People & Places EXTRA

John Moore talks time with WNCT, 70th anniversary

WNCT-TV — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 18:48:13 -0500

We continue to celebrate WNCT-TV's 70th anniversary by catching up with some former Channel 9 personalities. Host Ken Watlington sits down with current Farmville mayor and former "Carolina Today" host John Moore to talk about his days working with the legendary Slim Short and so much more.

Allan Hoffman and WNCT's 70th anniversary

WNCT-TV — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:01:56 -0500

We've been spotlighting personalities that have helped make WNCT such a special place over the past 70 years. During December, WNCT has been celebrating and gearing up for its 70th anniversary. On December 22, 1953, WNCT-TV began broadcasting its TV signal. In this podcast, we talk with anchor Alan Hoffman, who served 27 years at Channel 9.

Phillip Williams reflects on time at WNCT, 70th anniversary

WNCT-TV — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 17:21:33 -0500

As part of WNCT-TV’s upcoming 70th anniversary, host Ken Watlington is catching up with some former WNCT personalities and fan favorites. The celebration continues as Ken sits down with former Channel 9 meteorologist Phillip Williams. Phillip and Ken talk about 1999's Hurricane Floyd, what it's like growing up and working in Eastern North Carolina, WNCT's impact on the community and much more.

WNCT's 70th anniversary: Meteorologist Dontae Jones

WNCT-TV — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:17:44 -0500

As part of WNCT-TV's 70th anniversary celebration, host Ken Watlington is catching up with some former WNCT personalities and fan favorites. This episode features meteorologist Dontae Jones who worked at WNCT from 2013-2018. Dontae talks about his memories of the station and eastern North Carolina, he and Ken's shared winter weather experiences in Ohio, and some of the storms that affected ENC during his time at WNCT.

Rachel Harris

WNCT-TV — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 14:48:12 -0400

Host Ken Watlington catches up with Pitt County native Rachel Harris who just finished a solo drive from Mexico to Alaska. The 22-year-old shares some of her travel experiences and how her journey is inspiring others. Plus, Rachel details some of the things that can go wrong when you're out and about in the wilderness and what trip she hopes to make in the future!

Brewery 99 in New Bern

WNCT-TV — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:30:05 -0400

Brewery 99 owner Pete Frey is the first two-time guest on the podcast. Host Ken Watlington catches up with Pete to talk about Brewery 99's new 2,500-square-foot taproom and all the unique things visitors will find if they come for a visit.

Ellen Brabo & The Ell Hotel

WNCT-TV — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 16:37:27 -0400

Host Ken Watlington travels to Washington, NC to sit down with the owner of a century-old home that is now a boutique hotel called The Ell Hotel. After transitioning out of the US Army, Ellen Brabo found herself searching for a career in hospitality. Learn more about that, what her hotel has to offer guests and how she's become invested in the Washington community.

Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, the book

WNCT-TV — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:28:41 -0400

Host Ken Watlington chats with author Bethany Bradsher about her book "The Big Rock: Inside the Stakes Hunt for the Elusive Million-Dollar Marlin." Hear why she decided to write about one of the east coast's biggest fishing tournaments and find out what will be the focus of her next sports-related book.

Alley Cat Records

WNCT-TV — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 12:21:43 -0400

Music fans are once again spinning records in record numbers. Host Ken Watlington visits Alley Cat Records in Greenville to talk about the resurgence of vinyl and much more with store manager Jeff Blinder.

Mutt Strutters

WNCT-TV — Fri, 12 May 2023 16:29:17 -0400

This podcast isn't going to the dogs but it sure is meant to spotlight those who help them. This episode takes us to the dog pound. Host Ken Watlington visits Pitt County Animal Services to learn more about a unique program called "Mutt Strutters" that is not only helping the dogs at the shelters but also a group of volunteers.

Leroy James Farmers’ Market in Greenville

WNCT-TV — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:55:58 -0400

Host Ken Watlington visits the Leroy James Farmers Market in Pitt County. He's chatting with the manager and two vendors about what makes the year-round market a destination in Eastern NC.

Perfect Perks Coffee Hut

WNCT-TV — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 19:09:40 -0400

We're pulling up to a parking lot in Washington to visit the Perfect Perks Coffee Hut, a place putting the "small" in small business. Host Ken Watlington chats with owner Micki Taylor Kinnion and employee Brittany Daniels about the Hut's 8'x8' building and what it's like working in such close proximity. Plus, we dive into the impact the business is making on the community.

