WPTF Afternoon News

WPTF Afternoon News

by WPTF FM 92.9 AM 680

Daily News News Commentary

Lisa Gennetian with the Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy discusses income and poverty statistics released by the Census Bureau

The U.S. Census Bureau has released its annual estimates of income, poverty and health insurance coverage. What does it say regarding the national snapshot of economic conditions in 2025? Lisa Gennetian, from the Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the census.

Owner of the Rialto Theater Hayes Permar discusses the Bond Film Festival that the Rialto will be hosting starting on Tuesday

If you love James Bond, whether it is through movies or video games, this week you’ll want to be at the Rialto in Raleigh. On Tuesday, the Rialto will screen “Dr. No.” It’s the first of three Bond films over three nights. Plus, there’s a special wrinkle for Thursday night. Hayes Permar, the owner of the Rialto, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss a special week for Bond fans.

Flag Football coach at Green Level High School Shawn Patil discusses the recent surge flag football popularity

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association approved girls flag football in May, making the state the 22nd nationwide to do so. Coaches said many athletes have already been playing the sport for years. More than 150 high schools now field teams. Shawn Patil, the flag football coach at Green Level High School, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss why the sport is growing.

Founder of Moms for Mental Health Jillian Amodio discusses the warning signs for mothers and men at risk of suicide

As conversations about mental health continue to gain national attention, experts are urging families and communities to recognize warning signs that may indicate someone is struggling, particularly new mothers and men, two groups facing unique mental health challenges. Jillian Amodio, the Founder of Moms for Mental Health, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the warning signs parents should look out for.

Elon University Poll Director Jason Husser discusses the latest Elon poll where Roy Cooper still leads Michael Watley

A new poll from Elon University shows former Gov. Roy Cooper holding an 11-point lead over Republican Michael Whatley in North Carolina's U.S. Senate race. Jason Husser, Elon University Poll Director, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest numbers.

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month with Dr. Zach Feuer and William Moore

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Jon Champion talks with Dr. Zach Feuer, Assistant Professor of Urologic Oncology at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and William Moore, Men’s Health Program Manager at the Center, about prostate cancer, screening, risk factors, and who is disproportionately affected by this disease.

Lt. Col. Lisa Klekowski Chair of the American of Military Science at UNC-Chapel Hill discusses the annual 9/11 march that is held at Kenan Stadium

In Chapel Hill, the annual 9/11 stair climb at Kenan Stadium will be held Friday morning. Participants will climb 2,071 stairs, representing the height of the World Trade Center towers, as a tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on 9/11 and to the firefighters, police officers, military members, first responders, and civilians who demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness that day. Lieutenant Colonel Lisa Klekowski joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the annual march.

Executive Director of the K9 Comeback Project Kristin Maher discusses some of the dogs available for adoption

The K9 Comeback Project works to connect specially selected rescue dogs with individuals who may benefit from the support and companionship of a trained dog, including veterans, active-duty service members and first responders. Kristin Maher, the Executive Director of the K9 Comeback Project, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss some animals available for adoption.

Larry Warner with the NC Aquarium at Roanoke Island discusses NC Aquariums reaching the 50-Year milestone

This week, the North Carolina Aquariums celebrate their official 50th anniversary, marking five decades of connecting generations of visitors with North Carolina’s extraordinary aquatic life and environments. Larry Warner, with the NC Aquarium at Roanoke Island, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the milestone and what they have to offer.

WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo discusses a new study that looks at the states the vaccinate the most

With vaccines preventing 3.5 to 5 million deaths per year worldwide, according to the WHO, the personal-finance company WalletHub today released its report on the States that Vaccine the Most in 2026. Chip Lupo of WalletHub joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the study.

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