Good morning, Hickory.

Hikers from Fonta Flora State Trail near Lake James must follow a red diamond-marked detour as Duke Energy builds a new public access area — with a boat launch, courtesy dock, parking, and restrooms — and the detour, in place since last October, will remain through year-end.

Two Hickory teachers offer advice for parents with children starting kindergarten.

They say that not having preschool experience or early exposure to letters and numbers is fine because kindergarten is meant for learning and growth.

A total solar eclipse will occur in August and may be partly visible across NC (local weather and viewing conditions could affect the sighting).

Caldwell County Emergency Services officially opened its Cajah’s Mountain EMS base on July 17, located on Connelly Springs Road.

The state-of-the-art facility, which houses two Advanced Life Support crews and simulation rooms (with 360-degree cameras and mannequins), has reduced response times and will help train local paramedics.

Hickory City Council recognized local achievements on Tuesday, July 21 by honoring the girls soccer team for winning the state championship and naming Caroline Kone as Engineer of the Year.

The Council also approved rezoning 929 9th Street Drive Northeast from Industrial to High Density Residential.

Blakgraz Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — City Walk Brewery & Distillery — Cost Info not listed — Enjoy an evening of live music with 112+ original songs from Blakgraz.