Happy Birthday

Tuesday, July 8th
Sen. Katie Dorsett
(D-Guilford)

Wednesday, July 9th
Rep. Garland Pierce
(D-Scotland)

Saturday, July 12th
Rep. Linda Coleman
(D-Wake)

Monday, July 14th
NC Court of Appeals Judge John Tyson
    Worth Remembering

"You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness."

- Erma Bombeck

2008 Archived Shows

2006 Archive
2005 Archive
2004 Archive


SPECIAL FEATURE:

SGR Exclusive with Barlow Herget

06/30/08 - Rep.Lucy Allen (D-Franklin) tells Barlow Herget that Governor Mike Easley's anti-drought legislation will be moving through the legislature once a"working group" of interested groups works out differences. Rep. Allen says, areas in the state suitable for large reservoirs should be identified for future development as the state's population grows.


06/23/08 - Community College System President Dr. Scott Ralls says that continued growth in his system, now at 810,000 students, will challenge the state’s budget.  One alternative funding source has been private industries sponsoring courses for their respective interests such as some of the state’s hospitals paying for nursing equipment in the colleges’ nursing programs.


06/16/08 - Bill Swartley, lead spokesman for the NC Division of Forest Resources, talks to SGR editor Barlow Herget from the site of the nation's largest forest fire still burning in and around Hyde County's Pocosin National Wildlife Refuge. Hundreds of forest firefighters have been battling the 60 sq. mile fire. Smoke from the fire reached the Triangle region last week and has been blowing as far north as Pennsylvania. Swartley discusses one of firefighters' main concerns; the likely smoldering of the region's rich underground peat fields, which could continue for months.


06/09/08 - Rep. Deborah Ross (D-Wake) tells SGR editor Barlow Herget that attitudes have changed regarding ethics reform, and lawmakers' conduct, after the scandals that saw former House Speaker Jim Black and Rep. Thomas Wright go to prison and the adoption of new ethics legislation.


06/02/08 - NC Center for Public Policy Research President Ran Coble talks with Barlow today about the Center's ambitious new report on the needs of North Carolina's Community College System. Coble also discusses the politics affecting the Assembly's on-going budget negotiations, the likely disappointment from within the education and mental health advocate communities with the way those negotiations are headed, and what might be included that would inspire a budget veto from Governor Mike Easley.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Ran Coble

05/26/08 - Phillip Jones, a Raleigh businessman, joins Barlow Herget for a special Memorial Day program about a grass-roots support group, Back Home Boxes. Jones started the group which now includes dozens of others who keep American soldiers supplied with everyday items while they're overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Phillip Jones

05/19/08 - Dan Gerlach, Governor Mike Easley's senior budget adviser, tells host Barlow Herget that the governor's $21.5 billion budget will fulfill the legislature's own promise to raise teachers' salaries to the national level and Gerlach says $65 million in new money is requested for mental health jobs and services.  Gerlach, against all odds, believes "sin tax" increases on cigarettes and beer should be approved to pay for the Governor's new expenditures.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Dan Gerlach

05/05/08 - State Board of Elections director Gary Bartlett joins Barlow Herget to discuss North Carolina's readiness in Tuesday's primary elections.  Bartlett also talks about the trends in party registration before and during early one-stop voting.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Gary Bartlett

04/21/08 - Congressman David Price, D-Chapel Hill, tells host Barlow Herget that America's tattered reputation abroad can be restored but not by George Bush.  He discusses the status of the children's medical care bill, S-CHIP, that President Bush vetoed, and Price says Congress will now wait until 2009 to try again.  He says the President also is opposed to Congressional funding for "first responders" uniform communication systems.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Congressman David Price

04/14/08 - News & Observer Reporter and now author Rob Christensen tells tales from his new book, "The Paradox of Tar Heel Politics" and which governor he thinks shaped the state's government and politics more than any other in the 20th Century.

Listen to SGR exclusive with Rob Christensen

04/07/08 - State Rep. Linda Coleman (D-Wake) is chair of the House State Personnel Committee and she will lobby for pay increases for state employees and teachers in the upcoming short session.  She also believes the legislature will impose stricter requirements on community service companies who offer Medicaid mental health services.

Listen to the SGR Exclusive with Rep Coleman


2008 Emerging Issues Forum: North Carolina's Energy Futures

The 2008 Emerging Issues Forum featured a who's who of state and national politics. Hosted by former governor Jim Hunt, this conference focused on managing the state's future energy needs.  You can click on the links below to download an mp3 of each speaker's entire presentation.

Politics & Newsmakers Archives

07/03/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - John Tote : Mental Health Association of North Carolina director John Tote offers his thoughts on state spending proposals in the area of mental health.  Tote also weighs in on the impact of a provision that would restrict mergers of local community support services.

07/01/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Howard Lee : State Board of Education chairman Howard Lee joins Don Curtis to discuss solutions to improving North Carolina's high school graduation rate.

06/27/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Politicos Ballard Everett and Brad Crone join  Scott Carr to review what's on the political ticker this week: Estimates of a quick state budget adjustment may have been over-optimistic... A review of the first round of debates in the gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races...Teachers and opponents of involuntary annexations have been out in force on Jones St.... The weekly list of political Ups & Downs...and a discussion with GOP Congressman Walter Jones (NC-3rd) on the politics of war and what having an "exit strategy" means.

06/25/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Tom Campbell : NC Spin moderator Tom Campbell discusses the future of off-shore drilling coming to North Carolina. Campbell also reviews the major statewide races.

06/23/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Scott Ralls : North Carolina Community College System president Dr. Scott Ralls joins Don Curtis to discuss the role vocational training can have on economic development. Dr. Ralls also gives his thoughts on system funding in the state budget.

06/20/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Was the Senate version of an '08-'09 spending adjustment plan passed this week "the worst example of how a democratically-elected body conducts business," as Senate Minority leader Phil Berger asserts? Host Scott Carr and political gurus Brad Crone (D) and Ballard Everett (R) toss that question around this week on the show that covers all that's political in North Carolina, along with what will be the likely bones of contention among House & Senate budget writers now that both chambers have produced budgets, President Bush's ("unwelcome," say some) stumping for GOP gubernatorial candidate Pat McCrory, new polls galore on several statewide races, and the (hopefully not forgotten) upcoming second primary election that will decide the Democratic nominee in the State Labor Commissioner's race.

06/19/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Terry Stoops : John Locke Foundation education policy analyst Terry Stoops talks about the education spending including a prevention program aimed at reducing high school dropouts.

06/17/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - SGR Staff : SGR weekly contributors Barlow Herget, Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join Don Curtis to reflect on the major political stories of the year to date.

06/13/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Republican U.S. Rep. Robin Hayes is a guest on this week's program to talk about some new fodder for his campaign to keep his 8th District seat. SGR editor Scott Carr welcomes Rep. Hayes, and Tar Heel political gurus Brad Crone (D) and Ballard Everett (R) for a discussion of all that's political in North Carolina; this week including the just-held state GOP convention; NC Senate and Congressional races; the on-going state budget tussle, and the on-going administrative flaps plaguing the State Division of Mental Health.

