Good morning, Hickory.

U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson announced on April 29 that as part of Operation Take Back America—aimed at curbing illegal immigration, eliminating cartels, and protecting local communities—11 defendants were charged with firearms offenses and immigration violations, including two from the Hickory area, 33-year-old Steven Tyler Philbeck of Lincolnton, charged with firearm possession by a convicted felon, drug trafficking, and methamphetamine distribution, and 47-year-old Norris Lashane Myers of Lenoir, charged with firearm possession by a convicted felon.

Deputies charged a Hickory man and a woman with drug trafficking after seizing guns and fentanyl from their car—one gun was reported stolen from Lincoln County.

Governor Josh Stein announced on April 29th that local governments can apply for grants from the new $55 million Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program to help small businesses rebuild public infrastructure after Hurricane Helene—each grant may be up to $1 million and awards are on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is offered by the Department of Commerce and its Rural Economic Development Division—projects can include repairs to essential utilities like water, sewer, and high-speed broadband.

A Hickory resident expressed frustration over the brown water as the city tests fire hydrants through May — he said that after a lifetime of dealing with public utilities, he has not seen this issue elsewhere.

The Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Catawba County Schools’ Board of Education will hold a joint meeting tomorrow at 6 p.m. at the Board of Elections on Government Drive in Newton—they will discuss the schools’ long-term facilities needs.

Yesterday, Attorney General Jeff Jackson filed suit against AmeriCorps for unlawfully ending congressionally approved grants that support jobs and recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, and the suit follows the agency’s decision to cut volunteer programs including Project MARS, Project Conserve & Project POWER which together resulted in 202 job losses.

Lenoir-Rhyne Men’s Lacrosse, with a 14-2 record and a #6 ranking, earned six All-SAC team honors announced Tuesday, with players (Powell, Madish, Painter, Wright, Mancini, Voss) recognized for their roles.

The Bears will face Anderson today at 7:00 p.m. in their SAC Championship game.

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.

The Chain - Fleetwood Mac Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — The Hum — Tickets available — Experience the exceptional sounds of Fleetwood Mac brought to life by The Chain featuring Dani Kerr from America's Got Talent.

Swingin’ Under The Stars

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Sails on the Square — Free entry — Experience the Hickory Jazz Orchestra performing beloved big band classics under the night sky.

37th Annual Spring Fling

9 AM – 3 PM — Catholic Conference Center — $17 — Engage in crafts, educational sessions, and activities like line bingo for a fun and informative day.