Good morning, Owensboro.

The Opportunity Center of Owensboro, in partnership with Coalition Forward, will host an employer roundtable on inclusive hiring Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at its center where employers, workforce professionals and community leaders will share best practices and real-world experiences.

Daviess County Public Schools will keep running its food pantry programs for residents after Cargill awards a new $20K grant today.

The funding builds on 2024 efforts to provide food assistance across the county.

WalletHub released a study just in time for the Fourth of July that ranked Kentucky 19th in patriotism nationwide; the report highlighted strong military support and civics education—key elements of daily pride here in Owensboro—while noting lower voter turnout and volunteer hours.

Families can look forward to the annual Longest Day of Play at Thompson Berry Park on Saturday, June 20.

The free event features games, inflatables, a nine-hole miniature golf course, balloon art+food and other activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1 Carter Road.

The Bluegrass Music Hall and Museum in Owensboro won Best Museum while Beaver Dam Amphitheatre in Ohio County was named Best Theatre Venue in the 2026 Best of Kentucky awards; ROMP 2026 runs June 24 to 27 at Yellow Creek Park with more legendary shows coming at the amphitheatre.

A new report from the Kentucky State Data Center finds Daviess County will grow from 104,900 to 111,563 residents by 2050 while neighboring counties see declines, and local leaders credit long-term investments in infrastructure & community services for the trend.

KCTCS (the system) experienced a record year in the 2025-26 academic cycle by graduating 25,013 students and awarding 47,513 credentials.

More than 10,000 students earned associate degrees while 74% left without student debt, reflecting its push for affordable, high-quality education.

The Owensboro Police Department and Owensboro Fire Department will conduct two weeks of active shooter training at Owensboro High School this summer while students are on break— the exercise is meant to enhance response times, coordination, and building familiarity.

Jake Boswell was named to join the Kentucky Chamber’s inaugural Next Generation Leadership Council, a state group of 20 emerging leaders who will work to boost economic growth during the 2026–28 term, and he said the council will spotlight Owensboro’s strong workforce development and quality of life.

R.O.M.P. Festival 2026

12:00–9:59 p.m. — Yellow Creek Park — Ticket info available — Experience the sounds of Mason Via and more at this annual music festival in Owensboro.

2026 Heritage Hills Quarterback Club Golf Scramble

7 a.m. – 7 p.m. — The Pearl Club — $400/foursome — Enjoy a day of golf while supporting the local football program with prizes and a provided lunch.