Good morning, Hickory.

Local author Joyce Hostetter explained how garments worn at the 1944 polio hospital—known as the Miracle of Hickory—have inspired her historic fiction book Blue, offering a creative glimpse into the city's past.

Governor Josh Stein announced a new workforce initiative that will engage 50,000 employers and offer up to $50,000 in grants to local Workforce Development Boards to link job seekers with training — businesses are urged to complete an employer interest form with the Department of Commerce.

The City of Hickory is planning safety improvements along Second Street NE — known as N.C.

127 — from 12th Ave NE to 16th Ave NW after gathering feedback at a meeting on Monday, May 18. City staff are now pursuing a DOT grant to fund sidewalk and intersection upgrades.

Governor Josh Stein declared May 18-22 as Heat Safety Week to alert residents about extreme heat risks.

Health officials reported over 5,700 heat-related emergency visits last year and urge use of the NC Heat Health Alert System + a free fan program through Oct. 31.

Three Lenoir-Rhyne baseball players were named to the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association All-Southeast Region Team yesterday.

Procopio led with a .436 batting average and 60 RBIs while Wainwright and Renaud added key stats this season.

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.

Candlelight Concert Series in Hickory

7-8 p.m. — Hickory, NC — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy an intimate musical experience in a candle-lit setting.