Local news briefs

Walk-ins welcome

Walk-ins are welcome during the immunization clinics for infants and children conducted by the Putnam County Health Department.

Children through age 19 can get immunization shots from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday evening.

Children who have not had previous immunizations at the health department must bring a shot record. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Preschool starts soon

Learning Castle Preschool will begin its school year after Labor Day weekend.

The Tuesday-Thursday Students will have their first day of morning preschool from 8:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4.

The pre-kindergarten students, Monday-Wednesday-Friday classes, and Monday-Friday class will have their first day from 8:45-11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 5. For more information, call 653-3286.

McCloud Park hosts star event

McCloud Nature Park is welcoming guests of all ages to join the Indiana Astronomical Society for their monthly "New Moon Friday" event tonight at dusk.

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy stargazing at its finest on the darkest evening of the month at McCloud Nature Park. Visitors can meet at the McCloud Nature Center after dark where guests will have a chance to take a look at the spring stars through professional scopes provided by the members of the Indiana Astronomical Society. Visitors are also encouraged to bring their own telescopes and binoculars if available.

The Indiana Astronomical Society is composed of amateur astronomers that are dedicated to the pursuit of astronomy for professionals, amateurs, avid skywatchers and curious hobbyists. Other regular gatherings hosted by the society include technical meetings, telescope making classes, structured observing sessions and star parties throughout the state.

The "New Moon Friday" event is free of charge and open to the community. McCloud Nature Park is located five minutes south of North Salem on 8518 N. Hughes Rd., just east of the Putnam-Hendricks County Line (CR 900 East) north of U.S. 36.

The park is open from daily, and the nature center is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information on park programs, please call the park naturalist at (765) 676-5437 or visit our website at www.hendrickscountyparks.net.