WPTF Afternoon News

A movement for joy, unity, and a stronger future—led by the people, for the people. Kristin Hiemstra, a Chapel Hill resident, is leading a new group called We the People Rise. Their goal is to build a nation where every citizen can thrive. Kristin, who has worked as a high school counselor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why she started We the People Rise.

It’s officially North Carolina College Application Week. It’s a critical moment for students across the state to take the next step toward higher education. As proclaimed by Governor Josh Stein, this week is part of the statewide Countdown to College initiative. designed to break down barriers to college access. Sarita Broadway, CFNC Associate Outreach Director for North Central North Carolina, joined Bruce Ferrell to discuss their efforts.

In a win for their party, North Carolina Republican lawmakers formally passed a redrawn Congressional map meant to give them an extra seat in Washington, D.C., something they say is heeding the call from President Donald Trump. Governor Josh Stein posted a video on X saying the legislature failed North Carolinians. He went on to say Republicans haven’t even passed a budget yet and should focus on other priorities like that. The Governor does not have the authority to veto the new map. Anderson Clayton, the chairperson of the North Carolina Democratic Party, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the redistricting.

North Carolina lawmakers have given final approval to a new U.S. House map backed by President Donald Trump. The map adopted Wednesday could help Republicans win an additional seat by reshaping a swing district currently held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Don Davis. The previous map already helped the GOP win 10 of the 14 House districts in North Carolina, which Trump won with 51% of the vote last year. Jason Simmons, the Chair of the North Carolina Republican Party, joined Bruce Ferrell to discuss the changes.

North Carolina lawmakers gave final approval to a new congressional map, a victory for Republicans in the state legislature and beyond who have sought to increase the GOP’s advantage in races for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026. The North Carolina House of Representatives approved the map in a party-line vote Wednesday, following on the heels of another party-line vote in the state Senate Tuesday. Western Carolina political science professor Chris Cooper joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the ramifications of the move in the General Assembly.

On Tuesday, the Raleigh City Council gave approval to an updated noise ordinance. The vote comes as residents in Glenwood South and other neighborhoods have voiced their frustrations with the noise from bars and restaurants. Council member Megan Patton says there should be monitoring on how the ordinance is being implemented. Larry Miller, the President of the Glenwood South Neighborhood Collaborative, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the new ordinance.

Some local alumni of the historic Ligon High School who lived through segregation are making their voices heard to make sure their beloved school, now Ligon Magnet Middle School, isn't torn down as it faces renovations. The Wake County Public School System announced details on the proposed $141 million renovations to the nearly 75-year-old school. Carol Gartrell is a graduate of Ligon Magnet Middle. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why she’s against the renovation.

The Early Head Start program under Durham's Partnership for Children is not immediately impacted by the government shutdown, but there's grave concern that the program won't be able to operate at its current level, which could leave dozens of families at risk. Early Head Start Director Shekema Crawford and Executive Director Kate Irsh joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how the government shutdown is impacting their services.

With the low fall foliage color now in the Piedmont and Charlotte metro areas, you might notice some of the leaves already look dry or faded. That’s a sign of drought stress. The mountains, only under a slight drought, which means minimal impacts. Some leaves are browning and dropping early which is a clear sign they’re struggling without enough water. Howard Neufeld, Professor of Biology at Appalachian State University, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the impact the drought has had on the colorful autumn in North Carolina

Looking for a thrilling scare? You're just an hour from the Triangle, where one of the country's most terrifying haunted attractions await. Kersey Valley Spookywoods in Archdale earned the Number 9 spot on HauntWorld magazine's list of the Top 13 Scariest Haunted Houses in America. Dustin Douglas, the owner of Kersey Valley Spookywoods, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how this facility defines the Halloween spirit.

Two physicians at the UNC Health system have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine. Dr. Robert Ferris, the UNC Health chief of oncology clinical services, and Dr. Samantha Meltzer-Brody, the executive dean of the UNC School of Medicine, were the only physicians in North Carolina elected to the academy this year, according to health system officials. Ferris and Meltzer-Brody joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss their respective honors.

Families Moving Forward is a Durham-based nonprofit that helps families transition out of homelessness. On November 6, the group will present the Chefs for Change gala. It features some of the best culinary talent from across the Triangle. Joe Daly from Families Moving Forward joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Chefs for Change.

North Carolina Republicans are one step closer to helping Republicans in Washington hold on to power in Congress through redistricting. The proposed district maps passed its final hurdle in the NC Senate on Tuesday and now moves onto the House. The map takes District 1 from a swing seat to a Republican seat by adding territory on the coast. Mitch Kokai, a spokesperson for the John Locke Foundation, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the redistricting measures.

