Good morning, Owensboro.

Owensboro firefighters participated Thursday in hands-on training with a specialized fire system trailer at the new Fire Department facility off JR Miller Boulevard.

The session provided insights into dry and wet sprinkler systems+ alarm panels and commercial kitchen suppression systems+ that boost preparedness for emergencies.

Local yard and garage sales start today along Hwy 54 and in Owensboro neighborhoods and will run through May 2.

Families can shop for antiques, clothes, and other items at several events, with some including food trucks (check details for times and locations).

Communication boards are being installed at several playgrounds to help children of all abilities interact and enjoy play.

The initiative, a partnership between Owensboro Public Schools, RiverValley Behavioral Health & the City Parks and Recreation Department, had a ribbon-cutting event at Moreland Park.

Today, the Owensboro Engineering Department in partnership with the Owensboro Neighborhood Alliance is offering free Eastern redbud and white dogwood seedlings at the Owensboro Sportscenter parking lot from 10 a.m. to noon - residents may pick up up to five while supplies last.

Big Bang Toys, Comics & Games will host its annual Free Comic Book Day on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at its store at 4786 Frederica Street, where free comics + contests, mini golf, food trucks, and discounted items are offered for comic fans of all ages.

Theatre Workshop of Owensboro's production of Our Town will have its final three shows at Empress Theatre, with performances today at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. The classic play brings small-town daily life + community bonds to the stage.

Owensboro will host a national folk music conference from May 28 – 31 at the Convention Center.

The Southeast Regional Folk Alliance will present workshops, mentoring sessions and official showcases at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame with a keynote by Kyshona and a theme of Woven Together.

WBKR is hosting a scavenger hunt at BBQ & Barrels that will award VIP concert lanyards and meet & greet passes to country music star Chase Matthew.

The contest runs from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday in downtown Owensboro with clues sent via the WBKR app.

Ford plans to invest $2B in Hardin County’s former BlueOval SK plants to create at least 2,100 jobs making energy storage systems.

Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed the updated investment terms as part of the state’s effort to restore lost jobs.

A new guide lists Owensboro’s top thrift, vintage, and consignment shops with key details on store hours and locations (including A Repeat Boutique on Wing Avenue and New Life Thrift on 4th Street) to help locals find budget-friendly treasures.

Readers can share favorites for potential updates.

On April 30, local softball saw Daviess County and Apollo secure big wins while Hancock County suffered a narrow loss, and the Lady Raiders shut out McLean County 15—0.

Bradley Payne is named new head coach of Breckinridge County boys basketball and returns to his alma mater after 31 years since graduating in 1995.

The experienced coach from Daviess County will meet his team soon + focus on building a strong, defensive tradition.

Panthers after Dark: Full Moon Hike

8-10 p.m. — Panther Creek Park — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly, leisurely hike under the moonlight with well-behaved dogs and kids welcome.

Partners in Hope Cancer Benefit Concert

12-6 p.m. — Windy Hollow Speedway — Entry fee to support patients — Enjoy a day of music, poker runs, and family fun for a great cause.

Johnson Dance Studio 50th Anniversary Recital

2:45-5:45 p.m. — RiverPark Center — Admission details not provided — Celebrate five decades of dance excellence with a memorable recital.