The story behind Kudzu: Invading property to practical decorations

The story of kudzu is one of many trials and tribulations experienced by early farmers. Now, many years later, their descendants have learned of a way to turn kudzu into unique decorations made for any home. Kudzu has been in the United States since the late 19th century. It first was seen in a display […]

Meet the Japanese native sharing her culture with WCU

Nanaka Okamura, Japan Outreach Initiative coordinator at WCU, arrived in August 2021 to teach students about her home country’s culture and inspire students to take action against world hunger. Okamura is one of many coordinators dispatched by the Laurentian Institute’s JOI Program to the American Midwest, South, and Mountain regions. She’s the second JOI coordinator […]

Campus police battle to find balance in personal and work-life

Story co-written/produced with Jessica StephensCampus police push past their personal lives and stride to keep students’ safety their first priority on Western’s campus during the 2021-2022 school year. Under the WCUPD’s website, it is stated that officers balance their personal and professional lives while keeping perspective and a sense of humor. Our reporter Savanna Tenenoff, […]

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) raises funds for Homebase

The SPJ chapter at WCU rang in the holidays with a bake sale to support Western Carolina’s Homebase College Ministry. The chapter raised over $600 and delivered seven gift cards in value of $100 and $50 to Homebase on Dec. 5. Director of Homebase, Dr. Jim Dean, said that gift cards are the best way […]

Indigenous students and community members “rock their mocks” to bring awareness

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians have been on this land for much longer than Western Carolina University. This is something that the WCU Cherokee Center and Native American Student Organization wanted to make very clear on Nov. 15 as they marched around campus for the Rock Your Mocks walk. “Rock Your Mocks is significant […]

One man, 30+ cats

A Siamese cat named Samson waits outside the door of the shelter. When entering, the meows of 43 cats can be heard all over the shelter, ready for their first meal of the day. Morning doses of medication, feedings, litter box cleanings and plenty of playtime keep the sole employee of CatMan2 busy. The smell […]