WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NCSpeak Out

The Carolinas are home to many important African-American pioneers. We hope you will join us in honoring the achievements of these outstanding individuals. And we encourage you to follow in their footsteps as WBTV celebrates Black History Month.More >>

Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District's interim superintendent wants to give all CMS employees a three percent raise. He needs about $30 million extra in the budget to pay for it. Now given these still uncertain economic times, we're not sure where the money will come from. But if any funds ARE available, we say "teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and librarians should come FIRST."More >>

When Rodney Monroe began his job as Charlotte's Police Chief in 2008, we were optimistic. He had an impressive resume in Richmond, and we hoped his successes there would translate to Charlotte. We also said we would continue to evaluate how the Chief and his department are performing. So far, so good. On the flip side, the issue of the Chief's missing college diploma remains.More >>

On Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s 83rd birthday, let's keep our eyes on his dream of peace and an America where we are judged on the content of our character.More >>

For 2012, we encourage YOU to "Speak Out" – say what's on your mind. We'll continue to tell you what's on ours.More >>

OUR hope is that you will find love, peace, comfort, and joy this holiday season and throughout the new year. From all of us at WBTV, "Merry Christmas." 

 More >>

  Here's something you may not know: at $1 trillion, student loan debt in the US far exceeds that of consumers, including credit card debt. This gusher of student loan money flowing through the "education landscape" is the key factor in the super-inflated cost of today's college education.More >>

Small businesses can give you more personalized service. Employees can get to know you and help you with your treasure hunting. You'll often find hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind gifts at these Mom & Pop retailers. And wouldn't you really rather avoid the massive crowds you'll likely find elsewhere?More >>

This might be your situation: Your car is fairly new, never been wrecked, and is still under warranty. So why would it need to be inspected for safety concerns?More >>

In a recent editorial we expressed our opinion that politics and free enterprise don't mix. It was sparked by Senator Dick Durbin urging customers to stage a run on Bank of America after the bank announced new fees. Well several of you disagreed with us.

 More >>

As if the past four years haven't been hard enough on the economy, now some politicians seem intent on turning their election campaigns into an all-out war on the banking industry. That hits home for Charlotte.More >>

This coming Saturday, thousands will come together in uptown Charlotte for a great cause…The Komen Charlotte Race For the Cure. Their goal…to help end breast cancer forever, and to provide resources for those facing this disease. WBTV is a proud sponsor of Charlotte's Race For the Cure, and we hope you will consider taking part in this year's race.More >>

You may have seen a show on the A&E Network entitled "Beyond Scared Straight."This series provides an inside look at adult prison facilities around the country through the eyes of delinquent juveniles. Most recently, they were in the Mecklenburg County jail. It was an intense experience for these teenagers…sometimes difficult to watch. And yet, it's encouraging to see Mecklenburg and other counties reaching out to troubled teens.More >>

On issues concerning Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, our WBTV Editorial Board has always encouraged greater community involvement. Now, some community leaders are championing a project that takes that involvement to a whole new level. It's called "Project L.I.F.TMore >>

With so much going on in the world, it's great to hear that people still love lending a helping hand. We'll never forget this Spring, when dozens of tornadoes slammed across Alabama. Chaos and destruction were everywhere. But hope came on the backs of thousands of volunteer groups who went to the area to help. Now, the folks from New Oregon United Methodist Church in Fort Payne, Alabama are returning the help given to them.

The 59-member mission groupMore >>

Well, our SpeakOut Editorial suggesting people perform some community service in exchange for their unemployment benefits certainly struck a nerve. Here are a few responses from our viewers...More >>

"Greed…is good." You know the phrase from the movies."Greed" pours money into the economy…creates jobs…inflates our savings accounts. Personally, greed compels us to buy homes we can't afford…the latest sports cars…hi def TVs…"Just put it on the credit card – we'll pay for it later."More >>

There's no good time for a youngster to get into mischief. But more and more often, it seems like many teenagers are out and up to no good after midnight. Now it's time to change Charlotte's curfew ordinance. Right now, it only pertains to children 15 and under.More >>

Do the names John Martin, Rick Elmore, & Cheri Beasley sound familiar? You've probably seen them.  In fact, you may have even voted for them in a recent election. Judges Martin, Elmore, & Beasley are three members of the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Most of us couldn't pick them out of a lineup. And yet, we've placed them into high office. That's the point.More >>

Since it opened in 1995, the Charlotte Transit Center has had a number of ups and downs. It was designed as a central hub from which commuters could easily travel in and out of uptown Charlotte. But recent events in and around the Transit Center have caused concern. It appears that security is not as strong as it once was.More >>

This week, we completed our third year of SpeakOut Editorials. As we reach these milestones, we like to remember some of the topics that have been in the news and on our minds.More >>

