Good morning, Hickory.

Newton-Conover schools will hold a memorial to honor an alum and officer killed in a Charlotte shootout — they aim to celebrate his courage, commitment to justice, and love for community.

A Conover man, Joshua Leslie Blackburn, remains in custody as he faces new charges of attempted first degree murder and first degree kidnapping—he pleaded guilty in 2017 to multiple charges for a 2015 stabbing and is held without bond at the Catawba County Detention Center.

Beginning next Tuesday, May 27, Old Lenoir Road will be closed between 15th Avenue N.W. and 12th Street Drive N.W. for OLLE Art Walk construction for 60 days, and the road will serve only local traffic and emergency responders—drivers should use U.S. 321 and Clement Boulevard to detour while work connects the key segments of Hickory Trail.

Mackenzie Wainwright of Lenoir-Rhyne was named D2CCA Southeast Region Player of the Year today, earning his second region honor this season after winning the NCBWA award last week.

His impressive play helped the Bears clinch a Super Regional spot while catcher Cole Stanford and designated hitter Sal Carricato made the first-team and outfielder Owen Blackledge and second baseman Cole Laskowski joined the second-team—highlighting the team's standout achievements this season.

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.

On-Site Tour of Senior Living Facilities

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Greens at Hickory — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living facilities committed to quality care and engaging activities.

AWKN Conference

7 PM – 1 PM — Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau — Check event page for pricing — Big adventures await in Hickory, showcasing the local community's heritage and outdoor activities.

ACCW Live Wrestling Event

6-9 p.m. — Brookford Community Building — Tickets available now — Experience an epic Steel Cage Showdown for the Apple City Championship in Hickory.

Furniture Manufacturing Expo

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau — Complimentary tickets available — Discover the latest innovations and solutions for furniture manufacturing.