The House is expected to remain away from Washington this week as GOP leaders continue to put the responsibility on the Senate to reopen the government. The House hasn't voted since Sept. 19. Speaker Mike Johnson said he would bring the House back if the Senate voted to pay federal workers and members of the military, but indicated he thinks that is unlikely. Olivia Rinaldi, CBS News White House reporter, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the shutdown.

Flat electronic displays are a $150 billion industry and quickly growing thanks to the near-ubiquitous presence of modern smartphones and televisions. It’s also an industry dominated by east Asia, with very little manufacturing taking place in the U.S. If that is ever going to change, American companies must come up with a disruptive innovation. Researchers at Duke University might have just found it.

Glenwood South residents and businesses have been buzzing about noise for weeks. Now, a proposed amendment for Raleigh’s noise ordinance is on the city’s radar. The city sought a comprehensive assessment of noise levels downtown and in the Glenwood area to see what some are dealing with. According to the Austin-based Sound City Planning, a balanced approach can solve the issue. Saideh Brown is the owner of Urban Cabana in downtown Raleigh. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how much of an issue noise is in the area.

This week, North Carolina Republican lawmakers announced plans to vote on redrawing the state's U.S. House District map. Political experts say Republicans will likely target N.C. Congressional District 1, a swing district in the eastern part of the state represented by Democrat Don Davis. North Carolina would be following other states like California and Texas this year, where Democrats and Republicans, respectively in power, have worked to redraw lines for congressional wins during the 2026 midterm elections. David McLennan, Meredith College Political Science Professor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the implications.

The Justice Department appears to be moving forward with an expected indictment of President Donald Trump's former national security advisor, John Bolton. The department is expected to present the possible criminal case and seek an indictment by a federal grand jury in Maryland on Thursday, according to CNN. Mac McCorkle, Duke University Professor with the Sanford School of Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss whether Bolton’s potential indictment is politically motivated.

A mostly dry forecast to end this week is great news if you have outdoor plans, but there's also a downside to the forecast. Much of North Carolina could really use the rain. This weekend's nor'easter did provide needed rain in some coastal communities. Many areas in central to western North Carolina, however, saw little to no rain from that system. Corey Davis, Assistant Climatologist for North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how dry it is.

A new North Carolina survey conducted by the Elon University found significant concern among residents about their personal safety in large outdoor gatherings, public transportation and public places, such as shopping malls. The survey reveals significant safety concerns in the wake of highly publicized violent crime incidents in North Carolina and elsewhere. Jason Husser, Elon University Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the survey.

He was just 51 years old. Michael D'Angelo Archer, professionally known by way of his stage name, D'Angelo, has died from pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is the 10th-most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Dr. Daniel Nussbaum, Duke Health associate professor of surgery, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what is dubbed “the silent killer.”

As the government shutdown lingers on, it isn’t the first time that federal workers in North Carolin have had to deal with uncertainty. In 2018, there was a shutdown that impacted thousands of workers across North Carolina. Jon Franklin worked as a corrections officer at the prison in Butner and dealt with weeks of financial uncertainty. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the difficult period and how it impacts federal workers now.

Federal employees in the Triangle are feeling the effects of the government shutdown. There are about 2,000 Environmental Protection Agency federal employees and contractors in Research Triangle Park, but that number could change next week. Holly Wilson has been with the EPA for over 20 years and is the local AFGE Union President. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the shutdown and how it is impacting employees.

This fall, Raleigh will become the first city in North Carolina – and one of only a few cities in the nation – to power its bus fleet with renewable natural gas created from its own wastewater. Every day, 50 million gallons of wastewater are treated at the Neuse River Resource Recovery Facility. Thanks to new technology, that waste is now turned into renewable natural gas. Edward Buchan, Environmental Director for the City of Raleigh, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the transition.

Governor Josh Stein has proclaimed October as NC Beer Month. The proclamation honors the craftsmanship behind North Carolina’s independent breweries, as well as the industry's impact on the state’s economy, tourism, agriculture, and community vitality. Lisa Parker, with the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how important the craft beer industry to North Carolina.

The start of the NFL season — and another round of heavy promotions from sports betting companies – pushed betting in North Carolina to a monthly record high in the state. Sports bettors wagered more than $686 million in total bets, a figure that includes about $32 million in promotional wagers. It is a record for North Carolina, which launched legalized online sports betting in March 2024. Jeff Hamlin spoke with Brad Senkiw, a reporter for Covers.com to discuss the record numbers.

