The Floyd County Health Department has been notified by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) that they have identified one sample of mosquitoes infected with the West Nile Virus (WNV) in Floyd County.
The positive mosquito samples were collected the week of July 17, 2024 by a representative of the Floyd County Health Department during routine county-wide mosquito sampling.
No human cases of West Nile have been identified, according to the Floyd County Health Department.
Although Floyd County has had positive mosquito samples for several years, this is the first positive sample for 2024.
Most people who become infected with WNV can experience mild illness such as fever, headache, and body aches before recovering fully.
However, in some individuals, especially the elderly and immune compromised, WNV can cause serious illness and even death.
Residents of Floyd County should continue to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites by using DEET and other repellants, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants, and if possible avoid being outside during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Homeowners should also be aware of their property and correct common sources of mosquito breeding sites including clogged gutters, old tires, failing septic systems, abandoned/ nonfunctional swimming pools, and other water containing items, Homeowners should also be diligent about maintaining overgrown grass, shrubs, and trees that can harbor mosquitoes during the day.
For more information on Floyd County’s West Nile Virus surveillance program or to have a mosquito trap placed at your property, please call 812-948-4726, option 2, and then option 1 to speak to an Environmentalist or visit our website at wwwffioydcounty.in.gov.
Joyce D “Joy” Bennett, age 94, of Salem, passed away Friday, August 2, 2024 at Baptist Health Floyd.
Mrs. Bennett was born September 19, 1929 in Washington County, the daughter of Raymond H. Hauger and Lillian E. Boston Hauger. She was a member of the 1st Baptist Church in Salem, the Study Club and Co-Owner of Bennett’s Clothing for 52 years. She was an avid bowler and card player, accomplished seamstress and loved cooking and entertaining for her family.
Mrs. Bennett is survived by her son James W. Bennett (Barbara) of North Carolina, R.H. Bennett (Barb) of Salem, her daughter, Jamie (David) Bower of Salem, four grandchildren, Manda Bennett, Ryan Bower, Megan Cissna Bowling and Holly Green and six great grandchildren.
Mrs. Bennett is preceded by her husband James Bennett, who passed in 2001, her parents, her sisters, Marjorie Hedrick, Maxine Cook and Paula Young.
Jacqueline Kaye Demlow, known by most as Jackie, passed away on August 1, 2024, at 2:18 a.m. surrounded by her loved ones.
Jackie was a cherished peacemaker among her family and a dedicated elementary school teacher for 33 years.
Jackie was born on July 10, 1946, as Jacqueline Kaye Foertsch to her loving parents, Robert and Opal Foertsch.
Jackie grew up in Tell City, Indiana with her sister Suzanne Rhoden, and brother Marc Foertsch.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Chuck Demlow of nearly 52 years, sister Suzanne Rhoden, her children, Rob Demlow (Christi), Shay Carter (Wayne), Kevin Demlow (Cindy), and Ken Demlow (Amy); along with 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Opal, and brother Marc.
Jackie’s life was marked by her unwavering commitment to education and her community.
Jackie cherished time with her family and friends. She was always ready to play a game of Euchre, Racko, or Dominos with those around her.
Besides her smile, one of the really special reasons that she will be missed by a large number of people is for her handwritten letters and her devotion to ensuring each person in her address book received a card on their birthday and anniversary.
She spent most of her lifetime in southern Indiana, where she made a lasting impact on countless students and community members.
After retiring from Salem Community Schools, Jackie and Chuck enjoyed 20 years on Anna Maria Island, in Florida, before moving to Fishers, Indiana, in 2019 to be closer to family.
Jackie married the love of her life on August 23, 1972, Charles (Chuck) Demlow.
She and Chuck shared a love that inspired all who knew them.
Her legacy of kindness, patience, and dedication will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A service to celebrate the life of Jackie will be held Monday, August 5th, 2024, at Cornerstone Lutheran Church on 116th St. in Fishers, Indiana at 11:00 am EST with visitation one hour prior.
A second service will be held on Tuesday, August 6th at Weathers Funeral Home in Salem Indiana at 12:00 pm EST with visitation two hours prior.
A family graveside service for burial will take place in Evanston Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Washington County Community Foundation in Jackie’s honor, reflecting her lifelong commitment to giving and teaching.
Operating a vehicle with a controlled substance in the person’s body
Operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person
Operating a vehicle while intoxicated
Battery or battery by bodily waste (BBW) resulting in bodily injury to public safety official while engaged in official duties
Resisting law enforcement
Possession of methamphetamine
Possession of marijuana hash oil hashish or salvia
Obstruction of justice
Driving while Suspended Prior
Possession of paraphernalia
“Blues Brothers Con” is the world’s greatest tribute to the iconic 1980 film in the place where it all began, supported by the timeless Blues Music it celebrates!
Dan Aykroyd and James Belushi will reprise their iconic roles of “Elwood” and “Brother Zee” Blues at the home of “Joliet Jake:” powerhouse hour and a half performance inside the walls of the 1858 Old Joliet Prison Historic Site.
BB Con will be held one day only on Saturday, August 17th.
The proceeds from the event will support the Joliet Area Historical Museum (JAHM), a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that operates the historic site for public tours and educational programs.
Since 2018, JAHM has raised over $10 million to support the structural stabilization of the site.
Areas of the prison will be open to the public for the event. In 2024, the Old Joliet Prison Historic was designated a National Register Historic District by United States Park Service.
The Blues Brothers will be joined by some of the greatest Blues acts in the country, including legendary Chicago Bluesman Ronnie Baker Brooks, and Curtis Salgado (the namesake of the film’s character “Curtis”).
Jim Belushi, left, and Dan Ackroyd, brought the band back together for their first convention last year in Joliet, Illinois. Photo by Rebecca White
Also appearing on stage will be seasoned Chicago Blues veterans Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials, Toronzo Cannon and Joliet area Blues sensations Al Spears & The Hurricane Project.
Fans can also expect personal appearances from Tom “Bones” Malone and author Daniel de Vise.
A testament to its continued worldwide appeal, “BB Con” already has confirmed ticketholders from eleven countries on six continents, and counting!
The 16-acre Old Joliet Prison will be activated with family-friendly sites and sounds that pay homage to the Blues Brothers universe, including:
• Daley Plaza Bluesmobile Car Show: Featuring an eclectic collection of “Blumos” from around the country and associated Blues Brothers automobiles from near and far, featuring the official “Chicago Bluesmobile.”
• Soul Food Café Court: Enjoy a diverse array of Joliet’s local favorites. Confirmed vendors include Sunshine Mexican Cafe, Popus Popcorn & Concessions, Tacos Maui, Super Mercado Joliet, Cemeno’s Pizza, Mucha Salsa, Marion’s Kitchen, Ben’s Soft Pretzel and TCBY Frozen Yogurt.
• Blues Bar Beverage Tent: You won’t find orange whips, but for craft beer lovers 21 and older, a limited-edition, official licensed Blues Brothers beer, a collaboration of Blues Brothers Approved Ventures and the award-winning Will County Brewing, will be available exclusively at the event alongside other adult favorites.
• Maxwell Street Merch Market: Featuring small businesses from Downtown Joliet as well as a variety of limited-edition licensed merchandise for every Blues Brothers fan.
Performance Schedule (Subject to Change):
• 11:30 AM – Gates Open
• Noon – Opening Remarks and Welcome
• 12:30pm – Al Spears & The Hurricane Project
• 2pm – Lil Ed & The Blues Imperials
• 3:30 – Toronzo Cannon & The Chicago Way
• 5:00 – Ronnie Baker Brooks
• 7:00 – Curtis Salgado
• 9:30 – The Blues Brothers featuring Dan Aykroyd & Jim Belushi • 11:00 PM – Event Closes
Sponsors: BB Con is generously sponsored by a patchwork of community partners including the City of Joliet, Heritage Corridor Destinations, Northpoint, D’Arcy Motors, Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel, Old National Bank, Klein & Hoffman and Berglund Construction. With nearly a quarter of billion impression in its first year, a sponsorship of Blues Brothers Con offers an incredibly unique opportunity to promote your business or brand while supporting the chartable efforts of the Joliet Area Historical Museum.
Parking: FREE onsite parking for BB Con ticketholders. ADA Parking is available in the Old Joliet Prison lot immediately to the south of the main prison building.
Additional parking will be available in nearby designated lots TBD. If you require special accommodation, please contact us, preferably within 72 hours prior to the event.
JAHM encourages carpooling, public transit and ride-sharing application
Public Safety Guidelines: All BB Con patrons and their property are subject to search upon entry or reentry into the site. All patrons will be subject to a metal detection screening.
Those who choose not to subject themselves or their personal belongings to the screening will not be permitted to enter the site.
Blues Brothers Con operates in full cooperation with the Joliet Police Department. Any patron attempting to access off-limit buildings or areas of the complex may be asked to leave the premises without a refund.
JAHM and Old Joliet Prison management reserves the right to prohibit any item not listed herein from entering the premises at its discretion. All patrons and their belongings are subject to search prior to entry and once inside the building. If a prohibited item is brought into the facility, you can throw it away or take it to your car. JAHM and Old Joliet Prison will not hold any items. • Items Allowed: Bag Chairs, Strollers/Wagons, Blankets, Ponchos, Diaper Bags, Purses, Backpacks/Small Bags, Small personal Care Items (Sunblock, Bug Spray) • Items Prohibited: Weapons*, Outside food & Beverages (including Alcoholic Beverages) Coolers, Umbrellas, Tents, Canopies, Duffel/Oversized Bags, Fireworks, Bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, scooters; Barbeque grills/private cooking fires; Drones; Laser Pointers/pens/flashing or strobing devices; Unauthorized noisemakers; Pets/animals (excluding service animals), Tools. *JAHM and all historic sites and museums operated by JAHM definition of weapons includes but is not limited to the following: knives or blades of any length, metal nail files, tools, chains longer than 6 inches not made of precious metals (i.e. platinum, gold or sterling silver), firearms (authentic or replicated, including toys), clubs or extendable batons, any type of chemical irritant spray, stun guns or Tasers, spiked or studded jewelry, brass knuckle or any other item that could likely be used as a weapon or may cause injury if thrown or used improperly. Commercial filming or photography, and associated camera equipment without prior written permission from JAHM is prohibited at BB Con. Smoking (including vape pens) permitted only in the designated smoking area outside of the East Gate. Severe Weather – BB Con is a “rain or shine” event, and every attempt will be made to complete the show. In the event of severe weather (defined as thunderstorms which produce lightning, damaging winds, hail and/or tornados) the safety of our guests and personnel may dictate evacuations or postponement. All severe weather-related decisions will be made in consultation with the production team and emergency management personnel.
Tickets: General Admission $55 Preferred Viewing (Standing Room Only) $75
Available online at www.jolietmuseum.org or www.jolietprison.org Event re-entry allowed
A 62-Year-Old Salem man was arrested on a warrant for impersonating a State Trooper following an investigation by the Indiana State Police (ISP).
The investigation began in mid-July when ISP Detective Travis Baker learned that 62-year-old William J. Salyer, of Salem, allegedly left two voicemails with an Arizona man in which Salyer identified himself as a detective with the Indiana State police.
In the voicemails, Salyer allegedly stated that he would contact the Arizona State Police for theft charges if a locket mailed to Arizona was not immediately returned.
It was learned that a woman residing in Salem had an online relationship with the Arizona man and mailed him a locket containing small portion of her deceased son’s ashes.
The locket was to be buried on a Native American reservation in Arizona.
When the Arizona man returned the call and spoke with Salyer, he became suspicious Salyer was not a police officer and contacted the Indiana State Police in Sellersburg.
The investigation included interviews with all parties involved.
At the conclusion of the investigation, all information was provided to the Washington County Prosecutor’s Office for review and possible charges.
On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, an arrest warrant was issued for two counts of Impersonation of a Public Servant. Each count is a Level 6 Felony.
On Thursday morning, Deputy Devin Hopkins with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department arrested William Salyer on the warrant.
William Salyer was transported to the Washington County Jail without incident.
Indiana Department of Transportation contractor Milestone Contractors, Inc. is scheduled to begin bridge rehabilitation work along State Road 11 over the John Thompson County Ditch on or after Monday, July 22, between Seymour and Jonesville in Jackson County. Current bridge work on S.R. 11 over East Fork White River overflow will be complete prior to the start of additional bridge work.
The bridge is located approximately one mile south of the I-65 and S.R. 11 interchange and just north of the bridge over East Fork White River overflow. Temporary traffic signals will be utilized while work is in progress. Work is expected to be complete by late November, weather permitting.
This project is part of a $6.9 million contract awarded to Milestone in December 2023. The contract includes a total of three district bridge projects and one guardrail project. INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, use extra caution and avoid distractions when traveling near work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.
Juanita Pennington, 81, of Orleans, IN, passed on July 18 at Salem Crossing Care Facility in Salem, IN. She was born July 13, 1943, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Joseph Campbell and Mary Haley Campbell, both of whom preceded her. She married Raymond Pennington August 16, 1958, and he preceded her December 13, 1998. Juanita was also preceded by her Grandson: Curtis Bowman, Brother: Delmar Campbell, Brother-in-law: Milton Clark, and Nephew: Aaron Clark.
Juanita was a member of the Little Mission Church in Hardinsburg, IN.
She was also a member of the Lion’s Club in Hardinsburg.
Juanita was a faithful member of her church congregation.
She was a loving Grandmother and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.
She enjoyed playing bingo and bunko, and gardening.
Juanita is survived by:
2 Sons:
Dennis (Debbie) Pennington Orleans, IN
Richard (Chara) Pennington Marengo, IN
3 Daughters:
Patricia Bowman Milan, IN
Janet Bomberger Texarkana, TX
Joyce Smith Savannah, GA
1 Sister:
Marjorie Clark Bicknell, IN
1 Brother:
David (Chris) Campbell Indianapolis, IN
Also surviving Juanita are 19 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, 8 great-great-grandchildren, 2 nephews, and 1 niece.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday July 22, 2024, at Little Mission Church, 5226 S. Co. Rd. 640 E. Hardinsburg, IN 47125.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Monday July 22, 2024, at Little Mission Church, 5226 S. Co. Rd. 640 E. Hardinsburg, IN 47125.
Interment to follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Orleans, IN.
Possession of methamphetamine
Possession of paraphernalia
Possession of syringe
Possession of marijuana hash oil hashish or salvia
Possession of a controlled substance
Indiana State Police served an arrest warrant on a Hardinsburg man on Friday for child molestation and other related charges following a month-long investigation.
The investigation began on June 12, 2024, after an Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) family case manager was made aware of the allegations.
The case manager then contacted ISP Detective Travis Baker who initiated a criminal investigation working alongside DCS personnel.
The investigation included a forensic interview conducted at a local child advocacy center and Detective Baker obtained a search warrant for cell phones related to the investigation.
As a result of the investigation and search, Detective Baker believed illegal sexual contact occurred between the child and 31-year-old Michael Allen Richardson of Hardinsburg, Indiana.
Richardson was arrested on a warrant for the current charges while incarcerated at the Washington County Jail for previous and separate charges.
