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WPTF Afternoon News

WPTF Afternoon News

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Remembering Bob Harris: A Tribute with John Roth, Longtime Colorman of Duke Radio Broadcasts \ 6-12-2024

The Duke Blue Devils community mourns the loss of Bob Harris, the iconic voice of the team, who passed away following a valiant three-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Bob leaves behind a rich legacy of legendary play-by-play calls, vividly capturing the triumphant eras of Duke men’s basketball under the stewardship of Coach Mike Krzyzewski. Across his illustrious career, Bob narrated five NCAA National Championships, notably Krzyzewski’s inaugural triumph in 1991. He was courtside for Duke’s 1978 Final Four run under Bill Foster. Moreover, Bob lent his voice to 471 college football games, culminating in Duke's triumphant Pinstripe Bowl victory in 2015. Remarkably, he juggled his broadcasting duties with co-hosting morning radio shows in Durham until 1999, even amid Duke's late basketball tipoffs. Fond memories of Bob Harris were shared by his longtime colleague and colorman on Duke radio broadcasts, John Roth, with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News.

Jun 12, 20249 min

North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall: How to Combat Elder Abuse and Highlight Top Scams \ 6-12-2024

As scams and frauds continue to inflict significant harm on Americans, North Carolina's vigilant fraud watchdogs are stepping up efforts to raise awareness. They're set to spotlight the top scams circulating in the state, unveil a new educational video tailored for older audiences, and introduce a fresh resource aiding individuals in reporting fraud or assisting victims. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall is actively engaged in combating elder abuse, particularly timely as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day approaches on June 15. Secretary of State Marshall joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to shed light on the prevalence of elder abuse and discuss ongoing initiatives to address this pressing issue.

Jun 12, 20246 min

Campbell Law Professor Gregory Wallace Discusses Hunter Biden's Conviction and Its Political Impact \ 6-11-2024

Jurors convicted Hunter Biden on all three felony charges in his federal gun case in Delaware. In a written statement following the verdict, Hunter Biden expressed disappointment with the outcome but conveyed gratitude for the support of his family and friends. His attorney announced they would continue to pursue "all the legal challenges available." First Lady Jill Biden, who attended most of the trial, arrived at the courthouse minutes after the jury delivered its verdict but was not in the courtroom when it was read. Gregory Wallace, a Law Professor at Campbell University, discussed the legal aspects of Hunter Biden’s case and its potential political implications for President Biden, speaking with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News.

Jun 11, 20246 min

N.C. State Baseball Heads to College World Series: Andrew Sanders Discusses the Wolfpack's Journey \ 6-11-2024

The N.C. State baseball team is heading to the College World Series for the fourth time in its history. The Wolfpack secured their spot in Omaha by defeating Georgia 8-5 in the best-of-three Super Regional series at Foley Field in Athens, GA. N.C. State dominated with four home runs in the decisive game. Next, they will face Kentucky on Saturday afternoon. The team is eager to redeem itself after its last appearance in the College World Series, where they were forced to forfeit an elimination game against Vanderbilt due to a COVID-19 outbreak within their clubhouse. N.C. State's play-by-play announcer, Andrew Sanders, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the journey of this resilient Wolfpack team to Omaha.

Jun 11, 20248 min

Wake County's Sports Spotlight: Scott Dupree and Jeff Hamlin Discuss \ 06-10-2024

Wake County has been in the national sports spotlight for the past month. It started with the NCAA Division I women’s national lacrosse championships at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. It continued with the Division II College World Series at the USA Baseball Complex. Soccer fans from around the country gathered for the Soccer Tournament, featuring 48 teams from Raleigh to England. It’s been a busy time for Scott Dupree, Executive Director of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance. Dupree joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how lucrative these events have been for Wake County’s bottom line.

Jun 10, 20247 min

Hurricane Vulnerability in Carolinas: Kimberly Magerl and Jeff Hamlin Discuss \ 6-10-2024

With a hectic hurricane season forecasted for this summer, LawnStarter ranked the most vulnerable counties for hurricanes in 2024. LawnStarter considered hurricane risk assessments and anticipated financial loss from hurricanes according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. They also included the past 10 years of historical storm data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Several North Carolina counties made the list. Kimberly Magerl, an editor at LawnStarter, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss which counties in North and South Carolina are most at risk.

Jun 10, 20246 min

Raleigh Firebirds Soar to Semifinals: Wade Harris and Jeff Hamlin Discuss \ 6-10-2024

The Raleigh Firebirds of The Basketball League are one step closer to becoming the first team from North Carolina to win a professional basketball championship. The Firebirds clinched the Eastern Conference championship by winning a best-of-three series against the Albany Patroons, securing both victories on the road, including the decisive game three at Knickerbocker Arena. On Thursday, the Firebirds will begin another best-of-three series against the St. Louis Griffins in the Basketball League semifinals, hosting game two at St. Augustine’s University. Wade Harris, co-owner of the Firebirds, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the upcoming series with the St. Louis Griffins.

Jun 10, 20246 min

Raleigh Firebirds Co-Owner Wade Harris Discusses Eastern Conference Finals and Season Highlights \ 6-6-2024

The Raleigh Firebirds of the Basketball League are in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Firebirds will face the Albany Patroons in the finals. Raleigh is one of 52 teams in the Basketball League, an organization that spans from New York to San Diego, California. Raleigh will face an Albany team that reached the Basketball League Finals last season. The co-owner of the Firebirds, Wade Harris, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the team and its season thus far.

Jun 6, 20246 min

Brittany Joachim Discusses 'A Place at the Polls' Exhibit \ 6-6-2024

A new exhibit at the Mountain Gateway Museum, "A Place at the Polls," examines the history of voting rights in the United States and how it played out in Western North Carolina. The exhibit runs through February 2025. From the start of the nation, the question of who deserves the right to vote has been an ongoing debate. For generations, states primarily made those decisions, but wars, protests, and social changes caused the federal government to step in and create Constitutional Amendments to safeguard people’s access to their voting rights. Brittany Joachim, a spokesperson for Mountain Gateway Museum, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the exhibit.

Jun 6, 20245 min

Ellen Essick, Section Chief with the Department of Public Instruction, Discusses Post-Pandemic Student Progress \ 6-6-2024

How are North Carolina’s children responding after the pandemic? A member of the Department of Public Instruction says, overall, teens are progressing well. But things could be better. More North Carolina students are eating breakfast, exercising regularly, and feeling better emotionally. However, students aren’t doing as well as they were ten years ago. Ellen Essick, a section chief with the Department of Public Instruction, made a presentation to the State Board of Education. She joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the progress that students have made.

Jun 6, 20245 min

Motor Vehicles May Return to Raleigh Christmas Parade: Jennifer Martin Discusses New Recommendations \ 6-6-2024

Motor vehicles may be reintroduced to the Raleigh Christmas Parade this December, following new recommendations from city staff. This change comes after a year-long ban on vehicles, implemented after the tragic death of 11-year-old Hailey Brooks, who was struck by a truck while dancing in the 2022 parade. Consequently, motor vehicles were also prohibited in the 2023 Christmas Parade and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade last spring. Jennifer Martin, Executive Director of Shop Local Raleigh, has been a strong advocate for allowing vehicles back into the parade. She expressed her encouragement regarding the latest recommendations during an interview with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News.

Jun 6, 20245 min

Professor Stephen Porter Discusses Poe Hall Toxin Investigation Ruling \ 6-5-2024

North Carolina’s second-highest court has ruled that N.C. State University must allow independent investigators to test Poe Hall. The university closed the building last fall after a group of faculty battling cancer requested testing for toxins. The tests revealed high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are now known carcinogens but are still found in many buildings constructed in the early to mid-1900s. Stephen Porter, a professor who worked in Poe Hall for years, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the latest developments.

Jun 5, 20248 min

Michelle Lanier, Executive Director of NC African-American Heritage Commission, Discusses a Historic $2.5M Donation \ 6-5-2024

A $2.5 million donation announced Thursday will help build a fuller picture of North Carolina’s relationship with tobacco, illuminating narratives of enslaved people and Native Americans that might otherwise be lost to history. This substantial contribution, the largest single-donor gift to a historic site in state history, comes from the Duke family's foundation, which has long been integral to the region's history. The Duke Homestead State Historic Site and Tobacco Museum in northern Durham is the recipient of the donation. Michelle Lanier, the Executive Director of North Carolina’s African-American Heritage Commission, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the donation.

Jun 5, 20246 min

Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao Discusses India's Election Results \ 6-5-2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared victory for his alliance in India’s general election, claiming a mandate to advance his agenda, despite his party losing seats to a stronger-than-expected opposition that challenged his mixed economic record and polarizing politics. Official results from India’s Election Commission on Wednesday showed the NDA won 294 seats, more than the 272 needed to secure a majority but far fewer than expected. Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the results.

Jun 5, 20246 min

Former Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison Discusses Rising Police Chases in Central NC \ 6-5-2024

There have been over 40 police chases in central North Carolina so far in 2024, and they’re becoming increasingly deadly. In June alone, there have been five chases. On June 3, two people were taken into custody after leading state troopers on a chase through Johnston County. That same day, two people were hospitalized following a chase that ended with two cars crashing in Person County. Authorities have specific protocols for initiating police chases, but the frequency of these incidents is rising. Former Wake County Sheriff Donnie Harrison joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the directives he gave his deputies during his long tenure.

Jun 5, 20247 min

Nurses Against Drunk Driving: Mary Rizkalla & Joey Guzman on Honoring Susie Campbell and Fighting for Stricter Penalties \ 6-4-2024

A newly formed advocacy group is demanding stricter penalties following a tragic Memorial Day accident that claimed the lives of a family in Garner. Susie Campbell, her husband Tyler, and their 8-year-old son Miles were killed when an impaired driver allegedly ran a red light and collided with their car. Susie Campbell had just begun her nursing career in the neuroscience unit at UNC Health. Her colleagues, Mary Rizkalla and Joey Guzman, have organized a group called Nurses Against Drunk Driving. Rizkalla and Guzman recently spoke with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News about their experiences working with Campbell and their efforts to combat impaired driving.

Jun 4, 20248 min

Dr. Este Geraghty, Esri's Chief Medical Officer on Raleigh's Record-Breaking Heat \ 6-4-2024

Raleigh recently experienced its warmest spring on record, with an average temperature of 75.8 degrees from March 1 through May 31. This broke the previous record of 75.2 degrees set in 2012. The third warmest spring was in 2022, with an average of 74.8 degrees. Notably, half of the top 10 warmest springs have occurred since 2007. This trend has led Esri, a company specializing in geographic information systems used by the White House and cities across the U.S., including Raleigh, to predict a hotter-than-expected summer. Dr. Este Geraghty, Chief Medical Officer for Esri, discussed the upcoming summer with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News

Jun 4, 20247 min

Boosting Tax Efficiency: Niko Spyridonos on North Carolina's Automated Tax Solutions \ 6-4-2024

North Carolina is among the top ten states utilizing automated systems to improve efficiency and accuracy in tax escrow payments. A recent national survey of government tax collectors revealed that 41% of respondents face major challenges such as insufficient resources and staff, data management issues, and IT problems during payment processing. Additionally, 28% cited delinquent payments as a primary challenge. Niko Spyridonos, CEO of Autoagent Data Solutions, discussed these issues and the progress of North Carolina tax collectors with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News.

Jun 4, 20246 min

Inside the 2nd Annual Soccer Tournament: Jon Mugar Discusses Event Highlights \ 6-03-2024

The anticipation builds as the Soccer Tournament makes its triumphant return to WakeMed Soccer Park for its second annual event, promising twice the excitement with two tournaments lined up. With 48 men's teams, including defending champions Newtown United, and the introduction of a thrilling women's tournament boasting eight competitive teams, the stage is set for intense soccer action. Featuring soccer legend Heather O'Reilly, who brings her championship experience and skill to the field, the tournament offers a staggering $1 million prize to the victors of each event. In an exclusive interview, Jon Mugar, co-founder of the Soccer Tournament, discusses the highlights and expectations for this year's event, showcasing the growth and global appeal of the sport. Get ready to witness thrilling matches, unexpected twists, and the exhilarating atmosphere as soccer enthusiasts from around the world converge for this unforgettable sporting spectacle.

Jun 3, 20246 min

Closer Look at Raleigh-Durham International Airport's Record Growth with Stephanie Hawco \ 6-03-2024

Explore the phenomenal growth of Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) with Stephanie Hawco, its spokesperson. Jeff Hamlin delves into the factors driving RDU's record-breaking expansion, from surging passenger traffic to the addition of new airlines and international routes. Gain insights into how RDU is shaping the future of air travel and becoming a pivotal player in the aviation industry.

Jun 3, 20245 min

Trump's 2024 Run: Analyzing the Impact of His Felony Conviction with Chris Cooper \ 6-03-2024

In an unprecedented turn of events, Donald Trump is set to become the first major presidential nominee to run for office as a convicted felon. Trump has been found guilty on 34 felony charges of falsifying business records in his New York hush money criminal trial. Polls are already showing that the verdict is influencing Trump's presidential rematch with Joe Biden. Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper joins Jeff Hamlin to discuss whether this guilty verdict will derail Trump's chances of returning to the White House.

Jun 3, 20247 min

Understanding the Mental Toll in Sports: Dr. Michelle Joshua & Dr. Jason Bocarro with Jeff Hamlin \ 6-03-2024

The sports world is mourning the loss of professional golfer Grayson Murray, who tragically took his own life during a PGA Tour event on Memorial Day weekend. Murray, a Raleigh-native, had been open about his battles with mental health issues and alcohol abuse. In this episode, Jeff Hamlin is joined by Dr. Michelle Joshua, a licensed psychologist with Work it Out Sports Psychology in Raleigh, and Dr. Jason Bocarro, an NC State psychologist specializing in mental health in athletes. Together, they discuss the immense mental toll that high-level sports can take on athletes and the importance of mental health support in the sports community.

Jun 3, 20247 min

Mac McCorkle Duke University Political Science Professor \ 5-30-2024

Donald Trump has become the first president in American history to become a convicted felon. On Thursday afternoon, Trump was found guilty of 34 counts by a New York jury. Sentencing is scheduled for July 11. The judgment caps a trial centered on lurid claims of sex and financial coverups and exposes Trump to prison time. The verdict represents a stunning courtroom reckoning for Trump, who was indicted in three other felony cases but wasn’t convicted until now. Duke University Political Science Professor Mac McCorkle, who has worked for state and federal political candidates for decades, joined Gayle Hurd, Jeff Hamlin and Josh Ellis on WPTF to discuss the fallout of this landmark ruling.

May 30, 202410 min

Securing Identity: A Conversation with NC DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin \ 5-30-202

Join Jeff Hamlin as he sits down with DMV Commissioner Wayne Goodwin to discuss the necessity of North Carolina's new driver's licenses and identification cards featuring advanced security measures. Learn how these upgrades are enhancing identity protection and setting global standards in card security.

May 30, 20245 min

Dr. Sonja Salmon's Breakthrough Research on Textile Recycling: A Solution to Post-Consumer Waste \ 5-30-2024

Findings from a recent research study at NC State University are helping to decrease the 11 million tons of post-consumer textile waste being dumped into U.S. landfills every year. Associate Professor of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science at NC State, Dr. Sonja Salmon, led the research effort, which made major progress on the “separation of materials” front by using enzymes to unravel textiles into their component parts so they can then be “put into the correct recycling bin.” Dr. Salmon joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the department’s efforts.

May 30, 20246 min

Jeff Brooks Discusses Duke Energy's Enhanced Response to Weather Emergencies \ 5-30-2024

Hurricane season starts on June 1. Duke Energy workers are ready to respond when bad weather breaks. Duke Energy has a new nerve center for its power-outage response. The new distribution control center in Wake County is where repair crews get their assignments. Duke Energy spokesperson Jeff Brooks talked with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the new features of the headquarters.

May 30, 20245 min

Understanding the Impact of Oceanic Dynamics on Hurricane Season Predictions: A Conversation with Dr. Rick Ludich \ 05-29-2024

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane season. They’re predicting 17-to-25 named storms, meaning those with sustained wins of 39 miles-per-hour or higher. According to NOAA data from 1991 to 2020, an average season has 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. Doctor Rick Luettich is a coastal physical oceanographer whose research deals with modeling and measurement of circulation and transport in coastal waters. Luettich joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the storm forecast.

