Good morning, Hickory.

Hickory High School was evacuated on May 8 after a phone call reported a potential bomb threat — law enforcement worked with school officials and the campus remained closed until it was declared safe.

Students at Catawba Valley Community College celebrated their 2026 graduation on Friday with decorated caps and smiles among family and friends.

Photos captured the memorable day marking an important milestone for the graduates.

Lenoir-Rhyne set a record with over 820 new students confirmed to attend this fall (including more than 700 first-year students for the Class of 2030) as the campus welcomes a historic boost in enrollment.

Lenoir-Rhyne University held its graduation ceremony for the class of 2026 in Hickory today.

503 graduates were honored when the NFL senior vice president of officiating administration spoke — adding an extra touch to the celebration.

Hickory and the surrounding region remain under drought restrictions despite some rain this week; according to the National Weather Service (NWS), the area has received 8.5 inches less rain than normal this year.

On May 8, the City of Hickory said drought conditions require continued Stage 2 water restrictions as reservoir levels did not rise enough despite recent rain.

Customers must reduce water use and follow irrigation schedules (odd addresses on Tuesdays and Saturdays, even addresses on Thursdays and Sundays) to avoid surcharges.

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association announced the girls soccer playoff brackets and games will begin Monday, May 11, with Hickory as a two seed + receiving a first round bye; the playoffs will proceed through several rounds with state championships set at Durham County Stadium.

Catawba Valley Community College baseball team had six players earn All-Region 10 honors yesterday, with three named first team and others recognized for pitching and defense.

The team finished a 34-21 season record and will begin conference tournament play on Friday at 4 p.m. in Kinston (standout Cooper Bliss).

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.

Furniture Manufacturing Expo 2026

Trade Show — June 3-4 — Hickory Metro Convention Center — Entry fee varies — Explore the latest innovations in furniture manufacturing with over 300 exhibitors.