Good morning, Hickory.

School grades have been released for the three school districts in Catawba County—revealing clear differences in academic performance and setting a baseline for future improvements.

On Monday, September 15, the Catawba County Board of Commissioners approved $18 million for Hickory High School renovations and moved $3 million from another project.

They also approved a .183 acre land purchase for $51,926.33—along with several financial adjustments.

On Tuesday, September 16, Hickory City Council approved a lease agreement with nest at HKY, LLC for Hangar S-5 at Hickory Regional Airport and approved minutes, second readings, and the consent agenda.

The council also passed a voluntary non-contiguous annexation for land at 4643 16th Street Drive NE and a preliminary curb and gutter assessment—members were appointed to boards and commissions.

Hickory City Council is holding a Ward 5 primary only for approximately 4,800 local voters as five candidates seek a seat—early voting starts tomorrow at Highland Recreation Center from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. through Oct.

3 with Election Day on Oct. 7.

Lenoir-Rhyne Football jumped to No. 19 in the AFCA poll after a 31 to 28 win over Emory and Henry with Daniel Deneen Jr. hitting a 32 yard game-winning field goal—The Bears will face Carson-Newman on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. in Jefferson City.

Sails Original Music Series

6-7:30 p.m. — Taft Broome Park — Free admission — Experience the electrifying sounds of Selwyn Birchwood as part of a vibrant music series in Hickory.

The Piedmont Boys Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — The Premier — $— Enjoy an evening of live music from the acclaimed Piedmont Boys, who bring their Southern roots to Hickory.

Level X - Tribute to Women Who Rock

7-11 p.m. — The Premier — Ticket info TBA — Experience high-energy performances of iconic songs from legendary female artists.

Italian Wine Journey with the Tommasi Family

6-9 p.m. — FOURK — $118 per person — Experience a culinary adventure through Italy’s wine regions with expertly paired courses from the Tommasi Family.

Hickory Oktoberfest

9-11 p.m. — Hickory North Carolina — Free entry — Experience the best of local beer and food at the main stage during Oktoberfest.

$3,000 to Win Race at Hickory Motor Speedway

4:30-10 p.m. — Hickory Motor Speedway — $3,000 to win — Experience thrilling stock car racing at one of NASCAR's most legendary venues.