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Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) trainings, provided by Purdue Extension Office, will take place throughout Indiana to help producers either renew or earn a certification, good for three years.

The trainings are free. Only one person from each operation is required to be certified to ensure the entire operation follows BQA standards. However, everyone who handles and manages cattle are encouraged to become BQA certified.

Those unable to attend a session can also earn the certification online at www.BQA.org.

Producers only need to attend one meeting to become certified.

BQA Trainings will be held in Washington County on  Tuesday, November 19, from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Washington County Government Building (806 Martinsburg Rd.) in Salem. RSVP’s are appreciated, but not required to Purdue Extension-Washington County at 812-883-4601 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

BQA is a nationally coordinated, state-implemented program that provides information to beef producers and consumers on how common-sense husbandry techniques can be paired with scientific knowledge to raise cattle. Its programs include best practices around ensuring end-product safety and wholesomeness, protecting herd health and animal well-being, and good recordkeeping.

It is the policy of the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service that all persons have equal opportunity and access to its educational programs, services, activities, and facilities without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, disability or status as a veteran. Purdue University is an Affirmative Action institution.

• Salem
• Special Events

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By Nathaniel Smith, Editor

The annual Veterans Memorial Ceremony in Salem is always reverent and sentimental, and this year was no exception. The community gathered together as we always do on the north lawn of the Salem Courthouse at 11 a.m. on November 11 to join in remembrance of all of those who have served our great nation, and of all of those who are still serving to this day.

The ceremony opened up with a word of prayer by Ricky Main along with a flag ceremony presented by Scout Troop 4029 of Salem. The American Legion Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary, and the Daughters of the American Revolution then performed the ceremonial laying of the wreaths, followed by a stellar performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Amazing Grace” by Salem High School Junior, Lizzy Love. There was a certain presence in the air as Lizzy performed “Amazing Grace.” Members of the crowd began to sing along with her. It was truly a special moment of unity.

The guest speaker this year was Dusty Baker. Baker began her military career as a United States Marine from 1985-1989. She then joined the United States Army from 1990-1994. She spoke deeply about her experiences in the military and discussed the importance of serving the country. In her speech she quoted a very famous historical figure, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

“Now, Therefore, I, Dwight D. Eisenhower, President of the United States of America, do hereby call upon all of our citizens to observe Thursday, November 11, 1954, as Veterans Day. On that day let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain.”

Following Dusty Baker’s speech, the ceremony concluded with the VFW Firing Squad paying tribute to soldiers spanning all throughout the history of the United States of America. From ones long gone, to ones still serving, the shots ring out for all veterans so they will never be forgotten.

Lizzy Love, Salem High School Junior

Andrew Bush, Washington County Veterans Service Officer

Ricky Main

Dusty Baker

Photos by Nathaniel Smith.

• City of Salem
• Awards & Recognition
• Special Events

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The bridge across from Kentucky Fried Chicken on South Main Street in Salem has a new name: The Washington County Veterans Memorial Bridge. Officially dedicated at 9 a.m. on November 11, the Veterans Memorial Bridge now stands in remembrance of all those who have served and are continuing to serve.

Attended by many members of the community, the Veterans Bridge dedication was a wonderful ceremony that paid homage to our veterans in a very special way. Enjoy photos from the dedication below!

Andrew Bush, Washington County Veterans Service Officer

Karen Engleman, IN Representative District 70

Major General Dale Lyles, Indiana Adjutant General

Spokesperson for Representative Erin Houchin

Commissioner Rick Roberts

Photos by Nathaniel Smith.

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Cochren and Co., with special guest Mackenzie Phillips, will be performing at Southern Hills Church on Saturday, Nov. 16. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the concert will start at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

The concert is presented by Wayne Truelove Ministries.

Southern Hills Church is located at 1645 S. State Rd. 135, Salem.

For more information, call Adam at 812-620-5921.