If you couldn’t make it out this weekend, we’ve got you covered. Managing Editor Ryan Richardson and his 5-year-old daughter Emery stopped by Maui’s Indoor Theme Park and streamed a walkthrough during its Sneak Peek event, which continues today.

Watch the video here.

The public can again check things out (not every attraction is optional just yet) from noon to 9 p.m. today at Maui’s, located on Frederica Street in the former Towne Square Mall. The park will then close Monday through Thursday before reopening for its official launch on Friday.

Inside, the space is rapidly coming to life with a wide range of attractions, including an indoor roller coaster, go-karts, laser tag, a virtual reality 4D motion theater ride, mini golf, duckpin bowling, arcades, and multiple activity zones for younger children. The layout centers around a large open hub, with check-in and redemption areas anchoring the main floor and attractions branching out across the facility.

Emery gave the experience two thumbs up — and yes, she convinced her dad to stick around and play after the video.

By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Communication boards are being installed at playgrounds across Owensboro’s city parks, giving children of all abilities new ways to interact, play, and build friendships.

The initiative is the result of a partnership between Owensboro Public Schools, RiverValley Behavioral Health, and the City of Owensboro Parks and Recreation Department. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Thursday at Moreland Park, though the boards are being placed at multiple parks citywide.

Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, president and CEO of RiverValley Behavioral Health, said the effort builds on a similar initiative launched last year in local schools.

“We partnered with Owensboro Public Schools to bring communication boards to every elementary school and preschool playground,” Figueroa-Peralta said. “We provide services to children and families with autism, developmental delays, and other communication challenges, and one of the places they sometimes feel isolated is during play.”

She said the success of those school-based boards led to expanding the concept into public spaces.

“We wanted to take it a step further because we know inclusion should not stop when the school bell rings,” she said. “Parks are where families gather and where children have the potential to build friendships and where community truly happens.”

The boards feature pictures, symbols, and simple words that allow children — including those who are nonverbal or learning English — to communicate basic needs and ideas such as “play,” “stop,” “bathroom,” or activities such as using the slide.

Carrie Wedding, director of special education for Owensboro Public Schools, said the boards are designed to remove barriers for children who may struggle to communicate.

“For us, we believe that all kids can do all things, but sometimes there are barriers for kids to access things that everybody else can access,” Wedding said. “This is just an easy thing to do to break the barrier so that you can have access to things just like everybody else can.”

Wedding said the boards mirror tools already used in classrooms, helping students apply those communication skills in real-world settings.

“It’s all about how our kids transition out into the real world,” she said. “It’s just another bridge for them to go from school out into the community.”

RiverValley Behavioral Health provided funding for the boards, while the City handled installation. Amanda Rogers, director of Owensboro Parks and Recreation, said the project was an easy decision once it was presented.

“This is a wonderful project,” Rogers said. “It’s been a great partnership to make this communication tool available to the public.”

Rogers said playgrounds are often a child’s first opportunity to socialize independently, making communication especially important.

“Playgrounds are one of the first places kids go to socialize with other children,” she said. “If you’ve got a child who doesn’t speak English or is nonverbal, that limits that interaction. This expands the potential for interaction for all.”

She added that the boards can also benefit children who are learning English as a second language, creating a more inclusive environment for a wider range of families.

Figueroa-Peralta said the initiative aligns directly with RiverValley’s mission to improve mental health and well-being through connection and inclusion.

“Communication is foundational to mental health and well-being,” she said. “When someone is not integrated and they don’t feel heard and valued, there is a lot of frustration and anxiety. This initiative supports making sure every child in every space in the community is heard.”

Wedding said early feedback from schools has been encouraging, with teachers requesting materials to help students learn how to use the boards and sharing examples of children actively engaging with them.

“It’s been really cool,” she said. “Something so simple can make such a huge difference.”

Community leaders say the collaboration highlights Owensboro’s broader commitment to inclusion.

“This is yet another way that Owensboro is a very inclusive community,” Wedding said. “We truly want everybody to have the opportunity to participate in everything that we have to offer.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Downtown Owensboro is hosting a Kentucky Derby celebration today through Saturday, aiming to bring together local restaurants, retailers, and entertainment across multiple locations.

Activities will include extended shopping hours, themed food and drink specials, live entertainment, and interactive promotions designed to draw people downtown.

