Washington County will conduct its Halloween festivities this Thursday as children and adults celebrate the holiday.

Trick-or-treating in Salem, Campbellsburg, and Pekin will occur between the hours of 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, October 31. Homes planning to welcome trick-or-treaters that evening should turn on their porch lights.

Parents and guardians should ensure children are never alone and are always accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. Pedestrians should be mindful of vehicles and stay on sidewalks. Drivers should also be aware of increased pedestrian traffic on Halloween. After trick-or-treating, candy and treats gathered should be inspected to ensure all items are safe to eat. With these safety measures, community members of all ages can enjoy a safe and healthy Halloween.

“Halloween provides an opportunity for fun but also presents some increased risks,” said Washington County Sheriff Brent Miller. “We must create a safe environment for children to experience the holiday by staying in groups when out and about, following all traffic laws, and looking out for one another.”

The American Safety Council recommends the following safety tips to “Scare Safe” this Halloween.

S: Stay in groups.
C: Costumes should be well fitting and flame resistant.
A: Always accompany children.
R: Remember to look both ways when crossing the street.
E: Examine all treats before eating.

S: Stay on sidewalks.
A: Avoid dark houses.
F: Flashlights and glow sticks should be used for visibility.
E: Enjoy Halloween with caution!

“We look forward to hosting another fun and safe Halloween here in Salem this year,” said City of Salem Mayor Justin Green. “By following these simple safety tips, we can ensure wholesome Halloween fun for all children, families and adults in our community.”

The Pekin Methodist Church is hosting its 11th Annual Mistletoe Market Place on Saturday, Nov. 2, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located at 244 S. Shorts Corner Rd., Pekin. All proceeds from the event will support the church's missions.

During the festivities, a door prize will be awarded every 30 minutes. A large grand prize will be awarded at the end of the day.

The ladies' group at the church is offering a concession stand that will feature pulled-pork, chili, homemade desserts and much more.

Many vendors will be offering a large variety of items. This would be a great opportunity to get a jump on unique Christmas gift buying!

Vendors will include:

Suzanna Roberson Harrod--handmade jewelry.

Alesha Foster--t-shirts, live house plants.

Roxanne Starrett--variety of vintage items.

Julia Frazier--Scentsy products, tea towels, homemade brackets.

Mary Owen and Jean Banet--handmade quilts and more.

Dawn Boling--tumblers, ornaments, wind spinners, coffee mugs, key chains, magnets and more.

Tara Kennedy--vintage Christmas items, linens, jewelry, toys and crafts.

Sherry Elgin--Permalinx permanent jewelry by J Bloom.

Washington County Humane Society--animal toys, dog scarfs, treats and t-shirts.

Michelle Briscoe--prints of original paintings.

Janet Ingraham--roasted nuts.

Denise Chism--home decor and miscellaneous.

Kelly Gross--Christmas decor, toys, jewelry and gifts.

Karen Espey--Christmas items, music boxes, ceramic Christmas trees and more.

For more information, please contact Myra Hildreth: email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 812-620-9866.

The public is invited to attend.

Washington County, Indiana (October 21, 2024) – During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we raise awareness of the impact of domestic violence and renew efforts to bring an end to this issue. 

Domestic violence unfortunately continues to be one of the most underreported crimes. Statistics show that as much as 40% of women and 26% of men in Indiana have experienced some form of violence by a partner or spouse. These cases remain among the most difficult and complex cases to investigate and to ensure victim safety in the future. 

This type of violence may include physical, verbal, sexual, or psychological abuse including stalking, harassment, intimidation, isolation, financial control and more. Unfortunately, there are many reasons that make it difficult for domestic violence survivors to leave an abusive relationship (children, pets, finances, housing, love, etc.). This situation may seem difficult for the outside world to understand and collectively it can leave survivors feeling unsupported and hopeless. 

“It’s crucial that survivors of domestic violence have the support from our office and community,” said Washington County Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt. “Too often these heinous acts go unreported for a wide variety of reasons, and many victims feel trapped with nowhere to go or are worried no one will believe them. We must educate ourselves on understanding domestic violence and how we can best support victims and their families."

If you suspect a friend or family member may be experiencing domestic violence, pay attention to signs such as isolation, low self-esteem, unexplained injuries and depression or anxiety. Express these concerns to your loved one and encourage outreach to individuals and organizations who can provide help and guidance, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline or local support centers and groups.

