My Turn, Your Turn with WECT Vice President & General Manager, Gary McNair
Each week, WECT will share its views on specific topics that impact our viewers in the Coastal Carolinas in our My Turn, Your Turn commentaries which air in WECT News at 6P on Tuesdays and WECT News at 5P on Thursdays. These commentaries will also be repeated in other WECT newscasts during the week.
We also want your feedback. If you have something you want to share, or you wish to provide us with a differing opinion you can e-mail us at: YourTurn@wect.com
Friday, May 17 2013 12:57 PM EDT2013-05-17 16:57:00 GMT
After weeks of meetings and research, a specially appointed committee at UNCW is recommending to Chancellor Gary Miller that five sports be cut. It's a big move and one I'm sure Chancellor Miller willMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair questions why "the men's basketball team was absent" from a recent meeting with a specially appointed committee at UNCW ahead of proposed cuts to sports programs at the university. More >>
Tuesday, May 14 2013 1:57 PM EDT2013-05-14 17:57:03 GMT
If you've ever tried to peel an onion, you know what happens. You uncover the layers and sometimes it makes you want to cry. It looks like our investigative team has had an onion in its hands and theMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the recent investigation into the state's Medicaid program.More >>
Thursday, May 9 2013 1:53 PM EDT2013-05-09 17:53:06 GMT
It's that time of year again when we are encouraged to honor mothers. That's really something we should be doing every day, but especially this week. What comes to mind for you when you think about your motherMore >>
WECT's General manager Gary McNair talks about things he learned from his mother and the hard work of all mothers out there.More >>
Tuesday, May 7 2013 2:36 PM EDT2013-05-07 18:36:07 GMT
I don't think we can do enough to honor the dedicated men and women serving in our military. This week in Wilmington we're seeing a great example of the community coming together to help out a local serviceman returningMore >>
WECT's General Manger Gary McNair reminds us to say thank you to those serving our country.More >>
Monday, May 6 2013 11:19 AM EDT2013-05-06 15:19:22 GMT
I'm sure you've heard stories or read emails from time to time about corrupt government situations. Sometimes it sounds so far-fetched it can't be possibly be true. But it looks like the New York TimesMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the recent report of the CIA and other governmental groups dropping off "bags of cash" at the office of Afghanistan leader Hamid Karzai.More >>
Wednesday, May 1 2013 12:31 PM EDT2013-05-01 16:31:15 GMT
I don't watch the shows, so I'm not that familiar with the players. But, I've noticed that more and more reality stars seem to be making the news these days for bad behavior. The latest happened just southMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the realty stars that are making their way into the headlines for poor behavior.More >>
Wednesday, May 1 2013 12:30 PM EDT2013-05-01 16:30:51 GMT
No one wants to pay more taxes. But the fact is the system we live in and the services we are provided are dependent upon taxation. People that know me well will tell you it is highly unlikely that IMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair proposes an increase in the NC cigarette tax in exchange for a lower gas tax.More >>
Friday, April 26 2013 9:11 AM EDT2013-04-26 13:11:12 GMT
Here we go again…and this time there are very real effects on the American people. If you've been around an airport this week, chances are you've been touched by the lack of Congress being able to comeMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the flight delays due to the furloughs of air traffic controllers across the country.More >>
Tuesday, April 23 2013 12:59 PM EDT2013-04-23 16:59:56 GMT
Like all good made-for-TV dramas, there's a plot twist in the never-ending discussion of whether film incentives from the General Assembly are actually helping improve North Carolina's economy. The latestMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about film incentives and their impact on the economy.More >>
Tuesday, April 23 2013 12:58 PM EDT2013-04-23 16:58:47 GMT
The thing that's interesting about "power" is that you just never quite know for sure how someone is going to act with it once they've got it. But one thing that's proven itself over and over is whenMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about recently proposed bills that range from declaring a state region to force couples bound to divorce to stay married for two years.More >>
Tuesday, April 16 2013 3:06 PM EDT2013-04-16 19:06:40 GMT
It's difficult for me to understand senseless violence. The question of why bad things happen to good people has been one for the ages with philosophers and religious leaders sharing their thoughts. IMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the good things the Boston community did in response to the bombing at the Boston Marathon.More >>
Thursday, April 11 2013 2:12 PM EDT2013-04-11 18:12:05 GMT
I sure wouldn't want to be a taxpayer in New Jersey right now. I was a bit surprised to learn that Rutgers University's move to fire its athletic director is going to cost the school in excess of $1.2More >>
General Manager Gary McNairs talk about the terms that went along with the firing of Rutgers University's athletic director.More >>
Friday, April 5 2013 11:47 AM EDT2013-04-05 15:47:59 GMT
Here we go again. Another college coach's improprieties got a "hand slap" when he should have been hastily shown the door. Why? Money. It's what college sports have become. And when the protectionMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about Rutgers' coach Mike Rice's abusive behavior.More >>
