The gun control debate is one of the most hotly contested issues facing the United States today. It has become especially volatile in an election year, and news stations around the country are presenting story after story on the issue, striving to provide balanced and fair reporting. It’s not an easy task, made more difficult with each state having different laws.
Gregory Richard Gullberg, reporter and anchor with WCYB in Tennessee, has conducted a series of reports designed to inform and educate the public. The states of Virginia and Tennessee came to an impasse over the subject of recognizing concealed carry permits once a citizen crosses the state line. This meant the citizens of Tennessee who have are legally allowed to carry their weapons would not be allowed to legally carry their guns over the state line to Virginia. To complicate matters, the city of Bristol straddles both the Tennessee and Virginia borders. Literally one street divides the two states, and its citizens were particularly concerned. What would this ruling mean for their day to day lives?
Greg Gullberg’s initial report was designed to spark the conversation. His follow up report highlighted the opinions of the attorney generals. Both sides expressed their opinion, and Greg presented them in an unbiased manner. Greg rounded out the piece with viewer comments and a comprehensive list of Virginia’s rules that disqualify someone for gun ownership. The report came at a time when citizens were confused and angry, and both sides were adamant on their opinions. This demonstrates the power of news, and the difficulty of reporting. A city such as Bristol, whose laws span not one but two states, is at the crux of the gun debate. The reporters must remain neutral and present facts, aware that their audience falls on both sides of the topic.
From a young age, Greg Gullberg knew he wanted to be part of this challenging profession. He watched the news nightly, and quickly learned the importance of an unbiased story. He obtained his degree from the University of Oklahoma in Broadcast Journalism, and went on to intern at the world famous CNN studio. He was quickly offered the position of reporter and anchor at WCYB, where he continues to report on interesting, unique and hard-hitting stories. His goal is to inform the public, and start the conversation. This is what brings about change and reform.
