Good morning, Hickory.

Carolina BalloonFest begins today in Statesville as online ticket sales closed and parking sold out; visitors without tickets are advised to plan for next year.

The event features a 3 p.m. gate opening, a balloon launch from 4:30 to 6 p.m., an evening glow from 6:30 to 7:30, and a drone show at 7:45 (for those with tickets).

The Hickory Daily Record (HDR) asked county commissioner candidates four questions about funding more than $500 million for school projects in Catawba County; their responses could shape future education policy.

The Alexander County 4-H team was crowned Grand Champion at the National Food Challenge, representing our county and state with impressive skill.

Their achievement brings pride to local families and highlights the strength of our youth program.

Catawba County honored its Employee of the Year, Tyler Garrison, and awarded the Adult Medicaid Long-Term Care and the Women, Infants and Children teams during an Oct.

15 ceremony. Garrison was recognized for his 21 years of service (nominated from 18 candidates).

Pharmacist William (Bill) Pitts III, a county health board member, was awarded the 2026 Carl Durham Award for his commitment to public health advocacy.

He earned the honor for his local efforts to improve community health.