tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385727782024-03-14T11:35:43.894-04:00News 14 Carolina - Political ConnectionsNews 14 Carolinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11574754544329478438noreply@blogger.comBlogger327125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-35672028984115156292010-12-29T08:49:00.000-05:002010-12-29T08:51:08.191-05:00yuii s b<a href="http://marinka.ca/zh234.html">http://marinka.ca/zh234.html</a> kat2 filxrzh8 k394 jva6dTim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-36113064664125317112008-09-10T15:40:00.004-04:002008-09-10T15:48:36.405-04:00Final RNC postMy apologies this took so long, but between convention, traveling and work, most of my time was gone.<br /><br />Anyway, Governor Sarah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Palin's</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">speech</span> was impressive. Most people believe she went far beyond expectations. I was sitting in the arena watching her and the prompter. On several <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">occasions</span>, she went "off-prompter" to make a point. Her lip-stick hockey mom joke was not on the prompter, but I understand she's told that joke several times before. I'm sure GOP strategists held their breath every time she didn't go by script. At one point when she was blaming the media, the entire floor turned around, booed and pointed at their least favorite national media outlet. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">MSNBC</span> seemed to get most of the fingers. All in all, she did more than she was expected.<br /><br />The next day, Senator McCain gave his address. The whole point of the convention was building up his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">character</span>. There were several videos and speakers talking about what a great war hero he was. His <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">speech</span> addressed that as well. I was sitting on the floor with the NC delegation during his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">speech</span>. A NC delegate was almost tossed because of his home made sign. It read "Beware terrorists of Sarah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Palin</span> (just ask <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Obama</span>)." It wasn't the mention McCain's people wanted all over national television. Eventually, the delegate gave up the sign. McCain did what he needed to do during the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">speech</span>. I've heard several of his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">speeches</span>, and this was about on par.<br /><br />The interesting part was how excited the NC delegates were to get back home to work on the McCain-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Palin</span> campaign. Let's see if this momentum carries through the election.Shawn Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06266392031367205846noreply@blogger.com347tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-54664668100324957252008-09-03T22:07:00.002-04:002008-09-03T22:13:24.803-04:00Day three....biggest day of conventionBy far, this is turning out to be the most important day of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RNC</span>. We are minutes away from hearing the speech of Vice-Presidential candidate Sarah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Palin</span>. The entire world is watching the speech of this relative unknown. This could be the turning point of the entire presidential election right here. Many people have told me they are going to watch and listen. There vote could depend on how well she delivers this speech and the message she sends. We'll take a closer look at her speech tomorrow.<br /><br />The NC delegation ended up spending the day relaxing at a County Club on a lake about a half hour away from Saint Paul. The scrapped the putting together of care packages because there was so much confusion. <br /><br />Another interesting side note. I'm sitting here watching the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">RNC</span> speeches and it astounds me how many journalists are dissing the Republican party. I don't care if you're conservative or liberal, but you better not let your opinion known. I'm sitting here listening to an entire delegation of journalists from one news station just downplay these speeches. Remarkable!<br /><br />We should know by tomorrow the future direction of this election based on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Palin's</span> speech. We'll see.....Shawn Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06266392031367205846noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-72295993423319067062008-09-02T21:38:00.003-04:002008-09-02T21:50:50.057-04:00RNC-Day 2Finally, had a break for two hours today. Adam Butler (photographer) and I decided we had to go check out Mall of America. Wow...that's big. I guess these folks need somewhere to go when it's so cold 6 months of the year. You betcha!<br /><br />The real show finally started today. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RNC</span> is bringing out the big guns. Former President Bush, President Bush, Sen. Lieberman. They are now just trying to showcase McCain's service and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">character</span>.<br /><br />Chaos pretty much reigns here. I was set up to interview SC Senator <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">DeMint</span>. He was a no-show. The scheduler emailed me 7 minutes before I was to meet him saying he wouldn't be available. I don't have a blackberry, so big help.<br /><br />War heroes. That's the theme of the night. So far, they showed three movies. All featured Republicans doing heroic things in battle. Definite theme.<br /><br />While the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">DNC</span> last week was a rock show, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RNC</span> is definitely lacking. The big entertainers out here were Jon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Voight</span> and Lynn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Swann</span>. Not the same A-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">listers</span> as the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">DNC</span>. Also, the production value of the video clips is no where near the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">DNC</span>.