I was off politics today but did an interesting story on Segways (at least I think interesting!).
I'll leave it below because I frankly don't have much else to report on. Next week will heat up with increased budget talks and I'm already getting numerous press conference invitiations by groups hoping to get their agenda taken up at the legislature. Should be fun, plus I'm headed to Fayetteville Thursday to cover the Prez..
Have a good weekend!
RALEIGH -- Soaring gas prices have led to another new Segway dealership in North Carolina.
The two wheeled battery powered transporters are gaining popularity from police and tour guides. Dealers are now even marketing Segways for commuting.
Todd Masinter swears Segways will not only save you on gas money, but it will add years to your life.
"There's definitely this perverse enjoyment when you're passing people on a sidewalk at 12 1/2 mph and in gridlock cars everyone is staring at you it's just a phenomenal feeling knowing you're not wasting any gas," Triangle Segway owner Todd Masinter said.
Two months ago he and his wife moved from California to North Carolina. They decided to open up a Segway dealership to offer tours and sales.
"A number of people during and after a tour will ask about a purchase and how they can obtain one and how quickly," tour guide Bruce Miller said. "We had one the other day said how quickly can I get one, not just can I get one."
The two wheeled battery powered vehicles can go 24 miles on a single charge. It takes eight hours to recharge in a standard outlet.
41 states including North Carolina say they are legal on sidewalks and have the same rights as an electric wheelchair.
There are two models, a commuter and one with larger tires. One model even comes equipped for the golf course.
The price varies from $5100 to $5600 and Masinter says the rise in gas prices have turned skeptics into buyers.
"There are folks in downtown Raleigh who have purchased from us who go from their condo into the elevator down through the lobby out the doors and onto their job and repeat their process and take it to their desk and plug it into the outlet," Masinter added.
"Well if you live downtown it actually makes a lot of sense not having to drive your car from place to place, and it's a pretty convenient device," Tour customer David New said.
Segway now has authorized dealerships in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
When?
That's the question being asked by pretty much everyone at the legislature. When will the budget get wrapped up.
Regardless of big issues on the table, it appears the honorables are 100% intent on putting together a budget and watching Raleigh in the rear view mirror as fast as possible.
All signs point to that happening. It was indeed a very quiet first week. No major surprises as lawmakers remain focus in various appropriation and subcommittee meetings.
I'm told both chambers have worked together for nearly two months and are pretty close to an agreement on big subjects. Governor Easley's surprise budget with sin taxes threw a small wrenth in that plan but lawmakers seem intent on doing what they want to do.
Most believe (hope) lawmakers will wrap up and be out of town by the middle of July if not sooner. Keep in mind they are supposed to be done with the budget by July 1st.
The House goes first and we could see their version sooner than later based on reports and how fast and furious these committee meetings are happening.
That's the question being asked by pretty much everyone at the legislature. When will the budget get wrapped up.
Regardless of big issues on the table, it appears the honorables are 100% intent on putting together a budget and watching Raleigh in the rear view mirror as fast as possible.
All signs point to that happening. It was indeed a very quiet first week. No major surprises as lawmakers remain focus in various appropriation and subcommittee meetings.
I'm told both chambers have worked together for nearly two months and are pretty close to an agreement on big subjects. Governor Easley's surprise budget with sin taxes threw a small wrenth in that plan but lawmakers seem intent on doing what they want to do.
Most believe (hope) lawmakers will wrap up and be out of town by the middle of July if not sooner. Keep in mind they are supposed to be done with the budget by July 1st.
The House goes first and we could see their version sooner than later based on reports and how fast and furious these committee meetings are happening.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
I'm off to moderate a panel this afternoon so you're stuck with just my story from today again...
RALEIGH -- The governor and lawmakers will soon battle over so called sin taxes.
Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax on cigarettes and alcohol. He says the money's needed to pay for teacher pay increases and mental health reform. Sin taxes are increasingly popular proposals to raise money.
As a tobacco state, raising the cigarette tax was political suicide in the past but times have changed.
Lawmakers bumped the cigarette tax three cents a pack in 1991. 14 years later it was increased from five cents to 30-cents in 2005. Just one year later it was raised five more cents. The tax still remains the seventh lowest in the U.S.
Now Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax again by 20-cents to 55-cents a pack. That would make North Carolina's tax tied for 12th lowest in the country.