This Tuesday, June 14^th, we'll celebrate Flag Day. It's the one day given solely to honoring the banner that symbolizes everything good about our great nation.More >>

 Being a sports fan in Charlotte can be "difficult," to say the least. The "Charlotte" Knights play in Fort Mill. We haven't yet climbed on the Bobcats bandwagon. As for the Panthers, well…."2 and 14." Need I say more? However, the Charlotte Checkers are quickly changing the city's sad sports song. The Checkers are a "Triple A" affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh.More >>

Did you hear about the passing of 1^st Lt. Demetrius Frison of Lancaster, Pennsylvania*?Probably not. Lt. Frison was one of a handful of servicemen killed in action within the past couple of weeks. Most of us around here would have no reason to know him. But Lt. Frison led a life that mattered. And in our book, he died a hero.

 More >>

On Good Friday, police say 18-year-old Chauncey Sterling gunned down Bob Barber in his SouthPark neighborhood. Two families…tragically affected. The Barber family lost a beloved husband and father…a man well respected in our community. And Sterling's family must live forever with what he has allegedly done.

 More >>

Last week when President Obama announced that Osama Bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces, many of us celebrated. The mastermind of the 9-11 attacks on our country finally faced the wrath of American justice. But for many of us…the victory was bittersweet.More >>

There are many barometers for determining a "World Class City." One of these is how its citizens take care of their own. Well, Charlotte will take a giant leap forward in that regard when the new Ronald McDonald House opens on May 9^th.More >>

Try as we might, we can't pass legislation - nor catch the criminals quickly enough - to stay ahead of the game. Perhaps the best we can do is monitor our homes and families…be ever-vigilant of our personal information…and support those we hire and elect to protect us from criminal and illicit activity. It's not "the worst of times," but it certainly is challenging.More >>

Each week, many of you respond to our Speak Out editorials. We appreciate your time, thought, and effort. It's also important to let those who make decisions know what you think. Which is what some fifth and sixth grade students at Kings Mountain Intermediate School have done.More >>

Last month, Gaston County schools achieved a major fundraising goal….more than 4-million dollars! This means 2-thousand classrooms in the Gaston County school district can now have SMART boards.More >>

We're frustrated with being stone-walled by Charlotte-Douglas Airport. Too many questions aren't being answered.More >>

The following are a responses to recent Speak Out Editorials. The views expressed are solely those of the speakers.More >>

For more than 20 years, Queen Charlotte has greeted travelers at Charlotte Douglas International. But have you ever REALLY noticed her?More >>

Every year since 2006, this basketball tournament has attracted more than 100-thousand fans to the Queen City. When a tournament of this caliber comes to Charlotte, it's great for Uptown businesses -- both large and small.More >>

We may not agree with everything people say or write in our country, but we have to defend their right to say it. We absolutely HAVE to.More >>

Efforts to recycle in our community are gaining steam. Each week we see green and red curbside bins being filled.More >>

First massive cuts at the beginning of the school year… Then, the vote to close multiple Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools all at one time… Now this – $100 million dollars worth of proposed budget cuts for next year. Superintendent Peter Gorman made his recommendation last week.More >>

Habitat for Humanity builds affordable homes for low income families. And last November, Habitat began construction of its 1000^th home in the Charlotte area. Quite an achievement.More >>

We've tried to document the year's ups-and-downs, while acting as a mouthpiece for the 22 counties watching. So here's to doing the same in 2011....And please, let us know what topics you think we should tackle in the new year.More >>

Okay, I must have missed it. Can someone tell me when "Christmas" became a bad word? Evidently, we're not supposed to say "Merry Christmas" anymore because "it might offend someone." "Season's Greetings" is fine. Tough to get bummed out by "Happy Holidays." But "Merry Christmas"? Yeah, let's stay away from that. In our ongoing effort to be politically correct, have we lost our minds?More >>

We are blessed to live in a giving community. There are several very good, caring organizations which go out of their way to make our area a great place to live. One of those is a real gem, quietly making a positive difference. It's called the Greater Enrichment Program of Charlotte.More >>

Have you gone to a home Panthers game this year? Or if you've watched one from home...have you noticed the stands? With an overall losing record – especially with that oh-and-five start – you'd think there wouldn't be many people. You'd think every other seat would be empty. But, no. So....here's to Panthers fans.More >>

The 20-10 midterm elections are over and results were historic. A female will be the new Governor of South Carolina. In North Carolina, control will shift from Democrats to Republicans That's not happened in over 110 years.More >>

 Our kids are failing and many middle and high-schoolers can't write a paragraph using capital letters and proper punctuation. This is a call to action to you --More >>