<br /><br />A moving moment during the beginning of the session. They listed all of the Republicans who died in the past four years. The second biggest round of applause went to the late Senator Jesse Helms from North Carolina. A polarizing figure for sure, but a man who dedicated his life for service. The biggest applause went to the late white house press secretary Tony Snow.<br /><br />First Lady Laura Bush must be the most popular person left in the Republican party. She always receives the biggest round of applause and you can feel an excitement in the air when she is around. One journalist told me she's like the First Mom. "You really can't get mad at her."<br /><br />More to come.Shawn Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06266392031367205846noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-11674611367019371072008-09-02T12:32:00.002-04:002008-09-02T12:44:39.216-04:00RNC convention begins?Hello from the Twin Cities. It's day two of the convention. Adam Butler and I are here attempting to cover this convention, but it's a minute-by-minute change of plans event. <br /><br />When we arrived Sunday, the NC delegation was very excited to be here. As the plane landed, we heard applause from about 10 people. We asked them if they thought Hurricane Gustav would force changes with the convention, and they said no. Little did they know.<br /><br />We quickly ended up at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">XCel</span> Energy Center where we found out months of planning and script writing for the convention were being thrown out the door. As Sen. McCain put it, "it's time to take off our Republican hats and put on our American hats." The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RNC</span> tried to make the best of a bad situation.<br /><br />Moving forward with the convention would have looked bad, especially on the three year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina where many felt the President didn't respond well to disaster recovery. However, following the rock concert that was the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">DNC</span> last week, McCain needed to get his name and message out to the public. <br /><br />Monday turned out to be relatively calm business day. The delegates did all of the "business" of the convention. Basically, unanimously passing the platform that was written over the past few months. Sen. Burr of North Carolina was the vice-chair of the committee that helped to write the platform. After that, the convention was adjourned until further notice.<br /><br />Tuesday morning, confusion reigned. The NC delegation was told to go to the convention center to help put together care packages for hurricane relief. When they (and we) got there, we were told it's not until tomorrow. That just goes to show how they're putting together this convention by the seat of their pants. We were then told the evening session would go off as planned with Sen. Lieberman, Sen Thompson, President Bush (via <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">satellite</span>) all telling us about Sen. McCain's service to his country. Basically, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">RNC</span> couldn't let another night of prime time television go by without taking center stage. Unfortunately, another hurricane is looming off the coast of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Carolinas</span> and could be headed our direction later this week. Honestly, this is the "perfect storm" again McCain and the Republican party.<br /><br />The delegates seem to be enjoying themselves here. Last night at a local watering hole, about 6 delegates were chatting (and drinking). A female officer of the Minneapolis PD came over and started talking about all the abuse she is getting from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">protesters</span>. How they are throwing excrement and other vile material at her (she used stronger words). How, rules against assaulting police officers were relaxed this week to allow freedom of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">speech</span>. On top of it all, her boss hasn't signed off on 130 hours of overtime she's earned because the $60 million dollars the city was given to pay her salary is all gone. Still, she said it's her job to protect the public. One delegate paid her bar tab. It was a nice gesture.<br /><br />We're off to Mall of America (told we had to go). Looking forward to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">speeches</span> this evening. Please email me or reply with comments. shawn.flynn@news14.comShawn Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06266392031367205846noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-52562612264207530732008-08-29T01:19:00.002-04:002008-08-29T01:30:37.955-04:00Obama accepts...What a night. I mean, party affiliation it was truly a remarkable event. I'm not talking about politics. A political convention was moved a mile down the street overnight and 80,000 people in an open air football stadium.<br /><br />The roars were as loud as the cheers once were for John Elway after throwing yet another touchdown. Did Obama score a touchdown? That's for the pundits and voters to decide.<br /><br />The NC delegates were clearly in their element. What was extraordinary was how celebrities were mingling and sitting with the general public. We saw Susan Serandon, Anne Hathaway, Chevy Chase, Wyclef Jean, Dan Rather all sitting in the stands sitting next to everyday folks.<br /><br />The historic nature added quite a buzz to the evening as Obama becomes the first major party African American nominee. It also happened on the 45th anniversary of the "I have a dream" speech.<br /><br />I can't properly describe the events leading up the final day of the DNC in words. Tens of thousands of people were marching across bridges surrounding the stadium. It was like ants marching in a single file line. Every single person had to go through secret service security check points. <br /><br />Every two feet Obama gear was for sale. $25 for a t-shirt. On the floor/field, it was so jam packed and insane. Definitely not fun for those who don't like close quarters.