Workforce & Education: A former teacher is now helping McDonald’s employees across central Kentucky map out first jobs and part-time paths to college and careers, with Burrell Family Restaurants expanding school-to-work support. Chambers & Local Economy: Chandler Ladd has been named president/CEO of the Hopkins County Regional Chamber after leading membership development at the Christian County Chamber. School Funding & Planning: Christian County Public Schools approved a new five-year strategic plan through 2031, built around six pillars including achievement, assets, alliances and appreciation. Community History & Workforce Pipeline: Men2Be unveiled Juneteenth-era historical markers at the former Crispus Attucks High School, pairing youth-led research with mentoring aimed at future opportunity. Labor Market Watch: Kentucky’s unemployment rate rose to 4.5% in May, up from 4.3% in April, while the labor force and employment counts shifted. Business & Finance: Peoples Bank earned Newsweek’s “America’s Greatest Workplaces” recognition for 2026, highlighting employee well-being and leadership. Legal & Transparency: Kentucky’s open records decision on whether messages on private devices qualify as public records is drawing reactions from legal practitioners and advocates. Public Safety: A funeral home director in Campbellsville was charged with 13 counts tied to mishandling pre-need funeral trust payments. Weather & Reliability: Severe storms left thousands without power and crews are still restoring service in parts of eastern Kentucky. Corporate Reshaping: Yum Brands agreed to sell Pizza Hut for $2.7 billion, a move that could affect restaurant jobs and local franchise dynamics.