Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 21, 2025.

We're excited to report that March Madness has arrived in Lexington! The NCAA Tournament is underway at Rupp Arena, with fans from across the country descending on our city. Tomorrow's big matchup features Creighton taking on fourth-ranked Auburn at 6:10 pm. If you're heading to the game, expect heavy traffic around downtown, especially on Main Street and Broadway.

In other sports news, the University of Kentucky's men's basketball team is preparing for their Sweet Sixteen game next week. Coach Calipari says the team is focused and ready for the challenge ahead.

Shifting gears to the job market, we've got some positive news to share. Lexington's employment growth rate of 5.5% since 2020 leads all metro areas in the Cleveland Federal Reserve's district. This growth outpaces larger cities like Cincinnati and Columbus. The average entry-level salary in Lexington now stands at about $15 an hour, showing steady improvement in our local economy.

On the business front, UK HealthCare has announced it will end its relationship with Cigna insurance effective May 1. Patients with Cigna coverage should contact their providers to discuss alternative options.

In community news, the University of Kentucky Alumni Association is continuing its Job Club meetings this spring. These free sessions, held via Zoom on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, offer valuable networking and career advice for job seekers.

Looking ahead to next week, the Kentucky Workforce Summit kicks off on Tuesday at the Lexington Convention Center. This two-day event will bring together business leaders, educators, and government officials to discuss strategies for strengthening our state's workforce.

Weather-wise, we're in for a beautiful spring day with highs near 70 and sunny skies. Perfect conditions for enjoying outdoor activities or catching a game at Rupp Arena.

In public safety news, Lexington police report a quiet night with no major incidents. However, they remind residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially with the influx of visitors for the NCAA Tournament.

Lastly, we want to highlight a heartwarming story from our community. Local high school students from Bryan Station have raised over $10,000 for the Ronald McDonald House through their annual charity drive. Their efforts will help support families with seriously ill children receiving medical care in Lexington.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 20, 2025.

We're kicking off today with some exciting news from the University of Kentucky. On March 29, hundreds of UK students will fill Historic Memorial Coliseum for the annual DanceBlue event. This 24-hour dance marathon raises funds for pediatric cancer research and has become a beloved tradition on campus.

In city news, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government has announced the cancellation of the St. Patrick's parade due to severe weather concerns. However, festival performances will be moved indoors, so the celebration will still go on.

Speaking of weather, we're looking at a chilly start to the day with temperatures in the low 40s. Expect partly cloudy skies and a high of 58 degrees this afternoon. It's a good day to grab a light jacket if you're heading out.

On the job front, Lexington's employment growth continues to impress. Our city has shown the highest rate of job growth since 2020 in the Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank's district, with a 5.5% increase. This puts us ahead of other major cities in the region like Cincinnati and Cleveland.

In real estate, the average home price in Lexington is holding steady at around $275,000. The market remains competitive, with homes typically selling within 30 days of listing.

For those job hunting, we've got some opportunities to share. Churchill Downs Racetrack is hiring Oaks and Derby Mutuel Clerks for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. This could be your chance to be part of the most exciting two minutes in sports. Global Voice Service is also looking for Customer Service and Retention Agents right here in Lexington.

In community news, the Planning Commission will hold a work session tomorrow, March 21, to discuss upcoming development projects. This meeting is open to the public and will take place at City Hall.

Sports fans, mark your calendars. March Madness is coming to Lexington as we host games for the Women's NCAA Tournament. It's a great opportunity to support women's basketball and cheer on some of the nation's top teams right in our backyard.

On a somber note, Kentucky State Police are investigating after human skeletal remains were found in neighboring Jessamine County. Authorities are working to identify the remains and determine the circumstances surrounding this discovery.

In more positive news, local firefighter John Smith made headlines yesterday when he rescued a family cat stuck in a tree on Main Street. The cat, named Whiskers, was safely returned to its grateful owners after a two-hour ordeal.

Looking ahead, don't forget about the Lexington Farmers Market this weekend. It's a great chance to support local growers and pick up some fresh, seasonal produce.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 18, 2025.

