Good morning, Mooresville.

Mooresville community leader Mary Morrow, a longtime educator, received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine (North Carolina's top civilian honor) from the DAR's Mary Slocumb Chapter.

N.C. Rep. Todd Carver presented the award in recognition of her decades of service to education and civic work.

Fireworks, whose origins date back to China, played a role in early Independence Day celebrations (featuring parades and bonfires) and are now restricted by state law to novelty types in NC; experts remind Mooresville residents to follow safety guidelines as Independence Day approaches tomorrow.

Local photos show early American towns that thrived in North Mecklenburg, Iredell and Lincoln counties before Lake Norman formed; the collection features depots, town halls and soda shops from the early 20th century to the 1970s (curated from local archives) in a look at our regional heritage.

Iredell County Clerk James L.

Mixson III announced on Thursday that experienced educator Rhonda Waugh has been appointed to fill the District 2 vacancy on the Iredell-Statesville Board of Education — a move following a transparent review of candidates. She brings over 30 years of educational experience to the board.

Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey will urge residents to follow safety guidelines for grills and fireworks ahead of tomorrow's Fourth-of-July celebrations.

He will recommend that families keep children away from fire devices and follow local laws to help prevent accidents.

Ember Craft Fusion Food Truck Event

1-6 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Family friendly and pup friendly — Enjoy BBQ and fusion cuisine paired with beer and prosecco on tap.

Topsail Steamer Seafood Boil

4-7 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Ticket required — Enjoy a hands-on seafood boil experience with Topsail Steamer and cook your own feast onsite.

Tacos & Trivia

6-8 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy delicious tacos and test your knowledge with trivia under the stars.

LangTree Live Concert Series

6:30-9 p.m. — LangTree Lake Norman — Free entry — Enjoy live music in a vibrant lakeside setting at LangTree Lake Norman.

Rowdy Street Eats and Live Music

4-9 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Family friendly — Enjoy delicious sandwiches and live music while sipping craft beer and prosecco.

Comedy Bingo Night

6 p.m. — Cain Center For The Arts — Play for prizes while enjoying regional comedians and a unique twist on bingo.

Rowdy Street Eats and Trivia Night

5-9 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Beer and food available — Enjoy delicious sandwiches and test your trivia skills with family-friendly fun.

LangTree Live Concert Series

6:30-9:00 p.m. — LangTree Lake Norman — Free — Enjoy an evening of live music by the lakeside in Mooresville.

The Bite Food Truck Event

4-9 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Enjoy food truck offerings — Indulge in smash burgers and fries alongside craft beverages.

Ady's Pita Food Festival at King Canary Brewing

1-6 p.m. — King Canary Brewing — Cost varies — Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine and craft beverages in a dog-friendly atmosphere.