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Align Southern Indiana, in collaboration with the Our Southern Indiana Regional Development Authority, is proud to announce the completion of the Regional Trails Master Plan. The plan, which aims to create a comprehensive trail system connecting six counties – Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Jefferson, Scott, and Washington – was funded through the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), as well as grant initiatives coordinated by Align Southern Indiana.

The regional trail system will connect 22 communities within the six counties to popular destinations, including cultural and historical sites, local, regional and state parks, and neighboring regions. Objectives include an emphasis on regional connections, greater safety for guests, and ultimately, promoting more active, healthy living throughout the region.

“This plan represents a collaborative effort to improve the quality of life for Southern Indiana residents,” said Dr. Rita Shourds, President and CEO of Align Southern Indiana. “By connecting our communities, we’re fostering opportunities for outdoor recreation, economic development, and healthier lifestyles. I am proud of the work our team has done to bring this vision to life, and we look forward to seeing the trails take shape in the years ahead.”

The Regional Trails Master Plan is the result of a seven-month planning process designed to increase regional connectivity, safety, and awareness through a network of trails that link communities to key destinations, including cultural and historical sites, parks, and neighboring regions. The plan outlines future projects that can be implemented over time as funding becomes available, with an overall goal of promoting active, healthy living throughout the region.

The planning process included significant community engagement, with open houses held in each county, as well as an online survey that garnered over 870 responses. The input gathered from residents helped shape the plan’s recommendations, with key priorities and projects identified for each county. Align Southern Indiana’s Trails Team, along with representatives from each county, worked closely with consultants to ensure the plan reflects the unique needs and goals of the region.

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A benefit ride will be held in memory of Bryce Gerlach on November 9. Bryce was a student at Corydon Central High School who was tragically shot and killed at a Harvest Homecoming festival on October 12 while shielding his friends. Two suspects have since been detained with one of the suspects having a "direct connection" to the case according to New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey. However, the names of the suspects have yet to be released.

Bryce's benefit ride will go from 12 p.m. to approximately 4:30 p.m., and it will begin and end at the American Legion located at 105 W Hugh Veteran Dr, Salem. Registration for the ride begins at 11 a.m. In addition to the benefit ride, there will also be a soup pitch-in and a 50/50 raffle to participate in, and attendees are encouraged to wear orange to raise awareness of gun violence.

The ride cost is $20 per driver, and an additional $5 per passenger. All proceeds go toward the Bryce Gerlach Memorial Scholarship fund.

Join the community in supporting the friends and family of Bryce, and help raise awareness of this senseless violence that has wounded the Corydon community and Southern Indiana as a whole.

For more information, text:

Randy Lee (812) 620-7085 – Side-by-Sides & Jeep information

Mike Burch (812) 620-0227 – Motorcycle information

Paige Newlon (770) 755-8226 – Donation information

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Southern Hills Church is having a yard sale Saturday, Nov. 9, 8 a.m.-12 noon. Proceeds will be donated to the local Christmas Asistance Program.

The church is located at 1645 S. State Rd. 135, Salem.

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Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales is reminding eligible Hoosiers to make a plan to cast their vote in tomorrow’s General Election. As Election Day is hours away, Secretary Morales emphasizes the importance of citizens fulfilling their civic duty, underscoring his commitment to ensuring an open, secure and trusted election.

Polling locations across the state will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time tomorrow, November 5. Trained, dedicated poll workers will be ready to assist Hoosiers, as necessary. Secretary Morales is also reminding all voters to bring a valid ID to the polls to ensure a smooth voting process.

“As Hoosiers, we are blessed to live in a nation where everyone’s vote matters. This Election Day, I urge each eligible voter to act on their civic duty and get to the polls. By voting, we affirm our commitment to preserving the core values of freedom, responsibility, and accountability that define Indiana and America,” said Diego Morales, Indiana Secretary of State.

As of today, more than 1.5 million Hoosiers have voted.

Additionally, Secretary Morales wants to remind voters that high Election Day turnout may mean longer lines. Indiana law provides that anyone in line at a polling location at 6 p.m. local time, will be allowed to vote. “A high voter turnout is a testament to the dedication of Indiana citizens. If you experience long lines, I strongly encourage you to be patient. Your constitutional right to vote matters,” added Secretary Morales.

Hoosiers can text the letters ‘IN” to 45995 with election questions or concerns. For more information on voting locations, hours, or to see a sample ballot, please visit IndianaVoters.com.

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Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales recently welcomed the first-place winners of the "I Voted" Sticker Design Contest to the Secretary of State’s Office in the Indiana Statehouse. Talented young artists from across the state were celebrated for their exceptional designs, which will be distributed to Hoosiers at polling locations on Election Day.

The contest was an opportunity for children across the state to contribute to the election process. Secretary Morales encouraged creativity and civic engagement by challenging students to design “I Voted” stickers. Nearly 1,000 creative sticker design entries were received from Hoosier children across the state.

“Submissions from hundreds of young Hoosiers have captured the heart of Indiana elections through their creative artwork. Every participant deserves an honorable mention. The stickers handed out at the polls are a reminder of the importance of every vote. Congratulations again to these students, I’m looking forward to seeing their designs worn proudly by voters statewide as we continue to encourage eligible Hoosiers to get out and vote,” said Diego Morales, Indiana Secretary of State.

Winning stickers are being distributed to counties across Indiana to be handed out at polling locations on Election Day, November 5. This effort reflects Secretary Morales’ commitment to encouraging Hoosiers to get to the polls and vote.

Ryli S Ryli Skinner - West Washington High School Student