“Domestic violence is never acceptable,” said Prosecutor Hunt. “No partner, child, or parent should feel fear in their own home or be afraid of abuse from the people closest to them. We, as a community, must educate on the warning signs of domestic violence and have resources readily available for victims.”

If you recognize physical or emotional abuse in your own relationship, there is help. Reach out to trusted friends or community organizations, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Together, we can stop generational cycles of abuse and create a brighter future for our families and homes in the future.

By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

Salem Speedway Fueled by the Hoosier Lottery held a racing extravaganza October 18-20 with the 36th Annual Halloween 200 weekend.

Many chose to camp overnight on the track grounds. A Halloween costume contest was held in the Pavilion, plus there was trunk or treat on the front stretch.

Friday was dedicated to practicing, plus the 15-lap Bandoleros race. The Bandolero race was won by Levi Nale; second was Collin Dickey; and third, Grant Hooker.

Saturday was open for more serious racing. First up was a 30-lap oval race on the small track. Winning this contest was Troy Phillips. A.J. Seay finished second, and Doug Wicker had third place.

In the 15-lap B Feature it was Allen Wagner the winner; second Alexis Hughes; and third place Stacie Fitzgerald.

Also, on the small track was the Crown Vic Future Stars 20-lap race. The age group for this division is 11 – 15 years old. The winner was young Braxton Turner; second Jaxon Ziegler; and third Nathan Lewis.

One of the most exciting races was the Crown Vic Ford Figure X. This 25-lap feature proved “it’s not over till it’s over.” Jacob Robertson chased Mike Berry around the track, challenging him for several laps. Coming down to the checkered flag Robertson got into the side of Berry’s car and both slid across the finish line together, with Berry ahead by a nose. This battle allowed third place Allen Douglas to nose out Robertson for second.

Now it was time for the high banks with the Salem Super Cars. Twenty-five laps of high-speed racing resulted with Conner Popplewell the winner in his first appearance in this division.

The season champion from the Kimmel stables was Brian Rose.

The main attraction was the Spooky 200 for the Ford Crown Vics. Some 81 Fords lined up for the 200 laps. The field covered the track from turn one back through turn four with cars three abreast.

Well order didn’t last long—the first yellow came out on lap seven. The race continued with several minor wrecks until lap 68, when Rusty Kelly took a hard hit at the end on the front stretch and was momentarily knocked out. He finished 56th. By that time approximately twenty-five cars had fallen to the wayside.

Later in the race, John Lister took a hard hit on the back stretch going into turn 3. Lister could not feel his lower body and was cut out of the car by the rescue team. The car’s roof was cut off and peeled back. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Louisville. He was later released that night, as the feeling came back to his lower body. Due the lost time the race was cut short on lap 130. The eventual winner was Chase Adams, with second place going to Rickie Tharp, and third to Colson Gray.

Sunday rolled around, and it was a much different day. First up were the Legends cars on the short track. A full field of 22 cars lined up for 30 laps of racing. It was Johnny Weaver taking the checkered flag. Second place went to Xavier King and third was Jacob Bradley.

Next on the inner track were the Scrapper for pure chaos as almost—anything goes for 25 laps. The red flag is only dropped when someone is in danger. It came as no surprise that Justin Fiedler led the way. Harold Adams, the announcer, called him, “King of the Scrappers.” Second was Peyton Cline and third was Landon Seitz. The track was littered with plastic car parts after the race.

The final race was the 35th running of the Halloween 200. Thirty-three cars started this race, and nine finished on the lead lap. There were several leaders in the race. A pit stop was required in the first 100 laps and one in the last 100. Pits stops could be just a dash down pit lane or, like many did, a two-tire change in second half.

One top contender was three-time winner Chuck Barnes Jr. On lap 116, Barnes took the lead, followed by Brian Bayer. He led until lap 170, when Heath Helton took the lead. Barnes’ right rear tire gave out, costing him many positions. Finally he stopped and got a tire and finished one lap down in 11th place.

Helton didn’t have an easy victory. As soon as he got a good lead, the yellow would come out and the field was reset. He pulled away each time. Finishing second was Brett Hudson, and third place went to Austi Baum, who was the season champion.

Caution laps count until the last ten, which must be finished under green.

