WPTF Afternoon News

Much-needed rain across central North Carolina brought needed relief for some farmers across Wake County. While the rainfall provided relief, agricultural experts say drought-related challenges remain. Matt Poore, N.C. State Extension Livestock Commodity Coordinator, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest on the drought.

A former federal prison in eastern North Carolina appears poised to become the state's first dedicated federal immigration detention center, according to a report from the New York Times. The newspaper reported ICE plans to open a detention center this fall at the former Rivers Correctional Institution in Winton. Andreina Malki, from Seimbra NC, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments.

Wake County remains under severe drought conditions, while Durham and Orange counties remain in extreme drought, creating challenges for farmers and home gardeners despite recent rainfall. Phil Campbell, the owner of Campbell Road Nursey in Raleigh, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how she is getting through the drought.

The Carolina Children's Theatre/ Youth Arts Academy is bringing Broadway to Fuquay-Varina, and educating young people on the importance of the arts , in their upcoming production of Disney's Newsies, Jr. July 17 an 18 at the Fuquay Varina Arts Center! The Newsies , Jr. is a version of the 2012 Broadway musical, based on the 1992 film. It's Inspired by the rousing true story of newsboys in turn-of-the-century New York City, who strike against the powerful newspaper publishers.Gayle Hurd talks about the show and the academy with CCT's director Christina Cass Catton.

Summer spending can sneak up on anyone. Consumer Expert and Lifestyle Correspondent Trae Bodge joins Jon Champion to discuss new AARP research on the financial pressures facing families and shares practical ways to save on everyday expenses, travel, and trips to the gas pump.

After 22 years as the sideline reporter for UNC Radio football broadcasts, Lee Pace is hanging up his microphone. Pace has written about Tar Heel football for 36 years, during the early days of Mack Brown. Pace joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why he decided to end his run and memorable moments from a lifetime on the UNC sideline

Brad Alford has been named the new Executive Director of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. Alford will become eighth leader of the NCHSAA, replacing Que Tucker, who will retire in October. Starting as an intern in 2010, Alford has been with the association for 15 years. Alford joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss his new role.

Recent rainfall is providing much-needed relief for local farmers after months of severe drought conditions, but growers and water officials alike say more consistent precipitation is needed in the weeks ahead. Ed Buchan, assistant director of Raleigh Water, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how much the recent rain has helped farmers

Bands of heavy rain crossed into central North Carolina on Thursday. It led to flash flood warnings, a closure on I-40 westbound in Orange County and numerous crashes. Nick Petro of the National Weather Service in Raleigh joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how much rain came down across the area.

North Carolina’s U.S. Senate race was expected to shatter records. So far, the money—and the intrigue—have gone elsewhere. In the first half of 2026, Whatley raised $5.8 million to Cooper’s $16.1 million. Bryan Anderson, a political reporter for the Assembly, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest in the Senate race.

As Raleigh Little Theatre prepares to open its 2026-27 season, “Clue (High School Edition)” is set to take center stage with a blend of suspense and laughter. Kicking off this landmark 90th year, this production promises to bring the iconic board game and cult classic film to life with a fresh, youthful twist. Michele Weathers, Raleigh Little Theatre’s Producing Artistic Director, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the upcoming season.

For households facing food insecurity, summer break can bring added stress as parents and caregivers work to replace the meals children normally receive at school. With many schools still closed, families are trying to provide at least 10 additional meals each week for every child in their household. Amy Beros, with the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how they’re trying to help.

Record-breaking summer heat is impacting more than people's comfort. It's also taking a toll on North Carolina's roads. As temperatures climb, asphalt absorbs and retains heat, causing pavement to soften. Kim Deaner, spokesperson for the NCDOT, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how they’re keeping roads safe.

Reactions from major health systems continue for North Carolina’s new tiered system for the State Health Plan. Duke Health was announced in a much more favorable tier than counterpart WakeMed. The system sets four levels at the top are the preferred providers: UNC and Novant Health. Ardis Watkins, Executive Director of the State Employees Association of North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why she supports the change.

A Triangle teenager is preparing to take on one of the world's most challenging endurance swims next month as she attempts to cross the English Channel. Seventeen-year-old Lorelei Schmidt will make her attempt on August 4. Schmidt joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why she wants to go the distance.

Spectrum today announced Kramden Institute has received a $15,000 Spectrum Digital Education grant for their digital literacy programming. The grant is the ninth Spectrum Digital Education grant for Kramden Institute. Lile Stephens from Kramden Institute joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the grant.

