Salem Leader - Featured Local News

Home
More Featured News

The Washington County Family YMCA is gearing up for an action-packed day of community celebration and philanthropy as it announces the launch of its Capital Campaign Kick-Off Party and Raffle Event, set to take place at the Cars N Coffee event on May 11.

In collaboration with Salem Motorsports Park, the YMCA invites families and car enthusiasts alike to join in the excitement at the Salem Motorsports Park from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The morning will kick off with a wide array of youth activities, including gaga ball, hula hoops, and other fun games, providing entertainment for children of all ages. Additionally, Dowling Family Photos will be on-site, capturing unforgettable moments as kids and families pose with spectacular cars.

As part of the festivities, the YMCA will officially launch its public phase of the "Beth Armstrong- Y For All Capital Campaign," aimed at raising $4.0 million to build an indoor community recreation center and a much-needed childcare center in Washington County. The Capital Campaign represents the Y's commitment to providing quality childcare and vital indoor recreation spaces, addressing critical needs in the community.

In conjunction with the Kick-Off Party, the YMCA will also unveil its highly anticipated Raffle Event, offering participants the chance to win a brand-new 2024 Bronco Sport. Tickets for the raffle will cost $100 each, with a maximum of 2,000 tickets available. The raffle opportunity will be open through June 19, with the drawing taking place live at the Washington County 4-H Fair at 6 p.m. To make the event accessible to all, kids under 12 will enjoy free admission, and the first 50 adults through the gate will also receive complimentary entry. Additional adult tickets will be available for $5 per person.

"We are thrilled to kick off our public phase of the Capital Campaign with such a exciting event," said Kristy Purlee, Chief Executive Officer of the Washington County Family YMCA. "The support of our community is vital in realizing our vision of a healthier, more supported Washington County. Together, we can build a brighter future for our youth and families."

“Join us on May 11 at the Salem Motorsports Park, 2593 W. St Rd 56 in Salem for a morning of family fun, philanthropy, and the chance to win big with our Raffle Event. Together, let's make a difference in the lives of those we serve. “

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA relies on the time, talents and treasures of the community to offer valuable programs and services.

For more information on how you can play a part in impacting the community, or to purchase raffle tickets, please contact the Washington County Family YMCA at 812-883-YMCA, visit us at 1709 N. Shelby Street, Salem, IN 47167, or email our CEO, Kristy Purlee, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Write a comment

The Washington County Family YMCA is hosting a Spring Kickball Tournament on Saturday, May 25.

" Kickball For A Cause" is a YMCA Annual Campaign Fundraiser.

There will be Youth and Adult divisions, and prizes will be awarded to the winning teams in both divisions.

For more information or to register, call the YMCA at 812-883-9622.

Write a comment

By:

Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

The Washington County Sheriff's Department will be hosting their quarterly drive-thru Drug Drop and Food Drive at the Washington County Sheriff's Department on Saturday, May 11, 9 a.m.-12 noon.

Citizens can simply drive through the parking lot and hand off expired or unwanted prescription medications and drive away, no questions asked. The medications are incinerated the same day, which is an approved method of disposal. Flushing medications down the toilet or sink drain is NEVER RECOMMENDED.

The Sheriff's Department will also be collecting non-perishable food items, which will be donated to the local food bank in Salem. HUNGER KNOWS NO SEASON!

Write a comment

By Becky Killian, Staff Writer

By:

Becky Killian, Staff Writer

Officials have adopted a new ordinance that includes a fine of up to $500 plus costs for tractor trailer drivers who use county roads rather than the official detour routes.The Washington County Board of Commissioners recently approved the ordinance, which took effect immediately.

The law aims to discourage tractor trailer drivers from using – and damaging – county roads rather than the state-approved official detours.

The county Highway Department will erect signs along roads where tractor trailer traffic is restricted.

Exceptions to the law include vehicles involved in the maintenance or repair of county infrastructure or trucks being used for pickups, deliveries, or service calls; however, such traffic must be kept to a minimum and drivers must use the shortest, most direct route.

Write a comment

By Becky Killian, Staff Writer

County officials heard about an incident involving law enforcement at the Hardinsburg ballpark last week. The discussion was held during the Tuesday, May 7, meeting of the Washington County Board of Commissioners.

Kristy Pavey, a parent of a ballplayer, said the scheduled game was cancelled shortly before its start due to predicted inclement weather and the gate to the field was locked. The opposing team had already arrived when the decision was made to cancel the game. Since the players were present, they held a practice. Pavey said at some point, the gate was unlocked, but she didn’t know who unlocked it. The practice ended when deputies arrived to remove the players and parents from the ballpark.

Commissioner Todd Ewen told Pavey the locks are needed to prevent vandals on four-wheelers from accessing and damaging the field. Pavey said she understands the need to lock the gate used for vehicle access; however, she believes the ballpark’s pedestrian access should remain open.

Pavey said parents of the players have been “shut out” from interacting with the board responsible for the ballpark. When parents express interest in participating with the appointed board, they are ignored.

Commission President Phillip Marshall said the commissioners have been advised by their attorney to develop rules concerning access to the ballpark. He said the county is responsible for the park – as well as for paying to repair any damage from vandals. He assured Pavey that commissioners are working on a solution.

Other matters discussed during the meeting included:
*Anthony Green, of Livonia, complained that the town’s Council refused to allow him to establish a medical taxi business out of his house. He said the Council overlooks the business conducted at his neighbor’s house. Commissioners said they have no jurisdiction over the town and advised him to hire an attorney.
*County Highway Superintendent Jason Clodfelter said his department has started mowing and expects to begin paving in early June.
*Commissioners approved a payment of up to $5,100 to have a company update the county’s ordinance book.
*Commissioners approved amending the county’s budget to accept a $97,958 Community Development Block Grant.