Good morning, Owensboro.

Families gathered on Thursday at Smothers Park for the annual STAND Up 4 Children event focused on child abuse prevention.

The free event offered activities such as a bouncy house, petting zoo, face painting, and local organizations provided educational resources & support for children and families.

The Cover the Cruiser Contest raised nearly $11,000 for Special Olympics Kentucky in a yearly fundraiser led by Kentucky State Police — supporting athletes across Tri-State counties with local posts earning notable sums.

The event highlights community support for the sports program.

MOD Pizza closed its Owensboro store on Hartland Crossing on April 15 after nine years in business, leaving employees without notice.

The abrupt shutdown is part of a trend of the chain's underperforming locations being closed (a decision that has shocked local staff).

The Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra will present its Spring Concert on Monday at First Baptist Church, 230 JR Miller Boulevard (doors open at 6 p.m. and performance begins at 6:30 p.m.).

Tickets cost $10, free for students, and entry is at Door 7 at Daviess Street and 2nd Street.

Mason Head was named principal at Apollo High School on Friday — he will begin his role on July 1 as Daviess County Public Schools recognizes his dedication to student success.

Independence Bank’s scholarship program, celebrating 25 years, will award over 60 scholarships on Tuesday, Apr.

28 at 6:00 p.m. at the bank (2425 Frederica Street) in Owensboro; each student will receive at least $1,000, continuing a program that has awarded more than two million dollars since 2001.

Riding Hope Inc. is inviting local volunteers to join its free equine therapy program for minors, where riders attend lessons twice a month and volunteers walk beside riders — no horse experience is needed and the program also seeks a calm lesson horse.

Greg Franklin was named head coach for Owensboro High School Boys Basketball this morning.

The seasoned coach, who has led teams to regional titles, will build on the program's tradition with a focus on student-athlete development.

Windy Hollow Raceway Park hosts weekend racing action today and Sunday, with drag racing at Windy Hollow Dragway where gates open at 2 p.m. and time trials start at 3:30 p.m., plus dirt track events at Windy Hollow Speedway tomorrow including qualifying at 5:30 p.m. and a kids bike race.

Care for the Caregiver Retreat

8 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. — Owensboro Convention Center — Cost varies — A rejuvenating three-day retreat designed for caregivers to find support and community.