
Hosted by WPTF FM 92.9 AM 680 · EN
The WPTF Afternoon News airs weekdays from 3-5 p.m. ET. Each afernoon, you will receive local and national news, sports, entertainment, and live traffic reports, along with interviews regarding local news that matters, with a focus on showcasing local businesses and people. Plus, the crew will assure you to give you fun and entertaining segments to keep you tuned in all afternoon long!

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.