"Certainly North Carolina is not as tobacco dependent in terms in the number of farmers involved," Sen. Richard Stevens (R-Wake) said. "We're still producing a lot of tobacco in North Carolina, but it doesn't have the same political impact it once did so I guess it's an easier target at that point."
The beer and wine industry finds itself on the flip side. The beer tax for instance hasn't been raised in decades but it is still one of the highest in the nation.
Right now the tax is roughly four cents a can which leaves North Carolina with the fourth highest beer tax in the nation. Gov. Easley's proposal would increase it to nine cents a can and the second highest in the nation.
"Our beer taxes and wine taxes are some of the highest in the nation and this type of proposal falls most heavily on North Carolina consumers who can at this time when the economy is not in great shape," Dean Plunkett from the NC Beer and Wine Association said.
While the beer tax hasn't changed since 1969, Plunkett says it comes up nearly every year.
"It tends to be that way," Plunkett added. "The legislature will always look for new funding sources and we tend to be the choice a lot of the time.
North Carolina's not alone. Many other states are proposing sin tax increases as well. Supporters say it's a volunteer tax and having that choice to drink or smoke is better than forcing a tax on everyone.
Both Democrats and Republicans at the legislature appear to oppose Easley's tax proposals. A final budget must be approved by July 1st.
RALEIGH -- The governor and lawmakers will soon battle over so called sin taxes.
Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax on cigarettes and alcohol. He says the money's needed to pay for teacher pay increases and mental health reform. Sin taxes are increasingly popular proposals to raise money.
As a tobacco state, raising the cigarette tax was political suicide in the past but times have changed.
Lawmakers bumped the cigarette tax three cents a pack in 1991. 14 years later it was increased from five cents to 30-cents in 2005. Just one year later it was raised five more cents. The tax still remains the seventh lowest in the U.S.
Now Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax again by 20-cents to 55-cents a pack. That would make North Carolina's tax tied for 12th lowest in the country.
"Certainly North Carolina is not as tobacco dependent in terms in the number of farmers involved," Sen. Richard Stevens (R-Wake) said. "We're still producing a lot of tobacco in North Carolina, but it doesn't have the same political impact it once did so I guess it's an easier target at that point."
The beer and wine industry finds itself on the flip side. The beer tax for instance hasn't been raised in decades but it is still one of the highest in the nation.
Right now the tax is roughly four cents a can which leaves North Carolina with the fourth highest beer tax in the nation. Gov. Easley's proposal would increase it to nine cents a can and the second highest in the nation.
"Our beer taxes and wine taxes are some of the highest in the nation and this type of proposal falls most heavily on North Carolina consumers who can at this time when the economy is not in great shape," Dean Plunkett from the NC Beer and Wine Association said.
While the beer tax hasn't changed since 1969, Plunkett says it comes up nearly every year.
"It tends to be that way," Plunkett added. "The legislature will always look for new funding sources and we tend to be the choice a lot of the time.
North Carolina's not alone. Many other states are proposing sin tax increases as well. Supporters say it's a volunteer tax and having that choice to drink or smoke is better than forcing a tax on everyone.
Both Democrats and Republicans at the legislature appear to oppose Easley's tax proposals. A final budget must be approved by July 1st.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
RALEIGH -- Lawmakers returned to work in Raleigh Tuesday and it's clear there will be a battle over the state budget.
Monday, Gov. Easley proposed large teacher pay raises but he also wants to raise taxes. So far, Republican and Democratic lawmakers are opposing some of the governor's ideas.
Easley wants to raise teacher pay to the national average. To do that, it requires a 7-percent pay increase. To pay for those raises and a pricey mental health reform he wants to raise the tax on cigarettes by 20 cents and the tax on alcohol by 4 cents.
One might expect a negative reaction from Republicans but even fellow Democrats are not on board with Easley's ideas.
"We're a little concerned in this economic downturn which we find ourselves in to raise taxes right now," Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
Republicans believe the governor's budget plan focuses too much on spending and taxing.
"In tough economic times it is not the time to raise taxes, particularly, taxes that hit the poorest people," Senate Minority Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said.
House Speaker Joe Hackney also has concerns about state employee pay. While the governor wants a 7-percent increase for teachers, he's offering just a 1.5-percent pay increase and a thousand dollar bonus for all other state employees.
"The House historically does not pass a budget with that kind of disparity between state employees and teachers and I would predict for you there would not be that kind of disparity this time either," Speaker Hackney (D-Orange) said.
While the budget is the main issue there are several other issues that remain on the table, however many lawmakers say they may not get to those this summer.
