WPTF Afternoon News
by WPTF 98.5 FM & 680 AM
Find out what the latest news is in the afternoon with stories from around the Triangle, and the world, that matter to you.
Podcast episodes
Ashley Humphrey: Covering the 2024 Paris Olympics for WPTF \ 7-26-2024
Ashley Humphrey, a reporter from the Husband School of Media and Journalism at UNC Chapel Hill is currently en route to Paris to serve as one of WPTF's correspondents at the Olympics. Ashley joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss her excitement about covering such a major event, her journey to get this opportunity, and the diverse group of 20 students from various majors heading to the games. Ashley shared her plans for covering the events, including interviewing notable athletes such as Israeli swimmer Adam Marana. They also touched on the logistical aspects of her coverage, the potential technology challenges, and her anticipation for new events like breakdancing. The conversation concluded with Ashley's excitement about her upcoming reports and the historical significance of the Olympics returning to Paris after 100 years.
Wake County Roundup: Hill Carrow on Preparing for the 2029 World University Games \ 7-26-2024
Hill Carrow, CEO of the World University Games joined Steve Rao and Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to provided an in-depth look into the upcoming World University Games, slated to be held in Wake county, scheduled for 2029. He elaborated on the significance of the Games, the extensive logistics involved, and the anticipated economic impact on Wake County. Carrow highlighted the variety of sports and venues planned, including key locations such as Wake Tech, WREL Soccer Center, and NC State. He also discussed the community's role in supporting the event and encouraged listeners to visit the official website for more information and volunteer opportunities.
Wake County Roundup: WCPSS Board Member Tyler Swanson Discusses Wake County Schools \ 7-26-2024
Tyler Swanson from the Wake County School Board joined Steve Rao and Anthony DeHArton the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the state of Wake County Schools. The discussion covered the size and funding of the district, strategies for recruiting and retaining teachers, addressing growth challenges, and the role of technology and AI in education. Swanson highlighted efforts to restore master's pay, develop future teacher cohorts, and manage the reassignment of students due to growth and legislation. The conversation also touched on the potential for banning cell phones in classrooms and the need for an AI strategy in schools.
Chavi Koneru on Kamala Harris and the Upcoming Debate with Trump \ 7-25-2024
Vice President Kamala Harris has told reporters that she’s “ready to debate Donald Trump.” She accused Trump of “backpedaling” away from a previous agreement for a debate hosted by ABC News on September 10. Harris' sudden rise to the top of the Democratic ticket has led to improved poll numbers in a short amount of time. Chavi Koneru, co-founder and Executive Director of North Carolina Asian Americans Together, and a North Carolina resident for 35 years, joined Jeff Hamlin and Steve Rao on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss what the addition of Kamala Harris means for the campaign and the upcoming debate.
Vinod Thomas on Kamala Harris and Inspiring Young Voters \ 7-25-2024
Vice President Kamala Harris has told members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta that “we are not playing around,” and asked for their support in November. Voters in North Carolina have only gone for a Democrat for president just once in the last 44 years. Harris has become the likely nominee for the Democratic nomination. Will that inspire younger voters to get to the polls? Vinod Thomas, an Indian American Delegate to the Democratic National Convention from North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin and Steve Rao on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss what Harris' ascendance means for the party and the election.