Tuesday, April 2 2013 1:30 PM EDT2013-04-02 17:30:09 GMT
As the great Yogi Berra once said, "It's déjà vu all over again." For the third time, beginning in 2009, the funding necessary to operate the Marine Technology program at Cape Fear Community College hasMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about saving the Marine Technology program at Cape Fear Community College.More >>
Monday, April 1 2013 11:47 AM EDT2013-04-01 15:47:22 GMT
A lot of people have "weighed" in on a news story we broadcast last week about CVS Pharmacy requiring employees who use its health plan to submit their weight and other vitals or face higher premiums. WeMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the recent decision at CVS to make employees weigh in every month or pay higher insurance premiums.More >>
Thursday, March 28 2013 2:00 PM EDT2013-03-28 18:00:43 GMT
Guest My Turn, Your Turn By: James Payne The recent call by certain prosecutors for the repeal of the Racial Justice Act sends the message that racial discrimination is acceptable in the North CarolinaMore >>
Guest My Turn, Your Turn presenter James Payne talks about the recent call by certain prosecutors for the repeal of the Racial Justice Act.More >>
Friday, March 22 2013 1:28 PM EDT2013-03-22 17:28:56 GMT
As much as I'd like to hope it's the case, there's not a whole lot more we can do to prevent someone from committing an atrocious act like what took place last year at Sandy Hook Elementary. But I likeMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair hopes to hear some common sense coming from our leaders when discussing security measures for our children.More >>
Wednesday, March 20 2013 9:38 AM EDT2013-03-20 13:38:20 GMT
I know the Catholic Church has had its share of problems lately, but when it comes to achieving consensus among its leaders and making tough decisions, it wins the prize. Maybe the United States CongressMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair says the Catholic's process for choosing a Pope is brilliant and it just might work for solving our country's financial woes.More >>
Friday, March 15 2013 8:42 AM EDT2013-03-15 12:42:09 GMT
What kind of a tipper are you? It's certainly a topic that gets people talking, especially with the increased "tip-shaming" that's taking place. I'm talking about the tendency of some waiters, waitressesMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about a recent story where someone gave a $10 tip on a nearly $1,500 pizza bill.More >>
Tuesday, March 12 2013 12:29 PM EDT2013-03-12 16:29:28 GMT
I hope you're familiar with the term "E Pluribus Unum." It's one of our country's unofficial mottos and is included on the Great Seal of the United States. The words "E Pluribus Unum" are displayedMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair responds to a U.S. Senator's remark that the problems we are experiencing with our leaders in Washington are being caused by a whole lot of Pluribus…and not much Unum.More >>
Thursday, March 7 2013 2:30 PM EST2013-03-07 19:30:09 GMT
I often tell people who work here not to do anything I can't publicly defend them on. That's the position Wilmington's police chief finds himself in this week. Chief Ralph Evangelous has said a botchedMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the lack of details released regarding the events that led to a recent internal investigation into the WPD.More >>
Wednesday, March 6 2013 11:57 AM EST2013-03-06 16:57:43 GMT
I hadn't really thought much about the word sequester until recently when it started showing up in the news related to the federal budget cuts. It's funny how things in Washington work. They come upMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gray McNair gives the dictionary definition of "sequester."More >>
Thursday, February 28 2013 1:54 PM EST2013-02-28 18:54:42 GMT
By: Collyn GaffneyFriday, March 1, is NEA's Read Across America Day in conjunction with Dr. Seuss' birthday. For one day, parents and teachers are asked to join together and celebrate Literacy by readingMore >>
My Turn, Your Turn guest Collyn Gaffney encourages parents to read with their children every day. More >>
Tuesday, February 26 2013 2:04 PM EST2013-02-26 19:04:00 GMT
Don't you want to live in a community where neighbors help their neighbors; where a disabled person can get a wheelchair ramp fixed out of the kindness of others; where someone clears another neighbors'More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the SBI's investigation into the town of Navassa after WECT uncovered the town using government property for non-government purposes.More >>
Thursday, February 21 2013 1:03 PM EST2013-02-21 18:03:04 GMT
By: David WalenMopeds are defined by a State Revenue statute as 50cc's or less and not to exceed 30 mph on level ground. This standard defies logic. Suppose, for example, a 250 pound person is ridingMore >>
My Turn, Your Turn guest David Walen gives his take on mopeds.More >>
Wednesday, February 20 2013 12:31 PM EST2013-02-20 17:31:06 GMT
This country was built on protest. We like to debate, argue and sometimes fight for our beliefs. But our news department had an eye-opening report this week on a growing concern in the law enforcementMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair questions why sovereign citizens believe they don't have to follow the law. If we travel to a foreign land, we are required to follow that country's laws. So why should any of these sovereign citizens expect anything different here?More >>
Monday, February 18 2013 10:46 AM EST2013-02-18 15:46:27 GMT
There's an interesting give and take going on between those who run charter schools and our public school educators. Both presumably have the same goal, improving our education system. Public schoolsMore >>
WECT's General Manager asks the question: should charter schools pay to use vacant public school buildings?
