What's Up! Wells County

Monday, January 31, 2011

What's up?

Daddy-Daughter
Feb. 20
Calling all Ninjas & Samurai! It’s time to buy tickets to take your little Asian princess to the Daddy Daughter Dance Sunday, Feb. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Wells County 4-H Community Building.
The theme is “Evening in the Orient.”
Enjoy an evening of music, refreshments, door prizes, photos and treat bags. Escorts may be father, grandfather, or other significant adult role model. Dress for this event is theme based or dressy. A prize will be awarded to the best theme dressed dad and daughter. The price for a couple is $10 ($3 each additional daughter).
Tickets are on sale now at the City Clerk Treasurer's office in City Hall.

Club Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 1
Cardinal Bird Club--Wells County Public Library; 6:30 p.m. The program will be a movie on hummingbirds. Popcorn and pretzels will be served. Bring your own pop.

Wednesday, Feb. 2
Bible Study Club--First United Methodist Church; 12:45-2 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 5
River Terrace Estates--Sally Frauhiger and daughters yodeling; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Feb. 6
River Terrace Estates--Duke Wong and Family playing piano; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

North Adams Adult Ed/GED Registration & Orientation

Feb. 1& 2 in Bluffton
A new registration/orientation process is in place for all North Adams Adult Ed/GED classes. Interested students will complete a two-day registration/orientation class before they can enter into a regular class. The following are the registration/orientation dates and times.
Registration/orientation for the North Adams Adult Education/GED classes held in Decatur or Geneva will be Jan. 25 and 26 at the Decatur Work One Office. The registration/orientation classes will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. and those interested must attend both days.
Registration/orientation for the North Adams Adult Education/GED classes held in Bluffton will be Feb 1 & 2 at the Bluffton Work One Office. The registration/orientation classes will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm and those interested must attend both days.
All students must complete the registration/orientation classes – walk-in students will not be accepted. Classes are for individuals who are 17 years of age and older and not enrolled in school.
To sign up for the registration/orientation and for information on class dates and times, please call Jeannie Smith at 724-7121 # 4.

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Mystery Dinner Theatre TONIGHT

St. Joseph Hessen Cassel will sponsor a Myster Dinner Theatre in their parish hall tonight. Cost is $25 per person and includes appetizers, dinner and theatre performance and socializing after the show. A cash bar will be available.
Dinner will be at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information or to order tickets call 260-415-2900. Tickets are available at the church school at 11521 Old U.S. 27 South, Fort Wayne or the church office or at Nine Mile Restaurant.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Sign-up for the WCPL Winter Reading Program in February

Join in the fun of the Wells County Public Library’s annual Winter Reading Program throughout the month of February. The entire family can participate in one of two programs: “Get in the Game: Read!” for ages 12 to adult or the Family Reading Program for kids and families.

Adults and Teen Program: The teen and adult program has never been easier to participate in. You can now sign-up at the main library, the Ossian branch, or online at www.wellscolibrary.org. Everyone who signs up will receive a pen. Keep track of the number of pages you read or listen to on your paper log or online. When you’ve read or listened to 800 pages, go to the Reference Desk at the Main Library or to the Ossian branch, and you’ll be able to select a book for yourself or donate a book to one of the four elementary schools in Wells County. Finishers will also be entered into a drawing for a prize basket. Completed forms must be turned in by Monday, February 28th.

Kids and Families Program: families can work together to “build a snowman” by reading different categories of books and completing fun activities. Participants get a box of hot chocolate just for signing up and families that complete the snowman receive a book of their choice. Forms and rules will be available in the children’s room at the main library or the Ossian branch.

Prizes were graciously donated by the Friends of the Library and the Wells County Foundation.

For more information please stop by any Wells County Public Library branch or visit the library online at www.wellscolibrary.org.

Performance & arts events set at IPFW

Auer Performance Hall on the campus of IPFW will feature the following events:
JAZZ ENSEMBLE—Friday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., featuring guest Steve Hobbs.
COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA—Monday, Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. Featuring IPFW Student Concerto and Aria Competition winners including Aaron Trammel, trumpet; Evan Keenan, piano; Andrew Laverghetta, piccolo and Jason Simon, piano.
SYMPHONIC WIND ENSEMBLE—Thursday, March 3, 7:30 p.m.
Admission is free for IPFW students with ID, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (over 60), $3 for non IPFW students and free to those 5 and under.
The IPFW Department of Theatre will present “Anton in Show Business” in the IPFW Williams Theatre Feb. 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. A madcap comedy following three actresses across the footlights and down the rabbit hole into a strangely familiar Wonderland that looks a lot like American Theatre.
Admission free for IPFW students; $14 for adults; $12 for seniors, faculty, staff, alumni; $10 for groups or 10 or more; $5 for students 18 and under and college students with ID’s. Children under 6 will not be admitted to this production.
For concerts, recitals and theater productions contact the box office in Rhinehart Music Center, Monday through Friday from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. a 260-481-6555.
Exhibits in the IPFW Visual Arts Gallery will include:
FURNITURE EXHIBIT—”Robert F. Schroeder: Metaphors, Metaphorical Furniture Fabricated from Copper and Silver,” through Feb. 13. Free admission with hours from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

What's Up

HOW TO ROLL SUSHI—Thursday, Feb. 10, with Michael Zadylak. Eat what you create and take home rolling mat, $9 per guest with registration by Feb. 4.

OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP—Friday, Feb. 11, 9 am. to 4 p.m., with hour for lunch, with artist Gwen Gutwein, request enrollment brochure.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Club Calendar

Friday, Jan. 27
Loyal Neighbor's Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 29
River Terrace Estates--Art Beer and Esther Mowery; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 30
River Terrace Estates--Alan and Helen Godsey singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

Tuesday, Feb. 1
Cardinal Bird Club--Wells County Public Library; 6:30 p.m. The program for the evening will be a movie on Hummingbirds. Popcorn and pretzels will be served. Bring your own pop.

Wednesday, Feb. 2
Bible Study Club--First United Methodist Church; 12:45-2 p.m.

Every Thursday
TOPS—NEW MEETING PLACE. Group will meet at Lilac Lane Clubhouse, 1550 Plaza Dr., #4, Bluffton; 6-7 p.m. (Behind Kroger's).