May 29, 20248 min

Unveiling Baseball's Hidden Figures: A Conversation with Skip Foreman \ 05-29-2024

Baseball players and fans alike are learning more about the Negro Leagues after the statistics for more than 2,300 players — historic figures like Josh Gibson, Oscar Charleston, Satchel Paige and Mule Suttles — were incorporated into the major league record book following a three-year research project. A 17-person committee chaired by John Thorn, Major League Baseball’s official historian, met six times as part of the meticulous process of examining statistics from seven Negro Leagues from 1920-1948. Skip Foreman is the Sports Editor for Lee Enterprises and a baseball historian. Skip joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the importance of the change.

May 29, 20246 min

Remembering Bill Walton: Tim Peeler Reflects on NC State's Epic Battle \ 05-29-2024

Join Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News as Tim Peeler, an authority on NC State Athletics, delves into the captivating tale of the 1974 NCAA championship showdown between NC State and UCLA. As they reminisce about basketball icon Bill Walton's impact on and off the court, Peeler shares insights into the legendary game that left a lasting mark on college basketball history. From the buildup to the heart-pounding moments on the court, discover the untold stories behind one of the most memorable matchups in NCAA tournament history.

May 29, 20247 min

Understanding the Trump Hush Money Trial: Expert Commentary with Thane Rosenbaum \ 05-28-2024

Closing arguments began Tuesday in former president Donald Trump's hush money trial. The former president is accused of falsifying business records to hide reimbursement for a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels after an alleged sexual encounter...and of allegedly participating in a scheme to suppress negative stories ahead of the 2016 presidential election. Thane Rosenbaum is a legal analyst for CBS News. He joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the latest developments.

May 28, 20247 min

Andy Taylor N.C. State Political Science Professor 5-28-2024

The North Carolina Republican Convention hosted Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy in Greensboro. On Saturday, Ramaswamy took the stage to chants of "V.P." from the crowd. He introduced Robinson, the Republican nominee for governor in North Carolina. Robinson said he and Ramaswamy are proof of a more inclusive Republican party. N.C. State political science professor Andy Taylor joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the GOP convention over the holiday weekend.

May 28, 20247 min

Driving Efficiency: Innovations at the NC DMV with Commissioner Wayne Goodwin \ 05-24-2024

Wayne Goodwin, the Commissioner of the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), joined Anthony DeHart and Steve Rao on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the recent technological advancements and initiatives aimed at improving customer experience and efficiency at the DMV. They also talked about the challenges faced by the DMV, recent computer outages, the implementation of DMV kiosks in partnership with Harris Teeter, the impact of AI and data on enhancing services, and strategies to reduce wait times. Commissioner Goodwin shares his wealth of experience, having previously served as the Insurance Commissioner and in the state legislature, highlighting the importance of customer service and problem-solving in government roles.

May 24, 202411 min

Memorial Day Insights: North Carolinians' Plans and Reflections with Martin Kiefer \ 05-24-2024

Memorial Day is coming up and we wanted to know the significance of this federal holiday and how Americans observe it. Martin Kiefer is the Director of the Survey Research Center at High Point University, he joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss about recent research on North Carolinians' summer travel plans and Memorial Day activities. Discover how inflation and gas prices impact travel decisions, the role of Memorial Day in honoring fallen soldiers, and the generational awareness of the holiday's importance.

May 24, 20246 min

Navigating the Roads Ahead: Insights from Mike Fox & Steve Rao on NC's Transportation Landscape \ 05-24-2024

Morrisville Town Councilman and political commentator Steve Rao, and Mike Fox, the Chairman of the North Carolina Department of Transportation joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the future of transportation, the impact of technology like AI and drones, and innovative funding strategies to address the challenges posed by the evolving transportation landscape. We also discuss the recent governor's billboard veto, safety measures for highway work zones, and the efforts to educate the public on road safety. They also delved into the strategic planning and leadership shaping North Carolina's transportation infrastructure.

May 24, 20247 min

Steve Rao and Shaluka Perrera 5-23-2024

Morrisville has become a burgeoning hub for cricket enthusiasts, attracting attention from around the world. From grassroots initiatives to international training camps, the town's passion for the sport has propelled it onto the global stage. Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao and Jon Champion are joined by Shaluka Perrera to discuss the exciting transformation of cricket in Morrisville,

May 23, 20243 min

Nicolette Nye of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission 5-23-2024

The danger of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning grows with the use of portable generators in summer storm and hurricane season. Nicolette Nye of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission joined Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss why the danger grows in during summer.

