Good morning, Hickory.

City of Hickory announced the 2026 Unifour Senior Games for adults 50 and older, set for March 31 — May 22 with Opening Ceremonies on April 14 at Highland Recreation Center at 10 a.m.; registration is online until March 17 and costs $15, including a commemorative t-shirt and lunch.

Burke County animal shelter will pause non-essential animal intakes Friday as it prepares to move to its new facility (emergency cases will still be handled) and is expected to reopen in April.

On March 10, Governor Josh Stein, President Pro Tem Phil Berger & Speaker Destin Hall announced the Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education to review teacher training, student advancement, and administrative operations in the region.

The commission was jointly formed by state leaders.

Peoples Bank announced six local schools will receive $1K each from its Exceptional Schools Contest — winners include Alexander Central, Bunker Hill, Challenger Early College, Discovery, Fred T.

Foard and North Lincoln high schools.

Marty Sharpe, the technology officer of Catawba County Schools, was named state technology director of the year for expanding tech access & promoting responsible artificial intelligence use in education.

Hickory City Schools earned two Blue Ribbon Awards on March 6 at a Greensboro ceremony for image and graphic design and strategic communications — officials said the honors show strong efforts in sharing news with families and the local community.

Yesterday, App State’s softball team won 10-0 in five innings over Charleston Southern following key home runs by Makayla McClain — the win marked their sixth consecutive run-rule victory — and they will open Sun Belt play in Conway Friday at 6 p.m.

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.

Rockie Lynne All Star Jam

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — Cost not specified — Experience soulful blues and rock as Rockie Lynne takes the stage with special guests for a night of memorable music.