CAC offers lyrical dance for teens & creative expressions for preschoolers

Ballet director Beth Lampton has announced two new classes now enrolling at the Creative Arts Council School of Ballet. The curriculum is adding Lyrical dance to its schedule under the direction of Amanda Berhalter and Creative Expressions for youngsters 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 years of age being taught by Jeni Meeks.
Berhalter grew up in Kettering, Ohio, where she studied ballet and lyrical dance. A graduate of Purdue University, where she majored in English, she is the English/Language teacher at Bluffton High School and the varsity girls swim coach. While at Purdue, she continued her studies in lyrical. ballet, jazz and musical theatre. She was a member of the Higher Grounds Dance Company in which she performed, choreographed and directed several shows.
The new lyrical dance class for teens (12 to 21) is now registering for six Tuesday classes to begin on Feb. 1, at 3:15 p.m. for a tuition fee of $54. Completed registration sheet and payment confirm the dancer’s place in this class.
For the youngsters 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 the six week course in Creative Expressions will meet on Thursdays, beginning Feb. 3, from 4:30 to 5 p.m. with an enrollment fee of $48.
Meeks is a teacher at Southern Wells with a degree from IPFW in education. She has taught at the School of Ballet since 1999 and has performed in many of the stage productions including Copelia, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. She instructs summer dance camps including a technique camp for the Norwell High School Dance Team.
Registrations may be made at the arts council office at 211 Water St. in Bluffton or requested via email sent to cac@adamswells.com

What's Up!

Weekly prayer sessions held on Thursdays
Parlor City Outpouring is an inter-denominational movement that is committed to seeing a spiritual outpouring take place in Bluffton that will rival that of past revivals.
The group will meet every Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. in Meeting Roomo #1 at the Wells Community 4-H Building to pray for revival and “lost souls.”
Everyone with a burden to see revival in Bluffton is welcome to attend and take part in the meeetings. For more information call 824-3903.

Concordia Baseball fundraiser dinner
Jan. 29
Concordia Lutheran High School baseball team will sponsor a chicken dinner fundraiser at the school's cafeteria Saturday, Jan. 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. Cost is $9 for a diner that includes 1/2 chicken, two sides, cookie and drink or $7 for just the chicken.
Funds raised will be used to purchase new equipment, improve the baseball diamond and facilities and for spring workouts.
Advance tickets are on sale for $8 and $6 by calling 260-494-8564. For more information call Bill Gray at 260-223-4464 or email at: bgray@clhscadets.com.

Noodle Dinner benefit Jan. 30
The Lions Club in Montpelier will sponsor a Benefit Noodle Dinner Sunday, Jan. 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu will include chicken or beef and noodles with all the trimmings. A free will donation will be taken. Dinners can be eaten in or carried out. Proceeds will go to help Jacob Sills and Colton Nickols with medical expenses.
The Lions Club is located at the corner of High and Jefferson Streets in Montpelier.

Pancake & Sausage Breakfast Jan. 30
Liberty Center United Methodist Church will sponsor a pancake and sausage breakfast Sunday Jan. 30 from 8 to 9:15 a.m. The event is sponsored by the Liberty Center UMC youth group. All free-will donations will go directly to the youth group’s camping fund.

Used Books Sale at the library, Feb. 15-19
The Friends of the Library will sponsor the annual Winter Used Books Sale, Feb. 15-19 at the Wells County Public Library’s main branch. Browse through used books, movies, audio books, art prints, electronic equipment, and more.
Need to get rid of some books to make room for more? The library will also be taking book or movie donations from now until the sale. Just drop them off at the circulation desk at the main library and let the staff know they are for the book sale.
Book Sale Hours:
Tuesday, Feb. 15: 5-8 p.m. (Friends Only Preview)
Wednesday, Feb. 16: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 17: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 18: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 19: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Friends Only Preview night will be open to all Friends of the Library members. Anyone interested in being a Friend, can stop by the library or get an application at www.wellscolibrary.org/Friends.html.
Proceeds from the sale help support library programs such as: the Winter Reading Program, Summer Reading Program, author visits, guest speakers, book baskets for waiting rooms, and much more. For more information about this event and other programs, please visit the Wells County Public Library’s website at www.wellscolibrary.org.

Lunch & Learn Series begins Feb. 8
Lunch and Learn, a series for Northeast Congregations, will be offered on three different dates in as many months.
Feb. 8: How to Build the Band. Explore effective practices for contemporary worship and praise bands.
March 16: Marketing 101. Learn how to successfully market your congregation.
April 7: The Art of Being a Healing Presence. Discover ways to bring hope and strength to those in need. Sessions are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Fort Wayne. Each lunch session is $10 per person. For details, locations and on-line registrations visit: www.centerforcongregations.org or call 260-435-1880.

Learn to shoot portraits

CAMERA WORKSHOP—Camera owners, learn to pose people for a portrait shot with Bend Jones of Sonshine Studio, free event, Thursday, Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Wells County Council on Aging

Office Hours Monday through Friday are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 2008
2011 Senior Discount Cards are NOW available at the Wells County Council on Aging from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cards are $7 and are not transferable or $8 laminated. Many local vendors participate in this senior discount program. If it is impossible to go to the Council on Aging office to purchase a card, you can receive it by mail Send the agency a stamped, self-addressed legal sized envelope; enclose the $7 per card and the additional $1 fee if lamination is desired. The discount card and list of sponsors will then be mailed to you. Sale of Senior Citizens Discount Cards are a fundraising project for the local Council on Aging. The money raised by the sale of the cards supports many services the organization has to offer within the Wells County Community, including programs such as transportation and in-home services. If you are a business owner and are interested in sponsoring a discount, contact Margaret Whitesel at 824-1070.

Wells on Wheels (WOW) Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesdays from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call
824-4WOW or 824-4969.

Monday through Friday
11:30 a.m. — Nutrition Program at Capri II Sponsored by Aging & In-Home Services of NE Indiana. Those age 60 and over are free will donation. Under age 60 meals are $5.25. Menus available at Council on Aging. Contact the Nutrition Site 24 hours in advance between 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 824-2260.
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.—Pathways, Wells County Senior Citizen Activities Guide may be picked up at the Wells County Council on Aging, 225 W. Water Street.
Friday, Jan. 28
1-4:30 p.m.—Pool: 8 Ball at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. Call Marcia Meyer at 565-3000.
1-4:30 p.m.—Cards: All kinds at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. Call 565-3000.
Wednesday, Feb. 2
10 a.m.-Noon—Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.

Club Calendar

Friday, Jan. 27
Loyal Neighbor's Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 29
River Terrace Estates--Art Beer playing accordian and Esther Mowery playing guitar and singing; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 30
River Terrace Estates--Alan and Helen Godsey singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

What's Up

Roadrunners to Golden Corral Feb. 5
On Saturday, Feb. 5 you can sleep in (a little) and still get on the bus in time for brunch at the Golden Corral.
The endless buffet features a wide variety of home-style classics and made-from-scratch foods.
All trips leave from the Warren Church of Christ parking lot at 302 N. Wayne St., Warren. Contact Colleen Franklin at (260) 414-0223 for details. Call by February 4. The group will leave by 9 a.m.

Free Classes at Whitewater Valley Feb. 5
Whitewater Valley Railroad will sponsor their annual training classes beginning Feb. 5 at the South Connersville Yard Complex located at 300 S. Eastern Ave. in Connorsville. The classes are free and open to the public and do not require membership to the non-profit Whitewater Valley Railroad.
Each session will be held from 9:01 a.m. to 1:01 p.m. each Saturday beginning Feb. 5 and run through March 26. There is a small charge ($15) for printed materials.
For more information call 765-825-2054 or log onto: www.whitewatervalleyrr.org.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Club Calendar

Friday, Jan. 27
Loyal Neighbor's Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 29
River Terrace Estates--Art Beer playing accordian and Esther Mowery playing guitar and singing; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 30
River Terrace Estates--Alan and Helen Godsey singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

Every Wednesday
10 a.m.-Noon — Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall on second floor. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.

