Good morning, Frankfort.

The Franklin County Farmers Market will open tomorrow at 203 Holmes St. from 8:30 a.m. to noon — offering fresh produce, eggs, baked goods, meats, and local honey along with live music and free token deals for kids at the new seasonal pavilion.

The Franklin County Fiscal Court will celebrate the county’s 231st birthday on Saturday, May 9 at Lakeview Park — the free family event will offer games, inflatables, historic train rides and treats, including hot dogs and ice cream from the sheriff’s office.

Drought conditions have expanded across most of Kentucky after a week of dry weather, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report released on Thursday.

The report shows extreme drought in western areas increased significantly, and forecasts call for near normal temperatures and slightly above average rain until May 2.

The county removed invasive Bradford pear trees from Duckers park property on Thursday, April 23 to protect local wildlife, as noted by volunteer Chris Schimmoeller (Remove Invasives Partnership).

Residents are urged to remove Bradford pears from their property to prevent further spread.

Kentucky State Treasurer Mark Metcalf said the Treasury’s Unclaimed Property Division returned over $100M to Kentuckians in recent weeks by processing claims for forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, and other assets.

The office urges residents to search for unclaimed funds (searches are free online).

Kentucky's Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission awarded nearly $34 million in grants to over 100 groups today at the Woodhill Community Center to support drug prevention and recovery efforts; part of the funds will boost local programs like the Lexington Leadership Foundation's Fatherhood and Youth Empowerment Initiatives.

Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart will retire on June 30 and will not take the planned Executive in Residence role for the sports workforce initiative at the University of Kentucky.

President Eli Capilouto said the change will help refocus efforts on what students need most.

Painted Clay Pot Mushrooms

11 a.m. — Paul Sawyier Public Library — Free entry — Get creative and add a whimsical touch to your garden with handmade clay pot mushrooms for all ages.

2026 River Rat Run 3K

6-8 p.m. — River View Park — Registration fees apply — Enjoy an evening of fitness and community at the River Rat Run 3K race.