"The theory of this session in which we find ourselves is to examine the budget," Sen. Rand added. "We need to examine the budget and go home."
That could mean little movement on major issues like transportation, the drought, and gang legislation.
In an election year, few lawmakers want to rock the boat and will likely wait to address controversial issues in 2009.
Monday, Gov. Easley proposed large teacher pay raises but he also wants to raise taxes. So far, Republican and Democratic lawmakers are opposing some of the governor's ideas.
Easley wants to raise teacher pay to the national average. To do that, it requires a 7-percent pay increase. To pay for those raises and a pricey mental health reform he wants to raise the tax on cigarettes by 20 cents and the tax on alcohol by 4 cents.
One might expect a negative reaction from Republicans but even fellow Democrats are not on board with Easley's ideas.
"We're a little concerned in this economic downturn which we find ourselves in to raise taxes right now," Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
Republicans believe the governor's budget plan focuses too much on spending and taxing.
"In tough economic times it is not the time to raise taxes, particularly, taxes that hit the poorest people," Senate Minority Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said.
House Speaker Joe Hackney also has concerns about state employee pay. While the governor wants a 7-percent increase for teachers, he's offering just a 1.5-percent pay increase and a thousand dollar bonus for all other state employees.
"The House historically does not pass a budget with that kind of disparity between state employees and teachers and I would predict for you there would not be that kind of disparity this time either," Speaker Hackney (D-Orange) said.
While the budget is the main issue there are several other issues that remain on the table, however many lawmakers say they may not get to those this summer.
"The theory of this session in which we find ourselves is to examine the budget," Sen. Rand added. "We need to examine the budget and go home."
That could mean little movement on major issues like transportation, the drought, and gang legislation.
In an election year, few lawmakers want to rock the boat and will likely wait to address controversial issues in 2009.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Working on prepping for the first day of the General Assembly so sorry for the lack of original post-but here's my story today on Gov. Easley's budget proposal released this morning.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Mike Easley wants to raise taxes on cigarettes and alcohol to help pay for teacher raises and mental health reform.
That's the highlight of a $21.5 billion budget the governor released Monday morning. It's the last budget of his administration before he leaves office in January.
Four years ago, Easley promised to help teacher pay reach the national average. His proposal does just that with a 7% raise.
"We do this by focusing on our strategy of helping beginning teachers," Gov. Easley said. "It will be an average of $36,000-36,500 when enacted. I'm sure many of you can recall when $30,000 sounded like a lot for teachers."
NC Association of Educator's Eddie Davis added, "To be able to say to people we are making the commitment to people to increase our teachers salaries as well as those mid career is a good connection and a good commitment for the people of North Carolina."
Gov. Easley also proposes $68 million dollars to help fix the mental health crisis. To pay for mental health and teacher raises, Easley wants to raise the cigarette tax by 20 cents a pack and four cents on alcohol.
"My thought is if 4 cents a can, if that causes somebody economic hardship, then they are probably drinking too much and are going to be customers of mental health/substance abuse centers anyway," Gov. Easley said.
Some feel those taxes target the poor and want taxes raised elsewhere.
"For example, we just eliminated an income tax on the wealthiest North Carolinians just last year which if you put that into place that would raise just as much money as they are going to raise from cigarette and alcohol taxes," Elaine Mejia from the NC Budget and Tax Center said.
While teachers and Gov. Easley are happy to get teacher's salaries up to the national average the state employees association is not so happy about their recommendations.
Easley's proposal offers state employees a 1.5% pay increase plus a one time $1000 bonus.
"This 1.5% can't put gas in your tank, as you know the cost of living is skyrocketing, gas food everything they need to just subsist is going through the roof and 1.5% won't come close to catching it," Ardis Watkins from the State Employees Association said.
Here's a look at some other recommendations. He returns $25 million in transportation funding to the highway trust fund. Easley gives four million dollars to improve probation problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case. He also give money to help families facing foreclosure and creates a drought task force.
Keep in mind these are simply the governor's proposals. The House and Senate must come up with their own versions, then all three sides must negotiate a final budget by June 30th.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Mike Easley wants to raise taxes on cigarettes and alcohol to help pay for teacher raises and mental health reform.
That's the highlight of a $21.5 billion budget the governor released Monday morning. It's the last budget of his administration before he leaves office in January.
Four years ago, Easley promised to help teacher pay reach the national average. His proposal does just that with a 7% raise.