What's Up?

New Lyrical Dance Lessons to being Feb. 1
The beginning of 2011 brings a new class and introduces a new teacher to the School of Ballet.
Creative Arts Council will be offer a class in Lyrical Dance under the direction of Amanda Berhalter.
Classes will begin Tuesday, Feb. 1 and last for six weeks. Class size will be limited to 10 students.
Lyrical dance is a combination of ballet, modern, drama and creative expression. It is a beautiful but controlled free form dance. Contact CAC to register to learn the art of lyrical dance!
For more information, please call the CAC office at 824-5222 or visit www.wellscocreativearts.com. 211 Water St. Bluffton, IN 46759.

Travel Adventure Series: Wales Feb. 3
The 2011 Travel Adventure Series will continue with a presentation on Wales Thursday, Feb. 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Creative Arts Council at 211 W. Water Street, Bluffton. Think Wales and behold images of Celts, choir, castles, Cardiff, coal mines, coastline and pastoral mountain valleys dotted with sheep. Wales is a small country with its own language and a large influence. Explore the U.S., Welsh connections, particularly in Upstate New York, as well as the historic homeland on the eastern shore of the Irish Sea. Join filmmaking musician Monty for a memorable journey to Wales: Land of Song. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children. Call 824-5222 or visit www.wellscocreativearts.com. 211 Water St. Bluffton, IN 46759.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Creative Arts Council Programs

Visit the Creative Arts Council’s Balentine Gallery at the Arts, Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 West Water Street, Bluffton, Indiana 46714. (260)-824-5222 or wellscocreativearts.com Find event & membership information, view exhibits, purchase tickets, take classes, or volunteer. No admission charge to view gallery exhibits.
HOURS—Weekdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and by arrangement with CAC Office. Email: cac@adamswells.com.

IN THE BALENTINE GALLERY
CURRENT EXHIBIT—Mud & Metal—pottery and mobiles. Exhibit ends Feb. 27.
ON THE PATIO—Fabulous ice sculpture of sunflower and butterflies by ice artist Bud Lies. Frame your face in the flower’s center and pose for a photo! On display until it melts!
SCHOOL OF BALLET
Regular classes in session. (Check email for weather information.)
Now enrolling for Lyrical Dance with Amanda Berhalter for ages 12-21, beginning Feb. 1, for six Tuesdays, $54 and Creative Expressions for ages 3 1/2 to 4 1.2, beginning Feb. 3, for six Thursdays, $48.
Mark calendars for free ballet stage performance featuring scenes from Alice in Wonderland, Sunday, May 15, 3:30 p.m., Bluffton High School.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
YOGA FOR BEGINNERS—Now in session on Tuesday with Susy Jones..
RHAPSODY, RHYTHM & RHYME—”Sea Sounds,” music for toddlers with Cynthia Lemmen, now in sold out session.
CAMERA WORKSHOP—Camera owners, learn to pose people for a portrait shot with Bend Jones of Sonshine Studio, free event, Thursday, Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m.
HOW TO ROLL SUSHI—Thursday, Feb. 10, with Michael Zadylak. Eat what you create and take home rolling mat, $9 per guest with registration by Feb. 4.
OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP—Friday, Feb. 11, 9 am. to 4 p.m., with hour for lunch, with artist Gwen Gutwein, request enrollment brochure.

EVENTS
TRAVELOGUE—Thursday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m., “Wales: Land of Song,” admission is $6 adults and $3 for children.
VALENTINE DINNER CONCERT—Monday, Feb. 14, concert by Linda Reiff, meal by Roses are Forever, $25 per guest with reservations needed by Feb. 9.
CLASSICAL ENSEMBLE—Sunday, March 6, 2:30 p.m., “Baroque and Classical Masters to Classic Pops music with a variety featuring David Ling, violin; Dennis Fick, bassoon; and Diane Dickson, oboe. Ticket price to be announced. Sponsors include Pretzels, Inc., Bluffton Psi Iota Xi and Anonymous.

Ongoing Activities:
CAC board of directors—Monday Feb. 21, 5:15 p.m.
PHOTOGRAPHERS FORUM—On break.
READERS’ CIRCLE—Tuesday, Feb. 22, noon, carry in lunch and readings. Discussing Paula Deen’s autobiography with samples of Deen’s “Courage Chili” and hoe cakes..
Artists in Action—Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Work space by arrangement with CAC office.

Club Calendar

Monday, Jan. 24
Stitches of Hope--First United Methodist Church, 325 West Washington St., Bluffton; 6 p.m. For information call 824-8743 or email: k4storys@gmail.com.

Swiss Stitchers Quilt Guild--Social Corner at Swiss Village in Berne; 7 p.m. Review of personal goals from 2010 and the opportunity to write new goals for 2011. Several volunteers are needed to fill the open meetings of 2011. Bring creations to share with everyone during Show & Tell. Contact Carol Malone: 260-223-1403; Gail Kuhn: 260-589-2845 or Vivian Lemmon: 260-692-6227.

What's Up?

Basket Bingo to be held in April
The annual Bluffton Chapter of Psi Iota Xi basket bingo event has been moved from February to April 4, 2011. Mark your calendars and come join the fun in April! For more information call 824-9401.

Psi Iota Xi selling cheeseballs and flower cards
Members of Bluffton Chapter of Psi Iota Xi are selling cheeseballs and flower cards. Cheeseballs can be purchased for $6.50 and are a great addition to any Super Bowl party. To purchase cheeseballs please contact Jane Waters at 820-1447 or Julie Holte at 824-5031.
Flower cards may also be purchased for $25 and are good for twelve beautiful monthly bouquets from the Posy Pot.Flower cards make wonderful gifts for birthdays or Valentine's day. To purchase flower cards please contact Melinda Gilgen at 824-3833 or Jane Waters at 820-1447.

Creative Arts
Council "Mud & Metal" Exhibit going on now
“Mud and Metal” is on exhibit now through Feb. 27 at the Creative Arts Council in Bluffton.
The artworks are by the Fort Wayne group “Bunch of Potters,” as well as local potters and mobile artist Steve Makowski, celebrate earthly beauty and traditional craftsmanship.
Makowski Mobiles are constructed primarily of recycled materials and are sculptures in motion with wisps of air currents. The artist’s 30 years experience fabricating replacement antique watch and clock parts goes into the construction of each mobile. Makowski art works hang in North Eastern Indiana, Chicago, Western Europe, and Eastern Europe.
Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Admission is free.
Call the CAC office at 824-5222 or visit www.wellscocreativearts.com. 211 Water St. Bluffton, IN.

