Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for Thursday, July 31st, 2025.

We start with breaking news that’s on everyone’s minds. There’s relief for one Lexington family this morning after three children, abducted from our city earlier this week, have been found safe. The children’s father, a Chinese national, was detained in Panama as he tried to flee the country. Federal and local authorities are praising the quick action that led to this safe recovery near Bluegrass Airport. The children are now back with their mother, and the community is breathing a sigh of relief.

Turning to weather, we’re seeing scattered thunderstorms this morning, with rain likely through the midday. If you’re headed to downtown or around the UK campus, be prepared for slick roads and possible delays. Temperatures will top out in the mid-80s, so expect steamy conditions with brief breaks of sun. The good news is skies should clear by late afternoon. Friday looks calmer and cooler, perfect for outdoor plans heading into the weekend.

In City Hall news, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council just welcomed 39 new firefighters, boosting local fire coverage and response times. City leaders are also debating new recommendations from a community group on how to address Fayette County Public Schools’ 16 million dollar budget deficit. Everything from staffing to curriculum support is on the table, and parents can expect updates at the next board meeting on Main Street.

Developments in local real estate have some homeowners talking. According to coverage from LEX18, some residents in neighborhoods like Chevy Chase and Hamburg are seeing property taxes climb higher than expected this summer. Officials urge anyone with questions to contact the Fayette County PVA office directly.

Let’s look at the job market. According to Help Wanted Lexington, there are over 42,000 active job seekers in our area right now, and more than a hundred part-time positions paying $15 an hour or more have opened this week in retail, food service, and delivery. Gap Inc. is hiring for sales team members on Nicholasville Road, while National Fleet Management is seeking experienced mechanics on Sneath Avenue. If you’re searching for flexible or remote work, opportunities are better than they’ve been in months.

On to arts, culture, and events. Country music fans in Lexington are celebrating as John Michael Montgomery brings it home for one last show at Rupp Arena Saturday night—it’s a can’t-miss moment for local music lovers. The Equinox Jazz Fest kicks off this weekend in Triangle Park, with free concerts and family-friendly activities celebrating Kentucky’s music legacy.

In high school sports, congratulations are in order for the Lafayette Generals baseball team, who clinched another win at Shillito Park this week, and shout-out to local middle schoolers from Tates Creek who placed first in the regional robotics competition.

Quick note on public safety: The Lexington Police Department responded to several burglary attempts near Tates Creek Road last night and urges residents to remain vigilant, especially with garage doors and vehicles left unlocked.

A feel-good story to close out: For the second year, the Woodford County community pool just across the county line is offering free summer meals to local kids—a generous effort that’s received strong support from Lexington volunteers.

Thank you for tuning in and letting us be part of your morning. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss the heartbeat of our community. This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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