Good morning, Frankfort.

Military and state leaders honored Kentucky native Mike McDowell, a World War II soldier killed in 1944, on Wednesday after DNA testing solved a decades-long mystery; Governor Beshear ordered flags flown at half-staff as tribute to his sacrifice.

YMCA of Central Kentucky will host its annual back-to-school rallies tomorrow at sites including Frankfort’s Commonwealth Credit Union drive-thru from 9:30–11:30 a.m. and events in Lexington and Nicholasville; over 5,000 backpacks with school supplies will be given to elementary, middle, and high school students on a first-come basis.

Earlier this week, Swim With Purpose provided free water safety swim lessons to children at Juniper Hill Aquatic Center, with registration far exceeding the original cap.

The program will expand to serve more counties and offer a session for second graders this fall.

Motorists on I-64 West in Franklin County should prepare for alternating lane closures nightly from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. beginning Sunday through Friday, Aug.

14, as crews pave and repair bridges—drivers are advised to follow restrictions and plan extra travel time.

Kentucky health officials say the CDC is investigating a rise in DIPG cases in Eastern Kentucky following 10 confirmations among young people since 2024 — normally 2-3 appear each year.

Gov. Beshear said his office will seek extra federal support for pediatric cancer research and aid for affected families.

Data from Feeding America shows that over 837,000 Kentuckians, including one in four children, face hunger; God's Pantry Food Bank (serving 50 counties in central and eastern Kentucky) said demand grows this summer when children miss school meals and urged community donations to help close the meal gap.

Last school year, 86% of Kentucky kindergartners received all vaccines compared to 91% nationwide, showing low immunization rates as measles cases hit a 35-year high.

Health officials urge families to seek reliable vaccine information ahead of back-to-school and National Immunization Awareness Month in August.

Franklin County Health Department is investigating several Legionnaires’ disease cases and says the risk remains low; residents are advised to set water heaters to 140° and flush unused faucets (consult a doctor if symptoms develop).

Davina and The Vagabonds

7:30 p.m. — Grand Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience a high-energy performance from Davina Sowers and the Vagabonds, blending jazz and retro influences.