Garage sale at Swiss Village Jan. 25
Swiss Village will sponsor a garage sale, Tuesday, Jan. 25 in Swiss Village’s auditorium from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Craft items, Christmas decorations, fabric and upholstery, craft kits and more will all be available for purchase. Everything - even a sewing machine - will be sold at bargain prices! The proceeds from the sale will go towards funding Swiss Village’s activity department.

Photo Forum Jan. 27
The Creative Arts Council will sponor a Photo Forum Thursday, Jan. 27 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 211 W. Water Street, Bluffton. The event is free.
What did Vermeer know about portraiture when he painted the girl with the pearl earring? In today’s technical world, how can you set up a portrait photo to bring out characteristics and generate appeal?
Join Ben Jones of Sonshine Studio for an informal session about how to pose and compose photographs of people. Portraits will reveal more about the personality of the subject with just a few tips and pointers from a pro. Those attending may bring one of their photos and all their questions.
This meeting marks the anniversary of first year of the forum for photographers meeting at the arts center under the guidance of B K Campbell. Plans for monthly topics ahead are underway. Anyone with a camera is welcome, teens through adults! For more information, please call the CAC office at 824-5222 or visit www.wellscocreativearts.com. 211 Water St. Bluffton.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry at CAC

Tonight at 4 p.m. the Creative Arts Council’s Series on the Ouabache will present “Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry” at the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 Water St., Bluffton.
Program presenter will be Vickie Fuller-Kibellus featuring the music of Dolly, Reba,, Loretta, Minnie, lots of Patsy, a little of Tammy and sprinkled with some music by ladies we might not know on a first name basis.
Tickets purchased in advance were $10 (after Jan. 20 will be $12). Tickets are half price for children 12 and under.
The star has tremendous background in regional performances. Her dynamic voice and compelling stage presence have graced stages in a variety of venues that include performances of Godspell, The Fantasticks, Oliver, Guys and Dolls, Carnival and Tea with Mrs. Porter (an original production of her own creation).
Kibellus has performed at the Good Times Theatre at Bearcreek Farms in the productions of Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Seussical. She also has performed in Wells Community Theater musicals, including the role of Reverend Mother in the Sound of Music.
With Crying Baby Productions, she performed in H.M.S. Pinafore, Pirates of Penzance, Fiddler on the Roof and The Odd Couple. She is a costumer and freelance artist who has done costume construction for several performances including Anything Goes and Something’s Afoot at the Warren Pulse Opera House.
Kibellus also had a part in the production of Unsung Cole with the Grey Lite Players. She is regular in the Wednesday variety shows at Bearcreek Farms and recently filmed a pilot for RFD TV in connection with Bearcreek Farms. In May and June of 2011 she will be performing in the production of “Mame.”

Friday, January 21, 2011

ACAC Rematch tonight

Adams Central's and Bluffton's boys' varsity basketball teams will square off in a rematch of their ACAC Tourney thriller around 7:30 p.m. Friday in the Bluffton gym. Be there!

4-H BB & RIFLE SAFETY SIGN UP

Youth in grades 3 - 13 may still enroll in this year's Wells County 4-H BB & Rifle Safety Club on Tuesday, January 22, 6:30 PM at the Wells County 4-H Park in Bluffton.

Meetings will continue each Tuesday night, 6:30 - 8:30 PM until April 5.

Youth in grades 3, 4, and 5 can participate in BB Gun. Youth in grade 6 and above can participate in Rifle or Pistol.

Youth may become 4-H members when they enter third grade or become ten years of age sometime during the calendar year (January 1 - December 31) and may continue their membership for a maximum of ten (10) years or through the calendar year they become nineteen (19), whichever comes first.

A membership fee of $20 for BB Gun and $25 for .22 Caliber Rifle should be paid at the first meeting. The fee covers the cost of equipment, materials, ammunition, insurance, and awards. Checks should be made payable to Wells County 4-H Rifle Club. Scholarships are available by checking with 4-H Leaders at the event. If you have more than one person in the family, the second member is only $15. No person will be turned away due to financial constraints.

The 4-H Shot Gun Safety Club. 4-H Pellet Pistol Safety Club, and the 4-H Archery Club will all begin in April.

For more information about 4-H, contact the Wells County Office of the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, 824-6412 or one of the Shooting Sports Leaders: Don Kiefer, 824-1585; Chad Captain, 417-6488; Tex Mauger, 827-0266; Gregg Palmer, 701-2975; and Kevin Springer, 565-3323.

Wells County Council on Aging

Office Hours Monday through Friday are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 2008
2011 Senior Discount Cards are NOW available at the Wells County Council on Aging from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cards are $7 and are not transferable or $8 laminated. Many local vendors participate in this senior discount program. If it is impossible to go to the Council on Aging office to purchase a card, you can receive it by mail Send the agency a stamped, self-addressed legal sized envelope; enclose the $7 per card and the additional $1 fee if lamination is desired. The discount card and list of sponsors will then be mailed to you. Sale of Senior Citizens Discount Cards are a fundraising project for the local Council on Aging. The money raised by the sale of the cards supports many services the organization has to offer within the Wells County Community, including programs such as transportation and in-home services. If you are a business owner and are interested in sponsoring a discount, contact Margaret Whitesel at 824-1070.

Wells on Wheels (WOW) Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesdays from
6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call
824-4WOW or 824-4969.

Monday through Friday
11:30 a.m. — Nutrition Program at Capri II Sponsored by Aging & In-Home Services of NE Indiana. Those age 60 and over are free will donation. Under age 60 meals are $5.25. Menus available at Council on Aging. Contact the Nutrition Site 24 hours in advance between 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 824-2260.
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.—Pathways, Wells County Senior Citizen Activities Guide may be picked up at the Wells County Council on Aging, 225 W. Water Street.

Thursday, Jan. 20
9 a.m.-Noon—Social Security Outpost at Wells County Council on Aging. Sign in on first come, first served basis.

Friday, Jan. 21
9 a.m.-1 p.m.—Foot Clinic by Toni Mowery, LPN. Includes foot soak, foot inspection, nail and callous care and lotion massage for $23. Call 824-1070 to make an appointment.
1-4:30 p.m.—Pool: 8 Ball at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. For more information call Marcia Meyer at 565-3000.
1-4:30 p.m.—Cards: All kinds at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. For information call Marcia Meyer at 565-3000.

Wednesday, Jan. 26
10 a.m.-Noon—Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. For information contact Bluffton Parks and Recreation Dept. at 824-6069.

Pickel Ball begins Jan. 24

Pickleball is a racquet sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis.
The sport is played on a court with the same dimensions as a doubles badminton court. The net is lower than most other racquet sports allowing for faster play.
The game is played with a hard paddle and a wiffle ball, making the technique required for pickleball different than other sports.
If you are interested in learning this fast growing popular sport call the park office at 824-6069 for more information or join us in the Bluffton City Gym starting Jan 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. and each following Monday for eight weeks.
This is a free league!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Club Calendar

Thursday, Jan. 20
Wells County Master Gardener's at the Extension Office Complex at the 4-H Park; 7 p.m. Wayne Fox from Huntington Nursery will present a program on lawn care entitled, “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.” He will explain types of grass seeds, fertilizers, as well as insecticides, and herbicides for the homeowner, with a question and answer time to follow the presentation. There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to attend.