"We do this by focusing on our strategy of helping beginning teachers," Gov. Easley said. "It will be an average of $36,000-36,500 when enacted. I'm sure many of you can recall when $30,000 sounded like a lot for teachers."
NC Association of Educator's Eddie Davis added, "To be able to say to people we are making the commitment to people to increase our teachers salaries as well as those mid career is a good connection and a good commitment for the people of North Carolina."
Gov. Easley also proposes $68 million dollars to help fix the mental health crisis. To pay for mental health and teacher raises, Easley wants to raise the cigarette tax by 20 cents a pack and four cents on alcohol.
"My thought is if 4 cents a can, if that causes somebody economic hardship, then they are probably drinking too much and are going to be customers of mental health/substance abuse centers anyway," Gov. Easley said.
Some feel those taxes target the poor and want taxes raised elsewhere.
"For example, we just eliminated an income tax on the wealthiest North Carolinians just last year which if you put that into place that would raise just as much money as they are going to raise from cigarette and alcohol taxes," Elaine Mejia from the NC Budget and Tax Center said.
While teachers and Gov. Easley are happy to get teacher's salaries up to the national average the state employees association is not so happy about their recommendations.
Easley's proposal offers state employees a 1.5% pay increase plus a one time $1000 bonus.
"This 1.5% can't put gas in your tank, as you know the cost of living is skyrocketing, gas food everything they need to just subsist is going through the roof and 1.5% won't come close to catching it," Ardis Watkins from the State Employees Association said.
Here's a look at some other recommendations. He returns $25 million in transportation funding to the highway trust fund. Easley gives four million dollars to improve probation problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case. He also give money to help families facing foreclosure and creates a drought task force.
Keep in mind these are simply the governor's proposals. The House and Senate must come up with their own versions, then all three sides must negotiate a final budget by June 30th.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
From my story today..
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
From my story today..
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Another NC superdelegate for Obama?
I had an interesting conversation with Muriel Offerman, who is a North Carolina superdelegate.
Here's her response when I asked if she's still truly remained undecided?
"Yes, yes I have. I will say that I'm probably leaning more toward a decision now after the vote has been taken in North Carolina because that definitely tells me which candidate this state is backing."
She said she will not make any decision official or public though until after June 3rd when every state has held a vote. She said it will come some time in June, not necessarily the day after the final vote.
She has had only one call this week and it was from the Obama campaign. The rest came from reporters like myself!
She said the day Gov. Easley endorsed Hillary Clinton that Clinton asked her directly for her support but she told Sen. Clinton that she would not until the primary races were all over. She said Obama asked her on the phone for her support as well at one point.
In all, she has met with Clinton 3 times, Barack Obama once, Michelle Obama once and had numerous phone conversations with surrogates.
Should be interesting!
I had an interesting conversation with Muriel Offerman, who is a North Carolina superdelegate.
Here's her response when I asked if she's still truly remained undecided?
"Yes, yes I have. I will say that I'm probably leaning more toward a decision now after the vote has been taken in North Carolina because that definitely tells me which candidate this state is backing."
She said she will not make any decision official or public though until after June 3rd when every state has held a vote. She said it will come some time in June, not necessarily the day after the final vote.
She has had only one call this week and it was from the Obama campaign. The rest came from reporters like myself!
She said the day Gov. Easley endorsed Hillary Clinton that Clinton asked her directly for her support but she told Sen. Clinton that she would not until the primary races were all over. She said Obama asked her on the phone for her support as well at one point.
In all, she has met with Clinton 3 times, Barack Obama once, Michelle Obama once and had numerous phone conversations with surrogates.
Should be interesting!
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Obama wins NC..
I don't think anyone will be surprised by results in NC. What was interesting was Obama's speech. If you didn't see it, you should.
He spent about 2 minutes talking about NC and then went on for 25 minutes as if he was the nominee.
He even went as far as to call North Carolina a swing state in November if he was the nominee. History will have a say in that. NC hasn't picked a Democrat since 1976.
I don't think anyone will be surprised by results in NC. What was interesting was Obama's speech. If you didn't see it, you should.
He spent about 2 minutes talking about NC and then went on for 25 minutes as if he was the nominee.
He even went as far as to call North Carolina a swing state in November if he was the nominee. History will have a say in that. NC hasn't picked a Democrat since 1976.
Oh what a night....
I'll be at Obama headquarters in Raleigh tonight. I'll be posting more as the night goes on but I need to get there first so I'll be offline for a little bit.
