Good morning, Owensboro.

Downtown Owensboro will host its first-ever Small Biz Crawl on May 22—an all-day event featuring prize giveaways, pop-up shops, live music, and social media contests organized by Downtown Owensboro Inc, GOEDC, and the City.

Shoppers can enter for cash prizes by turning in receipts at the Hampton Inn Riverfront on May 22 or by 10 a.m. on May 23 when winners are announced live.

Volunteers at Precious Blood Catholic Church are preparing food for the BBQ and Barrels festival, which will run from May 9 to May 10.

Veteran helper Bruce Tucker said 40 pork butts and 70 gallons of bourbon—along with smoked bologna, pork loin, and whole chickens—are being prepped by ten volunteers and five churches.

Today Kroger reopens its renovated Frederica Street store in Owensboro after a $1.2 million makeover.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:45 a.m. will feature local officials (DJ Johnson, Gary Boswell, Tom Watson, Curtis Maglinger, and Nate Pagan) at (2630 Frederica Street).

Former Owensboro Public Schools superintendent Matthew D.

Constant was sentenced on Wednesday to 30 years in prison for federal child exploitation charges—he pleaded guilty to nine counts including online enticement, receipt of child pornography, and sexual exploitation of minors at the U.S. Courthouse in Owensboro.

Deputy Veronica Murray was named the 2024 Deputy Jailer of the Year at the Daviess County Detention Center ceremony today—honoring over two dozen staff for outstanding service and heroism—while accolades also recognized supervisors and deputies.

Deputy Christopher Isbill earned the Medal of Valor for rescuing a driver on January 16 and four deputies received lifesaving medals for quick actions during separate incidents.

The city of Owensboro announced a $1.5 million agreement with TS Entertainment, LLC to develop 33 acres near Frederica Street and Back Square Drive— the payment will be made in four equal installments of $375,000.

Mother’s Day Brunch

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Owensboro Convention Center — Pricing not specified — Celebrate Mom with a delightful brunch buffet and riverside views in an elegant setting.

Touch-A-Truck Event

11 a.m. — Panther Creek Park — Free entry — Explore a variety of vehicles including police cars, fire engines, and heavy equipment at this family-friendly event.

Gene Watson Live Concert

7-9 PM — Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum — Tickets from $43 — Experience masterful country music with the legendary Gene Watson.

Over The Top Wrestling Event

7-11 p.m. — Owensboro Sportscenter — $10-$45 — Experience a night of high-energy professional wrestling with meet and greets featuring wrestling legends.

Athelite Memorial Day Challenge

May 24-25 — Owensboro Convention Center — Team registration fees apply — A competitive youth sports event featuring teams from over 10 states in basketball.

Neighborhood Sale - Locust Hill / Krystal Lane

12 PM — Owensboro Dugan Best Rec Center — Free entry — Discover neighborhood treasures at this community sale event.

Firefly Festival: Know & Glow

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Western Kentucky Botanical Garden — Free entry — Learn about fireflies and enjoy crafts and activities for all ages while savoring delicious food from local vendors.

River City Bike Expo

Manufacturer Displays — All day — Owensboro Convention Center — Varies — A thrilling weekend for bike enthusiasts featuring shows, competitions, and a tattoo expo.

Strawberry Festival

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Cottage Farm Stand — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly day of live entertainment, 150+ vendors, and delicious fresh strawberries.