Good morning, Hickory.

Two local businesses received tax breaks and cheaper land on the condition of creating new jobs but did not meet their promises.

County officials stated that one company will not receive further incentives while the other gets more time to meet its goal—terms remain under review.

CommScope, a company with roots in Hickory now based in Catawba County, announced it is selling its connectivity and cable solutions segment to Connecticut-based tech business Amphenol for $10.5 billion— the deal will close in the first half of 2026 and is expected to provide excess cash after debt repayment and investment redemptions.

Tristan Pilar Scott—37—from Trina Lane in Hiddenite was arrested on August 5 by Iredell County Sheriff’s Officers and charged with felony possession of a schedule I controlled substance and cocaine as well as a misdemeanor for drug paraphernalia, with his court appearance scheduled for August 12.

49-year-old Michael Shawn Littlejohn from Lincolnton was arrested on August 1 by Lincoln County Sheriff’s Officers during a surveillance operation after a K9 alert and is charged with trafficking and possession of drugs plus unlawful firearm possession while he remains on a $520,000 bond with a District Court hearing set for August 25.

On August 4, Melanie Cornelison-Janotta resigned as Executive Director of Old Colony Players.

She will return as Artistic Director at the Andy Griffith Playhouse on August 17—her change was confirmed by the board as part of a planned transition.

Unemployment in the Hickory metro area increased from June 2024 to June 2025 while Catawba County’s rate dropped from 3.9% to 3.8% in June—showing mixed job trends regionwide.

Hickory police will focus enforcement on 9th Avenue Northeast in August to target speeding, distracted driving and following too closely, aiming to reduce local traffic violations.

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.

Throwdown Jones & Bad Romeo Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Premier — Tickets starting at $17.45 — Enjoy a night of energetic rock music from the vibrant Throwdown Jones band.

Hickory Fair

9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Hickory American Legion Fairgrounds — Cost varies — Enjoy a vibrant mix of arts, crafts, and farming exhibits over six days.