I'll tell you what, if Obama loses it won't be because of his grassroots efforts. On several street corners there were tents with people selling T-shirts and pictures and pushing for votes.
In my neighborhood over the last several days people have canvassed the neighborhood and left literature on door knobs.
Should be interesting..come back for updates..probably anytime after 6!
I'll be at Obama headquarters in Raleigh tonight. I'll be posting more as the night goes on but I need to get there first so I'll be offline for a little bit.
I'll tell you what, if Obama loses it won't be because of his grassroots efforts. On several street corners there were tents with people selling T-shirts and pictures and pushing for votes.
In my neighborhood over the last several days people have canvassed the neighborhood and left literature on door knobs.
Should be interesting..come back for updates..probably anytime after 6!
Monday, May 05, 2008
Sorry I've been MIA on the blog lately..my my my has it been busy busy busy trying to do the TV end of things little alone do all my web work as well.
On top of that I had my first wedding anniversary this weekend!
Anywho..I'm in a mad dash tonight as well but in case you haven't heard Obama will be in Raleigh Tuesday night (Clinton is in Indiana). I had a few minutes with him as well this afternoon. Here's the script for your reading pleasure..
GREENSBORO -- News 14 Carolina Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum had a chance to talk with Barack Obama just minutes before he left North Carolina Monday night.
The Democratic presidential candidate held no public events in the state but did hold three private meetings with voters.
Posing for pictures just moments before takeoff, Obama leaves the state confident his message about the economy and gas prices will lead to victory.
"I think the Democratic party needs to be the party of the future and not the party of the past and that's what's going to be at stake tomorrow and I hope North Carolinians take the opportunity to seize that moment," Sen. Obama said.
Polls have him ahead as well. He wants Tar Heel voters to know that he believes he's the candidate to beat John McCain in November.
"If you elect Senator Clinton as the nominee then we're going to have the same election we had in 2000 and 2004," Obama added. "We've been bringing in new people in the process getting them excited and so I believe we can reach independents and even some Republicans that Senator Clinton simply cannot do."
Obama believes there are key differences between him and Clinton that will help propel him to victory Tuesday night.
"Are we going to tell the american people the truth about how we solve problems like high gas prices?" Obama asked. "On one hand Senator Clinton is talking about a gas tax holiday that her own husband when it was before him in 2000 said it was a gimmick."
Just in case you're curious,despite so many delegates at stake on Tuesday, he sleeps just fine the night before big votes.
"I tend to sleep like a rock the night before because we've been working so hard to get as many votes as possible," Sen. Obama said. "obviously on the day of the election you're out there scrambling trying to figure out what's going on. That's why we have the tradition of playing some basketball on election day just to get some of the nerves out."
With that the six week campaign ends, Obama boards plane, hoping he's done enough to secure a victory in North Carolina.
Senator Obama and his wife Michelle will watch Tuesday's results at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh. It is not open to the public. it is for invited guests only.
On top of that I had my first wedding anniversary this weekend!
Anywho..I'm in a mad dash tonight as well but in case you haven't heard Obama will be in Raleigh Tuesday night (Clinton is in Indiana). I had a few minutes with him as well this afternoon. Here's the script for your reading pleasure..
GREENSBORO -- News 14 Carolina Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum had a chance to talk with Barack Obama just minutes before he left North Carolina Monday night.
The Democratic presidential candidate held no public events in the state but did hold three private meetings with voters.
Posing for pictures just moments before takeoff, Obama leaves the state confident his message about the economy and gas prices will lead to victory.
"I think the Democratic party needs to be the party of the future and not the party of the past and that's what's going to be at stake tomorrow and I hope North Carolinians take the opportunity to seize that moment," Sen. Obama said.
Polls have him ahead as well. He wants Tar Heel voters to know that he believes he's the candidate to beat John McCain in November.
"If you elect Senator Clinton as the nominee then we're going to have the same election we had in 2000 and 2004," Obama added. "We've been bringing in new people in the process getting them excited and so I believe we can reach independents and even some Republicans that Senator Clinton simply cannot do."
Obama believes there are key differences between him and Clinton that will help propel him to victory Tuesday night.
"Are we going to tell the american people the truth about how we solve problems like high gas prices?" Obama asked. "On one hand Senator Clinton is talking about a gas tax holiday that her own husband when it was before him in 2000 said it was a gimmick."
Just in case you're curious,despite so many delegates at stake on Tuesday, he sleeps just fine the night before big votes.