Saturday, Jan. 22
River Terrace Estates--Chet Baumgartner singing; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 23
River Terrace Estates--Alyssa Kissell and friends singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

Monday, Jan. 24
Stitches of Hope--First United Methodist Church, 325 West Washington St., Bluffton; 6 p.m. For information call 824-8743 or email: k4storys@gmail.com.
Swiss Stitchers Quilt Guild--Social Corner, Swiss Village in Berne; 7 p.m. Review of personal goals from 2010 and the opportunity to write new goals for 2011. Several volunteers are needed to fill the open meetings of 2011. Bring creations to share with everyone during Show & Tell. Carol Malone: 260-223-1403; Gail Kuhn: 260-589-2845 or Vivian Lemmon: 260-692-6227.

What's up!

Pancake & Sausage Breakfast Jan. 22
Petroleum United Methodist Church will host a Pancake/Sausage Breakfast Saturday, Jan. 22 from 7 to 11 a.m.
We invite all to come and fellowship and enjoy a great meal. Free Will Offering.
All proceeds go to Mission Committee of church to support our hurting friends. (Pd Advt.)

Basket Making Class Feb. 2
The South Adams Senior Center will sponsor a Basket Making Class with Deb Gerber Wednesday, Feb. 2. Call to reserve a place, class limited to 12 people. Cost is $25 and with all materials furnished. The item to be made is a JD Market Basket. Call 260-589-8877 to reserve your place.

Warren Roadrunners to go to Golden Corral Feb. 5
On Saturday, Feb. 5 you can sleep in (a little) and still get on the bus in time for brunch at the Golden Corral.
The endless buffet features a wide variety of home-style classics and made-from-scratch foods.
All trips leave from the Warren Church of Christ parking lot at 302 N. Wayne St., Warren. Contact Colleen Franklin at (260) 414-0223 for details. Call by February 4. The group will leave by 9 a.m.

Wine Tasting event Feb. 5 in Huntington
The Huntington Arts Initiative, Inc., will hold a wine tasting, “Vino, Vittles and Vision,” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Feb. 5 at The New Huntington Theatre, also known as “The Studio”. The event for those 21 and over is a fundraiser for the Arts Initiative's renovation of the buildings at the corner of Warren and Market Streets in downtown Huntington.
The spaces will eventually house a professional gallery, a small professional stage, and classroom areas, all in keeping with the mission of The Studio to enrich, to entertain and to educate. Additional areas in the buildings are targeted to be office and studio space.
There will be red and white wines offered plus hot and cold appetizers.
Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Anyone wanting tickets can visit www.huntingtonartsinitiative.org or call 260-454-0449. All proceeds from the event will go toward the renovation of The Studio.

Area Things to See and Do

FORT WAYNE
COLISEUM EVENTS
BRAD PAISLEY, DARIUS RUCKER & JERROD NIEMANN—Jan. 21, $29.75 to $59.75.
WINTERJAM—Sunday, Jan. 23, 6 p.m.., $10. Featuring Newsboys, David Crowder Band, Kutless, Red Newsong, Tony Nolan. $10 at the door.
SHRINE CIRCUS—Jan. 27-30, 6:30 p.m. Thursday; 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. and 2:30 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 and 5:45 p.m. Sunday. Tickets range in price from $10 to $18. More information at 260-422-7122.
JEFF DUNHAM—Thursday, Feb. 10, $44-$50.
CHRIS TOMLIN & LOUIS GIGLIO—Wednesday, March 9, 7 p.m., $25 & $30.
MIKESCHAIR—Sunday, March 27, Mad Ants Faith Night, game 5 p.m. and concert 7:30 p.m., $8 in advance.
Tickets via Ticketmaster, Coliseum box office 1-800-745-3000.

FW’S EMBASSY
THEATRE EVENTS
THE COLOR PURPLE—Tuesday, Jan. 25.
LYLE LOVETT & JOHN HIATT—Saturday, Feb. 5, 8 p.m., $37.50 to $67.50.
RIVERDANCE—Wednesday, Feb. 9.
SPRING AWAKENING—Wednesday, Feb. 13, musical.
CLAY AIKEN—Wednesday, March 2, 7:30 p.m., $29.50 to $75.
GARRISON KEILLOR—Tuesday, March 8, 7:30 p.m., $45.
JOE BONAMASSA—Tuesday, March 15, 8 p.m., $39 to $59.
BILL COSBY—Saturday, March 26, 4 p.m., tickets $39.50 to $59.50.
MADAGASCAR LIVE!—Tuesday, April 5 & Wednesday, April 6, 7 P.M., $15 TO $35.
SPAMALOT—Wednesday, May 18.
Ticket information at 260-424-1811 or through Ticketmaster. For groups of 20 or more call 260-420-3344. Embassy box office at 1-800-745-3000.

FORT WAYNE MUSEUM OF ART.
COMMON THREADS—Quilts from the FWMA Pottinger collection, through Jan. 30.
Members Exhibition from Dec. 4-Feb. 27. More information at 260-422-6467 or www.fwmoa.org.
MARK LOWRY AT 1ST ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Mark Lowry and pianist Stari Whitmire—Saturday, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m., First Assembly of God, 1400 West Washington St., FW. $20 at the door.
Lincoln Brewster in worship and concert—Saturday, April 30, 7:30 p.m., $20 at the door.

NISWONGER CENTER VAN WERT, OHIO
GREGORY POPOVICH’S COMEDY PET THEATER—Sunday, Jan. 30, 3 p.m.. $10 to $25.
Tickets and information at www.npacvw.org or 419-238-6722.

Creative Arts Center sponsoring free demo of ice sculpturing Jan. 20

TONIGHT from 5 to 6:30 p.m. folks stopping by the Bluffton Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre’s terrace will be able to watch ice artist Bud Lies as he transforms a 300 pound block of ice into a wonderful sculpture.
Lies recently created a grand piano out of a 3,000 pound block of ice, complete with all the ivories in place, for the Shipshewana Ice Festival. Another major sculpture by Lies was a C 130 Aircraft with a 30-foot wingspan using 55,000 pounds of ice in Fairbanks, Alaska’s annual ice carving competition.
There is no charge to stop by to watch the process and visitors will have access to the centre to warm up and to view the current exhibit of Mud and Metal.
Lies and his wife, the former Linda Rittenhouse, are now residents of LaPorte. Lies plans to participate in the annual “Fire & Ice” Festival in Columbia City later this month.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Club Calendar

Wednesday, Jan. 19
O.D.O. Club--Corner Depot; 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 20
Bluffton Lions Club--Corner Depot; noon.
Wells County Master Gardener's at the Extension Office Complex at the 4-H Park; 7 p.m. Wayne Fox from Huntington Nursery will present a program on lawn care entitled, “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.” He will explain types of grass seeds, fertilizers, as well as insecticides, and herbicides for the homeowner, with a question and answer time to follow the presentation. There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to attend.

Saturday, Jan. 22
River Terrace Estates--Chet Baumgartner singing; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 23
River Terrace Estates--Alyssa Kissell and friends singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

What's Up?

Nostalgia Night at Concordia Jan. 21
On Jan. 21 at Concordia’s boys’ basketball game at home against Snider, the Concordia Alumni Association will honor past recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award.
Past recipients of the award will be on hand to greet current and former students beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium lobby. Refreshments will be available. The event is open and free to the public.
For more information call Bill Gray at 260-223-4464 or email: bgray@clhscadets.com.
Concordia High School is lcoated at 1601 St. Joe River Drive in Fort Wayne.

Pancake & Sausage Breakfast Jan. 22
Petroleum United Methodist Church will host a Pancake/Sausage Breakfast Saturday, Jan. 22 from 7 to 11 a.m.
We invite all to come and fellowship and enjoy a great meal. Free will offering.
All proceeds go to Mission Committee of church to support our hurting friends. (Pd Advt.)

Opera offers free preview Jan. 22
Indianapolis Opera announces this year’s children’s opera, Fight for the Future: Johnny Appleseed v. Paul Bunyan. The Opera will offer a free preview of this fully staged opera, featuring sets, costumes and the Opera’s professional artists of the Indianapolis Opera Ensemble Saturday, Jan. 22 at 10:30 a.m. at Basile Opera Center, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.
The event is free for children in grades kindergarten through sixth. The length of the show is 45 minutes.
The opera is about Mother Earth. She is worried and she depends on people to take care of her. Johnny Appleseed gets it right, but his dreams of a green earth are threatened to be cut down by the axe-wielding, forest-chopping Paul Bunyan. Bunyan, the original macho man, takes and takes some more, without a thought for the consequences of his actions.
Fast forward to the future, the great-great-great grandsons of these American legends are still battling as Big Business Bunyan continues his family’s tradition of waste and greed. Even Snow White and Rip Van Winkle get in on the action as they awaken from their years of slumber to a world of shopping malls and Starbucks.
For more information about this and other upcoming performances visit www.indyopera.org.

Red Cross
Bloodmobile Jan. 24
The Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at the South Adams Senior Center Tuesday, Jan. 24 from noon to 6 p.m. Call 260-589-8877 for more information.

Ribbon Cutting for newest exhibit at Science Central
Jan. 22
A ribbon cutting will be held at 10:45 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 22 at Science Central to welcome it's newest temporary exhibition entitled “Our Weakening Web: The Story of Extinction.”
The exhibit will be open through May 29 at the lower level in the Traveling Exhibit Gallery.
It will highlight how threads of the web have been destroyed in the past; how threads are being weakened today and that anyone can help repair our weakening web. There will be life-size, hand-crafted dioramas that feature scenes of the past to the present.
For more information call 260-424-2400 or log onto: www.sciencecentral.org.

Salamonie Reservoir hosting storytelling workshop, Jan. 29
A storytelling workshop to help boost your ability to spin a tale will be offered at the Salamonie Interpretive Center, Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Storyteller Doyne Carson will go over the basics of telling a story and captivating an audience. The event begins with Carson demonstrating such speaking tools as pitch, pause, pacing, tone, use of story maps and other useful storytelling tools.
In the afternoon, participants will have the opportunity to tell a short story and gain some feedback and helpful tips.
A light lunch will be included. Registration is required. Call (260) 468-2127 to register.

Pancake and
sausage brunch at Hoagland Jan. 30
Members of Hoagland Area Advancement Association will sponsor a Pancake and Sausage Brunch Sunday, Jan. 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hoagland Pavilion. Thrivent will match the funds raised that day.
Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children age six to 12 and free for those ages five and younger.
The meal will include fresh whole hog sausage, all-you-can-eat pancakes and drinks. Carry-out will be available. For more information log onto: www.hoaglandin.com.

Deadline Feb. 1
for quarterly senior citizens’ dinner
New Hope Lutheran Church, on the south edge of Ossian, will again host its quarterly Senior Citizens’ Dinner (for anyone in the community age 55 or better) on Thursday, Feb. 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. There will be a sing-a-long with Ed Higgins, great entertainment by George Berger. A free will offering dinner will be served by the ladies of New Hope. RSVP to 622-7954 by Tuesday, Feb. 1. (1/18)

North Adams
Adult Ed/GED
Registration &
Orientation
Feb. 1 & 2 in Bluffton
A new registration/orientation process is in place for all North Adams Adult Ed/GED classes. Interested students will complete a two-day registration/orientation class before they can enter into a regular class. The following are the registration/orientation dates and times.
Registration/orientation for the North Adams Adult Education/GED classes held in Decatur or Geneva will be Jan. 25 and 26 at the Decatur Work One Office. The registration/orientation classes will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. and those interested must attend both days.
Registration/orientation for the North Adams Adult Education/GED classes held in Bluffton will be on February 1and 2 at the Bluffton Work One Office. The registration/orientation classes will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm and those interested must attend both days.
All students must complete the registration/orientation classes – walk-in students will not be accepted. Classes are for individuals who are 17 years of age and older and not enrolled in school.
To sign up for the registration/orientation and for information on class dates and times, please call Jeannie Smith at 724-7121 # 4.

Weather forces cancellations

Bluffton Parks Department has announced no Bingo, no Craft Club and no Open Gym today due to hazardous conditions caused by inclement weather.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Club Calendar

Wednesday, Jan. 19
Kitco Retirees--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.
O.D.O. Club--Corner Depot; 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 20
Bluffton Lions Club--Corner Depot; noon.
Wells County Master Gardener's at the Extension Office Complex at the 4-H Park; 7 p.m. Wayne Fox from Huntington Nursery will present a program on lawn care entitled, “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.” He will explain types of grass seeds, fertilizers, as well as insecticides, and herbicides for the homeowner, with a question and answer time to follow the presentation. There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to attend.

What's Up for the New Year!

Bluffton Optimist Tri-Star Basketball contest Jan. 22
ALL Wells county boys and girls, age eight to 13 as of March 15, 2011, are encouraged to participate in the Bluffton Optimist Tri-Star Basketball contest Saturday, Jan. 22 at the City Gym. Registration and warm up will be held at 3:30 p.m. The contest will begin at 4 p.m. Sign up forms available at the door. First place winners will advance to the regional contest. For more information call Dan Gerdom at 824-0195.

Mystery Dinner
Theatre Jan. 29
St. Joseph Hessen Cassel will sponsor a Myster Dinner Theatre in their parish hall Saturday, Jan. 29. Cost is $25 per person and includes appetizers, dinner and theatre performance and socializing after the show. A cash bar will be available.
Dinner will be at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information or to order tickets call 260-415-2900. Tickets are available at the church school at 11521 Old U.S. 27 South, Fort Wayne or the church office or at Nine Mile Restaurant.

Deadline Feb. 1
for quarterly senior citizens’ dinner
New Hope Lutheran Church, on the south edge of Ossian, will again host its quarterly Senior Citizens’ Dinner (for anyone in the community age 55 or better) on Thursday, Feb. 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. There will be a sing-a-long with Ed Higgins, great entertainment by George Berger. A free will offering dinner will be served by the ladies of New Hope. RSVP to 622-7954 by Tuesday, Feb. 1.

Small Engines
Workshop for Youth Feb. 7
Allen County 4-H Clubs are offering a Small Engines Workshop Series for youth in grades three through 12 starting Feb. 7. Workshop dates include Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 and March 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Workshops will be held at Carroll High School, on Carroll Road. Those attending will learn how a 4-cycle engine works by rebuilding one. Participants should bring an engine from home if possible to work on.
Class is limited to the first 10 to register by calling 481-6826. Registration deadline is Feb. 1. Workshop fee is $14. This workshop is being offered by a 4-H Volunteer Instructor. Reservations are required.

Monday, January 17, 2011

Storytime sign-up begins at the Wells County Public Library

The Wells County Public Library will be offering winter and spring preschool storytimes at both the main library and Ossian branch. Sessions begin the first week of February and end in March or April, depending on the age of your child. Registration for all storytimes starts on Monday, January 17 at 9 am. Spaces for each class fill up fast, so make sure to register as soon as possible.


Preschool Programs (Main Library):
200 W. Washington St., Bluffton

Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Fridays at 9:15-10:00 am or 10:15-11:00 am
This Friday morning program is for the library’s smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Pre-registration needed. Programs held from February 4-March 11.

Toddler Time
Ages 2 and 3
Wednesdays at 10:00-10:30 am or 10:45-11:15 am; Thursdays at 9:45-10:15 am
Toddlers, with an adult friend, can join in this program filled with stories, finger plays, and songs. Sessions meet every Wednesday or Thursday morning for 12 weeks. Pre-register to join. Programs held from February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

PJ Storyhour
Ages 3 to 6
Stories, videos, finger plays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. Pre-register to join.

Storyhour
Ages 4 to 6
Wednesday at 1:00-2:00 pm or Thursdays at 10:30-11:30 am
Just like PJ Storyhour, but held every week on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. These sessions fill up fast, so pre-register early. Programs held February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).



Preschool Programs (Ossian Branch):
207 N. Jefferson St., Ossian

Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Thursdays at 10:30 am
This Thursday morning program is for our smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Held Thursday mornings at 10:30 AM. Pre-registration needed.

Storytime
Ages 2 to 6
Tuesdays at 10:30-11:00 am
Stories, videos, fingerplays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Pre-register to join. Programs held from February 1-April 26 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

BLUFFTON OPTIMIST TRI-STAR BASKETBALL CONTEST

Who: ALL Wells county boys and girls age 8-13 (as of March 15, 2011)
When: Saturday January 22, 2011
Registration/warm up at 3:30 pm; Contest at 4:00 pm
Where: Bluffton City Gym, 128 E. Market
Registration: Sign up forms available at the door
1st place winners advance to the regional contest.
Questions: Call Dan Gerdom at 824-0195

Yoga classes offered by Susy Jones at CAC

Looking for balance and a “breather” to begin the year 2011?
The yoga class being offered by Susy Sridevi Jones, RYT 500 at the Balentine Gallery at the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre might just be the ticket.
Classes for beginners will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 6 to 7 p.m. and continue for eight weeks. Cost is $70 and to enroll call (260) 824-5222.
Jones has been a student of yoga for 35 years. She studied in Fort Wayne, New York and Virginia. Her background in education and dance naturally led to her present profession as an instructor of yoga. She received certification to teach beginning, intermediate and advanced Hatha Yoga from the integral Yoga Institute in Buckingham, Virginia. She serves there as a member of the staff responsible for teacher training. Susy is married to Dr. Larry Jones and together they have five sons.

Storytime sign-up begins at the Wells County Public Library

The Wells County Public Library will be offering winter and spring preschool storytimes at both the main library and Ossian branch. Sessions begin the first week of February and end in March or April, depending on the age of your child. Registration for all storytimes starts on Monday, Jan. 17 at 9 a.m. Spaces for each class fill up fast, so make sure to register as soon as possible. Register at the library or online at www.wellscolibrary.org. Click on the WCPL calendar of events, go to the week of Feb. 1, select the program you wish your child to attend, and complete the registration form.

Preschool Programs
(Main Library)
Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Fridays at 9:15-10 a.m. or 10:15-11 a.m.
This Friday morning program is for the library’s smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Pre-registration needed. Programs held from February 4-March 11.

Toddler Time
Ages 2 and 3
Wednesdays at 1
0-10:30 a.m. or
10:45-11:15 a.m.; Thursdays at 9:45-10:15 a.m.
Toddlers, with an adult friend, can join in this program filled with stories, finger plays, and songs. Sessions meet every Wednesday or Thursday morning for 12 weeks. Pre-register to join. Programs held from February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

PJ Storyhour
Ages 3 to 6
Stories, videos, finger plays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Pre-register to join.

Storyhour
Ages 4 to 6
Wednesday at 1-2 p.m. or Thursdays at 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Just like PJ Storyhour, but held every week on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. These sessions fill up fast, so pre-register early. Programs held February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

Preschool Programs (Ossian Branch):
207 N. Jefferson St., Ossian
Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
This Thursday morning program is for our smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Held Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Pre-registration needed.

Storytime
Ages 2 to 6
Tuesdays at 10:30-11 a.m.
Stories, videos, fingerplays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Pre-register to join. Programs held from Feb. 1-April 26 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

Club Calendar

Tuesday, Jan. 18
Chester Nightclubbers--Home of Lola Grimm; noon.

Wednesday, Jan. 19
Kitco Retirees--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.
O.D.O. Club--Corner Depot; 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 20
Bluffton Lions Club--Corner Depot; noon.
Wells County Master Gardener's at the Extension Office Complex at the 4-H Park; 7 p.m. Wayne Fox from Huntington Nursery will present a program on lawn care entitled, “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.” He will explain types of grass seeds, fertilizers, as well as insecticides, and herbicides for the homeowner, with a question and answer time to follow the presentation. There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to attend.

Every Tuesday
Optimist Club — Meets each Tuesday morning at 6:45 a.m. at Corner Depot Restaurant in Bluffton.

Every Wednesday
10 a.m.-Noon — Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall on second floor. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.
The Kiwanis of Greater Bluffton Club meets at noon every Wednesday at TimberRidge Golf Course for lunch and a brief meeting. For more information call Jon Brown at 824-4095.