May 23, 20243 min

Triangle AI Summit Virtual Fireside Chat with Steve Rao and John Chambers | 05-15-2024

Steve Rao sat down with John Chambers at the Triangle AI Summit in Durham, NC, on May 15th, 2024. Esteemed guests such as Jim Weaver, Allen Thomas, and Elaine F. Marshall joined the event, which was broadcasted by WPTF. In this fireside chat with the former executive chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, you'll hear discussions on the impacts of AI, along with a Q&A session with event attendees.

May 22, 202451 min

Irene Loewenson of Marine Times 5-21-2024

Irene Loewenson is an award-winning reporter for Marine Corps Times, the only independent news outlet dedicated solely to covering the U.S. Marines. Since joining the publication in 2022, she has reported on a wide range of topics, including the modernization of the Marine Corps, operations in the Middle East, homicide cases, and the conditions of the barracks. One of her notable articles is titled "How the Marine Corps’ barracks got to be so bad, according to 2 generals." She also discussed this article on the WPTF Afternoon News with Jon Champion.

May 21, 20245 min

Rockie Lynne Country Music Artist 5-21-2024

Rockie Lynne is a country Music artist and has made a new documentary "Where I Belong," about his incredible journey from being abandoned as a child to discovering his roots and making peace with his past. As a co-founder of Tribute to the Troops, Rocky also highlights the impactful work his charity does to support America's fallen soldiers and their families. Over the past 21 years, the organization has raised over a million dollars to support Gold Star families, sending 123 children to college. Rockie opens up about his childhood at the Barium Springs Home for Children, his early inspiration to pursue music, and his service in the Army. He shares the poignant story of finding his biological father through a DNA test and discovering their shared passions for music, motorcycles, and military service. Rocky Joined Jon Champion to discusses his new documentary "Where I Belong," now airing on Amazon Prime, and its companion album "Love," both of which explore his personal story of rediscovery and connection.

May 21, 20247 min

Allen Thomas Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration pt.2

Anthony DeHart sat down with Allen Thomas, Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration, on WPTF's Afternoon News. They discuss resources for small businesses in North Carolina, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and advice for those starting or growing their businesses. Tune in for insights on navigating the small business landscape in our state.

May 17, 20247 min

Allen Thomas Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration pt.1

Anthony DeHart sat down with Allen Thomas, Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration, on WPTF's Afternoon News. They discuss resources for small businesses in North Carolina, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and advice for those starting or growing their businesses. Tune in for insights on navigating the small business landscape in our state.

May 17, 20247 min

Staff Sergeant Brett Meil Marine Corps instructor 5-17-2024

May is Military Appreciation Month and May 18th is National Armed Forces Day. In the spirit of celebrating our armed forces, we sit down with Staff Sergeant Brett David Meil, a Marine Corps instructor with a remarkable story of courage and sacrifice. Born in Amarillo, Texas, and a graduate of Kerrville Tivy High School, Meil's journey into the Marines began in December 2016. After enlisting, he underwent rigorous training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, CA, before joining the School of Infantry. Today, he serves as an instructor for 7-24 at School of Infantry West, Camp Pendleton, CA. But it was during a routine training exercise in June 2023 that Meil's heroism truly shone. When one of his students accidentally activated a live grenade, Meil's quick thinking and bravery saved lives. Despite the imminent danger, he acted swiftly, pulling the student to safety and shielding him from the blast, risking his own life in the process. Join host Anthony DeHart as he sits down with SSgt Brett Meil to delve into the harrowing moments of that day and explore the deep-rooted values of service and sacrifice that drive him. Tune in as we uncover the inspiring story behind why Meil was willing to risk it all for his students.

May 17, 20245 min

Matt Lee and Richard Reno from Wolfe & Porter 5-16-2024

Wolfe & Porter is a new craft cocktail bar in downtown Raleigh. The bar is hosting a grand opening, Tiki Fest, this Saturday, May 18th. Co-owner Matt Lee and bar manager Richard Reno joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to talk about their vision for Wolfe & Porter and about the Grand Opening festivities planned for Saturday.