06/12/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Elaine Mejia : Elaine Mejia, Director of the North Carolina Budget and Tax Center, joins Don Curtis to review the recent budget passed by the House.

06/10/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Dr. Michael Walden : NC State University professor Dr. Michael Walden joins Don Curtis to analyze the status of the state's economy. Walden also discusses the future of oil prices and the job market for those graduating high school or college this year.

06/06/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : SGR editor Scott Carr welcomes political gurus Brad Crone (D) and Ballard Everett (R) for a discussion of the hot political trends in North Carolina including Hillary Clinton's continued post-primary posturing; the rising tide of anti-establishment voters nationally; what's good... what's not so good about the just passed House version of a state spending, the developing quandry over paying for transportation costs, and a little ripping on Governor "Rip Van" Easley.

06/05/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Jeff Orrock : National Weather Service meteorologists Jeff Orrock discusses the potential for major storms as North Carolina enters hurricane season.

06/03/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Chris Fitzsimon : NC Policy Watch director Chris Fitzsimon joins Don Curtis to review some of the key items expected to be in the proposed House budget.

05/30/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Guest Democratic consultant Perry Woods and Republican guru Ballard Everett join SGR managing editor Scott Carr for a review of the political scene in North Carolina this week, including the waves made by former White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan's new tell-all book that paints a picture of corruption in Washington and the Bush administration. Also this week... guesses from the crew as to how far Hillary Clinton will continue to take her presidential campaign; Barack Obama's chances in North Carolina; and some inspiration for GOP U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole's re-election campaign to get in gear.

05/29/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Ellis Hankins : North Carolina League of Municipalities director Ellis Hankins talks with Don Curtis about the legislative concerns of local governments such as gang and annexation reform.

05/27/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ran Coble : Ran Coble, Executive Director of the North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research, joins Don Curtis to review the center's latest study on community colleges.

05/23/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : More signs that Republican incumbent U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole may be vulnerable in the November election; How the state can possibly pay for transportation costs without putting a transportation bond issue on the ballot this November; and kudos for Democratic consultant Brad Crone for predicting last fall that we'd see near $4 gas prices by Memorial Day.. all issues on the table on this week's People In Politics. Host Scott Carr, Crone and GOP'er Ballard Everett discuss the hot political issues this week in North Carolina.

05/22/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Patrick Woodie : Patrick Woodie, Vice President of Rural Development Programs for the NC Rural Center, talks with Don Curtis about the challenges of the state's 85 rural counties. Woodie also examines the needs for water and sewer infrastructure in these areas.

05/20/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Rob Christensen : Rob Christensen, veteran political columnist and author, joins Don Curtis to discuss the impact of John Edwards' endorsement for Senator Barack Obama. Christensen also describes the inspiration for his latest book, "The Paradox of Tar Heel Politics".

05/16/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : What odds do you give for an Obama/Clinton ticket anytime soon? Will the NC Governor's race between Republican Pat McCrory and Democrat Bev Perdue "have to" turn nasty? And, how "lame" of a duck is Governor Mike Easley after the release of a budget proposal this week that even some Democrats are saying was dead-on-arrival? Join host Scott Carr and regulars Brad Crone (D) and Ballard Everett (R) today as they try to answer those questions and talk about other hot issues in North Carolina politics... on this week's People In Politics.

05/15/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Leroy Towns : UNC professor Leroy Towns joins Don Curtis to examine how Barack Obama win in North Carolina could impact national and statewide races in November's general election.

05/13/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Mark Johnson : Veteran political reporter for the Charlotte Observer Mark Johnson joins Don Curtis to analyze results of the 2008 North Carolina primary elections held last week.

05/09/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : What will, and should, Hillary do now?; the amount of "estrogen" that will still be on the North Carolina ballot come November, and the ability of a possible Barack Obama presidential campaign at the top of the ticket to motivate African-American voters back to the polls are all questions explored this week on our weekly round table discussion of all things political in North Carolina. Republican and Democratic gurus, respectively, Ballard Everett and Brad Crone join SGR managing editor Scott Carr for a close examination of Tuesday's primary results including some surprises, the trends they'll forecast, and some predictions concerning many statewide races that will play out over the summer.

05/06/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Dr. Andrew Taylor : Dr. Andrew Taylor, Chair of the NC State University Department of Political Science, joins Don Curtis to preview Tuesday's elections. Taylor also discusses how the heightened focus on the Democratic presidential nomination could impact races further down the ballot.

05/01/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Republican consultant Tom Fetzer and Democrat Brad Crone join SGR managing editor Scott Carr to wade through the political debris being tossed around in the "perfect storm" blowing through North Carolina in the days leading up to what may the best attended primary day election in decades in the state. The Clinton and Obama campaigns are bringing national politics to our doorstep, overshadowing what would have been a high profile primary for NC even without them.

04/31/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Action for Children : Action for Children North Carolina Senior Vice President Sorien Schmidt joins Don Curtis to discuss the group's recent report on child poverty as well as the state's efforts to improve education. In addition, Senior Fellow Tom Vitaglione offers his thoughts on ways to reduce childhood obesity.

04/29/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Martin Lancaster : Community College System President Martin Lancaster joins Don Curtis to reflect on the changes in North Carolina's economy and corresponding approach to higher education. Lancaster also recalls some favorite memories during his time overseeing the 58 different community college campuses statewide.

04/25/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : SGR managing editor Scott Carr ushers in five of the eight declared candidates for North Carolina Lt. Governor for descriptions of their campaign platforms; Democratic Brad Crone presses each on questions of state fiscal responsibility in the face of the current economic downturn; Republican Ballard Everett does not even attempt to justify the NC GOP's new attack ad aimed at Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama; and Brad & Ballard offer up their weekly list of political Winners & Losers... NC GOP Chairwoman Linda Daves at the top of the list of Losers this week.

04/24/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rob Schofield : Rob Schofield, Director of Research and Policy Development for NC Policy Watch, discusses the impact a recent Supreme Court ruling will have on the death penalty in North Carolina. Schofield also talks about the costs of public education.

04/22/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ran Coble : North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research executive director Ran Coble joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest legislative rankings released by the group.  In addition, Coble weighs in on the upcoming primary elections.

04/18/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Ballard Everett (R) and Brad Crone (D) join host Scott Carr to reach out and grab some of what's being tossed around in North Carolina's political "perfect storm" this week including the crowds coming out to see Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama woo primary voters; the new "non-negative" Democratic gubernatorial campaign; Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory's new star status; the myriad of issues rising up to bite the Gov. Easley administration; and Brad & Ballard's weekly list of political Winners & Losers.

04/17/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Carter Wrenn : Former campaign strategist and political consultant Carter Wrenn talks with Don Curtis about how the current races compare to the 1984 U.S. Senate race between Jesse Helms and Jim Hunt.

