Good morning, Hickory.

Cyclists will ride in the 2026 Soldiers Reunion parade — a community event honoring veterans — in downtown Hickory next weekend.

At the J.E. Broyhill Civic Center in Lenoir, the CCC&TI Foundation celebrated exceeding its highest goal ever by raising $565,031 at the 2026 Annual Fund Drive, marking the sixth highest campaign in its history; college leaders thanked volunteers and supporters for their key role in the effort.

Starting Monday, Aug.

24 at 8 a.m., a private contractor will close parts of Government Avenue SW and Second Street Place SW for a Rural Downtown Economic Development Streetscapes Project in Hickory as sidewalks keep the Post Office open; work is expected to finish Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 5 p.m.

Burke County water restrictions remain in effect as customers cut usage by at least 10% while streamflow lags recovery despite two triggers reaching pre-drought levels; officials say more rain will help boost streamflow and ease limits in the coming days.

Hickory Crawdads won 7-4 on Thursday at L.P.

Frans Stadium after a big fifth inning and two back-to-back home runs in the sixth. Evan Siary pitched seven strong innings while the team recorded eight hits before 1,695 fans watched the game.