Good morning, Hickory.

Maiden Police arrested 46-year-old Cheryl Ikerd Dobbs on April 10 for four counts of misdemeanor child abuse and 15 counts of misdemeanor assault on a child under 12—investigators launched the probe after a March 31 report of abuse at Maiden Rosenwald Preschool Academy and set a $9,500 secured bond as the investigation continues.

A Hickory man was convicted of trafficking meth and fleeing from police and given 57 years in prison—he is currently serving 67 years for an attempted murder charge in McDowell County.

South Mountains State Park reopened both access points after being closed since Hurricane Helene, but several areas remain closed due to safety hazards.

Visitors are urged to follow onsite signage and avoid the closed High Shoals Falls Loop.

Brent Owen signed a three-year extension on April 11th after leading the Lenoir-Rhyne men's basketball team to a record 29 to 6 season, a South Atlantic Conference Tournament Championship and an NCAA Division II Elite Eight appearance — his contract now runs until April 2028 — and the school praised his strong leadership and community support. He said he looks forward to building on that success in Hickory.

SAFe® 5.1 Product Owner/Product Manager Classroom Training

9 AM-1 PM — Hickory North Carolina — Early Bird Price: $1199 | Gain your SAFe® PO/PM certification with interactive sessions and hands-on learning.

Trial by Fire - Journey Tribute

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets from $17.45 — Experience the music of Journey as TRIAL BY FIRE transports you back to their iconic 1996 era.

Jimmy Buffett's Escape to Margaritaville

7:30-10 p.m. — The Green Room Community Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a tropical musical journey filled with favorite Jimmy Buffett hits and island vibes.

Derby Day Celebration

Afternoon — Salt Block Foundation — Ticket includes two drink vouchers — Dress in festive Derby attire and enjoy live music, Southern cuisine, and best-dressed contests.

Charlotte Grappling & BJJ Championship

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Hickory Metro Convention Center — Registration fees apply — Experience the excitement of one of the largest mixed grappling tournaments in the world.