<br /><br />What's funny was beyond the historic nature of the evening, a huge buzz was also surrounding the possibility of a hurricane hitting New Orleans and how that might affect the RNC. <br /><br />Anyway, it was a wild and interesting week to say the least. Regardless of politics, it is truly an honor to witness history and see these important figures in person and even talk to some of them. I certainly hope we have given you a glimpse of that nad showed you NC's impact on the convention as well.<br /><br />Denver is a major Raleigh. I can see how it may have once been a lot like Raleigh. THe people talk about how city leaders say no one would ride light rail and it would never work. Now it's one of the most popular modes of transportation. Could that be true in the Triangle, Greensboro, etc.?<br /><br />THe people are wonderfully nice. Each night on the light rail someone new would talk to us. The light rail drivers would always remember us. The city is very clean. It's just a great place. This was my first visit but it definitely won't be my last.<br /><br />It's been an honor to bring you stories from such an important event. My colleague Shawn Flynn will work to do the same in Saint Paul with the Republicans next week.<br /><br />Again, watch Political Connections Friday night at 6 and Sunday morning at 11 to see a wrap of the week with extended interviews.<br /><br />Until then....Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-75205347208011318042008-08-28T11:24:00.002-04:002008-08-28T11:30:03.237-04:00NC connectionsGood morning from the big day here in Denver. It's likely going to be a mess. Transportation is a fiasco. They are asking people to show up no later than 2pm MT which is exactly 6 hours before Sen. Obama takes the stage.<br /><br />We are leaving for the stadium at 11am MT if that tells you anything. We're still a little unsure how good our access is going to be. We're working on getting an interview with Lenny Julius from Emerald Isle. He's been picked to meet Obama backstage. Unfortunately, due to security issues we have to interview him BEFORE he meets Obama! <br /><br />Security is here from everywhere, even NC! We've seen police and deputies from communities all over Colorado. While waiting to have our gear searched and inspected yesterday I was talking with two of the security folks and found out they are here from Fort Bragg! Military people are helping as well and they will head to Saint Paul next week. It can't be too bad. They say they just got back from their third trip to Iraq and will head back in December again.<br /><br />Make sure to watch Political Connections tomorrow night (Friday) at 6pm and Sunday at 11am. We'll be doing the show from here and recapping our week with extended interviews.<br /><br />I'll try to post more this afternoon on the wild event!<br /><br />Until then...Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-33191784800456035542008-08-27T01:27:00.002-04:002008-08-27T01:33:46.000-04:00NC convention speaker bumpedSo, it was a tale of two stories for two North Carolina women picked to address the Democratic National Convention in Denver.<br /><br />Pamela Cash-Roper of Pittsboro was scheduled to speak at 6:40 MT. Gloria Craven of Eden was scheduled to speak around 8:00 MT. Shortly before 6:00 MT we found out the two speakers were switched.<br /><br />After Craven's speech we interviewed her and she was clearly nervous but very excited about the opportunity to speak in front of 20,000 people and millions potentially on television.<br /><br />At 8:30pm MT we were waiting for Ms. Cash-Roper when Hillary Clinton came out on stage. They escorted Cash-Roper to us to do an interview and it was clear she had tears in her eyes. Yep, they were running over on time and she lost the opportunity to speak.<br /><br />She was frustrated and sad. Imagine telling all your friends and family and then it doesn't happen.<br /><br />Now, keep in mind, both women were able to introduce Barack Obama personally when he came to North Carolina and I'm guessing the campaign paid for their trips here.<br /><br />Both women were chosen to tell their story of economic and health hardships.<br /><br />I'll have more on their reaction to Tuesday's events later today. Based on my light rail trip back to the hotel, delegates are unsure if Clinton's speech will have any impact on her supporters.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-65249589192061745692008-08-26T19:32:00.002-04:002008-08-26T19:36:25.243-04:00Easley dissing Edwards?I caught up with Governor Mike Easley this afteroon at the Pepsi Center here in Denver at the DNC.<br /><br />It's his first convention he's ever attended and attributed that to Barack Obama. He says he hasn't attended conventions in the past because his message hasn't always matched the candidate's message. That would obviously include Kerry/Edwards in 2004.<br /><br />It's all part of an interview that we'll show part of tomorrow and in its entirety Friday (6pm) and Sunday (11am) on Political Connections on www.news14.com<br /><br />In the meantime, we are getting backstage access to watch two North Carolinians speak at the convention. We're also interviewing them afterward. Watch for that story tomorrow.<br /><br />Until then...Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-5330974251031046162008-08-26T10:09:00.002-04:002008-08-26T10:17:48.130-04:00Tuesday in DenverGood morning one and all from the Rocky Mountains!<br /><br />Governor Easley is here and we are trying to track him down for an interview today. The Democratic Party knows little to nothing about his whereabouts so I'm at the mercy of his staff back at Raleigh getting me in touch with his people here in Denver. <br /><br />Here's something very few want to say but are off the record and off camera. Ted Kennedy's moment on stage was very emotional and remarkable but his speech was not as amazing as commentators say it was last night. Again, it was a remarkable moment but the speech itself didn't knock the socks off a lot of the delegates I spoke to since the speech.<br /><br />Michelle Obama, on the other hand, did knock the socks off of people. I'm not surprised. I got a chance to interview her twice and I was very impressed. I'm not talking politics, I'm talking about the way she communicates and can tell her family's story.