"I tend to sleep like a rock the night before because we've been working so hard to get as many votes as possible," Sen. Obama said. "obviously on the day of the election you're out there scrambling trying to figure out what's going on. That's why we have the tradition of playing some basketball on election day just to get some of the nerves out."
With that the six week campaign ends, Obama boards plane, hoping he's done enough to secure a victory in North Carolina.
Senator Obama and his wife Michelle will watch Tuesday's results at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh. It is not open to the public. it is for invited guests only.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Obama via satellite..
I had a chance to talk to Sen. Obama via satellite from Indiana today...
Here's a litte bit of what we talked about..
Short term gas price fix- He opposes 3 month gas tax holiday, supports $1000 middle class tax "cut"
Rev. Wright - believes it has hurt him in recent polls but hopes next 4-5 days will get back to the issues and it won't impact him any more.
Easley - wasn't surprised that he endorsed Clinton then went on to praise his own superdelegates (Reps. Watt, Price, Butterfield) and said Americans are more concerned with gas prices.
Missing layup against Hansbrough - upset he missed that moment and said it was really tough to keep up with "thoroughbreds"
You can see the full interview at news14.com or check out an hour long edition of Political Connections Friday at 6pm and Sunday at 11am.
Tomorrow I'll be working the late shift to cover the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. I believe we are planning on carrying the Obama, Clinton speeches on News 14 Carolina if you couldn't get a ticket.
I had a chance to talk to Sen. Obama via satellite from Indiana today...
Here's a litte bit of what we talked about..
Short term gas price fix- He opposes 3 month gas tax holiday, supports $1000 middle class tax "cut"
Rev. Wright - believes it has hurt him in recent polls but hopes next 4-5 days will get back to the issues and it won't impact him any more.
Easley - wasn't surprised that he endorsed Clinton then went on to praise his own superdelegates (Reps. Watt, Price, Butterfield) and said Americans are more concerned with gas prices.
Missing layup against Hansbrough - upset he missed that moment and said it was really tough to keep up with "thoroughbreds"
You can see the full interview at news14.com or check out an hour long edition of Political Connections Friday at 6pm and Sunday at 11am.
Tomorrow I'll be working the late shift to cover the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. I believe we are planning on carrying the Obama, Clinton speeches on News 14 Carolina if you couldn't get a ticket.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Obama and Heels...
So, I was one of the journalists taken along on the bus ride to see Sen. Obama play hoops with the Tar Heels.
We had to meet in Chapel Hill by 6am. By 6:45 we were security swept and put on a bus to the Dean Dome. Once inside the players started flowing in about 7:05 and Sen. Obama followed with Coach Williams.
It was interesting to watch the players as much as Sen. Obama. They were very relaxed and for the most part did not see overly star struck by any means. Granted, 3-4 of them will be NBA players so maybe that means nothing but you have to remember no matter how big and old some may look they are 18-21 years old only.
One by one they came over and shook his hand individually. Ty Lawson really seemed to get the biggest kick out of it.
Obama eventually got a pretty decent shot off just out of the reach of Hansbrough but missed and as Hansbrough dribbled up court he had a smile on his face as did Obama.
The players played like it was any other scrimmage though and it was clear that Obama was tired as he took himself out of the game.
It was a pretty good press opportunity for video. Particularly, because we were just arriving back to the hotel when Sen. Clinton was about to be endorsed by Gov. Easley. I would be incredibly surprised if this event wasn't meant to deflect a little attention away from the event! That's why most of us were surprised when the campaign allowed no comments on the pickup game from Sen. Obama and the team was not made available either.
UNC guard Marc Campbell from Raleigh guarded Obama the most-some story to tell the kids some day if Obama wins huh?
So, I was one of the journalists taken along on the bus ride to see Sen. Obama play hoops with the Tar Heels.
We had to meet in Chapel Hill by 6am. By 6:45 we were security swept and put on a bus to the Dean Dome. Once inside the players started flowing in about 7:05 and Sen. Obama followed with Coach Williams.
It was interesting to watch the players as much as Sen. Obama. They were very relaxed and for the most part did not see overly star struck by any means. Granted, 3-4 of them will be NBA players so maybe that means nothing but you have to remember no matter how big and old some may look they are 18-21 years old only.
One by one they came over and shook his hand individually. Ty Lawson really seemed to get the biggest kick out of it.
Obama eventually got a pretty decent shot off just out of the reach of Hansbrough but missed and as Hansbrough dribbled up court he had a smile on his face as did Obama.