We're starting with some positive economic news for our city. Lexington-Fayette has shown the highest rate of employment growth since 2020 among metro areas in the Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank's district. Our employment has grown by 5.5% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, outpacing other cities in the region.

In local government news, the City Council is holding a work session tonight at 5:30 PM. They'll be discussing several important issues affecting our community, so we encourage residents to tune in or attend in person at City Hall on Main Street.

On the job front, there are over 12,000 positions currently available in Lexington. We're seeing a range of opportunities, from healthcare roles like perfusionists at local hospitals to customer service positions and warehouse jobs. The average hourly wage for temporary workers in Lexington is now about $15, while general labor positions are paying around $15.50 per hour on average.

In crime news, police have made an arrest in the Ohio Street homicide case from earlier this week. Phillip McElroy, 32, was taken into custody on March 14th in connection with the incident. As always, we remind our listeners that all suspects are innocent until proven guilty.

Turning to weather, we're looking at a partly cloudy day with highs around 65 degrees. It's a perfect day to get outside and enjoy some of our beautiful parks or take a stroll downtown.

In sports, the Murray State Racers baseball team is in town tonight to face off against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kentucky Proud Park. First pitch is set for 5:30 PM, and it should be a great matchup as both teams prepare for conference play.

Looking ahead, the Lexington St. Patrick's Day parade has been canceled due to weather concerns, but associated performances have been moved indoors. Check the city's website for updated locations and times.

On a somber note, Governor Beshear has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor a fallen army major. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the service member.

Finally, some good news from our local schools. The Kentucky State Police are working with students to preserve the history of inclusion in our state. It's a great example of community engagement and education coming together.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 18, 2025.

We start with some breaking news. The Lexington police department is currently investigating a recent incident involving an officer-involved shooting in Fleming County. This event has raised concerns among the residents, prompting discussions about public safety in our community.

As we look to today’s weather, we can expect clear skies with a high of 58 degrees. It’s a great day to enjoy outdoor activities, although you might want to grab a light jacket for the evening when temperatures are expected to drop into the mid-40s.

In our job market update, the local tech sector is buzzing with growth. The Lexington-Fayette area has seen over 1,000 new tech jobs added this year, with an employment growth rate of 4.1%. Notably, cloud architects and cybersecurity analysts are highly sought after, with average salaries reaching around $92,670. Companies like Lexmark and Link-Belt are leading this charge, creating more opportunities for skilled professionals.

On the real estate front, the market remains competitive. Recent statistics indicate a slight increase in home prices, with the average home selling for about $320,000. The demand continues to outpace supply, particularly in popular neighborhoods like Chevy Chase and downtown Lexington where renovations and new developments are transforming the area.

Culturally, we have some exciting news. The University of Kentucky's James B. Beam Institute is gearing up to release a new student-created bourbon, Kentucky Wildcask, in April. This initiative highlights the university's commitment to fostering local traditions and innovative learning experiences.

Upcoming community events are on our radar as well. The Lexington Art League is hosting an exhibition this Saturday showcasing local artists, and there's a community cleanup day at the Arboretum this Sunday. These events are great opportunities for residents to engage with one another and contribute to our city.

In sports, the excitement builds as Lexington prepares to host NCAA Tournament games this weekend. Our local Wildcats are looking to make a strong impression as they chase the championship. The buzz around Rupp Arena is palpable, and local businesses are anticipating a boost in sales from the influx of fans.

Quick mentions from our schools reveal that the Burnside Elementary robotics team is heading to a world competition in May. Their hard work and dedication are commendable, and we wish them the best of luck.

Moving to public safety, our latest crime report indicates a few significant incidents, including a vehicle crash that involved a police car on I-75 yesterday. Fortunately, there were only minor injuries reported, but this brings attention to the need for road safety awareness.

Lastly, in a feel-good community story, a Lexington officer recently gained attention for rescuing a family cat stuck in a tree. This heartwarming tale has brought smiles to many faces in our city, showcasing the commitment of our local law enforcement to serve and protect not just people, but pets as well.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 15, 2025.

