Associated Press

U.S. Sens. Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul are urging Gov. Steve Beshear to seek a federal disaster declaration because of the potential economic consequences of a drought that has led to low water levels on the Mississippi River.

Beshear said Friday he appreciates their concern and that he's closely monitoring the situation.

McConnell and Paul said in a letter to Beshear on Thursday that commercial traffic on the river could "come to a complete halt in coming days" unless the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers takes action to increase the water flow.

In the middle of the Fort Campbell Army post, a simulated version of a military operations center in Afghanistan has sprung up under a maze of tents that is bustling with a mix of international and American military forces.

The 101st Airborne Division's headquarters is preparing to take over control of NATO troops in eastern Afghanistan this winter, but the division will face new and different challenges compared to its last deployment during the troop surge in 2010 and 2011.

The University of Kentucky is apologizing after an employee accident sent a mass email with personal information about some students. WKYT-TV reports the email was sent on Wednesday to 600 students and listed the names of students with disabilities and their accommodations.

UK released a statement on Thursday saying the mistake was "realized immediately" and efforts were made to recall the email.

Tennessee's county health department clinics are now offering free flu vaccines to people of all ages until supplies are depleted.

The state Health Department reports that seasonal influenza is now widespread in Tennessee.

The Department urges all Tennesseans to get vaccinated now to help protect themselves and those around them from the virus.

The Health Department operates clinics in 89 of Tennessee's 95 counties.

Because vaccine supplies vary from county to county, residents are urged to contact their local county health departments for more information.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Owensboro is celebrating its 75th Jubilee with several free events.

The celebration Saturday begins with a Mass at the Owensboro Sportcenter, then moves to the RiverPark Center for concerts, food, children's activities and tours of the International Bluegrass Museum.

The Messenger-Inquirer reports the newly renovated St. Stephens Cathedral in Owensboro will be open for tours for much of the day.

Thirty-two western Kentucky counties make up the diocese, which was formed in 1937 by Pope Pius XI. It is home to 79 churches.