Education leaders and farmers are fighting to keep a food program alive in schools. The Farm to School program offers kids locally grown fruits and vegetables throughout the state. The Wake County School District leaders say federal funding for the statewide Farm to School program ran out in March. Tommy Wheeler is the founder of Tidewater Grain Company in Pamlico County. He grows heirloom rice and has been supplying school districts across the state. Wheeler joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how important the Farm to School program is.

It’s October and that means Halloween films are popular. At the Carolina Theatre in Durham, there’s popular retro films being screened Wednesday and Thursday night. Plus, there’s more lighthearted fare on Friday night with the popular 1990s film “Hocus Pocus.” Jim Karl is the film director at the Carolina Theatre and joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss his favorite Halloween films.

Fall brings cooler temperatures, leaves changing colors and football. It also marks the beginning of spooky season, filled with scary movies, Halloween decorations and, of course, haunted hayrides and houses. In Oxford, the Granville Haunted Farm is bringing about a drive-in haunted experience. Grey Blackwell, the operator of the Granville Haunted Farm, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what visitors can experience.

A coastal storm, categorized as a nor’easter due to winds hitting the East Coast from the northeast, is largely impacting coastal North Carolina. Over the weekend, NC 12 was closed on Ocracoke Island due to ocean over wash. A spokesperson says travel is dangerous, as the Nor’easter is bringing heavy winds, rain and over wash. Jenni Koontz is the Owner of Epic Shutter Photography who traveled to Rodanthe over the weekend. She discussed the impact the nor’easter has had on the coast.

Israel and Hamas have taken a significant step in the ceasefire agreement for the Gaza war by releasing hostages and prisoners. The move raises hopes for a long term truce in the region. However, unresolved issues like Hamas disarmament and Gaza governance highlight the deal's fragility. On Monday, Israelis celebrated the return of hostages, while Palestinians welcomed freed prisoners. Rabbi Mendy Wilschanski of the Chabad of Raleigh joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the local feedback he’s heard about the agreement.

Every day has been a winding road during the Bill Belichick regime with the North Carolina football team. On Wednesday, the speculation about Belichick’s future was the subject of discussion throughout the sports world after various reports of a divided UNC locker room, including a fight between players. Now, after only five games, there are questions as to whether Belichick will even be on the sidelines for next week’s game against Cal. David Glenn, from the North Carolina Sports Network and Chapelboro.com, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the tangled web of Carolina football.

Sports gambling has become more popular than ever, whether it's a friendly bet against the spread or a three-team parlay, with the advent of online sportsbooks. The North Carolina Sports Lottery Commission reports North Carolinians bet more than $686 million on sports in September and cashed in on more than $615 million in winnings. Morgan Coyner, with Addiction Professionals of North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss her caseload since sports gambling online became legal in North Carolina last year.

Some of the most legendary names in golf are in Cary this weekend for the PGA Champions Tour. Former UNC star Davis Love III, former British Open champion Darren Clarke, former Masters champion Mike Weir of Canada and two-time Masters champion Bernard Langer are all in the field that will start play on Friday at Prestonwood Country Club. Jeff Kleiber, the Director of the SAS Championship, discussed the events that are planned for this weekend’s tournament.

Many nonprofit organizations are being affected by federal budget cuts. Some of those cuts include the end of pandemic-era funding. The only overnight shelter for single women in Wake County is navigating the path forward in an uncertain world. The Helen Wright Center for Women is a judgment-free refuge where people are welcomed with open arms. Caroline Seydi is the Director of the Helen Wright Center. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how they’ve handled a reduction in funding since the COVID lockdowns.

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University will commemorate its 20th anniversary on Saturday, October 18, 2025, with a daylong celebration and the grand opening of a new sculpture garden. This milestone marks two decades of bold exhibitions, inclusive programming, and deep community engagement since the museum first opened its doors in 2005. Michelle Moore of the Nasher Museum of Art joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the upcoming ceremony.

On Labor Day, there was hype around all of Chapel Hill regarding Bill Belichick’s first game as UNC football coach. Just five weeks later, there’s turmoil, embarrassment and speculation about his future as UNC coach. The Tar Heels are 2-4 and haven’t come within three touchdowns of beating a Power Four opponent. On top of that, there have been scathing reports of a Tar Heel locker room divided by dissension. Andrew Jones of Tar Heels 24/7 joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what’s swirling around Carolina football.

According to the State Demographer’s latest municipal population estimates, Raleigh’s population grew by 33,000 people between April 1, 2020 and July 1, 2024, reaching over 500,000 people by 2024. That’s according to new numbers released by the State Demographer, Michael Cline. In fact, all of Wake County is booming. Cline joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the rapid growth of Wake County.