May 16, 20246 min

Christina Roman-Consumer Education & Advocacy Manager for Experian 5-16-2024

Christina Roman is Experian’s Consumer Education and Advocacy Manager. She is passionate about financial literacy and is responsible for Experian’s Education Ambassador Program – an employee advocacy program that provides credit education to Experian employees with the goal of empowering them to teach credit fundamentals in their local communities. Christina serves as an expert spokesperson on consumer issues, including credit reporting, credit scoring, saving and other personal finance topics. Christina joined John Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss how personal finance knowledge gaps are leading to costly financial mistakes.

May 16, 20244 min

Jason Armstrong Apex Police Chief 5-16-2024

The Police Chief of Apex will step down in October. Jason Armstrong has been the leader of the police department since 2021. A 23-year veteran of law enforcement, Armstrong graduated from North Carolina Central. He started his career in Forest Park, Georgia. The town will start the recruitment process to select Armstrong’s replacement soon. Armstrong joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss why he’s retiring now.

May 16, 20247 min

Representative David Willis 5-15-2024

The N.C. State football team was supposed to face Appalachian State next year. Now, that two-game series isn’t happening. Instead, the Wolfpack will face longtime ACC rival Virginia in two non-conference games, starting in 2025. Representative David Willis is among the lawmakers in the General Assembly that would compel North Carolina and N.C. State to routinely face Appalachian State, East Carolina, the Charlotte 49ers in football and basketball. The bill dictates that every six academic years, a high-enrollment institution must play at least one home and one away game against each eligible constituent institution that is not a high-enrollment institution. Representative Willis joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the proposal.

May 15, 20246 min

Chris Tuttell Region Three Director for the North Carolina School Library Media Association 5-15-2024

Franklin County Schools is moving forward with its plan to get rid of librarians. On Monday night, many librarians showed up to the Franklin County School Board meeting, some from outside the county, hopeful they could keep librarians in school libraries. During budget talks last month, Superintendent Dr. Rhonda Schuler wrote in a statement "After careful consideration, I am transferring our media coordinators into classroom vacancies next year." She cited a loss of COVID-19 related funding. Chris Tuttell is the and presented nearly 800 signed petitions all in support of librarians keeping their original jobs. Chris spoke with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News

May 15, 20246 min

Jim Carl Senior Director of Film at Durham's Carolina Theater 5-14-2024

He was known as "The King of the Cult Movies." Roger Corman died last week at the age of 98. Corman gave a start to many young directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Ron Howard, Martin Scorsese and Jonathan Demme. Among the actors who appeared in his early films were Jack Nicholson, Peter Fonda, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Dern, Diane Ladd and William Shatner. He also founded New World Pictures and continued to produce films for the SyFy Channel. As many remember his life and legacy. Jim Carl, Senior Director of Film at Durham's Carolina Theater, joined Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to talk about the incredible legacy of Roger Corman.

May 14, 20246 min

Patricia Greenberg Author New book "It's Ok To Be Old" 5-14-2024

Growing old is inevitable, and the best way to survive and endure this journey is to live life to the fullest as we move on in years. Meet Patricia Greenberg, aka The Fitness Gourmet, who has spent the last 20 years researching how and why we age. After countless interviews and following people as they matured into their 40s, 50s, and 60s, she determined that embracing your age, and reveling in the aging process is the best path to successful aging. Following the simple concepts outlined in her new book Its OK to be OLD. Greenberg empowers people to embrace the aging process fearlessly and peacefully. With her comprehensive approach to being well at any age, she shares some of her top tips and tells us it’s never too late to start.

May 14, 20247 min

Sean Fallon Co-Owner of Lynch Creek Preserve 5-14-2024

Sean Fallon is the Co-Owner of the Preserve at Lynch Creek LLC & Co-Founder of Freedom Ranch Animal Sanctuary. He is an Eagle Scout with many years working on the Appalachian Trail, conservancy and sustainability efforts. Sean is incredibly passionate about sustainability and has dedicated over 30 years to his environmental sustainability career. His dedication, hard work nd know-how are the backbone of everything they do. Whether on the tractor, fixing fences, making new trails or doing any sort of handy work around the entire property, Sean is constantly “working” but we’ll call it NOT work because he truly enjoys every moment of what they do. The Preserve is hosting its annual fundraiser Festival (The Lynch Creek Festival) Saturday May 18th from 11am to 5pm.

May 14, 20245 min