<br /><br />Tonight, it's Hillary Clinton. She speaks after my deadline so not sure how we're going to cover it yet but this could be a huge moment in this election. Will Clinton be able to convince her strong supporters to lend their vote to Obama despite their anger? Our delegates are convinced it's a smaller number than the media portrays and we are taking it way out of context. <br /><br />Two North Carolina women are speaking on at the convention floor tonight. We are trying to arrange an interview with one of them after she speaks. <br /><br />Let me tell you, it's a disaster trying to set up stories here beyond talking to delegates. There are more than 15,000 journalists here and they all want the same access I'm trying to get! There is a gate around the Pepsi Center at least a block in every direction keeping people out. Police are on every corner in Denver. Some have massive weapons and riot gear. Kinda strange!<br /><br />Anyway, I must continue on my quest to find the Governor. Check out News 14 Carolina later on tonight. We'll have a story on the oldest and youngest delegates in NC and maybe even the entire convention!<br /><br />Until then...Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-33092209938323443702008-08-25T20:39:00.002-04:002008-08-25T20:45:55.948-04:00Let the DNCC begin!Howard Dean officially got the party started this afternoon and the convention is underway in Denver.<br /><br />We've had a chance to talk with many of our delegates today. They are clearly disappointed they are sitting so far back compared to front row seats in 2004. However, they are down right pushy to push the point that it has nothing to do with Sen. Obama giving up on NC. Republicans argue otherwise.<br /><br />The big buzz tonight in the entire city is whether or not Ted Kennedy will make it on stage tonight. Michelle Obama is the keynote speaker but it's clear Kennedy would overshadow that in a hurry.<br /><br />Just to give you a viewpoint of how things are working here in Denver. Right outside the Pepsi center there are 3 huge media pavilions where the networks are working out of. We are working with our sister stations in New York out of a construction trailer that is equipped with some fancy technology to get our stories back to North Carolina.<br /><br />On the floor of the convention hall it is madness. A mixture of excitement and pretty bad fashion! Crazy shirts, signs, and hats are everywhere but it is very exciting for them.<br /><br />I'm essentially typing with the laptop on my lap in a folding chair in the corner of the trailer. There are probably 30 of us in it right now. Yeah, not so glamorous! At least compared to CNN who has overtaken a restaurant and even renamed it CNN Cafe for the week complete with a 20 foot neon sign (there goes the pay raises for CNN folks!).<br /><br />It's exhausting walking with all the gear but it's so worth it to get as close as we are to all this history!<br /><br />We'll see how tonight goes! Tomorrow, Hillary Clinton speaks and two NC residents speak on the floor as well!<br /><br />Until then...Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-18544436160550149682008-08-24T17:57:00.003-04:002008-08-25T02:05:04.196-04:00NC in the back!So, after an hour of security and general misery of sitting in the heat and altitude with no water we are finally inside the compound.<br /><br />By the way, Denver is a ridiculously nice city. Very modern and sheik yet historical. <br /><br />Anyway, my point for this entry is to tell you they just released the seating chart for the delegates and NC is in the very back. How bad? They are seated next to Arizona which is McCain's home state.<br /><br />Compare that to the front row seats delegates had in 2004! Should be interesting tomorrow.<br /><br />We saw Dan Rather, Wolf Blitzer, Anderson Cooper, and Kate Snow today wandering around the floor. We happened to be on the floor when Madeline Albright was checking out the speaker's podium as well.<br /><br />While we were waiting in line to get through security Rep. Dennis Kucinich walked by with his leading lady. She's about 5-6 inches taller and many more years younger. Pretty much everyone was turning their heads at the interesting couple!<br /><br />They walked right past two guys from Missouri who spent the day holding a huge sign that said "Rednecks from Obama". The foreign press took a huge liking to them. Anything to make the Americans look dumb, odd, etc. right?<br /><br />Tomorrow the convention starts so it's time to sleep!!Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-9928319992609200412008-08-24T10:41:00.002-04:002008-08-24T10:52:06.653-04:00Mornin from Denver!I'll tell you what. It's not a bad morning when you're sipping on a coffee with your laptop staring at the Rocky Mountains! It is gorgeous here. <br /><br />The air is so clean and so clear. No humidity. My photographer, Maurice Griffin, is probably getting sick of hearing me take deep breaths and saying "Man is this fresh air!".<br /><br />The people of Denver have been unbelievably friendly. They have volunteers posted just about everywhere. We are probably about 20 minutes outside of downtown. However, this city has a light rail system that works awesome. You can catch one about every 10 minutes and it's only $3.00 for a roundtrip ticket. So far, it seems very clean and pretty modern. I would imagine "green" yuppies would eat this city up. I don't consider myself that but I love it too!<br /><br />One funny note. There is a traffic reporter on a local station and her name is Amelia Earhart. I kid you not. Can that be real?<br /><br />We're getting ready to head out and venture downtown. It's worse than getting kids ready. We have so much equipment to take with us. I'm sure we'll get stared at quite a bit but we definitely won't be alone with 15,000 credentialed journalists. I will also get my favorite question when we carry all this television equipment. "Do you work for a tv station?"<br /><br />Yep.<br /><br />Anyway, we're doing a story on the history of Denver and the convention here. We have an interview with someone about the host hotel from the 1908 Democratic National Convention which exists today still. Plus we hope to show you a little of Denver as well.<br /><br />Until then...!Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-47066797819819733832008-08-23T20:34:00.002-04:002008-08-23T20:48:36.251-04:00We made it to Denver!It's 6:30 MT and we are in our hotel. Whew..long travel day and a strange one at that. Nonetheless our Democratic National Convention trip has begun!