Story originally published in The Sylva Herald, Aug. 26 edition The Jackson County Board of Education voted Tuesday, Aug. 25, to bring in an engineering consultant to evaluate the artificial turf at Smoky Mountain High School and determine whether it needs to be replaced. The board voted unanimously to authorize Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers to negotiate an agreement with Fit […]
State board of elections approves Cullowhee voting plan, bringing back 2 polling locations
August 21, 2026 by
Republished by Deanna Sipe, WLOS The North Carolina State Board of Elections has made its decision on the controversial discussion on where an early voting site should be in Cullowhee. The board unanimously agreed on the majority plan for the Health and Human Services building, while also asking that the Jackson County Board of Elections […]
What the FLOCK?
August 7, 2026 by
A version of this story was published in The Sylva Herald At the Board of Commissioners work session Tuesday night, Jackson County Sheriff Doug Farmer gave a presentation on the JCSO’s use of Flock cameras, aiming to answer residents’ questions and address what he called misconceptions. During the meeting, Farmer discussed what Flock cameras are […]
Flock, other ALPRs face rising concerns over misuse, privacy
August 7, 2026 by
A version of this was published in The Sylva Herald Jackson County has used Flock cameras since 2024, but the technology has faced growing scrutiny nationwide over concerns about accuracy, misuse and privacy. In Charlotte, accuracy concerns surrounding Automated License Plate Reader systems were highlighted by the wrongful detention of teacher Jasmine Horne in 2021. […]
Scams and fraud on the rise
May 8, 2026 by
Story co-written with Becki Veach Have you ever been called by a supposedly trusted source like a bank or a courthouse and the conversation just doesn’t feel right? For example, they try to pressure you into sending money or ask personal questions like your address or credit card information. Well, you’re not alone because you […]
World Press Freedom Day: Global focus on press freedom
May 8, 2026 by
The annual World Press Freedom Day on May 3 is designed to remind the public of their duties to recognize and respect the freedom of press. Journalists around the world marked the World Press Freedom Day with a mix of celebration and concern, as ongoing threats to media continue to shape global information. “People need […]
