Good morning, Hickory.

Early voting for Hickory Ward 5 primary began Thursday when four first-time candidates and incumbent David Zagaroli shared their visions at a forum held Monday at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, hosted by the local NAACP—two candidates will move forward in November’s municipal elections.

On the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene on September 28th, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey urged state and federal officials to continue aid for communities hit hard by the storm.

He stressed the need for further rebuilding in mountain areas—damage reached nearly $60 billion and 108 people died.

Due to inclement weather Saturday evening, the women's South Atlantic Conference soccer game between Lenoir-Rhyne and Wingate resumes today at 3 p.m. at Pride Park — LR leads 1-0 in the 53rd minute while the men's contest has not been rescheduled.

The Lenoir-Rhyne women’s triathlon team competed at the Robius Landing Triathlon on Sunday, finishing third among 14 teams in a race that included a 750 meter swim, 12.7 mile bike, and 5k run—its fifth runner broke a tie.

The Bears will rest this week and prepare for the East Regional at Lake Norman on October 25.

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.

JAZZ LEGACY Concert Series

2-4 p.m. — Sails On The Square — Free entry — Experience the Byron Bean All Star Big Band in a vibrant outdoor jazz concert.