Good morning, Hickory.

The City of Hickory is hosting free Black History Month events — a roundtable on Feb.

5 at Ridgeview Branch Library, a living wax museum on Feb. 21 at Ridgeview Recreation Center, and an African drumming workshop on Feb. 28 at Patrick Beaver Memorial Library — to honor Black heritage.

North Carolina added nearly 150,000 residents last year according to Census estimates, making it the third fastest-growing state; domestic migration is adding pressure as state revenues may fall $2 billion short of funding essential services if a fiscally responsible budget is not passed.

North Carolina public schools may use up to five remote instruction days for emergencies like severe weather without makeup, per NCGS (115C-84.3); these days count toward the required 1,025 instructional hours and districts can request a waiver for additional remote days if severe conditions occur.

Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Queen and The Beatles

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Drendel Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the magic of tribute performances in a unique candlelight setting.

Love Music: An Evening of Romance and Strings

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Drendel Auditorium — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a romantic night of candlelit music with the WPS Maestro's Quartet.

Pigeon Forge Crew Concert

6-8 p.m. — The Premier — Ticket information available — Enjoy a night of music with the Pigeon Forge Crew at this local venue.