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By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

As we approach the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, we know we will hear the ringing bell of the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army raises funds to help those in need with their Red Kettle collections.

The Red Kettle fundraising campaign will begin Saturday, Nov. 27, and run through Tuesday, Dec. 24.

The bell ringing hours are Friday – Saturday 10 a.m.—6 p.m. and Mondays -Thursdays 4-8 p.m. There are no Sunday shifts.

Ringers can be individuals, organizations, families, churches, school groups, 4-H groups or scout groups. To join in, please call Meredith Peters at 812-620-5835 as early as possible.

This year, as in years past, the red kettle will be set up at both doors at the Salem Walmart.

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While people get their Thanksgiving travel plans ready, law enforcement agencies across the state are getting ready to increase patrol visibility as part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign.

The campaign, which starts November 16, focuses on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and proper use of seat belts. During the campaign, officers will work overtime conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols designed to discourage impaired driving and promote seat belt use. The high-visibility enforcement campaign is funded with grants provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI).

“We’re anticipating another busy travel season this year, so for those sharing the road, remember; slow down, avoid distractions while driving, designate a sober driver, and buckle up,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. “We want everyone to make it to their holiday events safely.”

According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving has tragically become associated with Thanksgiving Eve, with some people turning it into a night of drinking. Drivers who intend on drinking that evening should plan ahead and secure a designated sober driver.

It is also important to wear a seat belt, put away the distractions and follow posted speed limits. Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions before each trip and to leave with plenty of time to reach their destination safely.

“Whether you’re driving cross-country or across the street, it is essential that both drivers and passengers wear a seat belt, no matter the type of vehicle,” said Jim Bryan, ICJI’s Traffic Safety Director. “This Thanksgiving, and every day of the year, remember to buckle up.”

Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road.

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If you are a beginner – or maybe just a little rusty – with Microsoft Excel or Google Suite, the Washington Co. Learning Center should be on your radar in December. Located at 1707 N. Shelby St. Suite 115, Salem, a total of three courses are being offered: Basic Microsoft Excel, Intermediate Microsoft Excel and Google Suite. These classes are completely free, and all materials are furnished. They have computers to use that will be preloaded with the necessary software.

Basic Excel will be offered December 3 and 5, Intermediate Excel will be December 10 and 12, and Google Suite is on December 17 and 19. All classes are from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and are taught by Jerry Powers.

If you have questions, please contact Chris Isaacs at (502) 830-9970 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Chris is the multi-site program manager at Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg. The program is funded by a Washington Co. Literacy Grant (ROI) and the Washington County Community Foundation.

Interested in signing up? Click Here or scan the QR code below. Be sure to take advantage of this free opportunity!

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The second annual Christmas Magic In Salem will be Saturday, December 7, 1—7 p.m., at the Salem Public Square and Purlee Plaza. Everyone will be sure to catch the holiday spirit with a day filled with shopping in Historic Downtown Salem, treat bags and hot chocolate for children, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, music, wagon rides and much more.

The event is sponsored by the Washington County Tourism organization and the City of Salem. Organizers include Nina Motsinger, Bonita Purlee, Susan Lloyd and Justin Green, mayor of Salem.

Businesses around the square will be open, and many will offer specials, entertainment or treats. Several restaurants are in short walking distance of all the festivities.

New this year is the addition of numerous vendors that will be set up in two different locations.

At #52 Public Square, located in the middle of the southwest side of the square, will be the following vendors: Pampered Chef, Scentsy, 821 Woodworks, RAD Candle Co., Dandee’s Faces, Becca’s Can Do Creations, Rugs by Mary Jane Hamilton, Creatively Unique, Shepherd’s Bluff, Wood Zinser Crafts, Hunter Ridge Winery and Bracelets Key Chains.

Vendors will also be located at Purlee Plaza, the parking area at the corner of Market and High streets, right across from Salem City Hall. Those vendors include Alexander Custom Creations, Grays Bake House, Flower Power Bakery, Roots & Wings by KH and Christmas Ornaments by Tina.

The public is invited—get in the holiday spirit, enjoy fun and fellowship and get a jump on your gift shopping!