People around the world are marking two years since deadly Hamas attacks on Israel. The surprise action targeted more than 1,000 civilians and reignited a longstanding conflict that turned into an all-out war. October 7, 2023 was a day many may never forget. More than 67,000 Palestinians have died in the ensuing war, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, while thousands more have been held prisoner. Reverend Mark Davidson, executive director of the North Carolina nonprofit Voices For Justice in Palestine, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss his wish for peace in the Middle East.

The group NC Alliance for Health is coming out against the USDA’s plan to discontinue future Economic Research Service Household Food Security reports. Marianne Weant, Programs Manager for NC Alliance for Health, says the move undermines one of the most important tools policymakers have to understand hunger in North Carolina. Weant joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the impact of the USDA’s move.

A controversial tough-on-crime bill in North Carolina could face an uphill battle despite getting the governor’s seal of approval. House Bill 307, also referred to as Iryna’s Law, calls for using the firing squad or electric chair as execution methods for the death penalty if lethal injection isn’t available. Meredith College Political Science Professor David McLennan says the bill will likely face legal hurdles. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why.

Phillip Jackson Public Information Officer for the North Carolina Forest Service) North Carolina fire officials are warning this fall wildfire season could be dangerous as debris left from Helene could fuel wildfires. The large amount of debris that is still on the ground in western North Carolina can continue to pose a threat for several years, according to the North Carolina Forest Service. Phillip Jackson with the North Carolina Forest Service joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the danger than the remains of Helene can pose.

Two years into the war in Gaza, Israel and Hamas appear closer to an agreement that could finally end the fighting and release the remaining hostages and prisoners. Rabbi Ariel Edery is with Beth Shalom out of Raleigh and he is hopeful about the 20-point ceasefire plan proposed by President Donald Trump. Edery joined Jeff Hamlin to reflect on October 7 and what it means to him.

As we head toward the winter months, should we brace to pay more for energy? Jon Champion speaks with David Holt, President of the Consumer Energy Alliance.

North Carolina State University is suing Monsanto over toxic chemicals found at the university’s shuttered education and psychology building, Poe Hall. The lawsuit filed in Wake County Superior Court alleges Monsanto knowingly marketed and concealed the risks of toxic Polychlorinated Biphenyls known as PCBs. The chemicals were used in caulks, sealants, paints, adhesives, and HVAC duct sealants in Poe Hall. Stephen Porter taught inside Poe Hall for years and has been vocal about what he feels is a lack of transparency by university leadership. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the lawsuit against Monsanto.

Over 700 North Carolina lawyers, some of whom previously held office on the state’s highest court, signed an open letter warning that due process and the rule of law are under an “unprecedented attack” from the government. The letter does not mention President Donald Trump by name. But it does appear to reference his administration’s targeting of law firms which have opposed him and his policies in court. One of the people who signed the letter was former North Carolina Justice Bob Orr. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why.

If you want flood insurance, then you are going to have to wait until the government shutdown ends. The National Flood Insurance Program expired on Oct. 1 when a compromise for a new spending bill was not reached in Congress. The government shutdown makes it impossible to purchase flood insurance through the federal government. Katy Willett, with Middle Creek Insurance in Raleigh, explained how a person can file flood insurance while the shutdown continues.

Minor League Cricket is the premier domestic T20 cricket league in the United States, showcasing the country’s top talent and providing a platform for the next generation of American cricketers. Founded in 2021 and sanctioned by USA Cricket, Minor League Cricket bridges grassroots development with elite-level competition. Recently, the organization has held matches in Morrisville. Steve Rao of the Morrisville Town Council joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Minor League Cricket.

President Donald Trump has laid out plans to impose tariffs on a range of strategic imports, including timber, wood products and furniture. An executive order signed on Monday includes tariffs of 25% on upholstered furniture and 10% on softwood timber and lumber that take effect October 14, with exceptions for some trading partners, such as the United Kingdom. What impact will it have on North Carolina’s furniture industry? Tammy Covington, President of the High Point Market Authority, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the potential impact.

More homes collapsed into the ocean on the Outer Banks of North Carolina Wednesday night, resulting from a pair of offshore hurricanes that produced large swells and helped bring about the collapse of six other unoccupied homes in a 24-hour span. It marks 19 homes that have collapsed on Outer Banks beaches in the past five years. Laura Moore, Professor at Coastal Environmental Change Lab and a professor at UNC-Chapel Hill, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss potential solutions.