<br /><br />We had two flights with our layover in Houston. On the first flight the plane arrived late. As soon as we sat down the stewardess scolded the passengers to hurry up and sit down because we're running late. Wait, don't scold us, YOU were late! Then she began walking up the aisle scolding passenger after passenger about bags that weren't under the seat properly. Then she rudely dealt with two people in exit rows behind me and talked to them like they were 1st graders. I've never seen anything like it.<br /><br />Anyway, we arrived in the Mile High City. I've never been here before so it's a fun work trip and a great life experience as well. It was sadly cloudy as we arrived. In fact, there were tornadoes and flood warnings south of here earlier. It's still cloudy now but we can still make out the mountains, or at least an outline in the deep blue clouds. <br /><br />We are carrying television equipment so everywhere we go we get the inevitable, you work for a tv station? Yep.<br /><br />So far everyone is really nice here but it's really spread out like the Triangle. We haven't even seen the downtown area yet and we're not far. <br /><br />Delegates start arriving tomorrow afternoon. So, our story tomorrow afternoon will focus on setting the stage here in Denver to give you a feel for what's in store. If you haven't heard 100 years ago, in 1908, the Democratic Convention was held here too! The host hotel is still around so we're going to get a tour and there's some really neat memorabilia from it. <br /><br />Anyway, look for that tomorrow and I'll keep you posted. It's time for us to get some grub and relax after a long day of travel. Until then....Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-38404390884846896112008-08-19T22:06:00.004-04:002008-08-20T14:56:09.368-04:00Obama on Edwards' affairI was lucky enough to be one of two TV reporters in the state to interview Sen. Obama tonight in Raleigh and I was the only one who talked with him about John Edwards.<br /><br />Here's what he had to say on that...<br /><br />"I haven't talked to him but obviously this is a difficult and painful time for their family. My thoughts and prayers go out to them and I think right now john just wants to focus on healing the family and working things through for the good of their kids and I respect that and wish them all godspeed."<br /><br />I had about four minutes to talk with him here's a few of the highlights.<br /><br />He believes the race in North carolina is incredibly close He credits a terrific ground game, knocking on doors and making phone calls.<br /><br />He highlighted that 30% of manufacturing jobs since Bush has been in office in NC are gone. He says John McCain is offering more of George Bush.<br /><br />He is already working on his convention speech. I couldn't get a preview but he said he will contain a lot of the same themes he's talked about during the campaign.<br /><br />He says we have to do everything on the energy front and if offshore oil drilling in North Carolina is part of a comprehensive package he's okay with it but he says we can't drill ourselves out of this problem.<br /><br />Watch Political Connections Friday night at 6pm and Sunday at 11am to see the entire interview.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-86753798353057654132008-08-18T21:26:00.003-04:002008-08-20T14:56:43.931-04:00Heading to the DNC soonI'm back blogging! Sorry it's been a while. I'm having to adjust to an entirely new job on the anchor desk. While it may seem like all I do is read, there is much much more that goes into the job.<br /><br />Anywho, I've actually got some big political interviews in the next three days and plan to blog about them extensively starting on my shift tomorrow evening so check for that!<br /><br />In addition, I leave Saturday for Denver to cover the Democratic National Convention. I will be filing daily reports on www.news14.com and on News 14 Carolina statewide. In addition, I'll be blogging on this here blog daily so make sure to check it out. I'll likely be doing a story on NC bloggers as well.<br /><br />I'll also be taping the entire episode of Political Connections next week from Denver and this week's show will have a very very prominent guest you won't want to miss!<br /><br />Stay tuned!!!Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-38620068055027674442008-07-31T19:50:00.003-04:002008-08-20T14:57:03.944-04:00Hello anchor deskJob change...<br /><br />Some of you may have noticed I haven't posted on here as much as I have in the past. The reason is my job has changed. I've been promoted from Senior Political Reporter to Weeknight Evening Anchor. The bottom line is you're stuck seeing me a lot more often Monday-Friday nights on News 14 Carolina!<br /><br />I am still following politics and am still doing Political Connections for the time being. Eventually I will be replaced and the new person will take over everything political.<br /><br />However, I'm still going to keep up with it and I'm still going to be working to get long form indepth interviews with candidates and officials (i.e. governor, senators, etc.). As the prime time anchor I hope it actually makes it easier to bring those folks into our studio.<br /><br />Those interviews will likely continue appearing on Political Connections even when I'm not the host.<br /><br />It has been a joy to follow and cover state government and politics in the field on a daily basis but I'm really looking forward to this new challenge. I really can't wait for election night when I'm essentially directing it from the anchor desk!<br /><br />I will continue to update the blog as I see fit for now and when I am relieved of politics I plan to start another blog of my own which I hope you will read as well. More details on that in the months to come.<br /><br />For now, check out News 14 Carolina and please stay in close touch with me for story ideas, tips, etc! tim.boyum@news14.comTim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-70903083373388944242008-07-28T17:02:00.003-04:002008-08-20T14:57:20.342-04:00Easley to have surgeryIs Governor Easley falling apart?<br /><br />We got word today that Gov. Easley will have shoulder surgery tomorrow. I'll put the release below this. This is at least his third surgery that I can remember since he's been in office.<br /><br />In January of 2003, Gov. Easley had bone spurs removed from his left shoulder at UNC Hospitals. He was in a sling for a few weeks.