Mitch Barnhart steps away from UK job, FCPS employees on leave and more top KY stories
Three of the most-read subscriber stories Thursday from the Herald-Leader were a major shakeup at the University of Kentucky, deepening financial concerns at Fayette County Public Schools and a new entertainment spot in Midway.
Here’s what to know, and where to read more.
- Barnhart steps away from UK role: Mitch Barnhart will no longer take a $950,000-per-year position leading a new UK Sport and Workforce Initiative, days after Gov. Andy Beshear publicly criticized the arrangement. UK President Eli Capilouto said compensation for Barnhart’s departure “will be supported entirely by private funds” that he will raise.
- FCPS employees on paid leave: Two Fayette County Public Schools finance employees were placed on paid leave pending investigations into budget problems, as Superintendent Demetrus Liggins announced that accounting inaccuracies dating back to at least 2008 have been found. Interim CFO Kyna Koch said she does not have confidence in the accuracy of financial information previously given to the superintendent, board and public.
- New Midway bar opens: Three childhood friends opened Bruen Bunker on April 9 in Midway’s original fire station at 109 E Bruen St., featuring 10 beers on tap, Kentucky bourbons and two Trackman golf simulators with more than 500 courses available for $45 per hour.
Check out more stories from the Herald-Leader by visiting kentucky.com.
The summary points above are based on the reporting of Herald-Leader journalists, but the roundup was produced with the assistance of AI. Herald-Leader reporters and an editor reviewed this story for accuracy. You can read more about our AI policy here.
This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM with the headline "Mitch Barnhart steps away from UK job, FCPS employees on leave and more top KY stories."