Good morning, Frankfort.

Kentucky Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher urged school superintendents on Tuesday to contact federal lawmakers after the U.S. Education Department halted nearly 3 billion dollars in COVID relief reimbursements.

He said the pause left districts struggling with nearly 5 million dollars in expected funds and risked delaying key projects like school technology upgrades and bus purchases — plans meant to help schools until March 2026.

Gov. Beshear addressed the state on Thursday in Frankfort with an update on the severe weather emergency that led to the closure of 49 state roads and urged drivers to slow down as flash flooding risks continue through Sunday morning—he also said Dr. Steven Stack will soon update Kentuckians on public health and infrastructure improvements.

Starting Wednesday, 15 year old Kentuckians can sign up online at the Kentucky State Police website to apply for a learner’s permit written test.

Applicants who already scheduled an appointment do not need to reapply—those without a slot should check the website each weekday at 8 a.m. and study the driver’s manual.

State officials, Gov. Andy Beshear and AAA East Central are urging motorists to buckle up and set phones aside during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

The state troopers will enforce the Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign from April 7th to 13th — a reminder that a moment of distraction can lead to danger.

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman joined with state leaders to file a brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims—urging a federal court to restore full education benefits for two veterans, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Yoon and Colonel Toby Doran.

They claim the Department of Veterans Affairs limits benefits against a Supreme Court ruling that guarantees eligible veterans up to 48 months of education support.

Alejandro Escovedo Concert

7-10 p.m. — Grand Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the rich musical journey of Alejandro Escovedo from punk rock to roots rock.

Over the Rhine Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Grand Theatre — Cost varies — Experience the soulful sounds of Cincinnati's beloved folk band Over the Rhine.

Earth Day Festival

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Liberty Hall Historic Site — Free entry — Celebrate Mother Earth with live music and family activities in historic gardens.

Keeneland Spring Race Meet

11 AM – 5 PM — Keeneland Association Inc — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling live horse racing at the historic Keeneland racetrack.

Royal Run 5K

12:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Lakeview Park — Entry fee required — Experience the inaugural 5K run benefiting the Frankfort Christian Academy.

2025 Bourbon & Browns Fundraiser

6-10 p.m. — Liberty Hall Historic Site — All proceeds benefit Liberty Hall Historic Site — Celebrate Kentucky Derby with a distillers’ showcase and local cuisine.

2025 Downtown Frankfort Derby Breakfast Celebration

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Downtown Frankfort Inc — Free entry — Celebrate Derby season with live bluegrass music, delicious brunch, and family-friendly activities.