LookAtDatDer BBQ House & Catering

WNCT-TV — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:36:41 -0400

This episode visits a hidden gem in Greenville with a one-of-a-kind name, LookAtDatDer BBQ House & Catering. Host Ken Watlington sits down with owner Ivan Hawkins to talk about the origin of the name, his love of cooking good food, why it's important to feed those in his community, and much more!

Ghost Harbor Brewing Company

WNCT-TV — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 00:25:12 -0500

Host Ken Watlington chats with the owners of Ghost Harbor Brewing Company, Thomas and Tabitha Reese. Hear the story behind how they started Elizabeth City's first craft brewery, how the beer scene has grown in the "Harbor of Hospitality," and why they think supporting small businesses can make a difference in the community.

Mackeys Ferry Peanuts

WNCT-TV — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 13:15:54 -0500

The peanut is the star of this episode. Host Ken Watlington catches up with Sharon & Chris Smith, owners of Mackeys Ferry Peanuts in Martin County, for the story behind why they bought the business. Plus, the scoop on the 30-plus varieties of peanuts that has people from all over stopping by.

CD's Grill

WNCT-TV — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 16:25:26 -0500

Host Ken Watlington visits CD's Grill, a popular restaurant in Winterville, to chat with owner Lawrence Manning. From overcoming a fire and surviving the pandemic, Lawrence details what makes his restaurant special, how far away folks are coming for his cheese biscuits, and his plans for the future.

People & Places Extra: Eastern Carolina Village & Farm Museum

WNCT-TV — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 13:56:46 -0400

Host Ken Watlington visits the Eastern Carolina Village & Farm Museum on the outskirts of Greenville. He chats with two board members, Holly Hoag and Sharon Arnold, about how this remarkable living history exhibit got started, some special events planned for the holidays, and how you can get involved and either visit or volunteer.

People & Places Extra: Yordanys "Jay" Bastardo

WNCT-TV — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 18:38:28 -0400

He's the man behind the #PlatformForGood movement across Greenville. Host Ken Watlington chats with restaurant owner Yordanys "Jay" Bastardo about coming to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic and opening two restaurants, the challenges he faced when he took ownership of Greenville breakfast staple Harvey's and how he uses his platform to help those in need across the community.

People & Places Extra: Casita Brewing Company in Wilson

WNCT-TV — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:28:01 -0400

The latest stop on our "Brew To You" tour highlighting eastern North Carolina craft breweries is historic downtown Wilson. Host Ken Watlington chats with husband-and-wife team of Ryan Witter-Merithew and Mahalia Breen, owners of Casita Brewing Company. From ENC to Vermont to Europe and back home, Ryan and Mahalia talk about their journey and how they're now impacting Wilson.

People & Places Extra: Two Rivers Alehouse in Washington

WNCT-TV — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 14:29:51 -0400

The “Brew To You” tour is back, highlighting the impact craft breweries are making across Eastern North Carolina. The latest stop was in historic Washington. Host Ken Watlington chats with Tim Jackson and Belinda Summerlin, owners of Two Rivers Alehouse. Learn more about the brewery's beginnings, something unique they're serving up and the overall excitement about the future of downtown Washington.

People & Places Extra: Shortway Brewing Company in Newport

WNCT-TV — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:03:55 -0400

Host Ken Watlington sits down with Matt and Lindsay Shortway, owners of Shortway Brewing Company in the Carteret County town of Newport. They talk about their roots in the military, why Newport was their choice to live and work, and how they're using the brewery to make a difference in their community.

The Refuge in Greene County

WNCT-TV — Thu, 19 May 2022 16:01:25 -0400

Host Ken Watlington chats with Sammy & Desta Hudson, the folks behind The Refuge in Greene County, a camp aimed at giving children from all walks of life a chance to have fun. The Hudsons are also foster parents and talk about their experiences with Methodist Home For Children in getting assistance in their efforts to foster.

CAFE MADELEINE

WNCT-TV — Fri, 13 May 2022 10:45:14 -0400

When you think of a French bakery, Paris likely comes to mind. Maybe New York City. But probably not tiny Farmville, North Carolina. Host Ken Watlington visits Café Madeleine to chat with owner Coleen Starling about the bakery's roots and impact on Farmville, her love of croissants and much more!