Thursday, February 14 2013 3:14 PM EST2013-02-14 20:14:56 GMT
I knew my comments on the proposed moped legislation would light up my inbox. And for a week that is supposed to be all about love, some of you weren't showing much love for the moped owners. By a twoMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the response he received from a recent editorial regarding mopeds.More >>
Monday, February 11 2013 9:39 AM EST2013-02-11 14:39:34 GMT
In almost five years of doing these commentaries, I've learned some topics really get people motivated to speak up. Anything having to do with driving and traffic gets people riled up. And the use ofMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about a bill that was recently introduce that would bring more oversight for those who use mopeds.More >>
Wednesday, February 6 2013 1:26 PM EST2013-02-06 18:26:10 GMT
A press release late last year from one of the area's economic development agencies touting a new McDonald's as positive economic investment sparked our interest. Now don't get me wrong, any net gainMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair questions touting a new McDonald's in the area as an economic win.More >>
Wednesday, February 6 2013 1:19 PM EST2013-02-06 18:19:40 GMT
I received a fairly "pointed" email in response to the segment I did last week on Facebook's foolish experiment aimed at charging people for sending messages. The viewer wrote: "You Sir, are a compete imbecile.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair takes advice from a viewer and comments on the crime stats in downtown Wilmington.More >>
Thursday, January 31 2013 3:08 PM EST2013-01-31 20:08:48 GMT
I'm not a lawyer. And I don't play one on TV. But even I raised an eyebrow last week at a jury's decision to award Judge Ola Lewis more than $100,000 in her lawsuit against a blogger in Brunswick County. TheMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the recent lawsuit in which a judge from Brunswick County was awarded more than $100,000.More >>
Thursday, January 24 2013 1:38 PM EST2013-01-24 18:38:32 GMT
WECT reporter Ashlea Kosikowski uncovered what appears to be a case of discrimination last week. She reported that a woman in a wheelchair was told she had to pay an extra $30 because she was disabled.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about a recent case of discrimination that was reported at a nail salon in Independence Mall.More >>
Tuesday, January 22 2013 3:16 PM EST2013-01-22 20:16:08 GMT
I don't participate in "social media" much, and I do not have a Facebook account. But one of our staff members uncovered something unusual last week you should know about if you are a Facebook user.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about Facebook's recent test to charge $100 to send a message to a stranger.More >>
Tuesday, January 22 2013 12:58 PM EST2013-01-22 17:58:31 GMT
Lance Armstrong has started down a long path now that he has finally admitted to doping while winning his record-setting seven Tour De France titles. It won't be a quick journey because it's not a simpleMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair doesn't believe a successful charity organization makes up for Lance Armstrong's doping lies.More >>
Tuesday, January 22 2013 12:57 PM EST2013-01-22 17:57:35 GMT
Let me start this segment off by letting you know that I am a gun owner. And I've killed my fair share of game. Let me also tell you that I am not a constitutional attorney. But I can say with near certaintyMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks defines the Second Amendment.More >>
Thursday, January 10 2013 1:57 PM EST2013-01-10 18:57:00 GMT
Our friends in Congress are giving me plenty of fodder for this segment lately. They've proved once again that you just can't look away or they will do something sneaky. While leaders in New JerseyMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about adding "sneaky" items to the emergency spending bill.More >>
Wednesday, January 9 2013 8:17 AM EST2013-01-09 13:17:05 GMT
Are you as mad as I am about what's taking place in Washington? Our alleged leaders do not have the courage to make the tough decisions. They dodge and delay just about anything related to controllingMore >>
Are you as mad as I am about what's taking place in Washington? Our alleged leaders do not have the courage to make the tough decisions. They dodge and delay just about anything related to controlling their out-of-control spending habits.