“We got a bunch of the food and beverage district and retail district together downtown,” said Derek Stone of Downtown Owensboro. “I was trying to do more things to get everybody working together across the different areas.”

Stone said the idea was inspired in part by the success of downtown’s holiday stroll, with a similar goal of encouraging collaboration and increasing foot traffic.

A central feature of the event is a prize card promotion that encourages visitors to stop at multiple participating businesses. Customers can receive signatures with purchases, and completed cards will be entered into a drawing for a large prize basket made up of donations from local businesses.

“We’ve got a prize card that includes a lot of the downtown restaurants and shops,” Stone said. “Basically, you go somewhere, make a purchase, and they sign off on it. We’ve got a big prize basket put together with items donated from The Pub on Second, Magnolia Mercantile, and others, and Hampton Inn put in a free hotel night voucher.”

Second Street will be closed Thursday and Friday evenings between Allen and St. Ann streets to allow for vendors, outdoor shopping, and entertainment.

“We’re going to have an open shopping market,” Stone said. “We’ll have live music outside Thursday night, and then Friday night, one of our vendors is going to do the first disco downtown of the season.”

Many businesses will feature Derby-themed food and drink specials throughout the weekend, including traditional offerings and creative spins.

“Everybody’s got drink and food specials going on,” Stone said. “Of course, you’ll see mint juleps, Woodford spires, oak lilies, and some unique takes, too. I think Don Mario’s is doing a mint julep margarita.”

Retailers are also planning to extend their hours on Thursday and Friday.

“Most of them are going to stay open until 8 p.m.,” Stone said. “They usually close earlier, so this gives people a chance to do some late-night downtown shopping.”

While the street closures and larger outdoor elements are focused on Thursday and Friday, activities will continue Saturday during regular business hours, including the final opportunity to complete prize cards and enjoy Derby-themed offerings. Many establishments are also expected to show the race.

“We’re trying to encourage people to get downtown and make it a full Derby weekend instead of just one day,” Stone said.

Individual businesses will also host their own promotions, including best-dressed contests, photo opportunities, and giveaways.

“It should be a fun and good time for anybody who wants to get out and enjoy the weekend,” Stone said.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

A regional chimney and fireplace service company with roots dating back nearly four decades is continuing to build on its reputation for reliability and customer care.

Gray Cat Chimney, founded in 1987 by a local couple, was established with a goal of providing dependable chimney and fireplace services to homeowners. Company officials said that commitment to quality work and customer relationships has helped the business grow into a trusted name across the region.

In 2019, the company entered a new chapter under the ownership of Scott and Jeremiah, who now lead daily operations. Scott, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified technician, brings technical expertise and a service-oriented background to the business.

Company leaders said they remain focused on maintaining the values that have guided Gray Cat Chimney since its founding, including honesty, attention to detail, and treating customers like family.

Gray Cat Chimney offers a wide range of services centered on chimney, fireplace, and masonry care. Those services include chimney inspections, sweeping and cleaning, repairs, relining, and installation of chimney caps and dampers. The company also provides fireplace installation, repair, and conversion services, along with routine cleaning and maintenance.

In addition, the business specializes in masonry work such as brick and stone repair, tuckpointing, waterproofing, and full construction or restoration projects.

Company representatives emphasized the importance of regular chimney inspections and maintenance, noting that buildup of creosote, soot, and debris can create fire hazards or restrict airflow. Early detection of issues such as cracks or structural damage can help prevent more serious problems and improve overall safety.

Gray Cat Chimney also offers dryer vent cleaning services, which officials said can reduce fire risk and improve energy efficiency by removing lint buildup that can accumulate over time.

With more than 30 years of experience, company leaders said their goal remains to provide homeowners with peace of mind through safe, efficient, and high-quality service.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Terracon, a U.S.-based consulting engineering firm, has grown into a nationwide provider of environmental, geotechnical, facilities, and materials engineering services since its founding in 1965.

The company, which is 100% employee-owned, operates more than 200 locations across the country and employs over 8,000 people, according to information from its website.

Terracon specializes in helping clients plan, design, and manage projects across a variety of industries, offering services that range from environmental site assessments and regulatory compliance to geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing.

The firm’s work often spans the full lifecycle of a project, assisting with site selection, development, construction, and long-term facility performance.