This classic race finished the season.

In 2025, it will be the 79th year the track has been in existence.

John Lister is the Ford oval champion.

Troy Phillips wins the Ford oval A race.

Allen Wagner is the winner of the Ford oval B race.

Braxton Turner wins the Crown Vic Future Stars race.

Connor Popplewell wins the Salem Super Cars race on the high banks during his first appearance in the division.

Brian Rose from the Kimmel stables is the season champion.

Rusty Kelly's car took a hard hit during the Spooky 200 race.

Following a hard hit in the Spooky 200 race, the roof of John Lister's car had to be removed to retrieve him from the car.

Johnny Weaver won the Legends feature on the short track.

Thirty-three cars were lined up for the start of the 36th Annual Halloween 200 race.

Heath Helton fought hard to earn victory during the Halloween 200 feature race.

• Washington County
• State of Indiana
• Wellness
• Sheriff's Department

By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will be holding its 27th nationwide “Prescription Take Back” initiative. They provide proper disposal of prescription drugs in order to prevent prescription drug abuse. Community members will be able to bring unused, expired and unwanted drugs to select sites.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department, a select “Prescription Take Back” site located at 801 S Jackson St, Salem, will be hosting their quarterly drive from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. They will take most items and medications, however they will not take vape products or needles. The department will have a drive thru area where you simply hand off the medicine to a standby attendant. No questions asked. They then are incinerated the same day, which is the approved method of disposal. Flushing medicine down the toilet or throwing them in the trash is never advised.

This program addresses vital safety and public health issues. Medicines in the home cabinet are subject to diversion, misuse and abuse. Sometimes obtained from family and friends, prescription drug abuse is at an all-time high. There is a high number of accidental poisoning and overdoses. Needles new or used will not be taken. The Washington County Sheriff will also be collecting non-perishable food which will be donated to local food banks in Salem. Sheriff Brent Miller said, “The food drive is very successful; we usually get 300 to 500 food items.”

The Sellersburg Indiana State Police Post, located at 8014 County Rd 311, Sellersburg, or any ISP posts will be set up to take prescription liquid and pill drugs. They will also take vape pens without batteries and cartridges. However, like the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, they will not take needles regardless if they are new or used. ISP collection lasts from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

• Pekin Eastern High School
• IHSAA
• Volleyball

By Nathaniel Smith, Editor

In a fantastic showcase of talent, practice, determination and an exuberant amount of effort, the Eastern varsity volleyball team commanded the duration of not one, but two games on Saturday. The first being against Salem in the Semifinals, and the second against Crawford County in the Sectional Championship game.

In both October 19 games, Salem and Crawford County fought tooth and nail to try to secure a sectional win. But it just did not end up being enough, and Eastern finished out both games at a 3-0 overall score. Winning every single set they played, the lack of losses showed just how bad they wanted to take the trophy home. Between the two games, Crawford County had given them their most trouble; especially in the 3rd and final set. The Wolfpack clawed their way back just short of a turnaround. Finishing out the set at 25-21, they handed the victory to the Musketeers.

Having just been crowned the Sectional Champions, Eastern has just a few more days of rest and practice before the first round of the State Championship Tournament on October 26.

The Musketeers are scheduled to oppose Barr-Reeve in Mitchell at 1 p.m. The winner will then go on to play the victor of the Winchester Community vs. Parke Heritage game on November 2. The time and location is still to be announced.

Come support your Eastern Musketeers as they strive for a State Championship!

Photos by Nathaniel Smith.

• Salem
• Communities
• Special Events

Saturday, October 26, will be filled with exciting Halloween activities for everyone!

Pumpkin Walk

Halloween festivities in Salem surrounding the Stevens Memorial Museum will begin with the 2024 Pumpkin Walk, sponsored by the Washington County Tourism Commission.

Pumpkins for decorating can be picked up at the YMCA parking lot at 1709 N. Shelby St. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, after 3 p.m. until Friday, Oct. 25, at 3 p.m. Decorate the pumpkin and enter it in the drawing on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Stevens Museum.

Place your name, mailing address and a phone number on a piece of paper for a drawing on the pumpkin. Also include which category such as Preschool, K-2, 3-5, middle school, high school or adult.

The drawing will be Saturday at 3 p.m. The decorated pumpkins will be displayed around the Stevens Museum Village from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Put your name on the bottom of the pumpkin if you wish to pick it up after 9 p.m.

