Author name: Mary Curtis

James Garner, with his cynical cool and diverse TV family, was ahead of his time

I can’t get enough of “The Rockford Files,” even the episodes I’ve seen over and over. I watched one Sunday night, and mourned the man who embodied the title character. A writer can go to school on the twisty, witty scripts. But the show wouldn’t work without James Garner as Jim Rockford, the put upon

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Is mom breastfeeding infant at concert having it all or going too far, and other parenting questions

It’s about more than one mother of a 4-month-old made to leave a stage-side spot at a California Brad Paisley concert. Was it because she was breastfeeding, as she says, or did police officials give her the option of moving to a seated area or getting a refund and leaving because, as they say, they

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The ‘I have a black friend’ defense – just another bit in Anthony Cumia’s shock jock routine

he dance goes something like this. A Phil Robertson, Jason and David Benham or Anthony Cumia says or tweets something that is controversial, racially charged or just plain rude. His employer (and Dr. Laura and Paula Deen aside, it’s usually a “he”) condemns, and, sometimes, fires him. Fans cry foul and start a petition, boycott

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From voting battles to coal ash spills, what’s up with North Carolina?

Heading into the 21st century, North Carolina was that model Southern state — tradition meets moderation, in everything from its manners to its politics. So what happened? Depending on whom you ask, the state has either lost its way or is finding it. It’s difficult to get anyone to agree about anything these days.

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Awaiting a judge’s ruling on NC’s wide-reaching voting law

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A federal judge is hearing arguments for and against the legality of North Carolina’s voter ID law. Supporters say it will reduce voter fraud. Critics says it disenfranchises minorities. WCCB News Rising Political Contributor Mary C. Curtis has been covering the legal debate.  She weighs in on the arguments.

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Is celebration of ‘Seinfeld’ as cultural touchstone just wishful thinking?

There was a time when — even in America divided — there were certain shared cultural experiences. Everyone knew what guest made which joke or gaffe while sitting on the couch next to Johnny Carson. Most could easily keep track of which Huxtable/Cosby kid was in the good graces or the dog house with papa

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