Thursday, January 3 2013 12:44 PM EST2013-01-03 17:44:00 GMT
By: Billy PaluckAs adults, we think we always have to be the teachers of our children. But I've learned that they teach us too. My 7-year-old son has amazed people with his intelligence and faith in God.More >>
Pender County SRO Billy Paluck talks about a lesson in forgiveness he learned from him 7-year-old son.More >>
Tuesday, January 1 2013 12:08 PM EST2013-01-01 17:08:47 GMT
According to recent statistics, over half of you have made, or will make, New Year's resolutions to kick off 2013. It's part of our human nature to admit to ourselves we are not all that we can be andMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about picking a word to live by in 2013 instead of making a resolution.More >>
Thursday, December 27 2012 1:39 PM EST2012-12-27 18:39:04 GMT
Kicking the can down the road. It's an old saying, but thanks to our leaders in Washington, we hear it a lot these days. They've mastered the art quite well. And I have a prediction to make. TheyMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the fiscal cliff.More >>
Thursday, December 20 2012 1:21 PM EST2012-12-20 18:21:00 GMT
New Hanover County Commissioners smartly avoided a potential mistake last week. And I'd like to tell you why I think that. Commissioners chose to appoint Thomas Wolfe instead of Derrick Hickey to fillMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about Dr. Derrick Hickey's response to NHC commissioners' decision to appoint Thomas Wolfe instead of Hickey.More >>
Thursday, December 20 2012 12:24 PM EST2012-12-20 17:24:38 GMT
Our hearts mourn for the friends and families of those killed in the unspeakable horror that took place in Newtown, Connecticut last week. As a nation grapples to understand how something as terribleMore >>
WECT's General Manger talks about different things to consider when brainstorming prevention measures to stop tragedies.More >>
You would think a parade would be enough to put a smile on people's faces. How quickly things changed though when the parade was over Sunday night in Wilmington. That's when people started trying toMore >>
WECT's General Manger Gary McNair talks about the parking garage traffic jam that happened after the Wilmington Holiday Parade.More >>
Thursday, December 13 2012 1:09 PM EST2012-12-13 18:09:01 GMT
"Kill those (expletive) Yankees who have been torturing Iraqi captives. Kill those (expletive) Yankees who ordered them to torture." Those are the words of a popular performer who has a hit song right now.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about Psy's recent apology for lyrics he rapped from someone else's song in protest of the Iraqi War in 2004.More >>
Wednesday, December 12 2012 12:31 PM EST2012-12-12 17:31:30 GMT
I don't intend to be an avid viewer of the upcoming MTV show Buckwild, but I do have a passing interest in its failure. It's being produced in the state where I grew up. If you haven't heard aboutMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the making of "reality" TV.More >>
Friday, December 7 2012 8:39 AM EST2012-12-07 13:39:34 GMT
I don't have the solution to cyber-bullying, but I'm pretty sure the problem is only going to get worse without some sort of prevention plan. A new law that went into effect this month in North CarolinaMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about a new law that protects teachers from anonymously being attacked via social media.More >>
Tuesday, December 4 2012 1:00 PM EST2012-12-04 18:00:02 GMT
I witnessed something this past Sunday I hadn't seen or noticed before - and I'd love to get your take on it. A friend and I went to the UNCW men's basketball game against Hampton. I noticed during theMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair asks your opinion - should foreign athletes pledge their allegiance to the American flag?More >>
Friday, November 30 2012 8:16 AM EST2012-11-30 13:16:36 GMT
This time of year is all about traditions. But the Wilmington tree lighting tradition seems to have lit up more than just the lights on the tree. It's lighting up my inbox as well. The use of theMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the battle of "holiday tree" vs. "Christmas tree."More >>
Tuesday, November 27 2012 9:15 AM EST2012-11-27 14:15:22 GMT
I enjoy just about everything associated with Thanksgiving - family, gratitude, food, football and even the beginning of the holiday shopping season. But I'm not happy about what's happening with the shoppingMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the Black Friday shopping hours that are sneaking into Thanksgiving.More >>
Tuesday, November 27 2012 9:12 AM EST2012-11-27 14:12:28 GMT
There's been some talk lately about a "Red State" secession. Don't worry; North Carolina isn't leaving the United States anytime soon. It violates our constitution. But beyond that, it simply isn'tMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair discusses the recent talk about "Red State" secession.More >>
Monday, November 19 2012 9:37 AM EST2012-11-19 14:37:11 GMT
There is something about the human spirit that compels many of us to help those in need. Sometimes we need a terrible tragedy to get motivated. The horrific images and stories coming out of New York andMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair reminds you to think about the people in our area when giving back to charities this season.More >>
Monday, November 19 2012 9:35 AM EST2012-11-19 14:35:59 GMT
I've talked about the caustic political atmosphere in Washington before, but with the recent contentious election and critical fiscal issues needing to be addressed, I thought it might be time to revisitMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the difference between compromise and collaboration in politics.More >>
Monday, November 12 2012 12:56 PM EST2012-11-12 17:56:28 GMT
There are few topics that get people talking more than driving. Everyone has to deal with it and it seems everyone has an opinion on it. Recently I pointed out how once again the Cape Fear area madeMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair presents "your turn" about driving dangers in the area. He asked for suggestions and solutions and you answered.More >>