04/15/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - John Hood : JohnLocke Foundation president John Hood joins Don Curtis to discuss theupcoming primary elections. Hood also weighs in on the current debateabout state annexation laws.

04/11/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Less than four weeks before North Carolina hot Primary Day 2008, and polls show many voters still don't know who'll they'll vote for, even in the Governor's race; the continued onslaught of Presidential politics; a new ranking of state legislators' effectiveness; and gripes with national radio talk show hosts all make it on to this week's edition of People In Politics with SGR Managing Editor Scott Carr and political pundits Ballard Everett and Perry Woods.

04/10/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Dallas Woodhouse : Americans for Prosperity state director Dallas Woodhouse talks to Rick Martinez about the issues of forced annexation and transparency in government.

04/08/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Jim Long : Commissioner of Insurance Jim Long joins Don Curtis to reflect on the changes in state government during his 24 years in office.  Long also weighs in on the upcoming primary elections.

04/04/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Efforts to get out the "black vote" in North Carolina seem to be hugely successful, possibly buoying Obama to victory; How a recession may help GOP guber contender Pat McCrory; The "unfair" prosecution of former state representative Thomas Wright; and "down" marks for ear marks (even in NC) are all on the table this week as host Scott Carr and political guru regulars Brad Crone and Ballard Everett chew over the latest political news in North Carolina.

04/03/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Don Dalton : Don Dalton, North Carolina Hospital Association Vice-president of Media Relations, tells Don Curtis about a new statewide campaign to curb childhood obesity.

04/01/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Beau Mills : NC Go! Chairman Beau Mills joins Don Curtis to discuss North Carolina's transportation problems as well as funding solutions to meet those needs.

03/28/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join Scott Carr to review the hot political news of the week. On the hot plate for this week:  Could 2008 turn into an "upside-down" political year in North Carolina?; Brad & Ballard both say they haven't seen this many contenders for the White House bother to come to the state since the 70's; the increasing chances for a GOP guber runoff, at least for Republicans; behind the scenes pushes for more state control over water systems; tagged with the men's weekly list of political "Winners & Losers."

03/27/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Stephen Prescott : Wake Technical Community College professor Dr. Stephen Prescott examines the problems in the judicial system that were highlighted by the recent murder of UNC Student Body President Eve Carson. Prescott also discusses the minority voting rights lawsuit affecting New Hanover County.

03/25/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Mike Walden : NC State University economist Dr. Mike Walden talks with Don Curtis about the impact a recession would have on North Carolina's economy.

03/21/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Democrat Brad Crone and GOP'er Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to discuss the historic vote by the NC House to expel Rep. Thomas Wright of New Hanover; more signs that the Barack Obama may be headed toward campaign success in North Carolina; items in the plus-column for gubernatorial candidates Fred Smith and Bev Perdue; and the importance of growth planning in NC counties like Wake.

03/20/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Francis De Luca : Civitas president Francis De Luca examines the impact that the presidential race will have on statewide and local candidates.

03/18/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Debbie Crane : Debbie Crane, former Public Affairs Director for Department of Health and Human Services, joins Don Curtis to discuss mental health reform and her departure from DHHS.

03/14/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Democratic communications strategist Billy Warden and Republican analyst Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr for a review of the latest analysis of the heightened Presidential Democratic primary's effect on the upcoming May 6th NC primary; the Easley administration's handling of the DHHS mental health services flap; the upcoming historic House vote on whether or not to expel NC Rep. Thomas Wright; and reviews of the ongoing NC gubernatorial campaigns.

03/13/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Christine Mumma : Christine Mumma, Director of the N.C. Center on Actual Innocence, talks with Don Curtis about her work to free Dwayne Dail, who was wrongly imprisoned for rape.

03/11/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Dr. William Roper : Dr. William Roper joins Don Curtis to discuss the future health needs of North Carolina. Roper is the Dean of the School of Medicine at UNC- Chapel Hill and the CEO of the UNC Health Care System.

03/07/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Scott Carr and political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett look at all that's political in North Carolina including the state's possible role in deciding the Democratic presidential primary; how the top of the ticket is going to affect top state races during a possible record-setting May 6th primary; why have the two Democrats running for NC governor pulled their TV ads?: Pat McCrory's "cutesy" stunt of the week; and Brad & Ballard's weekly list of political Winners & Losers.

03/06/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Joe Coletti : John Locke Foundation policy analyst Joe Coletti joins Don Curtis to examine the status of the state's mental health system.

03/05/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Gary Bartlett : State Board of Elections director Gary Bartlett joins Rick Martinez to talk about last minute filings and getting North Carolina ready for potential record turnout of primary voters.

03/04/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Elaine Mejia : Director of the North Carolina Budget and Tax Center Elaine Mejia joins Don Curtis to discuss the funding of children's health insurance programs as well as possible solutions to modernizing the state's tax code.

02/29/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Host Scott Carr and political pundit regulars Brad Crone and Ballard Everett continue to marvel at the unfolding saga of NC Rep. Thomas Wright and the Wilmington Democrat's defiance in the face of six felony counts and the threat of expulsion from the House; as well as at the still close race between Democratic White House hopefuls Obama and Clinton and how that race may impact the May 6th primary election in North Carolina. Also on the table this week....Ballard says we may be witnessing the end of the "Reagan Revolution," and new poll numbers on the public's health care concerns.

02/28/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rep. Verla Insko : State Representative Verla Insko talks with Don Curtis about the transition of the state's mental health hospitals.

02/26/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Gary Pearce : Democratic political consultant Gary Pearce joins Don Curtis to discuss the impact that the presidential race will have on statewide campaigns.

02/22/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Scott Carr and political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett look at all that's political in North Carolina including the state's possible role in deciding the Democratic presidential primary; how the top of the ticket is going to affect top state races during a possible record-setting May 6th primary; why have the two Democrats running for NC governor pulled their TV ads?: Pat McCrory's "cutesy" stunt of the week; and Brad & Ballard's weekly list of political Winners & Losers.

02/21/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Sen. Richard Stevens : Senator Richard Stevens (R-Wake) talks about the transportation challenges of rapid growth in urban areas.

02/19/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Bill Atkinson : WakeMed President and CEO Dr. Bill Atkinson joins Don Curtis to examine how the issue of Medicaid reimbursement affects hospital budgets statewide.

02/15/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political issues... the questions... the candidates... the elections...Tar Heel political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett review all things political in North Carolina. This is the show for policy wonks and armchair analysts, as the expert panel leaves few stones unturned, or stories untold, in keeping their audience on top of the hottest political talk, expert advice and campaign news.

02/14/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - David Mills : Common Sense Foundation director David Mills examines the effect that a federal stimulus package will have on North Carolina's economy.

02/13/08 FOCUS - DNA Rights : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss whether local police have the right to ask for an arrested person's DNA.

02/12/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Leroy Towns : UNC professor Leroy Towns joins Don Curtis to discuss the possibility that North Carolina could become a national player in the presidential primary.  In addition, Towns gives his thoughts on media coverage of political issues.