We're starting with some disappointing news for St. Patrick's Day revelers. The Lexington St. Patrick's parade, scheduled for today, has been canceled due to potentially severe weather. However, all is not lost. Festival performances will be moved indoors to the Lyric Theatre, starting at 10:30 a.m. The updated performance schedule will be released later this morning, so keep an eye out for that if you're planning to attend.

In sports news, it was a tough night for Kentucky basketball fans. The Wildcats were knocked out of the SEC Tournament by Alabama with a final score of 99-70. On a brighter note, local high school basketball is heating up. George Rogers Clark and Frederick Douglass both advanced in their respective games and will face off in the semifinals this morning at 11 in Rupp Arena.

Turning to the job market, Lexington continues to show strong employment growth. Recent data indicates our city has the highest rate of employment growth since 2020 in the Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank's district, with a 5.5% increase. This puts us ahead of other major cities in the region like Cincinnati and Cleveland.

For those looking for work, there are currently over 12,000 job openings in Lexington. Positions range from delivery drivers and warehouse workers to healthcare professionals and marketing coordinators. The average hourly wage for temporary positions is around $15, while full-time salaries for professional roles can reach up to $65,000 annually.

In health news, Baptist Health Lexington is hosting a free community health fair today at the North Lexington YMCA from 9 to 11 a.m. The event focuses on colorectal cancer awareness and will include a physician panel, genetic counseling, and health screenings.

On the crime front, police are investigating two recent homicides. One occurred on Ohio Street earlier this week, and another on River Park Drive. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

Looking ahead to next week, local protest group Peaceful Bluegrass Resistance has announced plans for ongoing demonstrations at busy intersections around the city. The group, which has grown rapidly in recent weeks, aims to raise awareness about various political issues.

In weather news, we're looking at a cloudy day with a high of 65 degrees and a chance of rain in the afternoon. The potential for severe weather continues into tomorrow, so please stay weather-aware and have a plan in place if conditions worsen.

On a positive note, the Red River Gorge is getting some love from trail workers who are building new paths for hiking and climbing. This project aims to improve access and safety for outdoor enthusiasts in one of our region's most beautiful natural areas.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 14, 2025.

We start with some breaking news from Ohio Street. Recently, on March 11, just after midnight, police responded to reports of shots fired in the 400 block of Ohio Street. Tragically, they discovered a homicide at the scene. Investigators are currently working to piece together the details, and we encourage anyone with information to reach out to the authorities.

In another incident, police were called to the 3400 block of River Park Drive on March 10, where they found a shooting victim. This has raised concerns about safety in our neighborhoods, and local law enforcement is increasing patrols in affected areas.

On a lighter note, we look ahead to the upcoming NCAA Rifle Championships here in Lexington, kicking off today at the University of Kentucky's Memorial Coliseum. The Nanooks rifle team is gearing up for competition, with events scheduled throughout the weekend. They’re hoping to continue their strong showing after a successful qualifier last month.

Turning to the weather, we're expecting a rainy start to our day, with potential storms this afternoon. This has led to the unfortunate cancellation of our beloved St. Patrick's Parade. However, don’t despair! The planned performances have been relocated to the Lyric Theatre, offering a cozy alternative for those looking to celebrate.

In our job market news, we see a slight upswing, with around 200 new jobs reported in the service and retail sectors in the past week. Local businesses are adapting, with several openings on Main Street, including a new café that focuses on locally sourced ingredients.

Real estate is also buzzing. The latest reports indicate that homes in the area are continuing to see steady demand, particularly in the Northside neighborhood, where the average sale price has climbed to approximately $300,000. This trend reflects a growing interest in suburban living, and realtors suggest it may be an excellent time to buy for those considering entering the market.

As for community events, tonight at 7 PM, the Horsenecks will perform at the Otis A. Singletary Center for the Arts. This promises to be an exciting gathering for music lovers and a great way to support local talent.

In local school news, we celebrate a fantastic achievement from Henry Clay High School, where the debate team recently clinched first place in a regional competition. Their hard work and dedication certainly deserve recognition.

Today's quick crime report reminds us to stay vigilant. Officers are investigating the recent shootings, and anyone with tips is encouraged to contact the police as our safety is a community effort.

