A version of this story originally published in The Sylva Herald, Aug. 27 edition.Story produced with Halle Stanley Indivisible Common Ground-WNC hosted a forum for candidates in the upcoming local elections to introduce themselves and answer common questions. Brooklyn Brownie, Joseph Waldrum, Dwight McMahan, Taylor Armstrong, Samuel McGuire and Calvin Autrey are running for town […]
Payton McNabb’s victim speaks out
This story was originally published in the Smoky Mountain News and written by Cory Vaillancourt. On May 2, 2024, a brief, awkward moment inside a women’s restroom at Western Carolina University was recorded, uploaded to social media, and sparked a flashpoint in America’s ongoing culture wars. At the center of the encounter was Payton McNabb, […]
Catamount grads reflect on graduation cap decor
Story originally published in WCU Stories written by Cam Adams. For Shondel “Junior” Granison, his graduation cap is more than a square board with fabric stretched across the top. It’s a symbol of accomplishment, but also a canvas for Granison to display some of what’s closest to his heart. “I’m also going to have a […]
Department of Education changes worry students about future
Videos produced by Anthony Fowler. With executive orders like “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity” and “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling,” the Trump administration has already made many significant changes to the Department of Education. Many of the changes that have been made fall in line with Project 2025’s Mandate for Leadership: The […]
WheeLife Eps. 5: Special edition on religion, faith and students
Welcome to WheeLife, the radio news magazine for Cullowhee, Jackson County and the region. This is the fifth show and is a collaboration between the Western Carolina Journalist and 95.3 WWCU. This weeks episode is brought to you by Callia Addikis and Morgan Korson. You will hear us every Friday at 4 p.m. until the […]