Boo Bash

Next at the Steven’s Museum on Saturday, will be the highly anticipated Boo Bash, which will take place 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

The title sponsor is WSLM, and the event will be organized by Rebecca White.

Come in costume for trick or treating from those set up on the museum grounds. The Boo Bash should wrap up before the start of the parade.

If you have questions call White at 812-620-7271.

Halloween Parade

Please join in the fun for the 9th Annual Halloween Parade, presented and organized by Titan Tint & Graphics, in partnership with Angie Wilson, "Queen of Taxes.”

This is the ninth year since the Halloween parade was started, and it just keeps growing and doing better every year. The organizers truly appreciate all who enter the parade, as well as everyone who comes to watch and make all this possible.

No need for registration. Just come out the day of the parade, Saturday, Oct. 26, and get set up to be in it. The parade is free to enter, but donations will be accepted, as well as sponsorships for the banner that leads the parade. All proceeds go to the local Christmas Assistance Program to help children in our community have a great Christmas.

Anyone can enter and be anything they want to be, as long as the choice is “family friendly.” Participants can walk the parade, ride in it, drive in it, bike, skate, go kart, ride horses, you name it—the crazier the better for everyone.

Parade participants will meeting at Titan Tint & Graphics, located at 805 S. Main Street, Salem, located in the Ruler shopping complex behind AutoZone.

The parade start time is 6:30 p.m. To enter the parade, participants will need to be in line by 5:30 p.m.. They don't have to be ready or decorated by then, but still need to be in line by that time.

Trophy judging is at 6 p.m. First-place trophies will be awarded in the following categories: Business, Performing, Bikes/UTV, Horses, Civic, Walking, Tractors, Best Decorated Float, Best Dressed in Parade, Best Overall Float, and our fan favorite "best dressed spectator.” This trophy will be handed out during the parade to a lucky spectator.

For more information on the parade please call Titan at 812-570-0207.

The Washington County Board of Commissioners issued a county-wide burn ban at 11:45 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21.

The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

U.S. Congresswoman Erin Houchin, representing Indiana’s 9th Congressional District, visited Eastern High School in Pekin on Wednesday Oct.16.

She was greeted at the door by three seniors, Darren Roller, Sydney Kaelin, and Kaden Rickard.

Houchin spoke to a group of approximately 25 student council members and teaching staff about her career and educational background. The sponsors for the student council are teachers Kim Brown and Shelby Thomas.

“Government is everywhere,” was Houchin’s opening comment. She grew up in Scottsburg, the daughter of a dentist. Her father worked his way through school.

Although she did not have a goal to be in politics, she started as an intern in the state senate. She met her husband, Dustin Houchin, who also was an intern for the senate. He later got in to politics and became the Washington County Superior Court Judge.

After the internship, she took another political job that she hated, which eventually turned her against politics. She worked at this job for one year because she had a conviction to finish anything she started. Houchin then started a career in marketing.

Politics found her again when U.S. Senator Dan Coats called and offered her a job as regional director, which she accepted. Pregnancy complicated the situation, but she carried on.

Afterward, she was elected to the state senate and served for four years.

Houchin then ran and was elected to the U.S. Congress. She was the first female to serve in Indiana’s 9th Congressional District.

Presently, she is running for her second term. She has a passion to serve and get things done for people.

She said, “I like to look at life as a six-lane highway. I can chose other lanes.”

Houchin is a proud alumna of Indiana University in Bloomington and holds a degree in psychology. She also attended George Washington University and got a degree in political management.

In congress, Houchin serves on the House Financial Services, Education and Workforce, and Rules committees.

She and her family live in Salem.

Houchin was greeted by seniors (from left) Kaden Rickard, Darren Roller and Sydney Kaelin.

Eastern High School Student Council members and sponsors.

Houchin represents Indiana's 9th Congressional District.

Houchin was accompanied by her press secretary, Parker Armstrong.

The Houchin family.

• Washington County
• Elections
• State of Indiana

The Washington County Republican Party candidates for this upcoming election season held a meet and greet event at H & R Bakery on October 17. The event garnered a great turnout full of energetic conversation revolving around problems, plans and policies.

Be sure to make it to the polls on November 5 to let your voice be heard!

Photos by Nathaniel Smith.