Thursday, November 8 2012 2:31 PM EST2012-11-08 19:31:56 GMT
By: Laura Hunter, South Brunswick High School History TeacherPoliticians have now expended all the air in their lungs blaming each other for our economic woes. By the time the election finally got here,More >>
South Brunswick High School teacher Laura Hunter talks about the lack of education discussions in politics in this week's My Turn, Your Turn segment. More >>
Friday, November 2 2012 10:09 AM EDT2012-11-02 14:09:38 GMT
Here's something that probably won't surprise you if you've traveled the roads much in southeastern North Carolina. According to AAA, it isn't very safe to be traveling on the roads around here. TheyMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about how dangerous it is on the roads in New Hanover County.More >>
Thursday, November 1 2012 1:33 PM EDT2012-11-01 17:33:39 GMT
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - This Tuesday, voters in the city of Wilmington will decide whether or not they want a tax increase to help pay for a baseball stadium in the downtown area. The Atlanta Braves sayMore >>
The baseball stadium referendum is the hot topic in this week's My Turn, Your Turn segment. Hear opinions from both sides of the fence. More >>
Tuesday, October 30 2012 4:27 PM EDT2012-10-30 20:27:38 GMT
By: Brent Jarrett I wonder how many other people have observed the hypocrisy some of our local politicians have on display throughout the area. I am talking about the proliferation of political signsMore >>
My Turn, Your Turn guest Brent Jarrett talks about the hypocrisy some of our local politicians have on display throughout the area.More >>
Tuesday, October 23 2012 11:04 AM EDT2012-10-23 15:04:10 GMT
(WECT) - When it comes to taxes, the concept of being fair seems to be elusive. Whether it's federal, state or county taxes, each plan seems to have little quirks in it that gives breaks to some and punishMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair doesn't think a tax payer should be punished with a higher vehicle tax bill.More >>
Wednesday, October 17 2012 9:38 AM EDT2012-10-17 13:38:29 GMT
Most of the time I'm pointing out something bad with this segment. Same goes for most of our guest presenters. You might find today's segment a refreshing change, because I want to thank one organizationMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair commends the DOT for their communication about the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge closure...the second time around.More >>
Friday, October 12 2012 3:43 PM EDT2012-10-12 19:43:03 GMT
For the past couple years, you bring up the name Brian Berger and most people in this community just chuckle or roll their eyes. His constant tardiness or his lack of follow through as a New Hanover CountyMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the way Brian Berger treats county employees.More >>
Tuesday, October 9 2012 12:03 PM EDT2012-10-09 16:03:40 GMT
By: Alissa CombsWhen someone dies unexpectedly, it's difficult to know what to say to their loved ones or how to honor their memory. Last week, a former classmate of my daughter died in Afghanistan.More >>
Guest Alissa Combs talks about the recent death of a Topsail High School alumni who was killed in Afghanistan. She believes there should be local flag etiquette rules in place so that we could honor local fallen soldiers by lowering the flag.More >>
Friday, October 5 2012 12:39 PM EDT2012-10-05 16:39:20 GMT
It's theme week for the My Turn segments this week. The theme is traveling between New Hanover and Brunswick counties. Our other segment featured Dale Janney delivering a Guest My Turn about the grid-lockMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the issues traveling between New Hanover and Brunswick counties.More >>
Thursday, September 27 2012 2:25 PM EDT2012-09-27 18:25:40 GMT
A national treasure will come to rest in Los Angeles next month. But at what cost? The Space Shuttle Endeavour has made its way to California from Florida by plane. Now it has 12 miles to go throughMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the difficult process of moving the Space Shuttle Endeavour to its final resting place. More >>
Tuesday, September 25 2012 2:33 PM EDT2012-09-25 18:33:34 GMT
Legal issues can cause real financial challenges for local governments. Recently, WECT's Ann McAdams detailed how some beach towns are spending tens of thousands of dollars on litigation each year. OakMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair believes officials should treat taxpayer money as if its really coming out of their own pocket.More >>
Friday, September 21 2012 12:39 PM EDT2012-09-21 16:39:17 GMT
It sounded like a great idea - the federal government came up with an innovative way to help citizens with the National Do Not Call Registry. It's hard to believe it's been almost a decade since the registryMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the problems with the National Do Not Call Registry.More >>
Wednesday, September 19 2012 8:19 AM EDT2012-09-19 12:19:41 GMT
You may not live on Bald Head Island or even visit the beautiful beaches there, but you should care about what's going on in regards to their ongoing beach erosion. There are a couple issues taking placeMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the ongoing issues of beach erosion.More >>
Wednesday, September 19 2012 8:19 AM EDT2012-09-19 12:19:25 GMT
It is scary to see the mob mentality brewing in the Middle East right now. Reports say the protests started from an anti-Islam film posted on the internet. If that's true, I have a hard time understandingMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the mob mentality brewing in the Middle East from what apparently started from an anti-Islam film posted on the internet.More >>
Tuesday, September 11 2012 12:10 PM EDT2012-09-11 16:10:26 GMT
Most of us have the right to vote, and I can't imagine someone who has earned that right more than our men and women in the military. A group of United States Senators wants to make sure they still haveMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the lack of voting locations on military bases.More >>