The players played like it was any other scrimmage though and it was clear that Obama was tired as he took himself out of the game.
It was a pretty good press opportunity for video. Particularly, because we were just arriving back to the hotel when Sen. Clinton was about to be endorsed by Gov. Easley. I would be incredibly surprised if this event wasn't meant to deflect a little attention away from the event! That's why most of us were surprised when the campaign allowed no comments on the pickup game from Sen. Obama and the team was not made available either.
UNC guard Marc Campbell from Raleigh guarded Obama the most-some story to tell the kids some day if Obama wins huh?
Monday, April 28, 2008
Hunt at Wilson Obama event.
It's been reported that Gov. Easley will endorse Hillary Clinton in Raleigh on Tuesday. Monday night, former Gov. Jim Hunt was at a Barack Obama speech in Wilson and Sen. Obama pointed it out to the audience.
Is it an endorsement or just someone who wanted to see the event?
I'm going to try and get to him after the event but we're practically caged in a media area so it will be hard!
It's been reported that Gov. Easley will endorse Hillary Clinton in Raleigh on Tuesday. Monday night, former Gov. Jim Hunt was at a Barack Obama speech in Wilson and Sen. Obama pointed it out to the audience.
Is it an endorsement or just someone who wanted to see the event?
I'm going to try and get to him after the event but we're practically caged in a media area so it will be hard!
Umbrellas for Obama...
I'm at the Wilson event for Sen. Obama and the weather is having a huge impact here! A couple thousand people have been waiting in line and it just started pouring. Not like up and down pouring...like sideways pouring! People are now filling in the gym here at the Beddington High School and they are soaked! It will be interesting to see if Obama mentions their efforts to see him tonight.
I'm working a night shift covering this event so I haven't had a lot of time to work on other election related items. These days it seems like I don't know know what I'll be doing ten minutes to the next!!
Anywho, I'll try to update on the event as the night goes on!
I'm at the Wilson event for Sen. Obama and the weather is having a huge impact here! A couple thousand people have been waiting in line and it just started pouring. Not like up and down pouring...like sideways pouring! People are now filling in the gym here at the Beddington High School and they are soaked! It will be interesting to see if Obama mentions their efforts to see him tonight.
I'm working a night shift covering this event so I haven't had a lot of time to work on other election related items. These days it seems like I don't know know what I'll be doing ten minutes to the next!!
Anywho, I'll try to update on the event as the night goes on!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Good morning!I was fortunate enough to get an exclusive 10 minute interview with Sen. Hillary Clinton in Jacksonville. That may not seem long but in the world of television and politics it's a lifetime.
Click on the picture of Hillary to watch the entire interview!
She talks about everything from the economy to faith to, yes, even dealing with the fallout from her family struggles in the White House!
Have a great weekend because it's about to get wild on the Presidential Primary campaign trail!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Happy Thursday!
Anybody else tired yet? It's getting quite insane here trying to cover all these races. I don't have much to report except I will have a lot to report tomorrow (Friday).
Make sure to watch Political Connections Friday night at 6 and Sunday at 11am and you'll see what I'm working on.
Check back tomorrow morning and I'll have an update.
Will we matter? The interesting debate now is how much will NC matter? Rob Christensen over at the N&O says not much compared to Indiana now. I tend to agree. We have many more delegates but Obama smells blood as he trails by just two in recent Indiana polls. I think he thinks if he can win that state and North Carolina it will be the last nail in the coffin of Clinton's campaign.
Proof? I don't really have any. However, the PA primary was Tuesday and our states our next and has no scheduled events in this state until next Friday.
Should be interesting.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Anybody else tired yet? It's getting quite insane here trying to cover all these races. I don't have much to report except I will have a lot to report tomorrow (Friday).
Make sure to watch Political Connections Friday night at 6 and Sunday at 11am and you'll see what I'm working on.
Check back tomorrow morning and I'll have an update.
Will we matter? The interesting debate now is how much will NC matter? Rob Christensen over at the N&O says not much compared to Indiana now. I tend to agree. We have many more delegates but Obama smells blood as he trails by just two in recent Indiana polls. I think he thinks if he can win that state and North Carolina it will be the last nail in the coffin of Clinton's campaign.
Proof? I don't really have any. However, the PA primary was Tuesday and our states our next and has no scheduled events in this state until next Friday.
Should be interesting.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Bill Clinton playing the field...
Okay maybe that's a bad headline considering the past, but he was on a little league field today campaigning for his wife.
