Good morning, Frankfort.

Kentucky has one of the highest teen driving death rates in the nation — with more than 48,000 crashes and 210 teen deaths in three years — as officials mark National Teen Driver Safety Week and urge parents to help teens drive safely.

KCTCS President Ryan Quarles visited several campuses to learn how the colleges can best meet local workforce needs—he explained that schools are tailoring training programs to match regional jobs like heavy equipment operation and nuclear energy while also updating transfer agreements with four-year universities. He said the system is setting a new strategic plan for 2026 through 2030 to improve access to postsecondary education for Kentuckians.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will hold a public meeting on Nov.

12th from 5 to 7 p.m. at Paul Sawyier Public Library — residents can review preliminary designs and speak with staff about the Singing Bridge replacement project in Franklin County. An online survey will be available until Dec. 12th, and the final design phase will begin in early 2026.

During a legislative hearing in Kentucky, some lawmakers raised concerns that cannabis edible products—like colorful gummies—look too much like candy and might confuse children, while the Office of Medical Cannabis detailed strict safety measures to protect them.

Kentucky's domestic violence coalition hosted an event at the Capitol Education Center where purple shirts — ribbons filled the room and speakers shared survivor stories and statistics to highlight the crisis affecting thousands.

The gathering featured a proclamation from First Lady Britainy Beshear marking October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and urging continued support for local programs.

On Wednesday, Ethema Health Corporation signed a letter of intent to acquire Addiction Recovery Care, Kentucky’s largest substance abuse treatment provider.

The company said it will work through due diligence—ensuring a seamless transition with stable employee roles and continued client services.

The Drug Enforcement Administration will host the 29th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Franklin County Health Department at 851 East-West Connector — the event will allow residents to safely dispose of unused medications and lower community risk.

Frankfort’s girls volleyball team earned a semifinal spot at the 41st District tournament after winning its opening match Tuesday at WHHS, as the Lady Panthers, the fourth seed, beat Frankfort Christian Academy 3 games to nil with set scores of 25 to 15, 25 to 20 and 25 to 17.

Van Morrison Tribute by Van the Band

7:30-9 p.m. — Grand Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy the music of Van Morrison with classics like Brown Eyed Girl and Moondance for a night to remember.