Teachers losing jobs. Schools in jeopardy of closing. And many say the quality of our education is on the decline. Wasn't the North Carolina "Education" Lottery sold as a way to prevent this?More >>

Rock Hill wants to add on three subdivisions. The residents want no part. At first, we thought the city was coercing their votes "for" annexation -- threatening to turn off water unless they agreed. But as we looked more closely, we saw it wasn't a "vote" at all.More >>

One week of class is under the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District's belt.. 38 more weeks to go. So far, so good. But parents...students...everyone, really...don't get comfortable. Here's why we think this school year will be critical: Board members changed the golden rules in educating your child.More >>

We are in a time where every dollar counts, every line on a budget worksheet must be scrutinized. But while dollar signs are a priority, that cost shouldn't come at the expense of safety...especially the safety of our kids.More >>

As a growing community, we'll continue to need new and improved roads. But there's only so much room to build bypasses. Urge your local and state leaders to make wise decisions about development.More >>

The achievement gap between black and white students is in double digits. C-M-S continues its struggle to make all students successful. But here's some possible good news: The philanthropic community wants to help.More >>

Somebody please explain how a drunk driver with previous DWI's -- is allowed back out on the road? Two local state reps, Wil Neumann and Tim Moore, say they're looking into changing laws so repeat drunk drivers don't kill anyone else.More >>

"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette. There's a racial battle brewing inside the Charlotte-Mecklenburg SchoolMore >>

The honest hard working families that operate small businesses must be free from the fear of being robbed. Those that choose to rob should fear deadly consequences.More >>

This weekend our nation pauses to celebrate the 4^th of July, a day set apart to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams believed it to be (quote) "a day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty."More >>

Monday marks the two-year anniversary of our SpeakOut Editorials here on WBTV. This continues a long-standing commitment to social commentary which began on our station back in the 1950s. We remember some of our most important topics and remind viewers why they should Speak Out, as well.More >>

We know it's early on, but NASCAR Hall of Fame, congratulations on a good beginning. We hope you continue to live up to the hype and the public dollars we've invested.More >>

Last year more than 19 thousand students in North Carolina gave up. 19 thousand dropped out of school. For some perspective, 19 thousand is almost the student population at U-N-C-Charlotte. Closer to home in C-M-S, nearly 2,000 students quit high school last year. That's about the size of East Meck High How sad....More >>

A few weeks ago, parents and the community spoke out and criticized Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Superintendent Peter Gorman and school board members about brutal budget cuts. We applaud them for letting their voices be heard, but at the same time we wonder: "Was it a day late and a dollar short?"More >>

A few weeks ago we aired an editorial on Healthcare Reform and, boy, did it get a lot of response from our viewers.More >>

 

In 2007, 375-million dollars was raised for "EDUCATION" from the lottery. But it had to be used for classroom reduction, school construction and scholarships. Maybe it's time to reallocate how the "EDUCATION" lottery uses its funds. Think about it... if 375-million was divided by 100 counties... that's an extra 3-point-75 million each county school district could use how it sees fit.More >>

We live in a war zone. It's not Iraq. Nor Afghanistan. But a war zone, nonetheless. We report on shootings every day. Usually it's bad guys versus bad guys. But when stray bullets hit innocent people, how can we say our streets are anything but war-like?More >>

If you get sick while in jail, the state is paying lots of money to get you well. The Department of Corrections spending on healthcare was $175 million in 1999. In 2009, it was $55.8 Million.More >>

Sometimes we could all use a reminder. But, come on... how many of us need to be reminded sexual harassment isn't tolerated in the workplace?More >>

Peter Gorman argues that teacher pay Increases should be based on student achievement…not on a teacher getting an advanced degree. arguing that teacher pay Increases should be based on student achievement…not on a teacher getting an advanced degree. Now we do agree that teachers should get extra money if they boost student achievement. But Dr. Gorman – seriously? Making a statement that advanced degrees don't matter?More >>

Ballantyne will not get public housing -- at least not right now. In concept, spreading public housing throughout a community makes good sense. It's only fair. But in this case -- it was never really about housing for the needy.More >>

Wouldn't it be great to have some of YOUR debt erased? Last month, the U. S. National Whitewater Center announced its lender agreed to forgive a huge chunk of its construction debt.More >>

Here we go again. Same problem. Same strategy. Different superintendent. This time around the drama is unfolding in Lincoln County.More >>

Charlotte's proposed streetcar purchase to us, it sounds similar to the sub-prime loan mess which just helped wreck our economy.More >>

At this point, the enormity of the devastation from the earthquakes in Haiti is barely understood. Over 200,000 dead and three million homeless. The need for emergency relief is overwhelming.More >>

How many of us have had one job – the same job – for 35 years? That's where Peter Gilchrist is sitting right now. 35 years as Mecklenburg County District Attorney. He's set to retire at the end of the year.More >>

"Outdated and in need of modernization." That's how Governor Bev Perdue recently described the patch-work system of 163 Alcohol Beverage Control boards operating across the state.More >>

At 21, you are old enough to drink, smoke, and no longer need adult supervision. But, believe it or not - you can be 21 and still be in the ninth grade in CMS.More >>

It's only one word. Only four letters. You wouldn't think something that takes up such little space could cause so much controversy. The term is: "Homo."More >>

"The joy of giving." We hear that phrase often this time of year. Some may say it's a cliché…but we see plenty of evidence that it's alive and well.

