WPTF Afternoon News

A Superior Court judge will not force former Gov. Roy Cooper to provide sworn testimony in a lawsuit brought against the governor's office by dozens of North Carolina bar owners. Former North Carolina Associate Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Cooper’s deposition in the bar owners case in Superior Court.

U.S. President Donald Trump says the U.S. has no planned talks with Iran but insists the Strait of Hormuz remains open. This comes after a reported strike on a ship exiting the waterway and as Iran and Oman say they are close to a deal to reopen the waterway. Mac McCorkle, from the Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments in Iran.

The fall semester got underway at Wake Tech Community College on Monday with record enrollment. More than 30,000 degree-seeking students are expected to begin classes at campuses across Wake County. Scott Ralls, the President of Wake Tech, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the new year.

Flock cameras are automatic license plate readers. Many people are concerned about privacy and misuse of the system. On Monday, the Moore County Commissioners held a meeting about the cameras. Lee Turner is a former Raleigh police officer who is now an attorney. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of Flock cameras

There is shock and sadness across the Triangle after the shocking death of a high school basketball coach. Sheremy Dillard was found stabbed to death in her Raleigh home on Thursday. Dillard worked as a basketball coach and recovery teacher at Felton Grove High School. Her boyfriend is charged with murder. Kimberly Carver, the CEO of the Purple Trail, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss issues with domestic violence.

The Carolina Blaze’s inaugural season made a major impact on Durham, both on and off the field. The Blaze hosted 13 home games during their first season. Marcus Manning, the Executive Director of the Durham Sports Commission, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the economic impact of the Blaze and Athletes Unlimited Softball League.

August 19th is World Humanitarian Day. It is a day the UN set aside to honor aid workers. In the height of hurricane season, it's a timely moment to discuss protecting vulnerable children and families. Jon Champion talks with actor Kristoffer Polaha who's partnered with World Vision for several years and who you'll also see this fall in the new series American Hostage, alongside Jon Hamm and Giovanni Ribisi.

The music and legacy of North Carolina blues legend Skeeter Brandon are taking center stage in Durham. Known for his soulful blend of blues, R&B, jazz, funk, and gospel, Brandon left an enduring mark on the music world before he died in 2008. Jon Champion talks with Scooter's longtime drummer and close friend Will Beaty about Brandon’s remarkable career, their friendship, memorable moments, and the upcoming tribute celebrating his life and music.

The ABC Commission said it's considering making cheap liquors more expensive, as a way to limit excessive drinking. Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, however, oppose the change and say it would force them to further raise prices or absorb the extra costs.

Jason Smith, the owner of Cantina 18 and Harvest 18, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how the proposed laws could impact his business.

Next Friday, high school football play-by-play will return to WPTF. Chris Hooks, a longtime college and high school sports broadcaster, will handle the play-by-play. Hooks joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the exciting new addition to WPTF’s lineup.