Founded as Soil Testing Services of Iowa in 1965, the company was later renamed Terracon Consultants, Inc. and became employee-owned in 1980.

Terracon emphasizes a company culture built on innovation, safety, and community involvement, with a stated purpose of “explore beyond the surface” to develop solutions that support long-term sustainability and infrastructure growth.

Today, the firm serves a wide range of public and private sector clients, including those in construction, energy, transportation, and real estate development, completing thousands of projects each year nationwide.

The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.

Today, with nearly 1,000 members, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region. 

To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Kitty Jones, director of membership, at 270-926-1860 or kjones@owensboro.com.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

The Owensboro Family YMCA unveiled plans Monday to increase the number of children the organization can serve through its preschool, toddler, after-school and day camp programs this year, with officials saying the organization will be ready to add about 250 childcare spots by the end of the summer.

YMCA officials also announced a plan to construct a new childcare center in an as-yet undetermined location. When complete, that center will create another 150 child care openings, officials said.

The announcements were made at Monday’s ribbon-cutting of the Y’s childcare center behind the YMCA main building at 730 Harvard Drive. YMCA trustees purchased the facility, which had been a childcare center previously, and renovated the structure with a combination of dollars from local and state governments and donations from private foundations.

“It’s unbelievable what this community did for us,” Family Y President and CEO Tom Bontrager told the crowd of officials Monday.

The city, county and state each contributed $330,000, while the Family Y raised $1.8 million in funds from foundations to renovate the Harvard Drive facility. The Public Life Foundation provided $423,000 for operations of the center

“(State Rep.) DJ Johnson really led the charge” on securing the $330,000 contributions from city, state and county government, Bontrager said.

Meanwhile, the Public Life Foundation was heavily involved in helping the YMCA board secure donations from foundations, Bontrager said.

“This is a unique project,” in that it involves city dollars, county dollars, state dollars and private investments, Public Life Foundation executive director Joe Berry said.

“This is an investment in our future, an investment in our workforce that is going to pay dividends,” Berry said.

The YMCA is moving to address a deficit in available childcare in the community, Daviess Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen said.

“We’ve had two churches that announced they are closing their daycares,” Castlen said.

“One thing we have to have is good childcare, so people can feel comfortable going to work,” Castlen said.

Bontrager said Kentucky Wesleyan College will allow the Y to use space in the Jack T. Wells Activity Center for the YMCA’s after-school program, which is currently housed at the Harvard Drive facility. That move will free up space in the Harvard Drive facility to be used entirely as a preschool, Bontrager said.

The shifting of programs will also create 40 additional spaces for the YMCA’s toddlers program, Bontrager said.

All of the changes, including renovating space in the Wells Activity Center, will be completed this summer. The city and county both put about $100,000 toward renovation of the Wells Center.

“We are going to end up with about 250 additional slots,” Bontrager said.

The facility the YMCA plans to construct will be built with $6.6 in federal funds that officials received through Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell. The funds are through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development grant that YMCA board members have not yet received.

“We are still finding a location,” YMCA board chairman Harrison Price said.

Bontrager said Kentucky Wesleyan will allow the YMCA to use space in the Wells Activity Center for two years, while the new facility is constructed.

Price said officials have not yet decided what kind of childcare programs will be housed in the building once it is finished.

“It’s certainly going to more than double the capacity we have in this facility,” Price said.

Berry said the Public Life Foundation’s $423,000 contribution to the Harvard Drive facility is intended to for operations and staff salaries.

“One of the challenges for the childcare industry is the pay scale,” Berry said, and that the Public Life Foundation provided the donation “to ensure the quality of the education is consistent.”

Bontrager said Mayor Tom Watson and former Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Candance Castlen Brake helped secure the federal loan.

The community was an important part of securing the various streams of funding, Bontrager said.

“I’m proud to be part of Owensboro,” Bontrager said.

By James Mayse Messenger-Inquirer

OWENSBORO, Ky. — The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration in partnership with the Owensboro Family YMCA on Monday, April 20.

The event will take place at 900 Kentucky Parkway, with the ceremony scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m.

In addition to marking the grand opening, the celebration will feature a special announcement unveiling plans for a new YMCA facility, including its future location. Officials say the project represents a significant investment in the Owensboro community and underscores ongoing efforts to support local families and workforce development.