In a feel-good story to wrap up our roundup, we highlight a recent initiative by local volunteers who came together last weekend to clean up Arbor Park. Their efforts not only beautified the park but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 13, 2025.

We're waking up to a chilly but clear morning here in Lexington. Temperatures are expected to climb to the mid-60s by afternoon, perfect for enjoying some outdoor activities. Looking ahead, we're in for a warm weekend with a chance of showers on Sunday.

Breaking news this morning as police investigate a shooting incident near the 400 block of Ohio Street. Officers responded to reports of gunfire around midnight, and one person was found with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

In city news, the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee met yesterday to discuss Lexington's economic outlook. The city is projecting continued growth, though at a slower pace than recent years. Healthcare and education remain our top job sectors, with over 54,000 positions. The committee also noted a slight surplus in the current fiscal year budget, which is good news for city services.

Speaking of jobs, the University of Kentucky is hosting a career fair for graduating seniors today at the Student Center. Local tech companies will be on hand, reflecting the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals in our area. Recent reports show salaries in this field averaging around $92,000 annually.

In real estate, the spring market is heating up. Local agents report a 5% increase in home listings compared to last month, with the average price hovering around $275,000. The new development off Versailles Road is nearing completion, adding 200 units to our housing stock.

Exciting news for music lovers - country star Luke Bryan just announced he'll be kicking off his summer tour at Rupp Arena in June. Tickets go on sale this Friday.

In sports, congratulations to the Lexington Catholic High School girls' basketball team for advancing to the state quarterfinals. They'll face off against Louisville Manual tomorrow night.

We're thrilled to share that the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging at UK is celebrating its 40th anniversary this week. The center has been at the forefront of Alzheimer's research for decades, and we're proud to have such a prestigious institution in our community.

Looking ahead to the weekend, don't forget about the St. Patrick's Day parade downtown on Saturday. The festivities kick off at 1 PM on Main Street, with plenty of Irish-themed activities for the whole family.

On a somber note, we want to acknowledge the passing of longtime Lexington philanthropist Mary Smith. Her contributions to local charities have touched countless lives, and she'll be deeply missed.

In our daily crime report, police are investigating a series of car break-ins near the Beaumont area. Residents are advised to lock their vehicles and remove valuables from sight.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 11, 2025.

We're starting with some breaking news from overnight. Lexington Police are investigating a homicide after a 16-year-old Fayette County Public Schools student was found dead on Rambling Creek Drive just before 2 a.m. The victim has been identified as Arsenio Jackson Jr., a junior at Henry Clay High School. This tragic incident has sparked renewed calls for action on gun violence in our community.

In city news, the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee met last week to discuss Lexington's economic outlook. The city is currently showing a $41 million deficit for the fiscal year, but this is largely due to planned Fund Balance allocations. Without those, we'd actually be running a $14 million surplus. Looking ahead, economic growth is expected to continue but at a slower pace than recent years.

On the job front, Lexington's employment scene is evolving. The healthcare and education sectors are leading the way with about 54,000 jobs, followed by transportation, trade, and utilities with around 35,800 positions. The University of Kentucky is also offering new sustainability internships and leadership roles for students, with applications due later this month.

In real estate, the market remains competitive. We're seeing average home prices hovering around $300,000, with particularly hot neighborhoods including Chevy Chase and Hamburg.

Turning to culture, the Lexington Comic and Toy Convention just wrapped up at the Central Bank Center. Fans got to meet celebrities like Danny Trejo and William Shatner, and the event was praised for bringing diverse communities together.

Sports fans, mark your calendars. The Transylvania University baseball team has a busy week ahead with home games against Maryville College today and Westminster College starting Friday.

Looking at today's weather, we're expecting a mix of sun and clouds with highs near 65. It's a perfect day to get outside and enjoy our city's parks.

In community news, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is gearing up for spring visitors. They're offering new hands-on workshops and outdoor adventures that showcase the area's rich history.

On the business front, we're sad to report that Walgreens has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm Sycamore Partners. It's unclear yet how this might affect our local stores.

Finally, a reminder that Daylight Saving Time is now in effect. Most Lexingtonians we spoke with are enjoying the extra evening daylight, though opinions remain mixed on the time change itself.

In today's crime report, police are investigating after a man with a gunshot wound arrived at a local hospital around 2:20 a.m. Thursday. The victim is expected to recover, but authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 8, 2025.

We're marking a somber milestone today as it's been five years since Lexington's first COVID-19 case. The Lexington-Fayette Health Department reports that our city has seen nearly 137,000 cases and 885 deaths over that period. While we've made great strides, they remind us to stay vigilant and continue following health guidelines.

In brighter news, Lexington's job market is showing resilience. Recent data indicates our metro area has the highest employment growth rate since 2020 in the Cleveland Federal Reserve's district, with a 5.5% increase. This outpaces larger cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland. However, we're seeing some shifts in our local economy. The construction sector added about 860 jobs last year, while manufacturing saw a slight decline.

Speaking of jobs, there's a new opportunity in town. Dutch Bros Coffee is hiring "broistas" for their upcoming Lexington location. If you're looking for work, they're offering competitive wages and benefits.

Over at City Hall, there's been some discussion about revising our urban planning strategies. The council is considering proposals to increase green spaces and improve walkability, especially in the downtown area. We'll keep you updated as these plans develop.

In real estate news, the market remains competitive. The median home price in Lexington is now around $275,000, up about 3% from last year. Realtors are advising buyers to be prepared to move quickly when they find a property they like.

On the cultural front, the Lexington Philharmonic is gearing up for their spring concert series. They'll be performing a mix of classical favorites and contemporary pieces at the Singletary Center for the Arts next weekend. Tickets are selling fast, so don't wait to grab yours.

In sports, the University of Kentucky men's basketball team had a dominant win against Tennessee last night, 82-58. The Wildcats never trailed and led by as much as 35 points in the second half. This bodes well for their tournament prospects.

Looking at today's weather, we're in for a sunny but windy day with temperatures reaching the mid-60s. It's a perfect day to enjoy some outdoor activities, but hold onto your hats!

In public safety news, Lexington police are investigating after a person walked into a local hospital with a gunshot wound last night. Details are still emerging, but authorities assure us there's no immediate threat to the public.

On a lighter note, we're happy to report that Isabel Yates, Lexington's former vice mayor, celebrated her 100th birthday this week. The city is planning a special tribute to honor her years of service to our community.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for March 7, 2025.

We're starting off with some breaking news from overnight. Lexington police are investigating after a person walked into a local hospital with a gunshot wound. Details are still emerging, but authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

In city hall news, the Kentucky House has passed a bill that would prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at public universities across the state. This decision is sparking debate among educators and students alike.

On a lighter note, spring seems to be in the air today. We're looking at sunny skies with temperatures reaching the mid-60s, though it'll be quite windy. Perfect weather for the Lexington Comic & Toy Convention kicking off at Central Bank Center this afternoon.

In business news, we're seeing positive trends in our local job market. Lexington-Fayette has experienced the highest rate of employment growth since 2020 in the Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank's district, with a 5.5% increase. This growth outpaces many other metro areas in the region.

Speaking of jobs, a career fair is coming up on Monday at a local venue on Street in downtown Lexington. It's a great opportunity for job seekers to connect with top employers in various fields, from government to healthcare.

In sports, the University of Kentucky men's basketball team dominated Tennessee last night, winning 82-58 at Rupp Arena. The Wildcats never trailed, leading by as much as 35 points in the second half.

For music lovers, there's a treat in store this evening. The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight will be performing at the Louisville Palace. It's a bit of a drive, but well worth it for classical music enthusiasts.

In community news, we're sad to report the passing of Isabel Yates, former vice mayor of Lexington, at the age of 100. She leaves behind a legacy of public service that has shaped our city.

On a more uplifting note, the Marksbury Family Branch library is hosting a series of exciting events this weekend, from art classes to piano recitals. It's a great way to engage with your community and learn something new.

In today's crime report, police have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in January. The suspect is facing charges of murder and possession of a firearm.

Lastly, a heartwarming story from our community. Fifteen local brides have come together to support each other after claiming a wedding photographer "ghosted" them, leaving them without photos or refunds. It's a testament to the strength and solidarity of our Lexington community.

This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.