Good morning, Frankfort.

Breeding Fire Department will host its annual Chili Supper and Auction on Saturday, October 4 at its station — Terry and Brenda Harvey said the event will offer chili meals and auction items to raise funds for local needs.

Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension helped Kentuckians during severe flooding in April when its Disaster Recovery Unit set up at the Capital Plaza Hotel provided digital access, FEMA support, and educational displays—assisting families and engaging children with computer activities. The program continues to build community resilience by partnering with organizations like the American Red Cross and 4-H as it prepares for future emergencies.

Last week the Frankfort Independent Schools Board passed its working budget for fiscal year 2026 by approving $14,163,344.83 and setting a tax rate meant to raise revenue and bonding capacity.

Superintendent Satterly said the carry-forward grew by about ($500,000) and the district’s contingency fund rose to over $2.2 million (15.5%), while bonding capacity increased from $4.7 million to over $20 million.

Outdoor burning restrictions are in effect today as Kentucky enters the fall wildfire hazard season; Gov. Beshear and forestry officials said burning is banned from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. within 150 feet of woods and brush—drought conditions and vigorous spring growth may raise wildfire risks.

Kentucky has allocated $250,000 each year to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance after lawmakers passed House Bill 8 in 2024 — the funds support accredited facilities caring for retired racehorses so they can live well after racing.

The allocation reinforces the state's commitment to horse aftercare and aims to serve as a model for other states.

State Sen. Brandon Smith from Hazard sent a letter to Gov. Andy Beshear urging him to sign a death warrant for Ralph Baze—convicted of killing Sheriff Steve Bennett and Deputy Arthur Briscoe over 30 years ago—and said the governor must act to give the victims' families the justice they deserve.

Frankfort officials passed a unanimous interlocal agreement on Monday with the Fiscal Court, Board of Commissioners and Schools Board to plan an indoor pool and wellness center, securing a property purchase on Martin Luther King Boulevard—this step will guide future design and fundraising for the project.

Kentucky officials disqualified a single mother from SNAP benefits in 2020 after they said her shopping patterns showed fraud and she later won her suit when a judge called the move draconian.

The state has revoked benefits for hundreds based solely on transaction data and now faces legal challenges over whether that evidence proves wrongdoing—raising fresh questions on fairness.

FEMA has provided over $104 million in aid to Kentuckians hurt by severe weather disasters this year, including $66.7 million for 7,386 households after February storms, $34.1 million for 3,766 households after April flooding, and $3.6 million for 612 households following a May tornado outbreak—more applications are being processed while Disaster Recovery Centers at Somerset Community College and Pike County Public Library in Pikeville will close this weekend.

Knox Barrett, a sophomore quarterback for the Flyers in Franklin County, was named Traditional Bank Athlete of the Week after throwing for 1,414 yards and 15 touchdowns in six games—he also threw 323 yards and two touchdowns in the win against Lincoln County.

He started his freshman season injured and has grown into a leader on and off the field.

Haunting on the Hill

7-10:30 p.m. — Sullivan House Visitor Center at Leslie Morris Park at Fort Hill — Free entry — Experience a hauntingly good time at the Spooky Trail this October.