Hickory Living Magazine

10/12/2026

🥁 Drumming up school spirit and IGNITING new experiences!

During National Principals’ Month, we’re celebrating Aaron Joplin, principal of Jacobs Fork Middle School! This photo of Mr. Joplin joining students at the drum captures his enthusiasm for seeing them get involved—and his willingness to join the fun!

For Mr. Joplin, serving the students, staff, and families of JFMS is an honor. He believes he works in the best community in Catawba County and treasures being part of it.

What IGNITES him? Watching students succeed in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. He sees middle school as a time to grow, try something new, and discover interests and talents.

He strives to lead with calm kindness, setting an example through challenges and finding joy in the success of others.

💬 “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” — Marcus Aurelius

Thank you, Mr. Joplin, for IGNITING involvement, encouraging growth, and keeping Jaguar spirit strong! 🔥🐾

10/06/2026

🎉 October is National Principals’ Month! 🍎✨

Behind every thriving school, empowered teacher, and inspired student is a dedicated principal who leads with passion, vision, and heart. Our principals wear countless hats every day—mentor, cheerleader, problem-solver, and community builder—working tirelessly to create spaces where everyone belongs and succeeds.

To celebrate, we are spotlighting one principal every day throughout the month! We asked our school leaders to share what they love most about their schools, what IGNITES their passion, and the words that keep them inspired.

Join us all month long as we share their reflections, celebrate their leadership, and show our gratitude. Be sure to check back daily!

10/05/2026

10/02/2026

🏆 VOTE FOR BEST OF THE FOOTHILLS 2026! 🏆

Voting starts NOW! Show your favorite local businesses some love and cast your vote for the Best of the Foothills 2026.

One vote per day, per person.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BOFH2026

Get voting and help recognize the businesses that make our community special! ❤️

09/29/2026

Terry Drum was named one of 25 teachers nationwide to receive a Harbor Freight Tools for Schools award.

09/19/2026

The third annual Ruff, Ruff, Run 5K and Dog Festival is next Saturday, Sept. 26, at Winkler Park! Runners will begin the 5K race at 11 a.m., while a special Dog Festival with vendors, food trucks, obedience demonstrations, and more will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn more at runsignup.com/Race/NC/Hickory/HickoryKSeries.

09/19/2026

📣Announcing the HFM Ginger Festival🫚💓! Aren’t we doing it in style!? A very special Thank You to the 2026 Graduates of the CVCC Design and Marketing Program for this beautiful promotional poster! We are so grateful to these wonderful students and their teachers for coloring our community with their vision!🧑‍🎓
As always we wouldn’t be here without your HFM Health Care Sponsor 🩺🏥
❤️Catawba Valley HealthCare Systems
🎼Music for the Event
Sponsored by the City of Hickory
Featuring artists from the Hickory Music Factory!