Rob Nichols

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is lowering state income taxes. Beshear signed House Bill 1, which will decrease the individual income tax rate from four-percent to three-point-five percent. The bill was the first to be approved by the Kentucky General Assembly in 2025 and was passed with bipartisan support. Beshear says despite economic growth in the state, many consumers are still having difficulties paying for basic necessities. The tax reduction will take effect on or after January 1st of next year.

A bill to crack down on diversity, equity and inclusion in schools and state government has been approved by the Indiana Senate. Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith posted on social media when Senate Bill 289 was still being debated on Thursday, saying “Indiana Just TORPEDOED Woke Indoctrination!” Democrats tried to get Beckwith removed as the Senate chair after he put up the post during over three hours of floor debate, but were not successful. The bill passed 34-to-13 and would ban mandatory DEI training in public schools and restrict the programs in state universities.

Kentucky anglers, take note: rainbow trout are making their way into Panther Creek Park and Yellow Creek Park this week. On Thursday, February 13, wildlife officials will release approximately 750 trout into each lake as part of the “Fishing in Neighborhoods” program. This initiative aims to bring more fishing opportunities closer to home, with lakes stocked year-round with species like catfish and rainbow trout. Anglers aged 16 and older must have a valid statewide fishing license, and a special permit is required to keep rainbow trout.

Today, the Monday after the Super Bowl, could become a state holiday in Indiana. The state House has a bill to declare the day after the NFL championship game “American Professional Football Day” and give people a day to recover. Lawmakers say the holiday makes sense to address the decrease in workplace productivity. Representative Mitch Gore says he believes the bill will get a hearing soon.

The death toll from flooding from last week's storms is now at 21 lives lost. Governor Andy Beshear announced on social media on Saturday night that a man had died in Logan County from a weather-related cause. Beshear invited fellow Kentuckians to join him and the First Lady in prayers for those lost. The governor has also thanked Kentucky Emergency Management, first responders, local partners and volunteers for their efforts.

In Owensboro, collaboration between the Daviess County Sheriff's Office and Owensboro Police Department has led to the capture of a man accused of serious crimes. 44-year-old James Paris was taken into custody near Smothers Park following a series of public tips. Authorities had sought assistance from citizens last Thursday, resulting in crucial information that led to Paris's arrest. He faces multiple charges, including Human Trafficking and Procuring/Promoting the use of a minor by Electronic Means. Paris is also charged with possession of marijuana and methamphetamine. He is currently held at Daviess County Jail, awaiting further legal proceedings.

In Owensboro, police have arrested 19-year-old Zayin J. Vazquez on multiple child pornography charges. The Internet Crimes Against Children task force spearheaded the investigation, leading to Vazquez's arrest. Police executed a search warrant at his West Parrish Avenue residence, uncovering illegal materials. Vazquez faces a total of 80 charges, including distribution and possession of sexual performance material involving minors both under and over the age of 12. Following an interview, he was booked into the Daviess County Detention Center.

A bill that would allow a 15-year-old to obtain a driver's license is headed to the Senate for a vote. WKYT reports the new law would require teen drivers to complete 60-hours of driving, including 10-hours of nighttime driving to obtain a license. The teen must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21-years-old. The bill is expected to be up for a vote by the Senate this week and will immediately become law if passed.

One person is hurt after a hit and run Tuesday on the Bypass. At approximately 6:20am, Owensboro – Daviess County Central Dispatch received a report

A gunfire incident ended up leading to a significant drug bust. The Owensboro Police Department responded to a call on Alexander Avenue after Max Bellamy allegedly discharged a firearm inside his home. Upon investigation, a heavy presence of drug activity was unveiled, prompting a search warrant that uncovered over 5,000 suspected fentanyl pills and methamphetamine. Arrests include 20-year-old Max Bellamy, 21-year-old Justin Bellamy, and 20-year-old Blane Noffsinger. Charges range from negligent gun discharge to trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine. All three are facing serious charges, and investigations continue.