Good morning, Frankfort.

The GE BEES team, led by Ed Lawrence, Elise Mandel, and Kevin Nance, won back-to-back Spellapalooza championships Friday evening at the Thorn Hill Education Center's gymnasium amid strong community support while raising funds for adult education.

The event featured challenging rounds that kept the audience engaged.

Undisputed Fitness owner Peter Gall will run across Kentucky beginning Aug.

18 and arrive in Frankfort on Aug. 29 to invite locals to join part of his 450-mile fundraiser for kids to access sports + finish with a pizza party at his gym.

Several Kentucky medical schools, including Louisville, Pikeville and Eastern's proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, have joined a federal nutrition initiative that requires 40 training hours each year starting this fall; HHS Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr. announced the move after the University of Kentucky pledged earlier.

The University of Kentucky and Murray State University will offer new artificial intelligence degrees this fall as part of their computer science programs; UK expects enrollment to rise from 30 to 200 and Murray State anticipates increased interest to meet growing workforce demands in AI.

Residents in Franklin County reported seeing a juvenile black bear last week near homes on Hanly Lane and at a parking lot.

Wildlife officials advise keeping a safe distance and securing food as the bear is expected to return to its mountain habitat by fall.

Feeding America's report shows over 837,000 Kentuckians face hunger — including seniors, children, and working families — and local food pantries plan to boost support during Hunger Action Month.

Community partners urge donations and volunteer help.

Red Cross officials report a critical blood shortage with distribution sites nationwide, including those serving Frankfort, holding only a half-day's supply of vital blood.

Officials say the drop in summer donations has been sharper than usual — urging local residents to help replenish stocks for essential treatments.

Kentucky's football team is counting on Baylor transfer Coleton Price to anchor its offensive line for new coach Will Stein as the team readies for its upcoming season.

Price, who tied the knot last Oct. (marrying Hailey Skinner), combines his strong faith and family support to handle the challenges ahead.