Good morning, Hickory.

State authorities said scam texts claiming to be from the DMV are circulating across North Carolina and nationwide—these messages demand payment and are completely fake, so residents should verify any DMV inquiries through official channels.

Attorney General Jeff Jackson and Secretary of State Elaine Marshall joined AARP, the Wilmington Police Department, and United Way NC/NC 211 to launch a statewide effort today to help prevent cryptocurrency ATM scams that may cause victims to lose over $100,000—officials are working with law enforcement to alert older adults to common scam signs.

On July 14, officers responded around 5:40 p.m. to reports of shots fired at 1123 2nd Street SE near Keating Pointe apartments and found 22-year-old Keimarian Donyah Peterson dead— the investigation is ongoing.

Hickory City Council met Tuesday and approved the rezoning of the 7th Street SE property from Industrial to Regional Commercial after a public hearing plus approved meeting minutes, second readings, and the consent agenda.

The council also appointed board members and presented a Parks+Recreation Month proclamation to the city’s Parks, Recreation and Sports Tourism staff.

On Friday, Aug 15, the City of Hickory’s Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Department will host the Lightning Bug Boogie 5K Trail Run at Lake Hickory Trails starting at 9 p.m. Runners must bring a light and can pick up their bibs on Thursday, Aug 14, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.—early registration is $30 until Aug 3 before fees increase.

Big Bang Boom!

10-11 a.m. — Patrick Beaver Memorial Library — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly rock concert perfect for kids of all ages in a cozy library setting.

Furniture Festival & Clearance Sale

9 AM – 6 PM — Hickory Furniture Mart — Free entry — Discover amazing discounts on furniture while enjoying artisan displays and demonstrations.

Sunny Ledfurd Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — No cover — Enjoy an eclectic mix of tunes from Sunny Ledfurd's broad musical influences.

Summer Heat Mixed Moneyball Tournament

5:30 AM — Carolina Pickleball Club - Hickory — Competitive entry — Enjoy an exciting day of mixed doubles pickleball action under the summer sun.

ASICS XC Night

6-8 p.m. — Fleet Feet Hickory — Free entry — Gear up for your XC season with exclusive insights and gear at Fleet Feet.

Metallica & Guns and Roses Tribute

7-11 p.m. — The Premier — $17.45 - $519.00 — Experience a night of classic rock as tribute bands King Nothing and Appetite for Illusion rock out to legends Metallica and Guns N' Roses.