Good morning, Owensboro.

Beth Steele, Chief Operating Officer at Owensboro Health — who led new healthcare programs — accepted the 2025 ATHENA Award on Wednesday at the Girls Inc. Luncheon where the crowd gave a strong ovation.

She urged more mentoring and support for women and girls — a call made in her speech — and joined other honorees in celebrating local success.

Tim Burton, a greeter at Academy Sports Outdoors who uses a wheelchair, was honored with the Larry Maglinger Award on Tuesday by Visit Owensboro — an honor that recognizes local tourism ambassadors.

He is the third person to earn the award since it began in 2023 and was praised by local officials for his kind, welcoming manner that leaves a strong impression on visitors.

Over 63,000 burgers were sold during Burger Week 2025, and on Wednesday morning Niko’s Bakery & Cafe won the judges’ award by a narrow margin while Kim’s Diner repeated as People’s Choice with nearly a quarter of community votes.

Organizers said the top three restaurants were separated by less than one point—showing a tight contest—and Burger Week will return in early Spring next year.

Displaced Pages — a new independent bookstore and record shop — will open mid-May at 1359 East 4th Street.

Siblings Virginia and Josh Hardesty will offer new and used books, vinyl records, and community events to build an inviting space.

The Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools launched its Readers to Leaders initiative by hosting its first Community Reading Day on Wednesday at Audubon Elementary School, where local business leaders and public officials read age-appropriate books to students.

The program will expand to other elementary schools in the district—aiming to foster a lifelong love of reading.

Owensboro firefighters responded to 6,700 calls in 2024, including 355 fires and 4,725 rescue and EMS calls, and raised training investments by 86%—logging over 22,000 training hours and promoting new certifications.

Fire Chief James Howard said the department’s 2025 goals will include opening a new training center, launching another joint paramedic program and expanding firefighter wellness initiatives.

Starting today, the Daniel Pitino Shelter at 501 Walnut Street will operate as an emergency warming center for four nights as cold temperatures meet White Flag criteria — residents receive shelter from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. and meals during regular hours.

Pet care is available in a heated, insulated garage from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., with free bus rides offered on weekdays and phone service available on weekends.

Owensboro High School running back Evan Hampton, named the top player in Kentucky by On3, committed to play football at Louisville after a strong 2025 season where he rushed for 1,549 yards and scored 20 touchdowns—he chose the Cardinals over offers from Michigan, Indiana and NC State.

The Travelin' McCourys Concert

The Travelin' McCourys will perform at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro.

2025 Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K

The 2025 Wendell Foster Half Marathon & 5K features a flat and fast race route in Owensboro, KY, with an inclusive Steps Division for individuals with disabilities.

Owensboro Flea Market Grand Opening

2-6 p.m. | Owensboro Convention Center | Free entry | Discover 250+ booths filled with incredible bargains and unique treasures at this exciting flea market event.

Easter Oratorio: Thy Will Be Done

7-8 p.m. | RiverPark Center | Cost information not provided | Experience a powerful Easter oratorio depicting Christ’s journey through betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection.

KWC Multicultural Festival

2-6 p.m. — Kentucky Wesleyan College — Free entry — Celebrate diversity with music, food, and dance at this vibrant festival.

The Cher Show

7:30-11:30 p.m. — RiverPark Center — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the unforgettable music and glamour of Cher live on stage.

Owensboro Symphony: Cosmic Worlds

7-9 p.m. — RiverPark Center — Ticket details available online — Embark on a cosmic adventure with John Williams' iconic film scores and Holst's epic The Planets.