 More >>

Construction on the final five mile leg of I-485 is slated to begin in 2015. Six years past due. Only... surprise! Last month Governor Beverly Perdue promised to kick it off in 20-10.More >>

The holiday shopping season is here. The sales will be EVERYwhere and EVERYone will be looking for the best deal. These days, a lot of us do our shopping online. But this season, we encourage you to also consider shopping right in your own community.More >>

Police say call it a blatant fact...If you commit one crime, you are likely to commit another. Repeat offenders are one of the biggest problems in our community --More >>

Tackling racism is the tough assignment of the day in Gaston County public schools.More >>

Tuesday is Election Day. It's a day many of our forefathers fought for and sacrificed everything to achieve. All elections are important...but this one especially so.More >>

At the end of our SpeakOut editorials, we invite you to respond...whether you agree or disagree. Here's a sampling of e-mails we've received on a variety of issues:More >>

"It will happen.  How quickly is up to you." That's the slogan for this year's Susan G. Komen *Charlotte's* Race for the Cure. We like the cause... but we've got to say... we also like this slogan. It's a confident way to talk about finding a cure.More >>

Think democracy doesn't work? People uniting together can make a difference. You can live in a small town with big problems and get results.More >>

Before the summer vacation, Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools laid off 665 teachers. Now that the state budget is finally approved, Superintendent Peter Gorman is re-hiring teachers...but not all of them. CMS can bring back 286 teachers and licensed staff. We want Superintendent Gorman to hire the best...More >>

At this hour do you know where your children are? Do you know what they are doing? Who they are hanging out with? If not...you should. It could mean a matter of life or death.More >>

"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette. When it comes to parceling out road money, the "Good Ole' Boys" in RaleighMore >>

Governor Sanford -- you should resign. We don't support your affair, but that's not the reason we're saying this. In fact, if it was just the affair, our editorial board wouldn't have this stance. You should resign because you are not living up to your own word. Even more importantly, you ignored your duty.More >>

GOVERNOR PERDUE...WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?
WE'VE SAID THIS IN A PREVIOUS EDITORIAL, AND WE WANT TO SAY IT AGAIN.
UNEMPLOYMENT IS AT A RECORD HIGH IN NORTH CAROLINA...
PEOPLE ARE HURTING...
AND YOU WANT TO RAISE TAXES ON MONEY THEY DON'T HAVE?More >>

When a parent is ordered by the court to pay child support and continuously fails to do so, he or she is referred to as a "deadbeat." More >>

You might have heard...things are a little rowdy in Burke County. It all centers around decisions made by school board politicians. Check out the chain of events: In April, the Burke County school board terminates a popular superintendent but gives no reason....the community is outraged. More >>

As a father, I can honestly say that being a parent is the most important job of your life.  From the moment your son or daughter comes into this world, it is your responsibility to care for your child and take an active role in developing the adult they will become.  More >>

In February, N.C. Governor Bev Perdue said, "It's my goal to start I-485 by the end of the year and finish soon after that."  What she neglected to say is that if this is to happen, there will be some strings attached.More >>

The BIG SWITCH to digital television is only days away. On June 12^th,  local broadcast television stations, including WBTV, will stop transmitting analog, over-the-air signals.More >>

 End of Grade testing is this week...school is almost out. What are you going to do with your children? It's important to get your kids involved in something.More >>

"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette. Weeks ago we aired a Speak Out editorial about the United Way. Stop draggingMore >>

President Obama campaigned on "CHANGE" and the majority of American voters embraced the concept.  Make no mistake, change is coming at a lightning-fast pace.  More >>

Street racing isn't just a thrill in the moment -- it's a deadly form of lawbreaking. People die.  Sometimes even those who are innocent, as we recently witnessed. More >>

Is this just another ploy to keep Charlotte smaller than Raleigh or truly an oversight by our newly elected Governor Beverly Perdue? More >>

Pushing, yelling, hitting... Constant  threatening. These are symptoms of abuse. If it's not stopped in its tracks early, it could lead to tragedy.More >>