For Local Clerks, SCOTUS Marriage Decision Changes Little

Same-sex couples can now marry nationwide, but marriage license applications in Starke, Pulaski, and Marshall County will remain unchanged.

The Supreme Court declared in a 5-4 decision on Friday that same-sex couples have a right under the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution to wed. According to the syllabus from the majority opinion, same-sex couples must now have their marriages from neighboring state governments recognized by the state in which they currently reside.

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PTSD Triggers Present During Independence Day Celebrations

 Fireworks detonated during holiday celebrations can have an effect on individuals afflicted with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, according to one Clinically Licensed Social Worker.

Richard Voorhees is affiliated with Pulaski Memorial Hospital. He says former and active military members who have been in combat situations are particularly susceptible to the noise on Independence Day.
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Fireworks Season Gets Under Way

 Independence Day is Saturday, but many Hoosiers are getting an early start on their celebrations. Consumer fireworks can legally be discharged June 29 – July 3 from 9 a.m. until two hours after sunset. That cutoff time is extended to midnight on the 4th. From July 5 – 9 they can again be set off until two hours after sunset. Local ordinances may be more restrictive, so check before lighting the fuse. Continue reading →

Storing Wet Hay Increases Barn Fire Risk

HayFarmers are reminded to make sure their hay is adequately dry before putting it into the barn for storage, as wet hay increases the risk of a fire. Purdue Extension forage specialist Keith Johnson says the moisture content of hay for storage should be no higher than 20 percent. That’s because heat-tolerant microorganisms can develop in hay bales and raise their temperature. If it gets higher than 150 degrees, farmers should take apart the bales or stacks and let air circulate. Johnson says fire becomes very likely if the temperature hits 200 degrees. He adds this year’s wet conditions make the risk of fire even greater. Continue reading →

Incredible Causes will Benefit from Spirit of Pulaski County Proceeds

st0pThe annual Spirit of Pulaski County, formerly known as Germanfest, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8 this year at the Train Depot in downtown Winamac. During the event, the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a spirit ride and spirit walk in memory of Tina Kasten and all other domestic abuse victims. Kasten is a local woman whose husband was arrested for her murder back in May. Continue reading →

Prepare for Storms Before Going to Bed Tonight

 
 

More severe storms are in the forecast during the overnight hours, with damaging winds, large hail, dangerous lightning, flash flooding and isolated tornadoes possible.

Before going to bed, turn up the volume on cell phones to ensure you hear alerts, and make sure your weather apps are set to provide notifications if weather watches or warnings are issued. A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather. Continue reading →