Monday, September 10 2012 9:41 AM EDT2012-09-10 13:41:55 GMT
I like most sports - but I really, really love football, and I'm concerned about the future of my favorite sport. Head injuries are becoming more and more worrisome. A report released just this weekMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about head injuries and the future of the NFL.More >>
Thursday, September 6 2012 12:33 PM EDT2012-09-06 16:33:43 GMT
A lot of people are asking for money these days. There are many worthy causes and we each have to make our own decisions on how much, if any, we can help. This weekend, the big four networks are comingMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair encourages viewers to donate to cancer research during the Stand Up To Cancer telethon Friday night. More >>
Friday, August 31 2012 11:39 AM EDT2012-08-31 15:39:39 GMT
I don't know the ultimate solution to bullying. But I'm willing to let our school systems try what they need to do to try to stop it, or at least slow it down some. A few schools in Brunswick County establishedMore >>
WECT's General Manager talks about the dress code policy in Brunswick County.More >>
Tuesday, August 28 2012 12:17 PM EDT2012-08-28 16:17:37 GMT
If you're a fan of politics – the next two weeks are custom made for you. And if you're only just a fan of theater and drama, the next several days should be exciting. The political conventions are uponMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the next two weeks of political theater.More >>
Thursday, August 23 2012 1:55 PM EDT2012-08-23 17:55:40 GMT
If every politician dropped out of a race every time they said something dumb, the ballot would probably be empty come Election Day. So just about everyone, including Representative Todd Akin, agrees AkinMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about Representative Todd Akin's recent claim that pregnancies don't happen when a "legitimate rape" occurs.More >>
Thursday, August 23 2012 10:03 AM EDT2012-08-23 14:03:15 GMT
Most of us have a soft spot in our hearts for puppies or kittens. I'm sure many of us have owned animals at some point in time. So, I think we can all agree that keeping animals in unsanitary and cramped conditionsMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the difference between puppy mills and legitimate breeding operations.More >>
Tuesday, August 21 2012 12:23 PM EDT2012-08-21 16:23:01 GMT
I don't usually find myself on the same side of an issue with the American Civil Liberties Union, but I'll make an exception today. This time they are fighting something I often oppose - more governmentMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair thinks a ban on sagging pants is taking it a step too far.More >>
Wednesday, August 15 2012 9:07 AM EDT2012-08-15 13:07:31 GMT
I'm feeling a little patriotic this week. A successful Olympics has that kind of effect on me, and maybe you're feeling the same. There's always something special in that two week period. Ordinary peopleMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the impact the 2012 Summer Games had on him.More >>
Thursday, August 9 2012 7:40 PM EDT2012-08-09 23:40:42 GMT
By Fred JohnsonMy name is Fred Johnson, and I come to you today as an 80-year-old Army veteran that served in the Korean War…or what some call The Forgotten War. But that's not what I want to talk about.More >>
Fred Johnson talks about his frustrations with the Department of Defense's rules.More >>
Tuesday, August 7 2012 12:16 PM EDT2012-08-07 16:16:52 GMT
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - We have a few iconic images around here that are synonymous with Wilmington. The Battleship, Bellamy Mansion, Thalian Hall, and the cranes at the State Port, all come to mind.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about fund raising efforts by the Historic Wilmington Foundation to replace trees along the Market Street Tree Canopy.More >>
Tuesday, August 7 2012 12:16 PM EDT2012-08-07 16:16:33 GMT
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WECT) - Somewhere along the line, the system appears to have broken down in Brunswick County. Our news department told you about it last week. It's a long and convoluted story. IMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair questions the reason an inmate sat in the Brunswick County Jail from December through early June, because someone did not set a hearing.More >>
Wednesday, August 1 2012 9:23 AM EDT2012-08-01 13:23:27 GMT
Some issues seem to get people fired up, and I hit on one of those last week with my comments on gun control in the wake of the theater shootings in Aurora, Colorado. I had quite a few people agree withMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair offers comments from viewers in response to his editorial regarding gun control and the Aurora theater shooting.More >>
Monday, July 30 2012 11:01 AM EDT2012-07-30 15:01:14 GMT
It never fails, one of the first things to happen following a national tragedy is for folks to take sides based on their political views. Any act of violence involving firearms is immediately followedMore >>
It never fails, one of the first things to happen following a national tragedy is for folks to take sides based on their political views. Any act of violence involving firearms is immediately followed by a cry for more gun control. More >>
Friday, July 27 2012 8:21 AM EDT2012-07-27 12:21:34 GMT
By: Bob MaffittI agree with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid about being angry and upset about the Team USA Olympic uniforms being made in China. I think most of us were embarrassed by that news. ButMore >>
Guest speaker Bob Maffitt agrees with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid about being angry and upset about the Team USA Olympic uniforms being made in China. More >>
Friday, July 20 2012 11:20 AM EDT2012-07-20 15:20:00 GMT
The debate continues about what to do with Penn State football. Should the football program suffer for what happened for the poor decisions made by an administration that allowed innocent young boys toMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the discussion surrounding the future of the football program at Penn State.More >>