There’s a whole lot of daylight between the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate — literally. The House of Representatives voted last week to make daylight saving time permanent, marking the latest congressional foray into the decades-old battle over whether the U.S. should change the clocks twice a year. Dr. Aatif Husain, Duke School of Medicine Chief of Sleep, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how making daylight saving time permanent would impact sleep.

A Fort Bragg soldier and Fayetteville native has been identified as a service member who was killed over the weekend. 30-year-old Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton was killed in action during a controlled detonation of a downed One-Way Unmanned Aerial System on Sunday. Rich Kolko is a retired U.S. Navy Commander and joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments.

Durham leaders are in the midst of a 60-day process to develop the city's violence reduction plan, but one local nonprofit believes prevention can start with something as simple as a new pair of shoes. Sherard Johnson, the Founder of RNS Sports, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss his latest initiative.

Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week kicks off this week. It runs from July 16 through July 26. The 10-day event offers people the opportunity to try new restaurants or new twists on your favorites at a discount or special price. Illeana Rodriguez with the Downtown Raleigh Alliance joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what’s on tap for Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week

The former owner of Raleigh’s oldest restaurant, The Mecca, has died. Paul Dombalis passed away last month at 68. Dombalis worked at the family restaurant for almost 50 years and led the business for 28 years before selling in 2018. Rufus Edmisten, former North Carolina Secretary of State, had his photo on the wall at the Mecca. Rufus joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Paul Dombalis.

The United States has conducted a new round of airstrikes targeting Iran after announcing the death of another American service member. Iran has responded Monday by launching an attack targeting Bahrain, the home of the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet. Asher Hildebrand, Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest in Iran.

The consumer price index fell a seasonally adjusted 0.4% for the month, bringing the annual inflation rate down to 3.5%. Wall Street had expected a 0.2% monthly decline and 3.8% annual level. N.C. State Economics Professor Emeritus Mike Walden joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss this week’s report.

If it seems as though everyone is purchasing school supplies even earlier than usual, it’s not just you — one-third of back-to-school shoppers had started their shopping by early June, the highest since the question was first asked in 2018, according to the annual survey by National Retail Federation. Mark Mathews, National Retail Federation Chief Economist, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest in back-to-school shopping.

Students at N.C. State have been working with Root Causes, a Duke Med-based organization, to develop an app that makes food bank-style deliveries to people who need it in record time. Scott Brummel, a program manager for Root Causes, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the app.

When NASCAR left North Wilkesboro Speedway in 1996, many Wilkes County residents thought it would be a pipe dream before it would return again. This Sunday, North Wilkesboro will host its first NASCAR Cup points race in 30 years when the Window World 450 takes place. Susan Dosier, with Wilkes Tourism, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how the return of NASCAR has revitalized Wilkes County.

Former Governor Roy Cooper continues to raise money in his North Carolina Senate race against Michael Whatley. However, a new poll from Public Policy Polling finds good news for Whatley. Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest results.

The U.S. has reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and intensified its airstrike campaign in retaliation for Tehran’s attacks on ships trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials said the American strikes on Wednesday hit an Iranian army barracks, killed at least seven troops and wounded hundreds of people across the country. Mac McCorkle, from the Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments in Iran.

James Perry has been named the new Executive Director of the Durham Public Schools Foundation. Perry has more than 20 years of experience successfully leading nonprofits, including multiple education programs. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss his new role.

This Saturday, Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh will shift into a living, breathing farm-to-fork discovery zone. It’s an area where kids can learn with hands-on activations and labs throughout the museum’s first floor. Robin Magnum of Marbles Kids Museum joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what’s scheduled.

With just 21% of home purchases last year made by first-time buyers, compared to the historical average of 40%, the personal-finance company WalletHub today released its report on the Best and Worst Cities for First-Time Home Buyers in 2026. Raleigh made the top ten. Chip Lupo of WalletHub joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss their findings.

Senator Lindsey Graham’s sudden death has thrown new attention on a rare but often deadly cardiovascular emergency known as aortic dissection. The cause of death was identified as an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to a statement released by Graham's office on Sunday. Josh McConkey, a former Medical Director for Air Force Pararescue combat search teams, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the condition.

What began as an idea in 2001 to connect the Durham community with its schools has annually fueled a community movement benefiting 100% of Durham Public Schools. “Fill That Bus!” returns on July 13 and runs to August 14. It is operated by Crayons 2 Calculators. Eunice Sanders joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss this year’s campaign.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has appointed Darline Graham, the sister of Lindsey Graham, to finish his stint in the U.S. Senate. A special primary will determine the Republican nominee for the general election. The open Senate seat has ambitious conservatives vying for the position. Chris Cooper, Western Carolina University political science professor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the process for replacing Lindsey Graham .