02/11/08 FOCUS - Farmland Preservation & Partisan Rankings : Donna and Rick Martinez examine efforts to use state money to preserve and keep farmland from developers. In addition the new Civitas Institute president Francis De Luca discusses the latest partisan index aimed at helping voters and legislators gauge a district's political tendencies.

02/08/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Host Scott Carr is joined by regular political prognosticators Brad Crone and Ballard Everett for discussion of all that's political in North Carolina, including the post-Super Tuesday generated hope that the Tar Heel May 6th primary may actually count for something in the race for the White House; the diggin-in for delegates; John Edwards being "dissed" by on the NC Democratic primary ticket; likely VP picks; the continued attacks on the NC DOT; and Brad & Ballard's weekly list of political Winners & Losers.

02/07/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Jack Hawke : Civitas President Jack Hawke addresses how presidential politics will impact various statewide races.

02/05/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Jack Betts : Jack Betts, Associate Editor of the Charlotte Observer, joins Don Curtis to discuss how the withdrawal of John Edwards and Rudy Giuliani will affect the other presidential candidates.

02/01/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to chew on John Edwards' and Rudy Guiliani's departure from the presidential campaign trail; the slew of notable national endorsements that have come in recent days; NC gubernatorial campaign expenditure filings; and Brad & Ballard's weekly list of Winners & Losers.

01/31/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Bob Phillips : Common Cause North Carolina director Bob Phillips weighs in on the ongoing investigation of state Representative Thomas Wright. He also discusses the need for future ethics reform in state government.

01/29/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Tom Campbell : NC Spin moderator Tom Campbell joins Don Curtis to review the biggest challenges for North Carolina this year. In addition, he also suggests that term limits be established for state legislators.

01/28/08 FOCUS - SC Primary Recap : Donna and Rick Martinez review the recent primary in South Carolina with WPTF reporter Gurnal Scott, who compares Senator Barack Obama's Democratic victory to other major political events in the Palmetto State.

01/25/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Republican political advisor and former Raleigh Mayor Tom Fetzer joins Scott Carr and Democratic political guru Brad Crone for a review of the week's hot political news including the latest finger-pointing between Democratic gubernatorial candidates Richard Moore and Bev Perdue; the impact of Pat McCrory's entrance into the GOP field; the on-going battles between Hillary, Obama, and John Edwards; the quickly narrowing Republican field in the presidential contest; plus communication strategist Billy Warden discusses his new term for bumper sticker politics.. he calls "branditics," and its negative impact on politics and voters.

01/24/08 FOR YOUIR INFORMATION - Mike Walden : NC State University economist Dr. Mike Walden gives Don Curtis his thoughts on the status of North Carolina's economy. In addition, Walden looks ahead to the impact the drought will have on the entire state.

01/22/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Andrew Taylor : Dr. Andrew Taylor, Chair of the NC State University Department of Political Science, joins Don Curtis to talk about the presidential primaries and the impact that Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory will have on the gubernatorial race.

01/18/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Democrat Brad Crone, Republican Ballard Everett and host Scott Carr review Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory's strong showing in announcing a gubernatorial bid this week, the Michigan presidential primary results and the possible resurgence of the Edwards campaign, the possibility of future brokered party conventions, and Brad and Ballard's weekly list of Winners & Losers.

01/17/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Charles Meeker : Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker discusses the challenges of managing a growing urban city. In addition, Meeker weighs in on strategies for dealing with the drought.

01/15/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ran Coble : North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research director Ran Coble joins Don Curtis to discuss the results of the New Hampshire primary as well as look ahead to the races in Michigan and South Carolina.

01/11/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : SGR Managing Editor Scott Carr discusses unanimous votes by a House Select Committee to charge Rep. Thomas Wright of Wilmington with 8 ethics violations, the New Hampshire primary results, some new faces entering the fray for various '08 statewide elections, gubernatorial hopeful Richard Moore's proposal to de-politicize the DOT, and more with political gurus Ballard Everett and Brad Crone.

01/10/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Charles Hayes : Research Triangle Regional Partnership President and CEO Charles Hayes talks with Don Curtis about the keys to recruiting business and the challenges of competing in a global economy.

01/09/08 FOCUS - Dredging Lawsuit & Juvenile Sentencing : Donna and Rick Martinez examine the lawsuit filed against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers by Carteret County officials over sand dredged from the Outer Morehead Harbor. They also discuss the sentencing guidelines for trying 16 and 17 year olds as adults.

01/08/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Rep. Ty Harrell : Wake County Representative Ty Harrell joins Don Curtis to look at the issues facing North Carolina's metropolitan areas as growth is balanced with a need for infrastructure.

01/04/08 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political issues... the questions... the candidates... the elections...Tar Heel political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr for a review of all things political in North Carolina. This is the show for policy wonks and armchair analysts, as the expert panel leaves few stones unturned, or stories untold, in keeping their audience on top of the hottest political talk, expert advice and campaign news.

01/03/08 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rep. Paul Stam : House Minority Leader Paul Stam joins Don Curtis to talk about the major stories in state government. including Thursday's ethics hearing Rep. Thomas Wright.

01/02/08 FOCUS - Review of 2007 : Donna and Rick Martinez examine UNC-Greensboro's Scholars at Risk program with Dr. Jerry Pubantz. Plus, Dr. John Duvall discusses the OSS exhibit at the Airbourne and Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville.

01/01/08 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - David Price : Congressman David Price joins Don Curtis to discuss the assassination of former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto. Price also reflects on the major political events of 2007.

12/31/07 FOCUS - 2007 Review : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss a judicial review plan with Raleigh attorney Neal Ellis. In addition, Catawba County Sheriff David Huffman highlights the role that local law enforcement plays in finding domestic weapons of mass destruction.

12/28/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political guru regulars Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr for a look back at the top state political news of 2007, and offer up some predictions for 2008. Hillary Clinton becomes the first woman U.S. President says Brad, beating out the GOP pick Mike Huckabee; Ballard goes with Huckabee for the win. Meanwhile, all agree a theme of "Change in Raleigh" may serve possible GOP gubernatorial hopeful Pat McCrory very well; and State Troopers and the city of Durham end up on the list of "Losers" for 2007.

12/27/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Larry Wooten: North Carolina Farm Bureau president Larry Wooten joins Don Curtis to discuss how the federal drought relief package will impact farmers. Wooten also gives his thought on how the water shortage will impact next year's agricultural industry.

12/26/07 FOCUS - Halifax Schools : Donna and Rick Martinez examine if the financial management of Halifax County Schools with John Locke Foundation analyst Terry Stoops.

12/24/07 FOCUS - Economic Incentives : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the future use of state Representative Phillip Frye. Frye recently urged lawmakers around the country to explore the idea of stopping such incentives.

12/21/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Brad, Scott, and Ballard revel in what's sure to be a holiday season stuffed with Presidential politics; the loud campaign noises coming in about a possibe McCrory for Governor Republican campaign; the fix over a missing $700 million dollars in overdue municipal monies earmarked for education, and the order to make the state pay it; the new information sharing effort begun on how to beat a drought; and a list of whose been "Naughty & Nice" from Brad and Ballard this week.

