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. […]
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 […]
Gift and Thrift: Bringing sustainable style to WCU
May 8, 2026 by
Students and community members were invited to the third annual Gift and Thrift event hosted by WCU’s Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning on Friday, May 1 at a pop-up shop in the University Center. Over 30 students attended the event, clearing out the donated items quicker than they had been sorted. The event […]
Spiritual politics: A unique solution to political and global divide
May 1, 2026 by
As political tensions rise and a resolution seems out of reach, a Western Carolina University (WCU) professor is writing about how spiritual politics may be the only answer. Dr. Michael Lenz is a political science professor at WCU, and he believes the answer to current global issues is spirituality. This spirituality is not religious, but instead about embracing peace, hope and […]
Wildfire season and drought in WNC: Little changes make big impacts
May 1, 2026 by
After a prolonged dry season, rain showers alleviate drought conditions in western North Carolina. Although the region is getting scattered rains, it’s not enough to get the region out of the drought. The National Centers for Environmental Information gives a current drought reduction estimate of the amount of rainfall needed to end drought conditions in […]