Stephen Stroud, a key real estate figure who was instrumental in the Carolina Hurricanes moving to Raleigh, has died. Stroud was involved in several key developments across Raleigh and Wake County, including the Crossroads development in Cary. Raleigh News and Observer sportswriter Chip Alexander joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how Stroud help lure the Hartford Whalers to North Carolina.

A sixteen year old now faces charges in connection with one of the shootings tied to the "Teen Takeover" chaos in multiple parts of Raleigh on Independence weekend. Raleigh city council has directed the City Attorney to draft a curfew ordinance that would impact those 17 years and under. Raleigh attorney and former police officer Lee Turner joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how a situation with thousands of teenagers on hand puts police officer in a difficult situation.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reporting over 200 cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that causes gastrointestinal symptoms, as infections continue to rise during the summer months. Dr. David Weber, Infectious disease specialist with UNC Health, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Cyclospora.

The Wake County Animal Center is full, with more animals arriving every day and fewer spaces available for pets in need. Meagan Frost of the Wake County Animal Center joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments.

The World Rugby Nations Cup is coming to Cary next Saturday. Dominic Besag is an American international rugby union player who plays as a center. A Danville, California native, Besag was educated at De La Salle High School and has played rugby from a young age. Besag joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss preparations for the Nations Cup.

CNBC has ranked North Carolina #2 in its Top States for Business rankings. Carolina is home to one of the country's most active university innovation ecosystems. 682 active UNC startups — 537 of which are headquartered in North Carolina — have created more than 131,000 jobs worldwide and over 14,000 jobs in the state in the 2025 fiscal year. Gerald Cohen, a professor at the UNC-Chapel Hill Kenan Flagler Business School, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the rankings.

A new Catawba College-YouGov poll finds that North Carolinians expressed broad concern about political violence, yet most remain confident elections will occur as scheduled and say they would reject candidates who violate principles of democracy and elections. Michael Bitzer, Catawba College Political Science Professor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the survey results.

If you've ever planned a trip to the DMV, you've probably heard the phrase "pack your patience." But the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles says drivers may not need quite as much patience these days, as wait times continue to improve at licensing offices across the state. Marty Homan joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what's behind the shorter waits and the steps the agency is taking to improve customer service.

While summer is in full swing, the new school year is just around the corner. To help teachers prepare their classrooms, a seven-week school supply drive has kicked off in Wake County, collecting essential items for students and educators ahead of the first day of school. Keith Poston, Chair of the WakeEd Partnership, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss this year's school supply drive and how the community can help support local classrooms.Executive Director of WakeEd Partnership

In 2012, Pat McCrory became the first Republican elected governor of North Carolina in 24 years. During his term, the state's political landscape shifted dramatically as Donald Trump rose to national prominence, while McCrory's re-election campaign unfolded in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. Andrew Dunn has chronicled McCrory's tenure and legacy in his new book, The Change Agent. Dunn joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the book and McCrory's place in North Carolina political history.

It’s been one year since Tropical Depression Chantal brought devastating flooding to Orange County. After the storm, FEMA pledged more than $11 million to support recovery efforts across the state, but Orange County officials say those funds have yet to arrive. Kirby Saunders joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the status of recovery efforts and the challenges the county continues to face a year later.

Temperatures surpassed 100-degrees several times in central North Carolina during the holiday weekend. Meanwhile, drought conditions continue as North Carolina will need over a foot of rain to catch up on the deficit. Gary Stephenson, Chief Meteorologist for Spectrum News One, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the record-setting heat that closed June and started July.

The search continues for suspects connected to a violent 4th of July in Raleigh. The Raleigh Police Department says the violence stemmed from a teen takeover that started in Briar Creek, moved to Glenwood South, then to Capital Boulevard. Nine people were shot over the course of six hours starting late Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Gerald Givens, the founder of Raleigh Boots on the Ground, says it’s time for parents to step up. Givens joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss where he stands.

Downtown Raleigh business owners are demanding action following the violence on the 4th of July. Several business owners along Glenwood South say the scene has changed in recent years. Carey Kidd, the owner of Dirty V Restaurant, is among the people who feel frustrated over how gun violence has made its way into the area. Kidd joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the events from the holiday weekend.

Monday marked one year since Tropical Depression Chantal ravaged parts of the Triangle, including multiple neighborhoods in Durham. Holt Athletic Association President Don Daves says the storm left his nonprofit’s recreational sports complex in shambles. Daves joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how he has rebuilt since Chantal.

It's been one year since Tropical Storm Chantal devastated downtown Chapel Hill. Businesses at Eastgate Crossing had to close for months. Some longtime businesses never reopened. Mary Stowe, owner of Yarn, Etc, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the long road to building her business.