12/20/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - John Hood : John Hood joins Don Curtis to discuss latest developments with the Randy Parton Theater in Roanoke Rapids and the impact that project could have on future use of tax increment financing.

12/19/07 FOCUS - Home Sprinkers : Donna and Rick Martinez examine if the use of sprinkler systems in homes with Raleigh Fire chief Larry Stanford.

12/18/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Joe Sinsheimer : Joe Sinsheimer, Democratic consultant turned political watchdog, joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest indictment of New Hanover County lawmaker Thomas Wright.

12/17/07 FOCUS - Transportation Needs : Donna and Rick Martinez examine North Carolina's transportation needs with Beau Mills, Chair of NC Go!

12/14/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Democratic political guru Perry Woods joins Republican Ballard Everett and host Scott Carr for a round table on the week's hot political stories including the gearing up of a state ethics panel looking into the alleged misdoings of Rep Thomas Wright of New Hanover County; Mike Huckabee's questions about Mormonism; who might get behind a Pat McCrory for Governor run,and why should they(?); Governor Mike Easley's final approach to retirement from the post he's held for the past 7 years; and Libertarian candidate Ron Paul's blimp that lifted off from Elizabeth City this week.

12/13/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Brad Wilson : Brad Wilson joins Don Curtis to discuss the future of health care and transportation. Wilson is the Chief Operating Officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield North Carolina and serves as Chair of the 21st Century Transportation Committee.

12/12/07 FOCUS -  Dredging Lawsuit & Juvenile Sentencing : Donna and Rick Martinez examine the lawsuit filed against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers by Carteret County officials over sand dredged from the Outer Morehead Harbor. They also discuss the sentencing guidelines for trying 16 and 17 year olds as adults.

12/11/07 Carolina Newsmakers - Bill Graham : Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Graham discusses his view on education, transportation and economic incentives.

12/10/07 FOCUS - Drought Impact : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at how the drought is impacting agriculture with Chatham County farmer Thomas Perry. They also look at how tiered water pricing helps local governments better manage their costs in times of a shortage.

12/07/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Scott Carr moderates the discussion of top political news this week in North Carolina with Republican consultant Ballard Everett and Democrat Perry Woods. On the front burner this week: Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee's sudden rise in the national media spotlight; what effect a writer's strike might have on the race for the White House; how a run for NC governor by Charlotte Governor Pat McCrory might affect the rest of the Republican field; and why a shake-up in the Bev Perdue campaign may be imminent, or at least needed.

12/06/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Bill Holman : Bill Holman joins Rick Martinez to discuss strategies for water management. Holman is the former Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources and now current Nicholas Scholar at Duke University.

12/05/07 FOCUS - Update from Iraq : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the progress of the military surge in reducing violence in Iraq. They also get an update on the efforts to booster Iraq's judicial system with former Appeals Court judge Eric Levinson.

12/04/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Dempsey Benton : Secretary of Health and Human Services Dempsey Benton discusses the ongoing evaluation of department efficiency and the future of the state's mental health hospitals.

12/03/07 FOCUS - Legal Issues : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at some ethical legal issues such as scenarios which should be exempt from attorney client privilege.

11/30/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to hit up the hot political news of the week including successes on the campaign trail for presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee and NC gubernatorial candidate Richard Moore; a proposal from Republican candidate for governor Bob Orr to eliminate the post of NC Education Superintendent; whether courts may decide state legislative district lines; and Brad and Ballard's weekly list of Winners & Losers.

11/29/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - John Tote : John Tote, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association of North Carolina, joins Don Curtis to talk about mental health needs of the state. In addition, Tote weighs in on the importance of mental health access for the military and their families.

11/28/07 FOCUS - OLF Update & CIA Intelligence : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the future of the proposed Navy Outlying Landing Field in eastern North Carolina. They also look at the issue of gathering reliable intelligence with John Sullivan, author of "Memoirs of a CIA Polygraph Examiner".

11/27/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ferrel Guillory : Ferrel Guillory, Director of the UNC - Chapel Hill Program on Public Life, talks with Don Curtis about the impact the presidential campaigns will have on North Carolina politics. Likewise, Guillory discusses the role that the media will have in giving voters an accurate portrayal of candidates.

11/26/07 FOCUS - Legacy of Sam Ervine : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the historic impact of U.S. Senator Sam Ervin with Karl Campbell, author of "Senator Sam Ervin: Last of the Founding Fathers". In addition, Rufus Edmisten joins the discussion, who served for ten years on the staff of Senator Ervin.

11/23/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political issues... the questions... the candidates... the elections...Tar Heel political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr for a review of all things political in North Carolina. This is the show for policy wonks and armchair analysts, as the expert panel leaves few stones unturned, or stories untold, in keeping their audience on top of the hottest political talk, expert advice and campaign news.

11/22/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Jerry Meek : Jerry Meek, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, joins Don Curtis to talk about the possibility of ethics reform. In addition, he discusses the changes in North Carolina voter trends.

11/21/07 FOCUS - Legacy of Sam Ervine : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the historic impact of U.S. Senator Sam Ervin with Karl Campbell, author of "Senator Sam Ervin: Last of the Founding Fathers". In addition, Rufus Edmisten joins the discussion, who served for ten years on the staff of Senator Ervin.

11/20/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Fred Smith : Senator Fred Smith (R - District 12) talks with Don Curtis about his campaign as a Republican gubernatorial candidate. Smith also discusses his views on transportation funding and education reform.

11/19/07 FOCUS - Economics of Academic Research : Donna and Rick Martinez investigate the economics of funding academic research. They are joined by Dr. Andrew Shaw, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at Duke University and Mark Crowell, Associate Vice Chancellor for Economic Development and Technology Transfer at UNC - Chapel Hill.

11/16/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Raleigh-based Democratic political consultant Perry Woods and Republican Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to review the issues of the much maligned land transfer tax idea; instant run-off elections; developments in the NC governor's race; presidential politics; and a review of this week's political Winners and Losers.

11/15/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Patrick Woodie : Patrick Woodie, Vice President of Rural Development Programs for the N. C. Rural Economic Development Center, tells Don Curtis how the current drought is affecting water infrastructure in the state's 85 rural counties.

11/14/07 FOCUS - Psychological Needs of Soldiers : Donna and Rick Martinez examine the psychological needs of soldiers with Dr. Bruce Capehart, medical director for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans at the Durham VA Medical Center. In addition, they examine the roles that women play in the military with Kirsten Holmstedt, author of "Band of Sisters: American Women at War in Iraq".

11/13/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Robert Orr : Former North Carolina Supreme Court Justice and Republican gubernatorial candidate Robert Orr joins Don Curtis to discuss the state's use of economic incentives and his plan for improving education.