<br /><br />In May of 2006, Gov. Easley had outpatient surgery on his left knee to repair a cartilage fissure.<br /><br />Now we get word he's having the same bone spur surgery on his right shoulder but this time it's at Duke University hospitals.<br /><br />You have to love the sense of humor of his doctor-full release is below.<br /><br />RALEIGH – Gov. Mike Easley will undergo shoulder surgery on Tuesday at Duke Hospital in Durham. The surgery is expected to last approximately two hours and Easley will be numbed with a general nerve block to the affected area. His activity will be restricted for several months.<br /><br /><br />The following is a statement from Dr. Bill Garrett, Easley’s doctor:<br /><br /><br /><br />“We will be removing bone spurs from the governor’s right shoulder area, including his AC joint and acromion – the area near the rotator cuff. The spurs were caused by extensive use of the shoulder during exercise, sports, and physical activities over several years. In addition to spurs, there are torn tendons that must be reattached with screws and sutures. This is very similar to the surgery on his shoulder in 2003, but is on the other side.<br /><br /><br /><br />“He will be able to work, but will be wearing a sling for the next three to four weeks. I am advising the governor to restrict activity for several months and to refrain from high impact or strenuous activity like contact basketball, golf, shooting shot guns, weight lifting or NASCAR driving until next year. We might suggest he sign bills left handed as well. His signature will not be any worse.”Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-38384993993086339742008-07-18T19:57:00.003-04:002008-08-20T14:58:01.811-04:00Lawmakers end session quicklySo hard to say goodbye...or is it!<br /><br />Lawmakers frantically finished their work Friday and whisked away from Raleigh as fast as possible. There's several reasons for this. First and foremost, all 170 spots in the General Assembly are up for election every two years and this would be that time. They don't want to be here giving their opponents any possible ammunition.<br /><br />Second, revenues keep dropping and the outlook is as well so they just want to get away from it.<br /><br />At the beginning of the session there were high hopes to get work done on transportation, drought, mental health and many other big issues. But day one it was clear leadership was focused on one thing-get a budget amended and get out of dodge ASAP!<br /><br />So how did they do? Obviously depends on who you ask. I think the bottom line is they did enough to touch on the subjects and not get crucified during elections but not too much to get crucified in elections. Sounds funny I know, yet it makes sense.<br /><br />Just about everyone you talk to down there is completely focused on transportation next year. They are all waiting for the 21st Century Transportation Committee to come forward with recommendations later this year.<br /><br />Expect huge debates over finding new revenue sources (i.e. new taxes or fees to replace dwindling gas tax funds). Sadly, public transportation probably won't get as much attention by lawmakers as it should even though I suspect it will be a pretty big portion of the 21st Century Committee.<br /><br />So, how will we fund roads. That's perhaps the biggest question. Big bonds? That's another question to be answered. Will lawmakers look to put big bonds (big as in billion$) for transportation, water and sewer, land preservation, etc. That will be another huge debate whether or not to ask voters for a big chunk of cash or figure out other ways to fix the state's crumbling state infrastructure.<br /><br />You'll also hear a lot about education as usual. Expect another push for significant teacher raises and new fixes for dropout issues.<br /><br />Will lawmakers touch the death penalty, annexation, land transfer taxes, etc.? Who knows..depends on how the wind is blowing I would bet.<br /><br />For now the wind's blowing them right out of town. Get ready for non-stop election coverage!Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-66050837328610409472008-07-16T18:26:00.003-04:002008-08-20T14:58:24.078-04:00Easley signs NC budgetEasley quietly signs budget....<br /><br />By press release, Gov. Easley announced he signed the amended budget. He's clearly not pleased with the budget by signing it so quietly. There was no news conference, no question and answer, just a quiet last signature on a budget as Governor.<br /><br />It's no secret he was not pleased with lower teacher raises than he proposed and had concerns about spending and borrowing. There was even question whether he would sign it or just let it go into law without his signature after 10 days. I don't think too many people believed he would veto. It's an interesting end to his last budget process though since it was so quiet.<br /><br />In the meantime, lawmakers are probably a bit giddy. This means they can wrap up session and get out of town for 2008 in time to hit the lakes or links this weekend.<br /><br />Now it's just a matter of time what they can get through and/or kill between now and then as far as bills are concerned.<br /><br />I think it's safe to say political coverage will take a major shift back to the elections next week with the legislature adjourning. Get ready!Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-51001955176128575162008-07-15T16:09:00.001-04:002008-07-15T16:11:42.636-04:00Happy Tuesday!<br /><br />Well it appears lawmakers are going to do everything they can to wrap up the session and get out of town by the end of the week. The big question remains...will the Gov. sign the budget? He does have the option of not signing it and letting it simply go into law after 10 days which comes Friday.<br /><br />In the meantime lawmakers are feverishly working on several last minute bills including the drought and gangs. There is a compromise on both that are both expected to pass.<br /><br />Here's my story today on the gang issue.<br /><br />RALEIGH -- Lawmakers have compromised on a plan that will officially make street gangs illegal in North Carolina.<br /><br />Currently there is no law on the books that directly specifically deals with gangs. The legislation still needs final votes from the state house and senate.<br /><br />Statewide there are an estimated 550 gangs with more than 14,000 members.<br /><br />"We are at a crisis point in our state we have from all over this state gangs are popping up everywhere," Rep. Tricia Cotham (D-Mecklenburg) said.<br /><br />Lawmakers hope new proposals will stop gangs from growing even larger. For the first time in state history the plan would make gang activity a crime.<br />The proposals add new felonies to the law books for gang leaders who take part in gangs and recruit.<br /><br />"The focus of the legislation is to go after the gang members not necessarily the rank and file gang members but those who are really running the operations through drugs, crimes, recruiting members, those who are in charge," Rep. Cotham added.<br /><br />"Now we are aware gangs reach down to levels of 8, 9, 10 but the leadership the people who really profit from this that's where we've got to really hit," Rep. Bill Current (R-Gaston) said.<br /><br />This bill has not been without controversy at the General Assembly. There is some concern it will target minority groups. There is also concerns about age restrictions.<br /><br />For months, lawmakers argued what age these gang members should face adult charges. One version said 12 years old another said 16. A compromise settled on 15 years old.<br /><br />After they serve their time the gang portion of their record is erased but any related charges involving weapons or anything else would stay on their record. Supporters say it's about time North Carolina puts gang laws on the books.<br /><br />"It's so important to the foundation of our society that people feel safe in their homes and walk around and jog and feel safe in their homes," Rep. Current added.<br /><br />They hope these new proposals with prevention and intervention programs will slow down one of the fastest growing crime problems in the state.<br />If approved and signed by the governor the law would take effect on December 1st. That means it would only impact crimes that take place on or after that date.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-12348668136155608082008-07-11T15:36:00.002-04:002008-07-11T15:38:49.536-04:00TGIF!!!!! Quite a week with Helms' funeral and the legislature scrambling to get out of here by next week.<br /><br />Anywho, make sure to check out Political Connections tonight at 6pm (Friday) and Sunday again at 11am. We're focusing on all of our coverage from Jesse Helms this past week with a few guests added in.<br /><br />I focused my daily effort today on the fundraising in the governor's race. Story is below..<br /><br />RALEIGH -- Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory has his work cut out for him in the fundraising department.<br /><br />The Republican candidate for governor has less than half the amount of his opponent, Democratic Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue.<br /><br />"The Perdue is very consistent in their fundraising," Peace College political professor Dr. David McLennan said. "The McCrory campaign needs to pick it up to be quite honest."<br /><br />In the second quarter Perdue raised $2.3 million dollars. She has $1.4 million in cash. McCrory reports more than a million dollars with $700,000 in cash.<br /><br />In a statement, Perdue spokesman David Kochman writes "Voters across North Carolina share Bev Perdue's vision for world-class public schools, affordable health care, and economic opportunity for all North Carolina families."<br /><br />McCrory campaign manager Richard Hudson writes in a statement, "When you consider the amount of money Pat has been able to raise in such a short time, it is easy to understand that he has momentum on his side." <br /><br />On top of just entering the race in January, McCrory's advisors also point out he has raised more money than the last two Republican candidates.<br /><br />McCrory's campaign says they raised $600,000 more than Patrick Ballantine did in the second quarter of the 2004 race. They also say he raised $190,000 more than Richard Vinroot did in 2000.<br /><br />While money doesn't translate into votes, it does buy tv time which is important to get votes all across the state. Dr. McLennan believes the third quarter fundraising numbers could tell us how competitive election night will be in the governor's race.<br /><br />"I think that's what we'll watch for," Dr. McLennan added. "Is he bringing in money from across the state to show statewide support and is he bringing in enough money to make himself competitive with Perdue."<br /><br />In the U.S. Senate race, Kay Hagan kept pace with Elizabeth Dole raising money during the second quarter. However, Dole still has more than two and a half times the amount of money in her campaign war chest.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-33434234430206671142008-07-10T15:06:00.002-04:002008-07-10T15:09:11.064-04:00Wrappin up...<br /><br />It appears more and more likely that lawmakers will wrap up by the end of next week.<br />Yesterday, House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman told me he expected them to be done by then. Today, committees were working overtime to get through bills.<br /><br />Drought will likely get wrapped up. I'm told there's an agreement on anti-gang legislation and it will be rolled out next week. So, if you need something with a lawmaker better see them quick cause you're likely to see nothing but dust by the end of next week.<br /><br />In the meantime I did a story on Hannah Montana today. I know...just read below!<br /><br />RALEIGH -- State lawmakers could ban software that allows brokers to sellout concerts or games in just minutes.<br /><br />The software helps brokers get hundreds if not thousands of tickets. Those tickets are then sold for a much higher price on the internet. Teen sensation Hannah Montana sparked idea not only in North Carolina but other states as well.<br /><br />Last fall, Hannah Montana came to Greensboro. Rob Fisher tried to buy tickets online the minute they went on sale.<br /><br />"We clicked on any available seats and nothing came up so we figured maybe our computer clock was off by a minute or two so we tried again, tried again and nothing came up," Fisher said last September.<br /><br />That's because the concert sold out in record time. Most of those tickets were likely bought in seconds by computer software.<br /><br />"There are people in the country that have these robotic systems that actually come in," Sandy Sands, who represents Ticketmaster, said. "We're not talking about two dozen tickets, we're talking about hundreds and thousands of tickets."<br /><br />Those tickets are then resold online for a much higher price. A proposed law continues to make its way through the legislature that would ban that software.<br /><br />"And it will give the venue and the seller the ability to go after them and stop them and get an injunction and hit them for money damages which is a whole lot more than a little misdemeanor which is currently in the law now," Sands said.<br /><br />While pretty much everyone including venues all across North Carolina are in favor of banning these computer programs, companies like eBay and Stub Hub do have concerns about a new tax in the bill they would have to collect.<br /><br />The bill allows the resale of tickets online above the ticket price, but it charges a three percent tax. <br /><br />Those companies argue it's not their responsibility, it's the person who sells the actual ticket. A company representative compared it to classified ad sales in newspapers.<br /><br />"You're saying the newspaper should collect taxes on the appreciated value of the items sold in the classified ads," Bill Scoggin, who represents Stub Hub and eBay said.<br /><br />The bill still needs approval in another committee and from the full House. Then it goes back to the Senate for approval there before heading to the governor's desk.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-80071132471863810932008-07-09T16:51:00.001-04:002008-07-09T16:52:29.610-04:00Rep. Holliman told me today he believes the House will close shop up sometime next week. <br /><br />Here's a brief piece I did today on the subject..<br /><br />RALEIGH -- Lawmakers approved a budget but their work is not over just yet.<br /><br />From the drought to gang issues, some big ticket items remain on lawmakers plates. They are trying to finish up by next week and won't be back until january.<br /><br />Outside the legislature, advocacy groups continue to push lawmakers for approval of several bills.<br /><br />A moratorium on forced annexations passed the House already, but it still needs Senate approval. The Senate has approved a bill to repeal the land transfer sales tax, but it needs House approval. Both face an uphill battle.<br /><br />There is likely a week or two left and it's a fast and furious push for lawmakers looking to get their bills passed.<br /><br />"We want enough time to take a look at it and see if it's something we want to accomplish," House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman (D-Davidson) said. "If it's something that's not needed we'll be back in January."<br /><br />Before then lawmakers are still working to pass new laws defining gangs for the first time. Leaders hope to resolve that soon.<br /><br />Drought proposals are a major focus among House and Senate members. The most current compromise gives the state power to force water restrictions but local governments can still decide who must conserve and how much. <br /><br />"This issue is not going to go away," Rep. Holliman added. "We can't just wait to see where it goes. We know we're getting a little rain but we still have a drought problem in this state and we need to address it."<br /><br />But some lawmakers are worried about pushing through this legislation too fast.<br /><br />"There are some questions about seeding too much authority to the state government or providing local governments too much over people who are not under local rules," Sen. Minority Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said.<br /><br />While there are a few big ticket items for lawmakers to take up, it's clear their goal is to leave as soon as possible with an election this fall. Rep. Holliman believes they will be out of raleigh sometime next week.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38572778.post-47455408363689367482008-07-08T17:54:00.001-04:002008-07-08T17:55:12.504-04:00I need to get to an appointment but I wanted to make sure and at least post my story from Helms' funeral today. Someone else covered the actual funeral. I focused on who attended. More tomorrow..<br /><br />RALEIGH -- A number of high profile people attended Jesse Helms' funeral.<br /> <br />From the Vice President to U.S. Senators, some big names said goodbye to Senator Helms.<br /><br />More than two hours before the funeral started, mourners began arriving, including Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory.<br /><br />"He supported mass transit, he was really tough on foreign policy and yet he was also friends with Bono the rock singer, but he was always consistent in the way he treated people and that's why I admired him," Mayor McCrory said.<br /><br />Not long after, three white limousines brought the family of Helms to the church. Then a short time later two buses filled with members of Congress arrived, including Elizabeth and Bob Dole, Richard Burr, and at least two Democrats.<br /><br />Moments later Senator Burr greeted Republican Presidential candidate John McCain's wife Cindy.<br /> <br />Governor Mike Easley and UNC system President Erskine Bowles walked into the church together followed by more than a dozen state lawmakers.<br /><br />Shortly before 2:00pm, the Vice President of the United States Dick Cheney arrived.<br /><br />"That to me says more about Jesse Helms than some of the things I've seen written lately," Helms' Chief of Staff Jimmy Broughton said. "When you have the funeral and that's a celebration of life and look who shows up to pay tribute to that life. It's the most diverse crowd ever."<br /><br />After the funeral pall bearers brought Helms flag draped coffin down the stairs of the church. The family then followed to a private burial service.<br /><br />Those who know Helms best say he would be shocked by the turnout for his own funeral with all the high profile politicians.<br /><br />"He would have been blown away, totally overwhelmed if you would have said the Vice President would attend his funeral," Broughton added.<br /><br />"He remained a common man and he told the people the truth and I think they always respected him for that," Sen. Fred Smith (R-Johnston) said.<br /><br />Helms no doubt created a great deal of controversy during his life, but in death, it appears he will be most remembered for his courage to stand up for his beliefs.Tim Boyumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12430090851749463234noreply@blogger.com5