Western Carolina University was invaded on Sept. 25 by younger than usual students. Around 860 children, grades 3-12, from 13 schools across the region were enjoying a chemistry magic show, learned to operate small robots and interacted with the larger dog robot, learned fun math, crime scenes, birds, brains, DNA and many other science activities. […]
Why are there dead butterflies in the parking deck?
September 7, 2026 by
If you’ve had a WCU commuter parking pass and parked in the parking deck, you have likely seen butterfly wings throughout the stairwells. In case you have never walked through the parking deck, the wings I am referring to are mainly from the North Carolina state butterfly: the Eastern tiger swallowtail. You’ve likely seen them flying throughout North Carolina (or any part of Eastern U.S.). Remnants […]
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 […]
Climate Change: How does it affect us?
May 8, 2026 by
People fleeing from their homes in Georgia because a wildfire is within sight-distance is now a reality. No rain for a month, wind and low humidity can take a cigarette thrown from a car window and turn it into a raging inferno devouring everything in its path. It’s more evidence that the warming planet is […]
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 […]
