Good morning, Hickory.

Carolina Caring held an event that celebrated longtime volunteers with a brunch and a time to reflect on their contributions over the past year.

Olde Hickory Brewery earned recognition for its ale and stout at the 2026 World Beer Cup (often called the Olympics of Beer Competitions) as it showcased its brewing excellence to a global audience.

Nathan Huret, vice president of the Catawba County Economic Development Center, spoke Tuesday night at a public hearing about Duke Energy’s request to raise prices and stressed the link between price changes and local growth.

High school students raised about 50 trout over several months and released them today at South Mountains State Park (they nurtured the fish until their return to nature).

Jamie Thompson, a Duke Energy customer from Connelly Springs, said she struggles to pay her monthly bill while trying to support her household.

Her account underscores the financial pressure some community members face amid ongoing cost challenges.

Today, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey announced that the N.C.

Department of Insurance settled a dwelling rate case with insurers—setting a 5% yearly increase with the first rise on Oct. 1 and the second on Oct. 1 next year. The agreement cancels a July 6 hearing and offers credits for consumers who fortify their roofs and homes.

Newton resident and Democracy Green cofounder Sanja Whittington spoke to the N.C.

Utilities Commission Tuesday to oppose Duke Energy's request for a rate hike. She argued that as both a residential and commercial customer, the increase would burden local users.

Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory was removed from immediate jeopardy status after it developed a plan to fix medication documentation & isolation precautions noted by state surveyors.

The hospital now meets the required standards.

Myrtle Beach Pelicans vs. Hickory Crawdads

7:59-10:59 p.m. — L. P. Frans Stadium — Tickets available — Enjoy a live baseball matchup between the Myrtle Beach Pelicans and Hickory Crawdads.

Green Day Tribute Concert with Confetti Cannon

7-11 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets starting at $17.45 — Enjoy explosive punk covers that will tickle your nostalgia glands.

Paul Gilbert Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets from $29.25 — Experience the guitar virtuosity of Paul Gilbert with exciting new music from his album WROC.

Networking Night at Hickory Crawdads Stadium

6:30-9:30 p.m. — L. P. Frans Stadium — $5 admission — Network with Emerging Leaders while enjoying a baseball game and family-friendly atmosphere.

Charleston RiverDogs vs. Hickory Crawdads

6:30-9:30 p.m. — L. P. Frans Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game featuring the Charleston RiverDogs and Hickory Crawdads.

PMP Certification Training in Hickory, NC

9 AM – 5 PM — Hickory North Carolina — $1599 — Enhance your project management skills with comprehensive PMP certification training over four days.

Hank Williams Jr Tribute Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets starting at $20.78 — Experience high-energy performances of Hank Williams Jr.'s classic hits by a top tribute band.