11/12/07 FOCUS - Veteran's Day Special : Donna and Rick Martinez salute the men and women who have served in the armed forces. They also discuss the future of several senior officials at the U.S. State Department who may be leaving their post to go to Iraq.

11/09/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : NC political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett comment on some of the mayor's races decided last Tuesday; the future of trying to sell the public on land transfer taxes; a tip-off for education leaders and educators from the just-held gubernatorial debate in Greensboro; the political angle to recent economic news including consumer confidence; and Beverly Perdue ends up on the list of Losers on the pair's weekly Winners and Losers check-off.

11/08/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Francis De Luca : Civitas Institute vice president Francis De Luca joins Don Curtis to talk about voter concerns such illegal immigration, affordable health care and national security. In addition, De Luca weighs in on important national and statewide races.

11/07/07 FOCUS - Women in War : Donna and Rick Martinez examine the roles that women play in the military with Kirsten Holmstedt, author of "Band of Sisters: American Women in Iraq".

11/06/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Michael Munger : Duke University professor Dr Michael Munger joins Don Curtis to talk about the state's use of economic incentives and some misconceptions of the Libertarian Party. Munger also discusses his 2008 gubernatorial campaign.

11/05/07 FOCUS - Halifax School Spending : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the financial management of the Halifax County Public Schools with John Locke Foundation education policy analyst Terry Stoops.

11/02/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Democrat Brad Crone and Republican Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to discuss the tax referendums and mayor's races to be decided in this Tuesday's election; the latest '08 campaign moves, including NC Sen. Kay Hagan's entering the fray for the Democratic nomination to replace incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole; revisit state transportation needs following a critical report of the DOT and the formation of a new state Blue Ribbon panel on Transportation; and offer up their weekly lists of Winners and Losers.

11/01/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Andrew Taylor : Dr. Andrew Taylor, Chair of the Political Science Department at North Carolina State University, breaks down some of the important statewide races in the 2008 election.

10/31/07 FOCUS - Reliable Intelligence : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the issue of gathering reliable intelligence with John Sullivan, author of "Memoirs of a CIA Polygraph Examiner".

10/30/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Lt. Gov Beverly Perdue : Lt. Governor Beverly Perdue joins Don Curtis to talk about her plans to improve North Carolina's health care and education systems. Perdue also discusses her 2008 gubernatorial campaign.

10/29/07 FOCUS - Navy OLF : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the future of the proposed Navy Outlying Landing Field in eastern North Carolina.

10/26/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : NC politicos Ballard Everett and Brad Crone join host Scott Carr to discuss the ongoing concern over the water shortage affecting NC and the Southeast; Sen. Fred Smith's success on the campaign trail as he continues to jostle with fellow-GOP gubernatorial hopefuls Bob Orr and Bill Graham; the on-going substance-lacking cat fights between Democratic candidates Richard Moore and Bev Perdue; the emergence of candidates in the 2008 U.S. Senate race against incumbent Republican Elizabeth Dole; and the latest round of corporate incentives in NC used to land the Skybus airline at Greensboro's Piedmont-Triad International Airport.

10/25/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Mike Walden : NC State University economist Mike Walden joins Don Curtis to talk about how North Carolina is faring relative to changes in the national economy.

10/24/07 FOCUS - Military Stories & Scholars at Risk : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at several military stories relevant to the war in Iraq. In addition, UNC - Greensboro professor Dr. Jerry Pubantz gives a preview of the university's Scholars at Risk program.

10/23/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - William Friday : Dr. William Friday, former UNC System President, joins Don Curtis to discuss the needs of North Carolina as we prepare for four million more people over the next 20 years.

10/22/07 FOCUS - Woman for President? : As recent poll data shows Hillary Clinton is gaining support in North Carolina, Donna and Rick Martinez discuss whether or not the country is ready for a female president.

10/19/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political strategists Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to offer campaign kudos to U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole for helping with keeping North Carolina ahead of curve on the issue of illegal immigration with a push this week to empower local law enforcement to work with federal immigration officials; state Rep. Grier Martin's decision to not challenge Dole, as well as other campaign shifts; a successful State Fair; ongoing responses to the possibly unprecedented drought in the southeast; and the messages voters may have sent in recent municipal elections.

10/18/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Elaine Mejia : Elaine Mejia with the North Carolina Justice Center talks about changing the state's tax code to tax service based industries. In addition, Mejia tells Don Curtis that a compromise must be reached on the State Children's Health Care Program expansion.

10/17/07 FOCUS - Weapons of Mass Destruction at Home? : Catawba County Sheriff David Huffman, Chair of the National Security Association's Weapons of Mass Destruction Committee, joins Donna and Rick Martinez to discuss the efforts law enforcement officers are taking to ensure public safety.

10/16/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Edward Finley : Edward Finley, Chairman of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, describes the preparations that the state is making to provide utilities to the growing population.

10/15/07 FOCUS - Smoking Laws : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the increasing prevalence of bans on smoking in public places, including the latest restriction on smoking in nursing homes.

10/12/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Republican campaign guru Ballard Everett and StateGovernmentRadio.com's Scott Carr are joined by Democratic consultant Thomas Mills to chew on the latest developments on both sides of the aisle in the race for the White House 2008; the range of vaccines some Congressional staffers felt were needed before attending the Bank of America 500 in Concorde; the 2007 State Fair opening, and NC Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls Bev Perdue and Richard Moore, who both manage to make the political "winners" list this week.

10/11/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rep. Verla Insko : Representative Verla Insko, Chair of the Mental Health Reform Committee, describes how the state's transformation of the mental health system is going. She also talks about the future of the Dorothea Dix facility in Raleigh.

10/10/07 FOCUS - Sign Ordinances : Winston Salem businessman Jim Moury talks about how his lawsuit against the city for making him take down advertisements outside his restaurant. Donna and Rick Martinez look at the possibility of Lowe's Motor Speedway leaving Charlotte.

10/09/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - John Hood : John Hood, President and Chairman of the John Locke Foundation, joins Don Curtis to discuss the recent veto by President Bush of the State Children's Health Insurance Program.

10/08/07 FOCUS - Bioterrorism and Sex Offenders : Bill McKellar from the Granville Non-Violent Action Team joins Donna and Rick Martinez to discuss the threat of bioterrorism from the new biohazard reasearch lab to be built in Butner. In addition, they talk about ways to deal with sex offenders in North Carolina.

10/05/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join Scott Carr to cover Bev Perdue's gubernatorial campaign kickoff; more telling poll numbers about incumbent Republican Senator Elizabeth Dole's re-electability as well as some issues that may be of interest to Dole's potential Democratic challengers; economic indicators coming from this year's High Point Furniture Show; the sale of "The Rock" Speedway; the Blackwater USA flap; and the culpability of U.S. contractors who commit crimes, such as murder, while working in Iraq.

10/04/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Beau Mills : Beau Mills, chair of transportation advocacy group NC Go!, joins Donna Martinez to discusses states transportation needs and bridge safety.