Tuesday, July 17 2012 12:58 PM EDT2012-07-17 16:58:55 GMT
Your Turn By: Ben McCoy, petition co-organizerWECT General Manager Gary McNair claims that we weren't ready for prime time, haven't played by the rules, and even calls into question our leadership andMore >>
Baseball petition co-organizer Ben McCoy counter's WECT's General Manager Gary McNair's original stance on understanding the petition process.More >>
Friday, July 13 2012 1:53 PM EDT2012-07-13 17:53:32 GMT
It's believed that Mark Twain once said, "It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt." Perhaps the organizers of the petition driveMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair says the organizers of the petition drive to stop the City of Wilmington from spending taxpayer money should have looked more closely at the process.More >>
Thursday, July 12 2012 12:05 PM EDT2012-07-12 16:05:38 GMT
So I go on vacation last week and someone steals my idea. I'm talking about merging the towns of Belville and Leland. It's something I've thought about for some time because I live in that area. I wouldMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the idea of merging the Town of Belville and the Town of Leland into one.More >>
Thursday, July 5 2012 1:41 PM EDT2012-07-05 17:41:23 GMT
By Kristin HolomanNorth Carolina Cooperative Extension is your local link to the research of North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T University. Extension has deep roots in the farming communitiesMore >>
Kristin Holoman, a program assistant for the NC Cooperative Extension, talks about ways we can become healthier as a community.More >>
Wednesday, July 4 2012 1:32 PM EDT2012-07-04 17:32:34 GMT
(WECT) - This week we celebrate the signing of our Declaration of Independence. We celebrate all the good things about America. We celebrate freedom and the right to pursue happiness. That notionMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair reminds us not to take our independence for granted as we celebrate this Fourth of July.More >>
Thursday, June 28 2012 1:03 PM EDT2012-06-28 17:03:49 GMT
I have a special place in my heart for non-profits. That's why I'm disappointed by the recent decision of the Wilmington City Council to add an additional burden on non-profit organizations, by addingMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the recent decision to add a $1 per-participant fee to the runs and walks that raise money for charity.More >>
Tuesday, June 26 2012 3:24 PM EDT2012-06-26 19:24:34 GMT
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – It appears our state legislature has taken the position if you can't beat 'em -- join 'em. Or maybe it's if you can't beat 'em -- tax 'em. The state tried to stop thoseMore >>
If Governor Perdue's plan to tax the sweepstakes goes anywhere, it will come at the expense of our municipalities. The General Assembly is becoming pretty good at being the bully to our struggling cities.More >>
Thursday, June 21 2012 5:37 PM EDT2012-06-21 21:37:52 GMT
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Most of the time this segment is about something in the news or something going on in government that I have an opinion on. But not today. Today I'm going to talk aboutMore >>
We all have families and most of us, at some point, have attended a family reunion. Some families have a reunion every year, complete with custom-made T-shirts.More >>
Wednesday, June 20 2012 12:03 PM EDT2012-06-20 16:03:51 GMT
Does anyone else think we've had about enough of Brian Berger? The show he put on Monday at the New Hanover County Commissioners' meeting was unprofessional and embarrassing. Commissioners had to voteMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the new travel policy adopted by the New Hanover County Commissioners, which is essentially a rule designed for Brian Berger.More >>
Monday, June 18 2012 12:13 PM EDT2012-06-18 16:13:07 GMT
Our news department got a lot of reaction this week to our story on a young-looking but legally permitted driver. As you may have seen on our newscasts, Christopher Anderson just got his learners permit. DaysMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair supports the sheriff's office use of SABLE to check on the young-looking driver.More >>
Tuesday, June 12 2012 12:50 PM EDT2012-06-12 16:50:17 GMT
Not many people seem to notice, but there's a day of observance and celebration that takes place this time of year, every year. I'm talking about Flag Day on June 14. Nearly 100 years ago, PresidentMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair reminds people about an upcoming holiday...Flag Day.More >>
Thursday, June 7 2012 12:57 PM EDT2012-06-07 16:57:54 GMT
What does livermush and the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly have in common? Well, they're both in North Carolina Senate Bill 236, sponsored by Wilmington State Senator Thom Goolsby. To be honest,More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about a recent Senate bill sponsored by Senator Thom Goolsby that supports the Livermush Festival, Mullet Festival and the designation the official state butterfly.More >>
Wednesday, June 6 2012 1:30 PM EDT2012-06-06 17:30:23 GMT
The mayor of the largest city in America recently announced a proposed ban on the sale of sodas and other sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces at restaurants, movie theaters and street carts. This onceMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the proposed ban on selling sugary drinks 16 oz. or more in New York.More >>
Thursday, May 31 2012 12:54 PM EDT2012-05-31 16:54:29 GMT
I attended a law school graduation recently and I learned something really interesting from the commencement speaker. He is a federal judge and he was drawing contrast between 50 years ago and now. HeMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about how the Supreme Court is not as diverse as it was 50 years ago.More >>
Tuesday, May 29 2012 12:19 PM EDT2012-05-29 16:19:31 GMT
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - There's something to be proud of this week and I want to make sure you take note. The University of North Carolina Wilmington Seahawks baseball team is heading back to the NCAAMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the UNCW baseball team's accomplishments this season.More >>