People & Places Extra: NC Baseball Museum in Wilson

WNCT-TV — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 13:05:18 -0400

Take me out to the ball game! Host Ken Watlington visits the North Carolina Baseball Museum in Wilson to chat with museum volunteer Quintin Gilfus. Learn more about what's on display and some of the great history of baseball in the Tar Heel State. Plus, what you can do to help the museum's expansion efforts.

North Carolina Baseball Museum

WNCT-TV — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 01:04:26 -0400

The Alley on Cooper

WNCT-TV — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 15:19:21 -0400

The podcast goes vintage with a trip to an antique store called The Alley On Cooper. Host Ken Watlington chats with the owners, and husband and wife, Jeff & Anita Cox. Learn more about why they decided to open up in Winterville and the uniqueness of their building. Plus, how Anita's upbringing shaped the path she's on today.

Gorhams Cafe

WNCT-TV — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 08:52:13 -0500

From cooking barbecue in the backyard to owning a food truck to opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant, it's been a busy few years for Gorham's Cafe owner Ernest Gorham. Host Ken Watlington chats with Gorham about his success, his inspiration, and his plans for the future.

Carlena Davis

WNCT-TV — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:41:52 -0500

Host Ken Watlington is "Spilling The Sweet Tea" this episode with Kinston native Carlena Davis. With half a million followers on TiKTok, Davis discusses how she uses the platform to share her love of cooking. Plus, she shares the story of how a recent video she made to shine a light on her hometown went viral around the world.

Farmer and the Dail

WNCT-TV — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 09:23:51 -0500

Host Ken Watlington heads to Snow Hill, NC to visit the Farmer and the Dail Southern Bakery and Kitchen for a conversation with owners Zac and Stacy Bailes, a husband and wife team who opened the restaurant in 2017. Learn more about how they got their start, the growing success of the restaurant, their vision for the future and what each thinks of what it's like to own a business with your spouse.

Rehoboth Church Preservation Society

WNCT-TV — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 08:00:15 -0500

Host Ken Watlington sits down for a conversation with Chris Barber, chair of the Rehoboth Church Preservation Society in Roper, NC. Rehoboth Church first opened in 1853 and still holds several services a year. Find out more about the passion Chris has to keep the historic church part of the community and how you can get involved and help

NC Packs 4 Patriots

WNCT-TV — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 16:38:50 -0500

With the holiday season here, host Ken Watlington visits Ayden.-based non-profit N.C Packs 4 Patriots to chat with director Barbara Whitehead as the group gathers and packs care packages to send to active duty service members worldwide. Learn more about how Packs 4 Patriots got started and how you can get involved.

Seven Pines Vineyard & Winery

WNCT-TV — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 14:59:29 -0500

Host Ken Watlington visits the first winery in Pitt County, Seven Pines Vineyard & Winery. Owner Philip Guy talks about how he got into the wine business, how he and his wife do everything by hand and why North Carolina is one of the best places in the world to grow grapes.

Travis Harper and Stanley's Saloon

WNCT-TV — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:24:24 -0400

This episode heads to Kinston, where host Ken Watlington catches up with Travis Harper, owner and bartender at Stanley's Saloon. Travis details his travels to all 50 states and to countries around the world and how he hopes to share stories of his wanderlust with the patrons at Stanley's in a unique way.

Aurora Fossil Museum

WNCT-TV — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 15:23:22 -0400

Host Ken Watlington catches up with the executive director of the Aurora Fossil Museum in Beaufort County, NC. Since the late 1970's the Aurora Fossil Museum has been a destination for people from all over eastern NC and beyond. Learn more about a new campaign they're working on to bring the state fossil to license plates in NC and how you can help sustain the museum for future generations.

Inez Ribustello's "Life After Windows"

WNCT-TV — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:40:46 -0400

Host Ken Watlington chats with ENC business owner and author Inez Ribustello. The Tarboro native worked at Windows On The World in the World Trade Center from 1998-2001. She details her experiences of 9/11 and the aftermath in a new book called "Life After Windows."

ECU Quarterback Holton Ahlers

WNCT-TV — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 11:21:43 -0400

Host Ken Watlington and special guest Brian Bailey from WNCT 9 On Your Side Sports discuss Greenville, NC native, and ECU quarterback Holton Ahlers. After shattering records in Little League Baseball and high school football, Ahlers is now poised to do the same at East Carolina.

Shaw's Barbecue House

WNCT-TV — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 07:51:25 -0400

Eastern North Carolina barbecue is the focus of this week's episode as host Ken Watlington catches up with Gary Manning, the new owner of Shaw's Barbecue House in Wiliamston. Gary explains why he got out of construction to chase a life-long dream of running a restaurant. Plus, how he's mixing barbecue tradition with a contemporary flair, like their popular barbecue egg rolls!

Social House Vodka & Pumphouse 1906

WNCT-TV — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:23:41 -0400

Host Ken Watlington visits Social House Vodka and the new PumpHouse 1906 in Kinston, NC to chat with founder/president Cary Joshi and events manager Dean Daughety. Learn more about Social House's beginnings and the company's growth into North Carolina's top local vodka brand. Plus, the history behind The PumpHouse 1906 and why the facility means so much to Kinston.

La Casetta Restaurant

WNCT-TV — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:02:15 -0400

Host Ken Watlington catches up with Giuseppe & Angela Amato, the owners of La Casetta Italian Restaurant in Bethel, NC. The restaurant opened in the small town of 1,600 people back in 2002 and has garnered a huge following along the way. They talk about why they moved from Sicily to eastern N.C. to open the restaurant and why they think it's become a destination for food lovers in the area. Plus, hear from a few customers on why they love the food and the family atmosphere.

Brew To You: Kinston's Breweries

WNCT-TV — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:25:04 -0400

The "Brew To You" tour wraps up with a stop in Kinston, NC. Host Ken Watlington sits down with Trent Mooring, co-owner of one of North Carolina's most recognizable craft beer brands, Mother Earth Brewing. They talk about the company's expansion to spirits, hard seltzer, and even the hotel business. Plus, how Mother Earth shifted to making hand sanitizer at the start of the COVID pandemic. Ken also heads across town to chat with Big Game Brewing owner/brewer Aaron Avery about "The Beer Barn's" success in ENC.

Brew To You: Fishtowne Brew House

WNCT-TV — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:32:42 -0400

The "Brew To You" tour stops in historic Beaufort, NC, and Fishtowne Brew House. Host Ken Watlington sits down with Fishtowne co-owner Joey McClure and head brewer Schuyler Munden. The pair talk about how their friendship led to opening a craft brewery, how important it is to make a variety of beers so customers can find something they like, what it's like being part of the craft beer boom in eastern North Carolina, and why Schuyler says he's "making beer and spreading cheer."

Brew To You: Brewery 99

WNCT-TV — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:40:48 -0400

The "Brew To You" tour continues with a stop at Brewery 99 in New Bern, NC. Host Ken Watlington catches up with Brewery 99 owner and brewer Pete Frey to talk about the brewery's beginnings, the story behind the name Brewery 99, and expansion plans in the future. Also, Pete talks about what it's like working with a certain employee - his father - who moved to town to help get Brewery 99 up and running.

Brew to You: Winterville Breweries

WNCT-TV — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 08:59:45 -0400

In this episode, Ken explores the growing craft beer scene in Winterville, NC, a suburb of Greenville, with guests Benjamin Self of Local Oak Brewing Company and Chuck Smith of Nauti Dog Brewing Company. The pair talk about how their businesses fared during the pandemic, the excitement of an influx of craft beer lovers to Winterville, and their hopes and dreams for the town's future. Plus, details on how the two breweries located just one block apart are planning something special together for the fall.

Brew to You: The Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery

WNCT-TV — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 11:43:25 -0400

In the inaugural episode, Ken goes in-depth with Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery owner and founder Paul Philippon. They touch on Paul's roots in the craft beer industry, how he ended up starting his business in tiny Farmville, NC, and how he feels about several people who used to work for him branching out and starting their own craft breweries in eastern North Carolina. Plus, Paul talks about his brewery's unique specialty - dark beer.

An Introduction to People & Places EXTRA

WNCT-TV — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 08:55:05 -0400

News Anchor Ken Watlington shares the origins of the People and Places feature and introduces a new podcast where you'll get to know more about characters showcased in the weekly segment on WNCT-TV in Greenville NC. New episodes every Thursday.