10/03/07 FOCUS - Judicial Review : Raleigh Attorney Neal Ellis gives Donna and Rick Martinez a break downof the North Carolina State Bar Association's pilot judicial evaluationprogram, aimed at improving the performance of North Carolina judges.

10/02/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ran Coble : North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research director Ran Coble joins Rick Martinez to discuss the recent announcement that Chancellor James Moeser will resign in June. In addition, Coble gives his thoughts on the state's important 2008 races.

10/01/07 FOCUS - Law Enforcement Issues : Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison joins Donna and Rick Martinez to how the federal 287 (g) program will affect their ability to stop illegal immigrants involved in criminal activity. In addition, Harrison talks about his efforts to curb gang activity in Wake County.

09/28/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr to discuss the politics and substance of health care reform, including plans just released by presidential hopeful Sen. Hillary Clinton and State Treasurer Richard Moore; the latest flap between Moore and rival for the state Democratic gubernatorial nomination Lt. Governor Beverly Perdue; signs of support for some local bond issues; and Brad and Ballard offer up their weekly list of "Winners and Losers."

09/27/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Chris Fitzsimon : Chris Fitzsimon with North Carolina Policy Watch talks about how the poverty affects education. In addition, Fitzsimon gives his thoughts on the state's current use of incentives for the purpose of economic development.

09/26/07 FOCUS - Climate Change : Donna and Rick Martinez look the issue of global warming andclimate change with University of Pittsburgh professor Seymour Garte.

09/25/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Congressman David Price : Congressman David Price (D-4th) joins Don Curtis to discuss the future role of military security firms like Blackwater should have in Iraq. Price also talks about a potential Navy Outlying Landing Field in NC and the future of the federal No Child Left Behind program.

09/24/07 FOCUS - Organ Donation : Donna and Rick Martinez review recent changes in North Carolina's law regarding organ donation with Carolina Donor Services spokesperson Jeannine Sato.

09/21/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett join host Scott Carr todiscuss the politics and substance of health care reform, includingplans just released by presidential hopeful Sen. Hillary Clinton andState Treasurer Richard Moore; the latest flap between Moore and rivalfor the state Democratic gubernatorial nomination Lt. Governor BeverlyPerdue; signs of support for some local bond issues; and Brad andBallard offer up their weekly list of "Winners and Losers."

09/20/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - David Mills : David Mills, Executive Director of the Common Sense Foundation, talks about the latest $60 million incentives package passed by the General Assembly and the future of the death penalty in North Carolina.

09/19/07 FOCUS - Learn and Earn : Donna and Rick Martinez look and the impact of the state's Learn and Earn program with Jane Shaw from the John William Pope Center for Higher Education Policy.

09/18/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Congressman Bob Etheridge : Congressman Bob Etheridge (D-2nd) joins Don Curtis to discuss the latest report from General Petraeus and what the role the U.S. should have in the political process of Iraq.

09/17/07 FOCUS - Future of Nuclear Power : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the future of nuclear power plants in North Carolina with NC WARN's Jim Warren and Nuclear Regulatory Commission spokesman Roger Hannah.

09/14/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Democrat Brad Crone and Republican Ballard Everett toss around the issue of state-funded corporate economic incentives, and what political results we may see from this most recent package for two multi-billion dollar tire companies; what other economic factors are coming into play concerning elections; the ongoing fallout from the Duke lacrosse case in Durham; TV chef Paula Dean's upcoming appearance at the State Fair; and their weekly lists of political "Winners and Losers" in North Carolina this week.

09/13/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rep. Paul Stam : House Minority Leader Paul Stam gives his thoughts on the the transportation needs of the state, something he says was neglected in this year's session at the General Assembly.

09/12/07 FOCUS - Judicial Performance : Raleigh Attorney Neal Ellis gives Donna and Rick Martinez a break down of the North Carolina State Bar Association's pilot judicial evaluation program, aimed at improving the performance of North Carolina judges.

09/11/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Martin Lancaster : Community College System President Martin Lancaster joins Don Curtis to discuss the search for finding his replacement. Lancaster also talks about the the role that community colleges can play in economic development.

09/10/07 FOCUS - Goodyear Incentives : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the bill that would give Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company $40 million in incentives to keep its facility in Fayetteville. Supporters and opponents make their case as the General Assembly gears up to decide the bill's fate.

09/07/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Scott Carr hosts. Ballard Everett and Brad Crone assess Republican presidential hopeful Fred Thompson's just-announced candidacy; take another look at the value of state corporate incentives in the face of a special Assembly session called to examine a governor's veto of a potential $40 million package for Goodyear Tire in Fayetteville; new NC Poll results pitting possible Democratic challengers against Republican U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole; and throw another batch of names emerging among the crowd of 2008 statewide election hopefuls.

09/06/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Linda Daves : Linda Daves, Chair of the North Carolina Republican Party, describes how the recent scandals involving both Republican and Democrats are affecting current public perception of elected officials.

09/05/07 FOCUS - Eugenics and Butner Research Lab : Donna and Rick Martinez reflect on the history of North Carolina's eugenics program with Representative Larry Womble and Carolinian writer Cash Michaels. In addition, Independent columnist Lisa Sorg and NC State Professor Barrett Slenning give the pros and cons of a possible biohazard research lab in Butner, North Carolina

09/04/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Congressman Walter Jones : U.S. Representative Walter Jones (R-3rd) joins Don Curtis to discuss the ongoing involvement of U.S. troops in Iraq. Jones was one of the first Republicans to criticize President Bush and suggest the need to change U.S. strategy for rebuilding Iraq.

09/03/07 FOCUS - Vote Swapping and Iraqi Legal System : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the issue of vote swapping with Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Mike Munger. In addition, former North Carolina Court of Appeals Judge Eric Levinson describes the work being done to stabilize Iraq's legal system.

08/31/07 FOCUS - Congressional Update : U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (R-5th) gives her thoughts on issues ranging from underachievement in education to Iraq to immigration policy. In addition, Duke University law professor Zephyr Teachout discusses the increasing emphasis campaigns are placing on having an online presence.

08/30/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Billy Ray Hall : NC Rural Center Director Billy Ray Hall talks with Don Curtis about how the recent efforts by the General Assembly will impact rural North Carolina. Hall also discusses ways to improve rural economic development by focusing on infrastructure needs like water, sewer and transportation.

08/29/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Scott Carr hosts: the role the economy may play in the 2008 election; expected post-Labor Day campaign transistions; the likely lack of political fallout from a court-ordered redistricting in Pender County; and a weekly list of "Thumbs Up" and "Thumbs Down" from politicos Brad Crone and Ballard Everett are featured.

08/28/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Tom Campbell : NC Spin Moderator Tom Campbell joins Don Curtis to discuss the current landscape of North Carolina politics including the latest scandals and key upcoming races in 2008.

08/27/07 FOCUS - Law Enforcement Issues : Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison joins Donna and Rick Martinez to how the federal 287 (g) program will affect their ability to stop illegal immigrants involved in criminal activity. In addition, Harrison talks about his efforts to curb gang activity in Wake County.

