to Harrison, now is the perfect time to receive your influenza shot for the 2019-2020 season. “We like to tell people to get their flu shot between Halloween and Thanksgiving. It’s nice to be protected as you spend more time with family and friends during the holidays.”

With a reported 341 deaths state-wide last season, Harrison said getting a flu shot is the best way to avoid becoming infected with the easily-transmitted virus.

“The number one preventable thing you can do is get the flu shot to make sure your immune system is ready to fight the flu with you,” explained Harrison. “Other things you can do include washing your hands with soap and water and covering your mouth when you cough.”

Flu season typically picks up in October, peaks between December and February and can last as late as May. With a 6-9 month protection period, Harrison said receiving the shot now will carry the majority of recipients through the anticipated flu season.

Shots are offered at GVPH, at most doctors’ offices, at drug stores, and even at some grocery stores.

“There are many places that offer the flu shot,” said Harrison. “We like you to get them where there is a nurse just in case you need any kind of follow up care.”

2018 Community Health Assessment

GVPH conducted the 2018 Community Health Assessment for Granville and Vance Counties in partnership with the NC Institute of Public Health, Triangle North Healthcare Foundation, and a CHA Steering Committee. Over the course of nine months, the group gathered information directly from community residents through surveys and forums and reviewed state and national data.

Priority topic areas included access to health care, community safety, education, health equity, mental health and substance use disorder, nutrition and physical activity, poverty and housing, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections and youth well-being.

The top three community health priorities identified were mental health and substance use disorder, youth well-being and access to health care.

Applicable to all three identified priorities, but especially youth well-being, the health implications of early childhood trauma is an emerging area of study and understanding.

“We understand so much better now that when people experience trauma early in life, it can affect their health outcomes later in life,” said Harrison. “Trauma can suppress the immune system and increase chronic disease.”

GVPH is currently working with community partners including the YMCA, Triangle North Healthcare Foundation, other health departments, school systems and the Department of Social Services to “get a handle on how we become trauma-informed as agencies and how we better address trauma early on in people’s lives.”

For more detailed information, please click here to view GVPH’s 2018 Community Health Assessment Summary or visit GVPH’s website.

To hear Harrison’s interview in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

Town Talk 11/15/19

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm