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North Carolina gets the green light to begin work on a major bypass - a road to the beach talked about for decades. Neighbors know it's needed but the price they have to pay will cost them. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Green grass - green for Charlotte. Millions of tourism dollars, the world watching. In our Cover Story, the big announcement that puts Charlotte in golf elite. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
On the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we're looking back at the storms that have made an impact on the Carolinas. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
A man waiting with several friends for a "ghost train" is killed when a real tran comes down the tracks. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Some call it a rocket. It goes zero to 60 in less than four seconds. And would you believe it doesn't run on a drop of gas? In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson is blowing the doors off our thinking about electric vehicles and what's being done locally to get ready. More>>
From a small liberal arts college to heading up one of the largest university systems in the country. The University of North Carolina has a new leader and he's from the Charlotte area carrying on a tradition that goes back decades. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
A minister in Rock Hill, SC who was convicted and sent to prison for fleecing his flock is arrested on child abuse charges.. charges he's face before. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
At trial you have a right to remain silent. But accused cop killer Demeatrius Montgomery is taking that to an extreme. He's not talking to the people who want to defend him. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on the issues raised by Montgomery's silence. More>>
Charlotte City Council gets the green light from city movers and shakers to ask voters to approve more than $200 million in bonds in November. Why are they needed and why now? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
While delegates to the Democratic National Convention are meeting in St. Louis Charlotteans are putting on a "new-media" blitz to pull them to the Queen City in 2012. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
It was meant to save area hospitals some green. But the move left the Red Cross seeing red. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how one hospital system is going back to the Red Cross for blood. More>>
A mother accused of drowning her two toddlers in a South Carolina body of water. It's irrely similar to another infamous case 16 years ago. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson taks to the man who prosecuted the Susan Smith case and what might happen when this case goes to court. More>>
Residents at two apartment complexes have are getting serious warnings from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. More>>
What would your school do with $500,000? A small elementary school in Charlotte is in a race to collect votes which could lead to a big payoff. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
A man is accused of raping two girls, ages 7 and 8. And if that isn't enough authorities say he was in the U.S. illegally. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
All murder convictions in Union county are getting a "once over" by District Attorney John Snyder over concern with "questionable work" by the SBI crime lab. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
We've heard of passengers going berzerk on airplanes, now it's a flight attendant's turn. Has flying gotten less friendly? What's behind the frustration some people are feeling in the air these days. Some answers in our Cover Story with PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson. More>>
Recycling, it's not just for hippies anymore. Since Charlotte's made it easier than ever to go green more people are recycling. And trash cans aren't filling up nearly as fast. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
More North Carolina public schools met or exceeded expectations on standardized test results last school year and fewer schools received the lowest-performing label. State education officials today released More>>
Repeat offenders in our court system, we see them all the time - many of them DWI cases. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on a program that's turning chronic drunk drivers into success stories. More>>
There is the Hollywood version of jury duty and the real life version. "It's usually a sense of dread," said Charles Keller. More>>
It was America's worst naval disaster: Sixty-five years ago the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. In our Cover Story, survivors' stories and a local woman who's committed to keeping this largely forgotten tale alive. More>>
The TV show "CSI:" solves the case in an hour. Real life takes a whole lot longer. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on a case where the evidence was collected and it took more than a year and a half to get the results back. More>>
Fish turning up dead in Lake Norman causing concern for neighbors and anglers. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson goes along with North Carolina Wildlife officials to find out what's causing it. More>>
The Democrats are in town scouting out the Queen City as a city for their 2012 convention. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on the major roadblocks to bringing the party to town. More>>
The pitch to move the Knights to Center City Charlotte. Five years after the idea was put into play they're no closer to getting on base. But they could be soon. What's standing in the way and what would it cost to bring them home? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
You've heard of having a box lunch. How about getting your lunch out of a box? One entrepreneur wants to re-write the definition of fast food - eating lunch out of a shipping container. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Summer travel season just got worse in Charlotte. At the airport, there are long lines and long waits to get through security. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on what's behind the delays and tips to help you cut your wait in line. More>>
North Carolina farmers get the opportunity to talk to America's Ambassador of Trade. The topic: Exporting farm products overseas. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on why some believe it holds the key to coming out of the recession. More>>
Living on the flood plain. If your home goes underwater, you may not be able to count on the county buying you out anymore. The fund to buy flooded homes may be drying up. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
A man kills his pregnant girlfriend and his two children. There's a history of family violence. We see it often. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on what's being done to try to stop the violence. More>>
People aren't the only ones suffering in this week's triple-digit heat wave. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains what can happen when the rails heat up. More>>
A Charlotte streetcar no longer just a desire of our city leaders. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Repeat offenders, habitual felons - Mecklenburg county says your days of a free ride are over. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on what's being done to keep those most dangerous from getting back on the streets. More>>
It's been four years since Charlotte nearly lost its downtown fireworks celebration. The group that took it over prepares to mark its fifth year and this year promises to be bigger and better. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte's dream of hosting a national political convention is one step closer to reality. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how the city made the final four and why the Democrats would choose Charlotte.
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Lights out at Eastland Mall. Once 90 acres of prime real estate, once a crown jewel of shopping in the Carolinas, Eastland has officially gone under. But it's not gone for good. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on what's next for the mall. More>>
Big banks and companies got billions to help them survive. What about the little guy? In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on what Charlotte is doing to help small businesses and entrepreneurs emerge from the recession. More>>
South Carolina's governor calls it the most important piece of legislation this year. Setting limits on how much water can be taken out of the state's rivers and lakes. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how it came about in our Cover Story. More>>
Plug-in electric cars. Not a pipe dream, coming very soon to Charlotte. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how the city's gearing up to become a hot spot for the next generation in automobiles. More>>
They don't look or sound like typical Republicans. The new face of the Grand Old Party. Two non-whites elected to major offices in South Carolina. How historic is it? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Election Day in the Carolinas on Tuesday. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at why so few took the trouble to vote. More>>
By Liz Horton - bio l email Construction of the US 29/NC 49 Roadway Improvement Project kicks off today, June 21. Two northbound and two southbound lanes will be maintained on Tryon Street (US 29) during More>>
Not the Civil War but the union finds itself trying to gain ground in the south. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on a move underway to give workers here in the Carolinas more power to negotiate their pay. More>>
Charlotte's movers and shakers take a fact-finding trip to Boston. What can the Queen City learn from a town the locals call "The Hub of the Universe?" PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
NC Gov. Perdue huddles with emergency officials to plan an attack should the Gulf oil spill reach us here. In our Cover Story we're asking has the disaster in the Gulf changed public opinion to offshore drilling here. More>>
Susan Burgess resigned the Charlotte City Council one week ago and wanted to pass the baton onto her son. But 23 others reached out their hands to grab it as well. The city council filled the vacancy Monday night. Did the council move too quickly? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Many people are still wondering how South Carolina US Senate Candidate Alvin Greene won the primary earlier this week. More>>
Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools had to cut about $80 million from its budget last year. More>>
Now that the 485 loop will finally be closed, attention now turns to the outerbelt's most pressing problem. More>>
New computer models show the Gulf oil spill landing on the Carolinas beaches. How likely is it? In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson shows you what scientists are saying. More>>
One of three kids are obese. Charlotte is known as a "fat city". In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how a new book being taught in schools could start a movement here. More>>
The federal government comes through with millions of dollars to tear down and revitalize one of Charlotte's most iconic public housing projects. What's ahead for Boulevard Homes and why the city's plans to make this a gateway to the west side, in our Cover Story with PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson. More>>
Are you interested in becoming a better worker, would you like to see your business grow? Want to improve business relationships and job performance? Then watch PrimeTime's Cover Story, "Put Your Ears On."
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Each May, Charlotte Motor Speedway becomes a small city - population 200,000. Up to now thousands of those fans never ventured to NC's largest city and uptown Charlotte. In our Cover Story what's being done to take fans from the track downtown and people from the city to the track. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
2005 was the worst hurricane season on record. Government forecasters on Thursday say this year could rival it. Are you prepared. Have you got protection for home and property? Why are we looking at a bad year? Questions answered in our Cover Story by PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson. More>>
Is there an upside to high unemployment? It's not the sort of thing you want to have happen, but there is a silver lining. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on Charlotte's efforts to diversify its economy and the big fish it snagged on Wednesday. More>>
If you are arrested for a felony in any of 23 states across the country, you'll have to surrender a D-N-A sample. The policy makes it easier to catch repeat offenders, provides more evidence during investigations and presents new leads in cases with not much to go on. North Carolina is considering becoming the 24th state with that law, and for once this legislative session Democrats and Republicans seem to be on the same page.
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Criminals, hiding from justice for heinous acts they committed a lifetime ago. Men and women who abused, raped, tortured, and killed--now doing everything in their power to disappear into normal communities, and live what look like normal lives. Some of their victims are your neighbors. And those victims have an ally--a man who's spent his life hunting down Nazi War Criminals. More>>
In the middle of Lancaster County lies a stone tablet that spreads for 40-plus acres that is being attacked by vandals. More>>
When the Pillowtex plan closed this city might well have gone the way of mill towns all over the region. Instead they chose to build a superhighway to the future. And this summer it's ready. Will the gamble pay off? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
How do you know when your growth is becoming urban sprawl? When you start losing more trees than you're growing. In our Cover Story, Prime Time's Jeff Atkinson reports on a study from a watch group that's sounding a warning to local officials - we've got to pay attention to our trees. More>>
It was advertised as Charlotte's biggest week ever. Now in the rear view mirror, how did it live up to the hype? There wasn't an area of the city that wasn't affected by the NRA convention, NASCAR Hall of Fame opening and UltraSwim event last week. Is this a precursor of things to come or a big bust? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story.
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Charlotte landing the NASCAR Hall of Fame helped bring the NRA here. They're dumping 20 million bucks into Queen City coffers. Now the grand prize of conventions the city's going after. A political convention. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at our chances in our Cover Story. More>>
They operate in relative obscurity across North Carolina. Stores with dozens of computer terminals complete with screens that light up with slot-machine-type video games. Customers pay to play and sometimes they get paid. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on the proliferation of sweepstates cafes and how the state is considering tapping into the jackpots. More>>
It's the airline every city want to have serve their town, the king of low-fares, Southwest Airlines. Charlotte, being a US Airways hub, has long had some of the highest airfares in the country and has long courted Southwest in an effort to bring prices down. Now, the Dallas-based airline says no to Charlotte and yes to two of our neighbors. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
Tuesday the NASCAR Hall of Fame opened to the public. If ever there was an event pulling the broadest group of NASCAR fans together, opening day would be it. But from looking at the crowd outside the Hall of Fame you get a glimpse of why it's perceived as a white, male sport. NASCAR wants to change that perception, so it's putting a lot of resources into broadening its fan base. More>>
South Carolina's House of Representatives wants every voter to show a picture ID. On Wednesday, they sent a bill to the Senate that would require it. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more. More>>
Calling it a grand opening might not quite capture what organizers of the NASCAR Hall of Fame have in store for Tuesday. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
The week of May 10, Charlotte hosts a series of events featuring some of the most famous celebrities in the world. Are we ready? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
As soon as this weekend, the oil company responsible for one of the worst environmental disasters in decades hopes to deploy a device that could seriously contain that massive oil spill going on in the Gulf. It's an invention created by a Charlotte entrepreneur, as PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Tuesday was Election Day in NC. And if you're like many who went to the polls you may have had trouble deciding who to vote for in the judicial races. With a law degree and enough votes anyone can get on the bench. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson asks is there a better way? More>>
It's election day in North Carolina. If you're like many people going to the polls today, you'll probably have trouble deciding whom to vote for in the judicial races. More>>
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities announces an approximately four-dollar increase in fees and a plan they hope will make you trust them again. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Less than one month into the "drill, baby, drill" compromise, a worst case environmental scenario is washing up onto the Gulf Coast. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how the oil rig disaster in the Gulf could affect a drive to drill off the Carolinas coast. More>>
Their names are associated with some of Charlotte's finest institutions. They're one of the Carolinas most generous couples, and in the last two years they have opened their wallets wider than ever before. More>>
Sentenced to die. A Charlotte jury says it's the right punishment for an MS-13 murderer. But it's such a divisive issue. In our Cover Story, a look at the complexities of the death penalty. More>>
A 150-mile police chase from Spartanburg county, SC to Davidson county, NC focuses attention on police chases. What factors go into a decision whether to pursue? It's our Cover Story. More>>
Answers in an alleged sexual harassment case involving Charlotte city council member Warren Turner. In our Cover Story we're asking what happens next? More>>
Right now South Carolina has the lowest cigarette tax in the country at seven cents a pack. A bill in the General Assembly would raise that another 50 cents. More>>
New numbers out Friday, and for the first time since North Carolina started keeping records, unemployment has dropped in all 100 counties in the state. That's good news, but we're certainly not out of the woods just yet. 87 counties still have double digit unemployment rates. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
Hybrids, bio-diesel automobiles, electric cars. Could this be the future of racing? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
A massive cloud of volcanic ash making its way around the world. Right now it's grounding flights, stranding tourists and impacting businesses. And now there are concerns this natural disaster could mean a colder summer for us. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
When passengers go through airport security.. most people think they're checking for everything. What they don't know is the devices the Transportation Security Administration -- the TSA uses -- detect metal. They don't detect explosives. Until now. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Good news for Charlotte-based Bank of America. The bank surprised analysts and posted first quarter earnings of nearly $3 billion. CEO Brian Moynihan says the bank's results provide more evidence that the banking industry and the economy are recovering. But what does it look like on Main Street? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
It's a big day in the sports world for Charlotte. The Bobcats celebrating their first time in the playoffs with a huge rally on Thursday. And Tiger Woods announcing he will return to Charlotte to play in the Quail Hollow tournament. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at what sports means to the Queen City. More>>
Will the future of racing include electric cars, bio diesel automobiles and hybrid pace cars? Since Thursday is Earth Day, the folks at the zMAX Dragway in Cabarrus County threw the green flag on some green machines. More>>
Good news for Charlotte-based Bank of America. The bank's earnings reports came out this morning -- and surpass expectations. B of A earned $2.83 billion during the first quarter of this year. It says More>>
While everybody's eyes are on Augusta this weekend and the return of the world's most famous athlete officials at the Quail Hollow Championship have their fingers crossed and a plan in place hoping Charlotte can benefit from Tiger Woods' return. More>>
Charlotte is abuzz with talk of a possible merger between United Airlines and the Queen City's hometown airline US Airways. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at what it would mean in our Cover Story. More>>
With The Masters this weekend, thoughts are turning to the PGA Tour coming to Charlotte in three weeks. The Quail Hollow Championship runs April 26-May 2 at the Quail Hollow Club in south Charlotte. There's More>>
Here's an idea. Build roads where they're needed the most. Right now that's not the way North Carolina operates all the time. Tuesday, state leaders began discussions into how road money is divvied up and what's most fair. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
President Obama's big push in Charlotte and the whole reason his people chose Celgard as the place he'd speak was to show how his stimulus package is creating new jobs in the energy sector. But having the President here gave Charlotte a chance to shine the light on new jobs its creating outside banking. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
President Obama visits Charlotte on Friday. As the City prepares for the cost and protocol meantime protestors say they plan to make it worth every penny. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools working on a plan to save as many teachers jobs as it possibly can. The district has already conceded that it will probably have to lay off as many as 600 teachers. But that number is based on an $80 million shortfall. If the deficit turns out to be larger, they'll have to come up with other options. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
As Mecklenburg County Commissioners struggle to allocate their dwindling resources, most of the people who watch the process watch it on TV. A new proposal in that struggle would eliminate funding for WTVI, the station that broadcasts those meetings. Parks, libraries and schools are taking serious cuts, but the county-owned public television station is staring at a potential zero for its funding line. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - $1,300. That's how much drivers in and around Charlotte lose each year stuck in traffic and in crashes and dealing with poor roads. It's money you probably aren't budgeting for. A study released Tuesday says for a mere $65 billion we could have world-class roads 20 years from now. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Battle lines are drawn, but what does the bill mean? It took more than a year of debate, but the U.S. House of Representatives passed the health care reform bill late Sunday night and is now headed for the President's signature. When do the various provisions kick in and who do they help? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
Carolinians watching Washington, where a complicated piece of legislation is winding its way through Congress. The public is split on the Health Care Bill. So are the people who represent us. The majority party is unleashing an arcane rule to squeeze the bill through the process. Their minority opponents say the procedure is dishonest. Either way it could have a major impact on your life. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Our Cover Story started about ten days ago. You may recall WBTV had lawyers available for a day to provide free legal information. One of the calls that came in involved a woman who said she'd helped a friend in need by giving her a temporary place to stay. Now her tenant wouldn't leave. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has the story. More>>
On Monday, UNC Charlotte fired head basketball coach, Bobby Lutz. He's an alum who's been with the team 15 years. Lutz had a winning record, eight trips to post-season tournaments, and a sterling reputation. But college sports is a big money game, and the University says it is ready to make a move toward basketball relevance in the Atlantic-10 conference. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Where in the US do you find the healthiest, happiest people? According to a new survey in USA Today, the overall answer is that people living at the foot of the Rocky Mountains rate at the top of the well being index. More>>
You'd like to think your house is your home. But let someone stay for awhile and then if they refuse to leave and suddenly they have rights to your home. It's a trend that's being seen across the country More>>
Tourism and hospitality employs 50,000 people in the Charlotte area. That's more than the banking or health care industries. Now, a federal plan just signed into law positions our city for a higher international profile. If it works, it would mean more of those jobs, more visitors, and more money flowing into our local coffers. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
America's energy demands are shooting through the roof. By 2030, the U.S. will need 20% more power. Today, coal generates most of our electricity. But a pellet of uranium about the size of a pencil eraser can create as power as a ton of coal. For North and South Carolina, that means more nuclear plants fast. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
When a house in Spartanburg caught fire, the owners didn't call 911. They weren't sure they could afford to pay the fire department after hearing news reports that some departments are charging homeowners to fight fires. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Under threat of losing their jobs a group of disgruntled employees called us. Then they called the fire department. At issue were accusations that a company chartered to help people manage their money wasn't managing its own. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
North Carolina advocates and opponents of legalizing medical marijuana are talking about the issue face to face. It seemed like a fad when California did it in 1992. Now with more than 30 States from every region of the country passing or debating the issue it's becoming mainstream. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
The Hero on the Hudson flew his last US Airways flight Wednesday. Captain Sully Sullenberger is retiring after 30 years as a professional pilot. It's a bittersweet exit for a man who planned to fly until he reached mandatory retirement age. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains what changed his mind. More>>
This might seem like a strange time to talk about balloons when snow is falling from the sky, but balloons play an integral role in forecasting storms like we had this week. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
It was a scam criminals used to soak your neighbors to the tune of more than $200 million. That money is now coming back thanks to a three year Federal investigation. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
With our attention on the health care reform summit in Washington, DC on Thursday, in our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson is asking would Corporate America have done a better job rolling out a Health Care plan? A local expert tackles the issue. More>>
New life for the Garden Parkway, the proposed toll road North Carolina wants to build around Gastonia to get rid of congestion on I-85 between Charlotte and Gaston county. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
The National Hispanic Entrepreneurs' Organization (NHEO) has appointed ambassadors from across the country to help Latino business owners get their businesses off the ground. More>>
World Health Organization officials meeting Tuesday to determine the official status of one of the year's biggest threats. It was a virus that appeared out of nowhere and turned up everywhere with alarming speed. More>>
The Census Bureau's Portrait of America Road Tour rolls into our area, getting out the word about America's once-a-decade head count. But it's also raising eyebrows about how much money is being spent to count every American. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
The Charlotte area United Way celebrating an important milestone in its campaign to regain the community's trust. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
The federal government now is investigating steering problems with the Toyota Corolla, one of the models that wasn't part of the recall. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how the recall has hit drivers and dealers hard. More>>
You expect snow in the mountains in the winter but not like we've had this year. The High Country experiencing one of its worst winters on record some area with over 100 inches so far. Several counties closing schools again today. While it may be nice for skiers, it's creating problems for schools trying to comply with a state law. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte Douglas International Airport opened a new runway Friday. It is now one of only seven airports in the country with capacity for three landings at the same time. It's a big deal for keeping planes in the air. That's great for passengers, and the airlines. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
What happens after a tragedy. In our Cover Story, behind the scenes at the work of grief counselors. What do they do and what kind of impact does a tragedy have on our students. More>>
He's stayed mostly silent during the last year while his former bank has gone through the wringer..Hugh McColl talks exclusively and candidly about Bank of America.. his thoughts on the economy and what he thinks of Charlotte. More>>
This week the CBS Evening News is looking at how antibiotics fed to livestock can show up in our food. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson shows us what local school districts are doing to serve food that is antibiotic free. More>>
Within two hours of hearing "case dismissed" Monday the Lincoln County Sheriff filed for re election. Sheriff Tim Daugherty faced two felony obstruction of justice charges for letting a suspected drunk driver go. But in a stunner at the courthouse Monday morning, the District Attorney dismissed the charges. More>>
Since the beginning of December, we've gotten twice our normal rainfall. All the areas lakes and reservoirs are filled to capacity. Compared to last winter, when we were coming out of a drought.. that's great news for farming, fishing, and boating. But those higher water levels mean rising concerns for some people. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at the impact in our Cover Story. More>>
A North Carolina judge Friday ordering a former aide to presidential candidate John Edwards to turn over a sex tape purportedly featuring Edwards and his mistress Rielle Hunter. If he doesn't the judge is threatening to send the aide to jail. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Just when you thought the Toyota recall couldn't get any worse the U.S. Transportation Secretary drops a bombshell. In our Cover Story, what local people are saying and can Toyota recover? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
The most devastating earthquake in Haiti's history left one clinic standing at the Double Harvest Mission. Within hours, that facility built by a philanthropist with direct ties to Charlotte became a focal point for thousands of victims. More>>
According to the Department of Labor the economic downturn has cost NC jobs, hurt businesses and empty wallets. It's also to blame for a decrease in sales tax revenue needed to fund the blue-line extension of the Lynx light rail project. More>>
Two CMPD officers accused of sex acts on women. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on the potential chilling effect of police misconduct. More>>
With an upset U.S. senate win in Massachusetts in our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how it would impact the national health care legislation and how North Carolina had a similar shift nearly 40 years ago. More>>
Flooding, ice storms even a Hugo. Is Charlotte-Mecklenburg prepared for the next natural disaster? In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on why local government is looking for your help to come up with a plan. More>>
A new plan was unveiled on Tuesday by Charlotte Mecklenburg Storm Water Services on ways to deal with flash flooding in the area. More>>
It's not a new idea: To throw out every member of Congress and start over. But a new process from an inventor of all people and he believes he's come up with a way to make it happen and put regular people into office. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Many people don't know the Carolinas have a record of quakes the same size as the one that struck Haiti. How prepared are we? Primetime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte and the world marking the one year anniversary of the "Miracle on the Hudson." US Airways Flight 1549's ditching in the Hudson River. Everyone on board survived. The five-person flight crew honed their skills here in Charlotte, at US Airways largest hub. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson got a rare look inside at the training every pilot and flight attendant must go through. More>>
A liquor company picking up the tab for a nearly $13,000 holiday dinner for local ABC staff renewing calls to reform North Carolina's antiquated liquor system. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
The Christmas Day attempted terrorist attack has the government scrambling to make airplanes safer. By now you've heard of the whole body scanner. It takes a picture of what you'd look like with your clothes off. The government's been using the scanners for several years but now after the terrorist attempt plans to put them in airports as fast as it can. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
We heard the stories of teachers having sexual contact with students and scratch our heads. What's going on here? How does this happen? Why do so many seem to be crossing the line? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
The first death from these freezing temperatures reported in the Carolinas. The body of a man was found along Interstate 85 in Cherokee County, South Carolina. Right now, officials believe the man was homeless, and died after being exposed to the cold for three or four days. This weather should have all of us thinking twice about how we dress in the cold weather. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
Another night of bitter cold temperatures means homeless shelters will be bursting at the seams. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson is looking at the homeless in our community. Who are they? Where do they live? And how much does it really cost to have a home in Charlotte? More>>
The Census 2010 bus rolls through Charlotte. It's called the "Portrait of America" Road tour. The bus will crisscross-cross the state - as well as four other states in the southeast. The people on board are encouraging people to fill out the census questionnaire in March. So why participate? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
It's been a wild ride in 2009 for the Carolinas. Governor Mark Sanford admits cheating. On a Charlotte-bound flight, Captain Sully makes his miracle landing on the Hudson. And we saw Charlotte banking change big time. On this New Year's Eve, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks ahead to the big stories to watch out for in 20-10. More>>
The holiday's are here, and New Year's Eve especially is known for drinking and unfortunately, drinking and driving. Besides paying the ultimate price of death. Have you ever really added up the cost of drinking and driving? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson totals the costs in our Cover Story. More>>
The North Carolina smoking ban takes effect January 2nd. That means no more smoking in bars or restaurants. We're the 26th state in the country to have a smoking ban. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has our Cover Story. More>>
It's the next step in airport security. Whole body scans. Some call it virtual undressing - everything underneath your clothes exposed. How it's already being used and when it will be here in Charlotte in our Cover Story from PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson. More>>
Another generous gift from well-known family to help a very critical need. The Levine family donated $1 million to a fund they started last year. The idea is to get others to give, have the fund grow, then dole out the money to local agencies. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
A new chief executive at the nation's biggest bank. Bank of America's new CEO is Brian Moynihan. He will take over January first, replacing Ken Lewis. Moynihan is from Boston, but says he will move here to Charlotte, and the headquarters to the bank will stay in Charlotte. People we talk to today, say being headquartered here - is actually selling our city to the whole world. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Mecklenburg county commissioners voting Tuesday night on the volatile topic of extending health benefits to same sex couples. Some consider this an issue of fairness. But others believe the county could wind up getting sued. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at the debate in our Cover Story. More>>
UNC Charlotte football program officially in play. Kickoff set for 2013. But that kickoff is gonna cost. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on a little known secret behind the cost of college football. More>>
South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford will likely not be impeached. But he will be censured -- or publicly reprimanded. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
CORNELIUS, NC (WBTV) - People in North Mecklenburg County say they're getting hosed by high water bills. Some of the bills have jumped hundreds of dollars, in just one month. More>>
Charlotte has a new mayor. Democrat Anthony Foxx took the Oath of Office Monday night. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson talked with Foxx about where he wants to take the city. More>>
Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory like you've never seen him. A special PrimeTime report with Jeff Atkinson on the mayor's last day in office. His regrets, his darkest moment, and what he didn't think he'd make it through. More>>
A local woman, seven and half months pregnant goes to the hospital. She thinks she's in labor, and has her husband and two year old in tow. But with the hospital's H1N1 policy, no child under the age of 18 is allowed in. With no one to care for her child, what was she supposed to do? As PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains hospitals are having to grapple with a swine flu policy and some patients' reality. More>>
The Mark Sanford impeachment train is headed down the tracks. Hearings to oust the South Carolina governor began on Tuesday. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explores what Sanford's opponents will have to do to have him removed from office. More>>
It's the biggest travel week of the year made even harder this year by rock slides, higher gas prices, and rising flight costs. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at Thanksgiving Travel 2009. More>>
What's in a name? A lot if you're a high school in North Mecklenburg County. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on the name controversy that's dividing a community and has some parents worried. More>>
North Carolina trying to slam the door on inmates in state prisons serving life sentences and were apparently scheduled to go free. It's the case of 130 robbers, rapists and killers. Now, they're not getting out any time soon. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
This week, students in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools getting the H1N1 vaccine. And according to local health experts that's a good thing, because when it comes to the swine flu the worst may be yet to come. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
The case of a five-year old girl allegedly sold into slavery bringing to light an issue not many people know about: human trafficking. Slavery going on in the Carolinas PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte transit in transition. A new CEO tapped to head the Charlotte Transit System. She's Carolyn Flowers and she will oversee everything from buses, to streetcars, to LYNX light rail projects. So with a changing of power and decreasing revenue at CATS - what happens to all of those projects? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Two North Carolina families dealing with fear and worry - they want their loved ones to come home, a 5-year old girl missing from Fayetteville and a 61-year old grandmother who disappeared in west Charlotte. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson takes you inside a search why those first 24 hours that are so crucial. More>>
After days of heavy rain the concern now becomes rising waters on area lakes. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson shows us who's managing the lake levels and what's being done right now to ward against flooding. More>>
President Obama talking with his national security team discussing options for winning the war in Afghanistan, a war some say we're losing. It's also a war that's being compared to Vietnam. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
Flooding a real problem in urban areas in Charlotte. We've seen flooding on Briar Creek Road with previous weather events. The Doral apartments lie right in the floodplain zone. That's why the county has placed flood sensors in the area. Those sensors alert emergency responders when the water levels get too high. More>>
NC Gov. Bev Perdue with a plan that puts finishing I-485 on the fast track. The governor announcing Monday that she's found a way to get the outer belt completed faster and cheaper than anyone ever thought possible. And she won't need to take any money away from the Independence Boulevard Project. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
Have you noticed? Gas prices are creeping back up again. Up 30-cents a gallon in the last month alone even though peak demand time, or summer driving, is over. What's going on here? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson goes in search for answers in our Cover Story. More>>
Mecklenburg county could be losing a well-respected superior court judge in Mecklenburg County, which seems bad, but losing this judge could actually be good for the entire state of North Carolina. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
It's a mayoral race that's being watched around the country, the race between Anthony Foxx and John Lassiter. Who will become Charlotte's next mayor? In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at what it takes to win. More>>
Two different takes on a political ad mailed out in the eleventh hour in the Charlotte mayor's race. Have the fangs come out, or this just fair political play? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
One of Charlotte biggest employers US Airways announcing 1,000 layoffs, direct flights slashed. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson asks what does the shuffle mean for Charlotte? More>>
Bombshells dropped in Raleigh. A Mike Easley supporter opens up about the former governor's home fix-ups, allegedly paid for with campaign money. And flights Easley took -- that he allegedly did not pay for. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Killers, rapists, and robbers in North Carolina prisons, awaiting release. At first, it was 20 inmates. Seven more just added. Now, we're being told it could be 120 prisoners freed when this whole thing is said and done. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains why in our Cover Story. More>>
Tens of thousands of balloon enthusiasts descending on Statesville this weekend for the 36th Annual Carolina BalloonFest, the second oldest ballon rally in the U.S. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson says this festival would not be happening, if it weren't for a hot air balloon company based in our own backyard. More>>
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Union County Public Schools together received a more than half a million dolllar federal grant to clean up their buses. That means they'll be able to make changes, so that their buses will burn cleaner fuel. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
H1N1 swine flu death numbers being kept hush-hush by health officials. If someone died from the virus in your county - you'd have no way of knowing it. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson looks at the reasons why. More>>
Lowe's Motor Speedway and the z-Max Dragway are home to tens of thousands of race fans, and to some of the fastest speeds on the planet. But what brings all of these elements together is one Charlotte man. He's not a NASCAR driver, but he's famous in the racing world, as PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Bank of America's new CEO could be announced any day now. And Charlotte city leaders are preparing to court the new chief executive Ken Lewis' replacement. However, some in Charlotte are hitting the panic button, concerned over who will take over the nation's largest bank, fearing the new CEO will move the bank's headquarters. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explores the real concerns, and the hype. More>>
County Commissioners in Lincoln county voting Wednesday night to take legal action if Sheriff Tim Daughtery refuses to resign. Daughtery is charged with two counts of obstruction of justice. With Daughtery facing criminal charges, some are asking do we really need to elect a sheriff? Critics argue that basically anybody could be put in office. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explores the debate in our Cover Story. More>>
They're not only an eye sore, but a real danger to our neighborhoods. Abandoned buildings considered hot spots for vagrants and drugs. But even worse, they can become death traps in the case of a fire, which is part of the reason Charlotte wants to end the problem of empty stores once and for all. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
An elderly man dies in a house fire in Gaston County. The man who dialed 911, called from his cell phone and didn't have the right address. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on why 911 operators say cell phones can make it harder for them to find you in an emergency. More>>
WBTV On Your side tackling your office swine flu questions. Can your boss send you home if you're sick? And can your boss force you to get the H-1-N-1 vaccine? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
U-S Airways passengers flying from New York to Charlotte didn't think they'd be riding with a celebrity today. Captain Sully Sullenbuerger, back in the cockpit on Thursday, almost nine months after that incredible splash landing in New York City's Hudson River. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson answers what's changed since that January accident. More>>
Counting down the hours until a game that carries a 117-year rivalry. The Livingstone Blue Bears in Salisbury taking on Johnson C-Smith's Golden Bulls. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains how these two black colleges are taking their history in North Carolina...and pushing it to the national level. More>>
Charlotte is the employment hub of our region. But in a bad economy, we've see significant job loss. City planners are hoping to take that loss, and turn into opportunity. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson is unveiling Center City 2020 Vision Plan..what Charlotte's Center City and surrounding neighborhoods will look like in the next decade. More>>
Words like "must win" and "do or die" being said about the big matchup in the "Big D." The Panthers taking on the Dallas Cowboys in Dallas. Wondering why, with the season still so young... so much riding on Monday night's game? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story. More>>
A gun from South Carolina used to shoot four police officers in New Jersey. And according to police, this happens far too often. Guns are stolen from the Carolinas and used to commit crimes in the northeast. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
Upset over credit card interest rates and overdraft fees, bank customers are strking back. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how to make sure your complaint gets resolved. More>>
On this week we mark the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Hugo in the Carolinas.. one surprise development.. it looks like predictions for an active hurricane season this year will miss the mark. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story. More>>
The first open seat for Charlotte mayor in 14 years. Tuesday night, the candidates trying to get your vote, are going toe-to-toe. Voters believe it's an important election but say they can't distinguish between the candidates. How do Lassiter and Foxx break out of the pack? PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has a look in our Cover Story. More>>
20 years ago at midnight Tuesday, Hurricane Hugo hit the Carolinas. Hours later it slammed Charlotte. Trees were down. Hundreds of thousands without power. Destruction everywhere. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson is asking the question, If Hugo hit right now, would we be ready? More>>
While some banks may be in trouble, this piggy bank for Concord keeps on making deposits. In our Cover Story PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports on how Concord Mills has become North Carolina's number one tourist destination. More>>
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is having to re-draw boundaries to even out enrollment. Students would be moved to other schools, leaving parents very un-easy. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson talks to the experts, who say even if your kid doesn't go to C-M-S, re-zoning could happen in your city. More>>
Major developments in court today surrounding a teenager convicted three years ago in a highly publicized deadly drunk driving case. Attorneys for former Myers Park senior Brock Franklin arguing in Mecklenburg court today for a new trial. Franklin's attorneys claiming they have new evidence that Franklin was drugged the night he drove his car the wrong way on I-485 killing two people. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson has more in our Cover Story. More>>
Charlotte voters go to the polls in the city primary. But turnout was one of the lowest in history. In our Cover Story, PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports Tuesday's low turnout really hurts the process, and some say it costs a lot of money. More>>
It's considered one of the safest general aviation planes in the world. The only aircraft with a parachute. We're digging into the safety features on the plane that Skipper Beck was flying when it went down in Rock Hill Friday. And what aviation experts say likely led to the deadly crash. PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports. More>>
President Obama on Wednesday night making what's being called the most important speech of his presidency. He'll be trying to get the health care reform train back on track. After months of criticism for not offering a clear plan, the White House says the president will talk about specific goals tonight. As PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson explains in our Cover Story this is not the first time Congress has had this debate. More>>
Calls for South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford to resign, now coming from one of the State's top ranking Republicans. House Speaker Bobby Harrell sent the Governor a letter asking him to step down. Meanwhile as PrimeTime's Jeff Atkinson reports in our Cover Story Sanford is reaching out to average South Carolinians to convince them he should remain in office. More>>