Thursday, May 24 2012 11:52 AM EDT2012-05-24 15:52:56 GMT
It's kind of sad, but for most people Memorial Day only means the start of the summer vacation season or maybe a day off work and a long weekend. It was first known as Decoration Day and it originated followingMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the real reason we should be celebrating Memorial Day.More >>
Thursday, May 24 2012 10:47 AM EDT2012-05-24 14:47:09 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the buzz surrounding the recent announcement that the production of 'Iron Man 3' will take place in Wilmington.More >>
Wednesday, May 23 2012 12:08 PM EDT2012-05-23 16:08:00 GMT
Critics of the American education system like to complain that teachers and administrators just pass kids on to the next level regardless if they are ready or not. If they don't want to deal with them,More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the criticism some school systems face for passing students who are not ready to move on to the next grade level.More >>
Friday, May 18 2012 12:48 PM EDT2012-05-18 16:48:17 GMT
What do the weather, politics and the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority have in common? A lot of people like to grumble and complain about them. In fact, most of us do. But I think it might be timeMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the recent CFPUA budget hearing. The meeting was an opportunity for customers to voice concerns, but only two people showed up.More >>
Tuesday, May 15 2012 12:32 PM EDT2012-05-15 16:32:19 GMT
I've had plenty to grumble and complain about on this segment this past month and I almost let a big celebration slip by without drawing your attention to it. I'm talking about the United Way of the CapeMore >>
WECT's General Manager thanks everyone who donated to the Cape Fear area's United Way.More >>
Thursday, May 10 2012 12:47 PM EDT2012-05-10 16:47:47 GMT
I think Congressman Mike McIntyre is a smart man. And he's been in office long enough to know, he's going to get questions he probably doesn't want to answer. So he shouldn't have been surprised whenMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the way Congressman Mike McIntyre avoided questions about why he hasn't endorsed President Obama.More >>
Wednesday, May 9 2012 12:17 PM EDT2012-05-09 16:17:19 GMT
I'm not a prophet, but even I could have predicted another dismal voter turnout for this week's election. What's it going to take? How can we convince you to head to the polls to make your opinions heard?More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the low turnout for early voting.More >>
Friday, May 4 2012 12:07 PM EDT2012-05-04 16:07:40 GMT
I'm disappointed with the Wilmington Planning Commission's unanimous decision in March of this year to deny a rezoning request that would have allowed for the building of an affordable senior housing apartmentMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the Wilmington Planning Commission's unanimous decision in March of this year to deny a rezoning request that would have allowed for the building of an affordable senior housing apartment complex.More >>
Friday, May 4 2012 12:07 PM EDT2012-05-04 16:07:04 GMT
North Carolinians are about to vote on an issue that if it passes, even the state's top lawyer admits will be tied up in court for years. I'm talking about the constitutional amendment defining marriage.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the constitutional amendment defining marriage being tied up in court for years, even if it passes.More >>
Thursday, April 26 2012 12:33 PM EDT2012-04-26 16:33:56 GMT
I think the best tourism bargain in this area is the Fort Fisher to Southport ferry. Where else can you get an enjoyable half hour boat ride for a car full of people for just $5? Well, I'll tell you where.More >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the debate surrounding the possible increase for some ferry fees.More >>
Thursday, April 26 2012 9:00 AM EDT2012-04-26 13:00:10 GMT
North Carolina Senate Republicans are proposing some ideas concerning education that will surely generate some debate. They want to eliminate tenure for veteran public school teachers and they are alsoMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the NC Senate Republicans proposal to eliminate tenure for veteran public school teachers and moving to a more performance-based pay system.More >>
Monday, April 23 2012 12:28 PM EDT2012-04-23 16:28:18 GMT
I'm feeling the need to pick on some local politicians this week. I have two issues - robocalling and campaign signs. Robocalls are exempt from the regulations that prevent most telemarketers from callingMore >>
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the less than favorable parts of campaigning - robocalls and political signs.More >>
Thursday, March 22 2012 1:36 PM EDT2012-03-22 17:36:21 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about the Pender County Sheriff's Office's response to a potentially dangerous situation at Topsail High School earlier this month.More >>
Thursday, March 1 2012 1:08 PM EST2012-03-01 18:08:08 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair explains WECT's mission during the 2012 elections -- to help clarify political claims and hold candidates accountable.More >>
Monday, February 20 2012 1:25 PM EST2012-02-20 18:25:09 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair presents public opinions from both sides of the argument regarding the proposed minor league ballpark in Wilmington.More >>
Tuesday, January 24 2012 1:45 PM EST2012-01-24 18:45:44 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about an email chain that revealed school officials released information without verifying its accuracy.More >>
Friday, January 6 2012 5:18 PM EST2012-01-06 22:18:16 GMT
WECT's General Manager Gary McNair talks about how New Hanover County is backing off any help to bring a minor league baseball team to Wilmington after the city voted to annex a roughly 270acre lot into the city.More >>