“The YMCA is proud to continue expanding its impact in our community,” said Tom Bontrager, CEO of the Owensboro Family YMCA. “This project reflects our commitment to providing high-quality childcare and supporting working families in meaningful ways.”

Following the ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the YMCA’s plans, connect with community leaders, and celebrate the milestone.

“We are proud to partner with the Owensboro Family YMCA for this important celebration,” said Dave Kirk, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “This announcement speaks to the continued growth and momentum in our community, and the Chamber is excited to support initiatives that strengthen our workforce and improve quality of life for families in Owensboro.”

For more information, contact the Chamber office at chamber@owensboro.com or call (270) 926-1860.

By Mike Mohundro 44 News

Community and business leaders gathered Thursday at the Owensboro Convention Center as the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation outlined continued economic momentum, major project updates, and a forward-looking strategy centered on workforce, entrepreneurship, and smart growth.

Claude Bacon, president and CEO of GOEDC, reflected on the city’s transformation over the past two decades while emphasizing the importance of collaboration and intentional growth moving forward.

“When I arrived in Owensboro just over 20 years ago, I could never imagine standing here today leading the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation,” Bacon said. “What I didn’t realize at the time was that I wasn’t just building a career. I was becoming part of a community that was transitioning into something much bigger.”

Bacon said Owensboro’s progress has been driven by alignment among leaders, business investment, and a willingness to create opportunities rather than wait for them.

“I’ve seen what happens when community and elected leaders align around a shared vision,” he said. “I’ve seen businesses and industry take risks that paid off.”

He pointed to a stronger, more confident community with a growing downtown, expanding retail corridors, and industries choosing to stay and grow locally.

“And I’ve seen this community decide that they weren’t going to wait for opportunity but they were going to create it,” Bacon said.

He said recent economic development wins have helped Owensboro earn dual top-10 rankings nationally for total projects and projects per capita. Bacon highlighted several major investments, including Swedish Match’s $232 million expansion, UniFirst’s $28 million expansion now complete, Mizkan’s planned $156 million project, and R+L Carriers’ $25 million transportation hub that opened in 2025.

Additional developments include Maui’s Indoor Theme Park, an $18 million project expected to open in the coming weeks, and continued activity at the MidAmerica Airpark, where officials are optimistic about landing multiple projects.

While some development prospects remain confidential, Bacon said the outlook remains strong.

“You know our business, so while our pipeline is confidential, we are confident the economic development future is bright,” he said.

Bacon also highlighted key sites positioned for future growth, including the Massie property — a 121-acre site acquired by the city in 2025 — which has received nearly $4 million in state funding support. He also pointed to the Owensboro Riverport Authority as a major asset, citing its multimodal connectivity and infrastructure investments.

Workforce development remains a central focus, with officials reporting increases in both labor force participation and average wages. Bacon said Daviess County added approximately 335 workers in 2025, with participation rates exceeding the state average.

Programs such as GO FAME, Elevate Owensboro, the Reentry Success Program, and the PACT initiative are helping connect employers with talent while expanding opportunities for diverse populations.

“We are continuing to see steady progress in average annual wages,” Bacon said. “At the same time, both population and labor force numbers are moving in the right direction.”

Small business growth and entrepreneurship were also emphasized, with local partnerships supporting startups and expansions through coaching, funding assistance, and mentorship programs. In 2025, five businesses received support through a city-backed subsidy program.

GOEDC is also advancing plans for “The Landing,” a proposed downtown entrepreneurship and coworking hub in the former Turley building. The project has secured $2.2 million in state funding and aims to serve as a central space for innovation and remote work.

Beyond GOEDC-led efforts, Bacon highlighted the broader economic impact of key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, education, healthcare, and tourism.

He said manufacturing alone accounts for nearly one out of every four dollars produced locally, while agriculture continues to lead the state in grain production and livestock value.

Healthcare remains the region’s largest employment driver, with Owensboro Health generating nearly $978 million in economic impact, according to Bacon.

Tourism also plays a significant role, contributing nearly $250 million in economic impact locally and supporting nearly 2,000 jobs in Daviess County, Bacon said.

Guest speaker Michael Antonelli, a market strategist with Baird Private Wealth Management, provided a broader economic perspective, noting long-term growth trends in the U.S. economy.

He pointed out that the U.S. gross domestic product has grown from roughly $5 trillion in 1973 to approximately $22 trillion today, when adjusted to constant dollars.

Antonelli also emphasized demographic trends, noting that many of the fastest-growing cities are driven by populations in their mid-to-late 30s — a period associated with peak earning, spending, and household formation.

Bacon closed the event by shifting focus from financial metrics to the human impact behind economic development.

“The real story is the parent who gets a better job, the couple earning a better life, the student or college graduate who sees a future here instead of somewhere else,” he said. “Economic development isn’t only about dollars — it’s about dignity, opportunity, and people building better lives right here in our community.”

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times

Owensboro Health will host “Ready. Set. Baby! A Shower for Expectant Parents & Loved Ones” on Saturday, offering education, resources, and giveaways for families preparing to welcome a new baby.

The free community event is open to expectant parents as well as friends and family members who want to learn more about pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenting. Owensboro Health leaders say the shower is designed to support families during a time filled with both excitement and questions.

Attendees can expect educational exhibits, refreshments, door prizes, and opportunities to connect with health care professionals and other families. Car seat safety checks will be available from noon to 1 p.m., with exhibits, activities, and speakers running from noon to 2:30 p.m. 

The event will take place at the Pleasant Valley Medical Building, attached to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, at 1301 Pleasant Valley Road, Entrance B.

Registration is encouraged by Friday, as walk-in spots are limited. Each registered guest may bring one friend or family member. To register, visit the Owensboro Health website or call 270-417-5303.

Owensboro Health officials say the event reflects the organization’s continued commitment to supporting families through every stage of life.

By Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times

Friday After 5 organizers have announced the lineup for the 2026 season, marking the event’s 30th anniversary with what officials describe as its largest and most diverse schedule to date.

The free summer concert series will run from May 15 through Aug. 7 along the downtown Owensboro riverfront, featuring a mix of national touring acts, regional performers, tribute bands, and emerging artists across two stages.

For three decades, the weekly event has drawn thousands to the riverfront for live music and community activities.

“This is without a doubt the biggest and most exciting season we’ve ever put together,” said Heath Eric, CEO of The Eric Group and talent buyer for Friday After 5. “The level of talent, the diversity of the lineup, and the number of special moments planned for this 30th anniversary are unmatched. We have several major nights on the schedule and even more surprises still to come.”

Brad Howton, chair of Friday After 5, said the milestone season reflects both the event’s history and the support behind it.

“For 30 years, Friday After 5 has been built by an incredible group of board members, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who believed in creating something special for Owensboro,” Howton said. “This season is a celebration of that legacy and the tremendous support that has helped grow Friday After 5 into one of the region’s premier free weekly concert series and street festivals.”

The season opens May 15 with City of Owensboro Night, featuring Juice Box Heroes on the main stage and The Green Lights on the Overlook Stage.

Other highlights include Jimmy Church Band on May 22; Sterling Elza and KG & The Bad Habits on May 29; and a June 5 lineup featuring Resurrection – A Journey Tribute with Reckless: America’s Bryan Adams Experience.

Midseason performances include Hayden Coffman and L’il Man J on June 12; Nigel Dupree & The Heat on June 19; and 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience on June 26.

A July 3 celebration will feature a drone show as part of an America 250-themed event, followed by the 30th Anniversary Celebration on July 10 with Nashville duo Lakeview headlining.

Additional acts include Vinyl Radio on July 17, Unlimited Show Band on July 24, and a July 31 lineup featuring DJ Shay’s Dance Party and Owensboro artist Cam Thompson.

The season will conclude Aug. 7 with a Back to School Bash and finale, with the headlining act still to be announced.

Friday After 5 runs each Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is free. The Kroger Street Fair opens at 5 p.m., with the Overlook Stage hosting performances from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by main stage concerts from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

In addition to live music, the event features food vendors, family activities, and weekly attractions. Organizers said additional themed nights, vendor announcements, and special events will be released throughout the season.

Principal sponsors include Jagoe Homes as the title sponsor, along with Romain Subaru and Romain Cadillac, Owensboro Racing & Gaming, Atmos Energy, and Kroger. Community partners include OMU, Rhoads & Rhoads, RiverValley Behavioral Health, and several other local organizations.

More information, including weekly details and updates, is available at FridayAfter5.com.

By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times