Good morning, Frankfort.

Hundreds of Kentucky nonprofits are asking for support during Kentucky Gives Day 2026, a 24-hour online giving celebration that offers donations + matching funds at specific times.

More than 330 groups need every dollar to help mental health services, food banks and youth programs for local families.

Buffalo Trace opened its first restaurant, the John G.

Carlisle Cafe, at its Frankfort campus in the historic Elmer T. Clubhouse (built in the 1930s) after recovering from last year’s floods. The new spot now offers dinner with Buffalo Trace-infused flavors.

Students, alumni, and prospective students have filed a federal class action suit in Frankfort to block a state law that restructures Kentucky State University, arguing it threatens the school’s mission and funding.

The motion seeks emergency relief to halt changes including program closures + faculty terminations and enrollment restrictions.

Kentucky must rebid its state college entrance exam contract for the 2026-27 school year under Senate Bill 197, leaving students without a designated exam.

The Finance Cabinet plans to expedite the process and complete the bid by October, potentially saving up to $350,000 per year.

The Frankfort Plant Board has proposed electric and cable TV rate hikes amid rising energy and content costs - a public hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 18 at 5 p.m. at 151 Flynn Ave, and if approved, increases will take effect on July 1 for electric and Aug.

1 for cable TV.

Kentucky joined a federal tax credit scholarship program when House Bill 1 was signed on Monday, offering a tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations that support student needs in public, private and home schools; Secretary of State Michael Adams will tour the state to explain how the program works in July.

Break the Silence: Mental Health Awareness Event will take place at Memories Event Venue on Saturday, May 30 at 4 p.m. The event features live music, storytelling and personal testimonies to spark mental health conversations + support prevention efforts with a recommended $10 donation.

Frankfort’s track team finished third at the Class A Region 5 meet in Danville Saturday (qualifying Braylen Wells, Abby Moore, and Riley Ammon for the state championships).

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.

Capital Expo Children’s Festival

10 AM – 2 PM — Lakeview Park, 112 Park Ave, Frankfort, KY — Free entry — A fun-filled day of hands-on activities, demonstrations, and exploration with community organizations and emergency vehicles.