The stop in Hillsborough took place on the small baseball field. He stood in the back of a pick up truck with one leg propped up on the side of the truck. The truck was parked over home plate with an American flag draped over the backstop.
Clinton says Barack Obama won't debate in North Carolina because Pennsylvania voters overwhelmingly believed that Hillary Clinton won that debate.
He's focusing on the economy at the moment. More later...
Okay maybe that's a bad headline considering the past, but he was on a little league field today campaigning for his wife.
The stop in Hillsborough took place on the small baseball field. He stood in the back of a pick up truck with one leg propped up on the side of the truck. The truck was parked over home plate with an American flag draped over the backstop.
Clinton says Barack Obama won't debate in North Carolina because Pennsylvania voters overwhelmingly believed that Hillary Clinton won that debate.
He's focusing on the economy at the moment. More later...
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Power of suggestion???
Beverly Perdue missed her public appearance as Lieutenant Governor announcing a new plan among seven groups to help educators become healthier and, in turn, help students become healthier as well.
We were told Perdue could not make it because of her appearance in tonight's debate.
Anywho, an aide of Perdue's spoke on her behalf and called her Governor Perdue at least twice and I believe I caught a third time as well.
Those of us in the media all noticed it, but I couldn't see any other audience members perking up to respond.
______________________________________
Strong statement...
At a news conference today announcing a new program to help schools become healthier State School Board Chairman Howard Lee had this to say about what he's seen in some kids during visits to schools across North Carolina.
"And I'm quite struck by the number of plump kids who waddle into these auditoriums. And then I ask why and the why is because we know they are eating a lot of junk food. We know they are not exercising."
Beverly Perdue missed her public appearance as Lieutenant Governor announcing a new plan among seven groups to help educators become healthier and, in turn, help students become healthier as well.
We were told Perdue could not make it because of her appearance in tonight's debate.
Anywho, an aide of Perdue's spoke on her behalf and called her Governor Perdue at least twice and I believe I caught a third time as well.
Those of us in the media all noticed it, but I couldn't see any other audience members perking up to respond.
______________________________________
Strong statement...
At a news conference today announcing a new program to help schools become healthier State School Board Chairman Howard Lee had this to say about what he's seen in some kids during visits to schools across North Carolina.
"And I'm quite struck by the number of plump kids who waddle into these auditoriums. And then I ask why and the why is because we know they are eating a lot of junk food. We know they are not exercising."
Monday, April 21, 2008
Back in the saddle...
Well, after a one on one with Sen. Obama Thursday night I headed to Pennsylvania to see the in-laws. It was pretty interesting to see all the coverage. I was in western PA which is pretty much Clinton territory. In fact, this morning Bill Clinton held a rally at my wife's former high school in Greensburg which is about 40 minutes outside of Pittsburgh.
Anywho, the NC Dem Party cancelled the Presidential debate because Sen. Obama couldn't agree on it. In a one on one interview I had with him last Thursday, he said despite calls from two superdelegates (Gov. Easley and Hunt) to debate, he wasn't concerned about losing support from NC Democrats.
He wasn't kidding as the debate was cancelled.
Think about this as well...everyone is waiting for Wednesday and the beginning of craziness in this state after the Pennsylvania primary.
What if Sen. Obama pulss off an upset? Most pundits will practically declare Obama the nominee. Will everyone close shop and move out of state? Some pundits believe turnout would cut in half and that could have an enormous impact on state races.
Pretty wild to think about but most believe Clinton will win.
Well, after a one on one with Sen. Obama Thursday night I headed to Pennsylvania to see the in-laws. It was pretty interesting to see all the coverage. I was in western PA which is pretty much Clinton territory. In fact, this morning Bill Clinton held a rally at my wife's former high school in Greensburg which is about 40 minutes outside of Pittsburgh.
Anywho, the NC Dem Party cancelled the Presidential debate because Sen. Obama couldn't agree on it. In a one on one interview I had with him last Thursday, he said despite calls from two superdelegates (Gov. Easley and Hunt) to debate, he wasn't concerned about losing support from NC Democrats.
He wasn't kidding as the debate was cancelled.
Think about this as well...everyone is waiting for Wednesday and the beginning of craziness in this state after the Pennsylvania primary.
What if Sen. Obama pulss off an upset? Most pundits will practically declare Obama the nominee. Will everyone close shop and move out of state? Some pundits believe turnout would cut in half and that could have an enormous impact on state races.
Pretty wild to think about but most believe Clinton will win.
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