Good morning, Hickory.

Bennett Funeral Service will host a complimentary Lunch & Learn on veterans burial benefits from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb.

25 at the Chamber of Catawba County; attendees should reserve a seat by calling 828-465-2111.

Sheetz is opening its new Catawba County store today where customers can enjoy free coffee, soda and giveaways such as a $250 gift card and a $2,500 gift card.

Newton-Conover school board candidates are weighing in on merging school systems.

Four candidates are running for two Newton board seats + three are competing for one Conover seat.

Frye Regional said its CEO (after more than three years at the helm) is stepping down while hospital operations remain normal and the focus stays on safe, quality care for the community.

Freshman Nico Soul hit his first career home run during App State’s 10-5 loss to Duke Tuesday, though the Mountaineers left 13 runners on base.

They will face Queens on Friday and play North Carolina A&T in Hickory on Saturday, followed by Southern Illinois on Sunday.

Lenoir-Rhyne women’s tennis team continued their season with a 6-1 win over Converse on February 18, 2026, as Claudia Orsini and Runa Muderrisoglu helped secure key points.

The team will travel to Wilson on Friday to face the Barton Bulldogs at 2:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, Lenoir-Rhyne overcame a 4 to 2 deficit by scoring 19 runs in four innings for a 21-6 win over USC Beaufort, with Seth Christmas hitting for the cycle (single, double, triple, and home run).

The Bears, now 6-1, will play a road series against Carson-Newman on Friday.

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.

2026 Academy Awards Viewing Party

6:30-11:30 p.m. — Main Cellar City Club — Free for members, $10 for guests — Celebrate cinema at a lively viewing party with refreshments and an Oscar contest.

NJCAA Basketball Tournament

March 16-21 — Catawba Valley Community College — Day Passes $20, All Tournament Pass $100, Recruiter Pass $225 — Catch the excitement of the NJCAA Basketball Tournament in Hickory, NC.

Tommy's Rock Trip

7-11 p.m. — The Premier — $17.50 admission — Experience the ultimate rock tribute featuring world-renowned drummer Tommy Clufetos.

Carolina Classic Cheerleading Competition

7 AM - 6 PM — Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau — Adult $25, Children $15 — A day packed with cheerleading performances and competitions.