FRANKFORT, Ky. —  Thousands have turned out for a free Kentucky Derby breakfast of eggs, ham, sausage, biscuits and cheese grits at the Capitol.

Officials threw the traditional breakfast Saturday morning, even as other state-sponsored events surrounding the Derby are being scaled back because of budget cuts.

Gov. Steve Beshear says the state is being more efficient and not spending as much money as in past years. Even so, Beshear says there's as much fun this year as in previous years.

Kentucky is facing a $900 million revenue shortfall over the next two fiscal years. The legislature last month approved a two-year $19 billion spending plan that includes funding cuts to numerous government agencies and programs.

Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.