Good morning, Hickory.

Morning Star First Baptist Church on 4th Avenue SW in Hickory is hosting an African American History exhibit through the month (tours continue until next Monday, March 2).

Lenoir-Rhyne University launches an eight-week applied AI course starting March 3 on campus, teaching practical skills like building workflows and evaluating AI outputs (no prerequisites are required).

The $499 program prepares students for real-world applications.

On Monday, Mar. 2, the intersection of 10th Street SE + C Avenue SE will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for sewer and water tap installation; a detour will be provided for drivers to use.

Alexander County Planning Director Patrick Creech will appear on Jeopardy today at 7:00 p.m. on WCNC Channel 36—he is a longtime trivia fan and former teacher who studied hard for the contest.

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, Caldwell County confirmed its first rabies case of the year when a raccoon from a horse pasture on Echo Drive tested positive.

No horses had contact with the animal and officials advise pet owners to keep their vaccinations up to date.

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.

29th Annual Catawba Valley Pottery Festival

6-9 p.m. on Mar 27 & 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Mar 28 — Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau — $50 for Friday Premiere, $10 for Saturday adults — Celebrate North Carolina’s rich pottery heritage with artists, demonstrations, and unique buying opportunities.