With on-campus polling locations no longer available, the Student Democracy Coalition at Western Carolina University is organizing efforts to help students access the polls and stay informed ahead of the upcoming primary election. The coalition addressed these concerns during its first meeting of the spring semester on Tuesday, Feb 3. It also held elections to restructure its executive cabinet […]
High taxes, social turmoil frame Jackson chair race
February 7, 2026 by
Story by Cory Vaillancourt published in the Smoky Mountain News Feb. 4 ed. Republished As Jackson County heads toward the March 3 primary election, voters are being asked to assess a governing record shaped by rising costs, cultural conflict, a steady expansion of county government and mounting public concern. Over the last four budget cycles, […]
Common illnesses in community continue along seasonal norms
February 4, 2026 by
As measles cases are on the rise across North Carolina, WCU Health Services says there are no reported cases on campus. COVID-19 is now recognized as a regular respiratory illness, is not being tracked by health officials. Students are urged to wash their hands to minimize the spread of illness. The Centers for Disease Control […]
Voter registration rises in Jackson County ahead of March Primary
February 3, 2026 by
As the primary elections approach in Jackson County election officials say voter registration activity is in full swing. The director of the Jackson County Board of Elections, Amanda Allen shared in an email data showing that the voter activity so far has largely been influenced by changes in party affiliation. In an email, Allen explains […]
WCU School of Music faculty perform at spring showcase
February 2, 2026 by
Nearly 200 audience members filled Coulter Recital Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 27, to enjoy two hours of performances during the annual School of Music Spring Faculty Showcase. Instrumental and vocal faculty members performed prepared pieces, giving the audience a chance to experience their musicianship outside the classroom. “I definitely think out of all the concerts, […]
Profiles of candidates for Jackson County Commissioner seats in District 1 & 2
February 2, 2026 by
Story by Cory Vaillancourt. Re-publish of The Smoky Mountain News, Jan. 27 edition Unlike some counties in North Carolina, Jackson elects its county commissioners by district. Currently, District 1 is represented by Todd Bryson, who has decided not to run again. Four Democrats have filed for Bryson’s seat — John Herrera, Julie Painter, Casey Walawender […]