08/24/07 FOCUS - Iraqi Judicial System : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the current efforts to improve the Iraqi judicial system with former North Carolina Court of Appeals judge, Eric Levinson.Levinson is currently in Baghdad working to help Iraqis improve their legal system.

08/23/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Rep. Deborah Ross : Wake County Representative Deborah Ross, the House Majority Whip, talks about various issues concerning the latest session General Assembly including the future of the Dorothea Dix property in Raleigh.

08/22/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett and host Scott Carr cover topics to watch... the rise of "sanctuary cities" for illegal aliens including Madison, WI and Durham, NC; federal election charges against and disruption in the ranks of the Fred Thompson non-campaign for the White House; and a countdown by the NC Board of Elections before they suspend the campaign of NC Rep. Thomas Wright (D-NewHanover).

08/21/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ferrel Guillory : Ferrel Guillory, Lecturer and director of the Program on Public Life at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, joins Don Curtis to discuss the changing role of the media in covering North Carolina politics. In addition, Guillory gives his thoughts on the latest session of the General Assembly and the upcoming elections.

08/20/07 FOCUS - Vote Swapping : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss how the concept of vote swapping could come in to play in the 2008 elections. Mike Munger, Libertarian gubernatorial candidate, also talks about how his race is going.

08/17/07 FOCUS - U.S. Rep. Howard Coble : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at some of the hot issues discussed by the U.S. Congress this year with Congressman Howard Coble, who hails from North Carolina's 6th congressional district.

08/16/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Tom Howe : Tom Howe, President of member supported UNC-TV, joins Don Curtis to talk about the upcoming transition to digital television signals and what that means for consumers.

08/15/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Some new telling NC political poll numbers concerning the NC governor's race and the importance of issues; the rise of Mike Huckabee as a Republican presidential contender; the fall of several state employees following a state audit; and this week's lists of political "thumbs-up and downs" and "State Secrets" are featured on People In Politics today with host Scott Carr and political analyst regulars Brad Crone and Ballard Everett.

08/14/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - U.S. Rep. Brad Miller : U.S. Representative Brad Miller (D-13th) joins Don Curtis to discuss the future of the U.S. troops in Iraq. In addition, Congressman Miller talks about the federal legislation that would provide a plan to give health care to children of lower income families.

08/13/07 FOCUS - Disaster Preparedness and Land Transfer Tax : Donna and Rick Martinez discuss the ability of North Carolina's retail merchants to provide services after a disaster such as hurricane. In addition, Tim Kent from the North Carolina Association of Realtors weighs in on the upcoming county level battle on the land transfer tax.

08/10/07 FOCUS - Butner Biohazard Research Lab : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the possibility of a biohazard research facility that is being considered for Butner, North Carolina.

08/09/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Education in the Budget : Being that education is such a huge aspect of the state's $20.7 billion budget, Terry Stoops from the John Locke Foundation and Eddie Davis from the North Carolina Association of Educators will join Don Curtis to break down how this money is being distributed.

08/08/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Host Scott Carr and political gurus Brad Crone and Ballard Everett discuss the GOP's attacks on the just-finished $20.7 billion state budget; the lack of action by the General Assembly taken on transportation issues and the possibility of a special session to address them this year; the embezzlement charges faced by a former NC lobbyist; the weekly list of political "Winners & Losers" and "State Secrets," including the scuttlebutt over a possible run for statewide office by former Democratic political consultant-turned legislative watchdog Joe Sinsheimer.

08/07/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Lew Ebert : Lew Ebert, President and CEO of the North Carolina Chamber, joins Don Curtis to discuss things North Carolina can do to improve economic development and continue to compete in a global economy.

08/06/07 FOCUS - General Assembly Report Card : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look back at work accomplished by the General Assembly in the 2007 session. In addition, Dallas Woodhouse from Americans For Prosperity and Elaine Mejia from the NC Justice Center will grade the legislature on their effectiveness.

08/03/07 FOCUS - Lawmaker Influence : Donna and Rick Martinez tackle the issue of donations to political organizations and the influence that money can bring. Bob Hall, Executive Director of Democracy North Carolina, will weigh in on the discussion which will include a look at Senate Bill 3, the legislation affecting the state's renewable energy strategy.

08/02/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - David Thompson : David Thompson, Executive Director of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, joins Don Curtis to discuss how giving counties relief from the responsibility of Medicaid will help free up resources for other important infrastructure needs.

08/01/7 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Political consultants Brad Crone and Ballard Everett review the "stunning" testimony given Tuesday at his federal sentencing by former House Speaker Jim Black and its' likely political ramifications; the winners and losers in the new state budget for fiscal '07-'09; the implications of the federal Farm Bill now being debated in Washington; and Brad & Ballard offer up their weekly list of political "Winners and Losers" and "State Secrets."

07/31/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Bill Holman : Bill Holman, former Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, discusses the importance of managing the state's water resources as North Carolina's population continues to grow.

07/30/07 FOCUS - Mental Health Reform :

07/27/07 FOCUS - Key Bills at the General Assembly :

07/26/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - Bob Phillips : Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, joins Don Curtis to discuss the future of ethics reforms at the General Assembly.

07/25/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Who's up? Who's down. What are this week's "State Secrets?" Veteran political insiders Brad Crone and Ballard Everett debate these issues and comment on a host of political issues across North Carolina.

07/24/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Ran Coble : Ran Coble, Executive Director of the North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research, joins Don Curtis to talk about current progress at the General Assembly.

07/23/07 FOCUS - Energy Efficiency Legislation : Donna and Rick Martinez take a Senate Bill 3, a plan for renewable energy that is being debated in the General Assembly this week. Joining in the discussion is Representative Pricey Harrison, Jim Warren of NC WARN and Ivan Urlauf from the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association.

07/20/07 FOCUS - Progress at the General Assembly : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the progress made by lawmaker at the General Assembly with Senate Minority Leader Phil Berger.

07/19/07 FOR YOUR INFORMATION - David Mills : David Mills, Executive Director of the Common Sense Foundation, talks about the effect that mandatory sentencing has on overcrowding of North Carolina's jails.

07/18/07 PEOPLE IN POLITICS : Who's up? Who's down. What are this week's "State Secrets?" Veteran political insiders Brad Crone and Ballard Everett debate these issues and comment on a host of political issues across North Carolina.

07/17/07 CAROLINA NEWSMAKERS - Joe Sinsheimer : Joe Sinsheimer, former Democrat consultant and founder of the website JimBlackMustGo.com, joins Don Curtis to discuss the sentencing of former Speaker Jim Black.

07/16/07 FOCUS - Athletics and Community Colleges : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the increasing prevalence of athletics programs at North Carolina's community colleges with Jenna Ashley Robinson from the Pope Center for Higher Education and Coach Junior Bailey, Athletic Director of Pitt Community College.

07/13/07 FOCUS - Medicaid Relief for Counties : Donna and Rick Martinez take a look at the issue of Medicaid relief for counties with SGR's Josh Ellis and Todd McGee from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners.