The untold stories of PTSD: The veteran community at WCU speaks about their military experiences

Story co-produced with Daniel Reid Many holidays are set aside to honor, remember and celebrate the courage of military members, active, retired and reserves.  From the civilian perspective, these holidays are three-day weekends off of work, cookouts with family and days to party.  For the military community, these holidays have a deeper meaning. Memorial Day […]

“We are still here”: Western Carolina University remains a Cherokee place

Story co-written with Sarah Pruitt  November is Native American Heritage Month, but it’s not just a heritage for the Cherokee people of Western North Carolina. It’s a living, vibrant culture.   There are 547 federally recognized tribes in the United States. Native Americans were not automatically afforded U.S. citizenship until 1924. November was not declared […]

WCU students walk out in support of Palestine

The long-running Israeli/Palestine conflict has recently been renewed, and many at WCU have chosen a side.On Nov. 9, WCU students walk out in the “Shut It Down for Palestine” protest. Around 30 students and community members gathered at the Catafount. In the hour during the rally a small group of students stood with the Israeli […]

Making job-searching equitable for the neurodiverse community

No two people share the same thoughts or brain; we are unique individuals with strengths and weaknesses. Neurodiversity refers to the growing body of people with unique mental cognition, such as those with autism, ADHD, OCD, etc. Carrie Hachadurian, Associate Director for Career-Integrated Learning, explored the nuance of job searching for neurodiverse people during the […]

Circles of Jackson County unites entertainment and charity

The McGuire Estate in downtown Sylva came to life for the Circles Music Fest on Thursday night, Sept. 21. This unique fundraising event featured a silent auction, local musicians, food, and community fellowship. The event featured a laid back atmosphere. Guests ordered food and drinks. They socialized throughout the venue, enjoying live music and conversation. […]

Coon Hunters Association will hold Youth Day Oct. 7

Originally published in The Sylva Herald, Sept. 13 edition The hills abound with folks “trying to keep the old mountain traditions alive.” The Jackson County Coon Hunters Association is joining the effort with Youth Day from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7. The event, at 44 Oak Hill Drive, Sylva, will include field […]