• Lifestyle

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By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

Many have seen this unusual, wedge type vehicle cruising Salem’s streets and wondered, “what is it?” Well, it’s a fully electric Tesla Cybertruck. The body is made from Tesla’s own pure stainless steel alloy, referred to as the “Ultra-hard 30X Cold-rolled Stainless Steel,” and it is nearly invincible. Located in the rear, the 4ft by 6ft bed of the truck has a retracting cover, and it has a capacity of 11,000 lbs. Also, the Cybertruck has a continuous rearview camera in lieu of an actual mirror. Furthermore, it has 120 and 240 volt outlets, and a storage compartment in the front called a Frunk that can hold 110 lbs.

How does 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds sound? Capable of doing a top speed of 130 mph, the Cybertruck has enough torque to plant you back in your seat. The horsepower range, depending on options, is 600 to 845 hp with a dual-motor AWD option or the “Cyberbeast” trio-motor option. The model I rode in has the trio-motor option with 20-inch wheels. Interestingly enough, there are no door handles, just touch the pad on the door to open.

The interior is full of impressive features such as the 18.5-inch touch screen where the driver can control most everything, and of course it has navigation. The rear seats have a 9.4-inch screen for backseat entertainment, and it is also equipped with wireless phone charging capabilities. Simply lay your cellphone on it.

Much like other Tesla vehicles, the Cybertruck is programmed to know the ways of the road and is able to drive and navigate all on its own. However, one finger must remain on the rectangular steering wheel to ensure the driver is monitoring the operation. The Cybertruck has a range of approximately 320 miles before needing to be recharged. With so many unique features, it can seem intimidating to some. Thankfully, it comes with a 380-page owner’s manual to ensure the driver knows how to operate each bell and every whistle.

All of these cutting-edge features come at a cost, though. The price range for a Cybertruck starts at approximately $80 thousand and can easily reach heights of $130 thousand. That being said, the Tesla Cybertruck is most certainly a unique and polarizing vehicle. Ranging from its features to its shape, there is nothing quite like it.

Photos by Jerry Curry.

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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.

• Road Safety
• Sheriff's Department
• Indiana State Police

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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.