Black Rock sits at 2,700 feet of elevation, with a steady inclination all the way up to the peak. In total, it’s a seven-mile trip up and down the mountain top. To some, this might sound daunting, but to the runners in the area, this hike turns into a challenge they are willing to take […]
UNC System redefines academic freedom
March 24, 2026 by
The University of North Carolina school system has recently adopted a new definition for academic freedom. Even as a proposal, this sparked discussion among faculty and administrators regarding its potential impact at Western Carolina University. Previously, WCU along with other universities have relied on the definition brought by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) […]
Ukraine war continues with no end in sight
March 20, 2026 by
As Russia’s war against Ukraine reaches its fourth year, WCU’s Global Spotlight Series hosted a panel of experts to discuss what has changed in the four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. One of the panelists was Cory Vaillancourt, a reporter at Smoky Mountain News who went to Ukraine in late 2022 and the […]
Scavenger hunt and wellness opportunities in downtown Sylva this weekend
March 19, 2026 by
Calling all health and wellness enthusiasts to come and join The Great Wellness Hunt. On Saturday, March 21, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. you can participate in a wellness scavenger hunt that provides lessons and fun activities while you a learn about physical, intellectual, mental/emotional, social, environmental, spiritual, and occupational/financial wellness. The Hunt will […]
County, towns catch up on projects
March 18, 2026 by
The story was originally published in The Sylva Herald, March 19 edition The Jackson County Board of Commissioners and leaders of the county’s four municipalities gathered for a powow last Tuesday, March 10. The meeting in the Burrell Building on Southwestern Community College’s Campus lasted only about 55 minutes. County Manager Kevin King gave the assemblage […]
Dillsboro closer to moving into new home
March 17, 2026 by
Story was published in The Sylva Herald, March 12 edition The Town of Dillsboro’s monthly town meeting March 9 was filled with news about positive changes soon to come to the town. Dillsboro leaders discussed the new town hall building, viewing the samples of carpet and flooring that had been chosen. They also voted to […]