Pickel Ball begins Jan. 24

Pickleball is a racquet sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis.
The sport is played on a court with the same dimensions as a doubles badminton court. The net is lower than most other racquet sports allowing for faster play.
The game is played with a hard paddle and a wiffle ball, making the technique required for pickleball different than other sports.
If you are interested in learning this fast growing popular sport call the park office at 824-6069 for more information or join us in the Bluffton City Gym starting Jan 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. and each following Monday for eight weeks.
This is a free league!

Friday, January 14, 2011

Free Computer Classes at the Wells County Public Library

The Wells County Public Library will be offering free basic and intermediate computer classes in January and February at the main library. Participants can sign up for just one class or all seven, depending on availability. Classes range from computer basics training, learning Internet, photo editing, creating documents in Microsoft Word, and using the popular social networking site Facebook.

A complete list of classes and times are listed below. Those wanting to attend can register at the library, call 260-824-1612, or online at www.wellscolibrary.org. Classes are free and open to the public. Space is limited, so make sure to sign up as soon as possible.

Computer Basics
Computer Class
Thursday, Jan. 27: 1-2:30 p.m. or 6-7:30 p.m.
This beginning class will cover a general overview of the computer, starting with how to turn it on, using the mouse and keyboard, working with Windows, and basic computer terminology. Great for seniors or those thinking about buying a computer. Also good for people who are self-taught and want to get a basic understanding of computer functions and how they work.

Internet Basics
Tuesday, Feb. 1: 1-2:30 p.m. or 6-7:30 p.m.
Learn about the World Wide Web, how to navigate a Web browser such as Google, and explore the library’s Web site. To get the most out of the class, participants should have Computer Basics training or familiarity with basic mouse, keyboard, and computer functions.

Intermediate Internet
Thursday, Feb. 3: 6-7:30 p.m.
Provides hands-on exercises and goes into more depth about Internet searching. Must have Internet Basics training or good knowledge of the Internet.

Digital Photo Editing
Thursday, Feb. 17: 10-2:30 p.m.
Bring your digital camera, USB port plug, and flash/ thumb drive to save pictures. We’ll go over how to transfer pictures from your camera to the computer, printing, and basic photo editing.

Intro to Microsoft Word
Tuesday, Feb. 22: 1-2:30 p.m.
Participants will get an overview of Microsoft Word 2007, create a simple document, correct spelling, adjust margins, save, print, and open files. Attendees should be able to maneuver the mouse easily to get the most out of this class.

Storytime sign-up begins at the Wells County Public Library

The Wells County Public Library will be offering winter and spring preschool storytimes at both the main library and Ossian branch. Sessions begin the first week of February and end in March or April, depending on the age of your child. Registration for all storytimes starts on Monday, January 17 at 9 am. Spaces for each class fill up fast, so make sure to register as soon as possible.


Preschool Programs (Main Library):
200 W. Washington St., Bluffton

Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Fridays at 9:15-10:00 am or 10:15-11:00 am
This Friday morning program is for the library’s smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Pre-registration needed. Programs held from February 4-March 11.

Toddler Time
Ages 2 and 3
Wednesdays at 10:00-10:30 am or 10:45-11:15 am; Thursdays at 9:45-10:15 am
Toddlers, with an adult friend, can join in this program filled with stories, finger plays, and songs. Sessions meet every Wednesday or Thursday morning for 12 weeks. Pre-register to join. Programs held from February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

PJ Storyhour
Ages 3 to 6
Stories, videos, finger plays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. Pre-register to join.

Storyhour
Ages 4 to 6
Wednesday at 1:00-2:00 pm or Thursdays at 10:30-11:30 am
Just like PJ Storyhour, but held every week on Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. These sessions fill up fast, so pre-register early. Programs held February 2 or 3-April 27 or 28 (does not meet the fourth week in March).



Preschool Programs (Ossian Branch):
207 N. Jefferson St., Ossian

Wee Read
Birth to 24 months
Thursdays at 10:30 am
This Thursday morning program is for our smallest patrons. It encourages communication and personal contact between child and parent. A great way to meet other new parents. Held Thursday mornings at 10:30 AM. Pre-registration needed.

Storytime
Ages 2 to 6
Tuesdays at 10:30-11:00 am
Stories, videos, fingerplays, and crafts related to a specific theme make learning fun. Pre-register to join. Programs held from February 1-April 26 (does not meet the fourth week in March).

Pancake & Sausage Breakfast Jan. 22

Petroleum United Methodist Church will host a Pancake/Sausage Breakfast Saturday, Jan. 22 from 7 to 11 a.m.
We invite all to come and fellowship and enjoy a great meal. Free Will Offering.
All proceeds go to Mission Committee of church to support our hurting friends.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Club Calendar

Thursday, Jan. 13
Bee Happy Quilters--Wells County Public Library; 7 p.m. Susan Lesh will present the lesson. Show and tell. Public welcome. 824-1463.

Saturday, Jan. 15
River Terrace Estates--Marion Williams playing piano; 9:30 a.m in Healthcare.
The Wells County Genealogy Society--meeting and carry-in meal at 429 W. Market St.; Meeting at 10 a.m. Carry-In after the meeting. Vegetable soup chili, drinks and tableservice will be provided. Please bring a dish to share.

Sunday, Jan. 16
River Terrace Estates--Quitin Fiechter singing; 2:30 p.m. in Healthcare.

Tuesday, Jan. 18
Chester Nightclubbers--Home of Lola Grimm; noon.

Wednesday, Jan. 19
Kitco Retirees--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 20
Bluffton Lions Club--Corner Depot; noon.

Every Tuesday
Optimist Club — Meets each Tuesday morning at 6:45 a.m. at Corner Depot Restaurant in Bluffton.

Every Wednesday
10 a.m.-Noon — Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall on second floor. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.

Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry at CAC

On Sunday, Jan. 23, at 4 p.m. the Creative Arts Council’s Series on the Ouabache will present “Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry” at the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 Water St., Bluffton.
Program presenter will be Vickie Fuller-Kibellus featuring the music of Dolly, Reba,, Loretta, Minnie, lots of Patsy, a little of Tammy and sprinkled with some music by ladies we might not know on a first name basis.
Tickets purchased in advance are $10 (after Jan. 20 will be $12). Tickets are half price for children 12 and under.
The star has tremendous background in regional performances. Her dynamic voice and compelling stage presence have graced stages in a variety of venues that include performances of Godspell, The Fantasticks, Oliver, Guys and Dolls, Carnival and Tea with Mrs. Porter (an original production of her own creation).
Kibellus has performed at the Good Times Theatre at Bearcreek Farms in the productions of Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Seussical. She also has performed in Wells Community Theater musicals, including the role of Reverend Mother in the Sound of Music.
With Crying Baby Productions, she performed in H.M.S. Pinafore, Pirates of Penzance, Fiddler on the Roof and The Odd Couple. She is a costumer and freelance artist who has done costume construction for several performances including Anything Goes and Something’s Afoot at the Warren Pulse Opera House.
Kibellus also had a part in the production of Unsung Cole with the Grey Lite Players. She is regular in the Wednesday variety shows at Bearcreek Farms and recently filmed a pilot for RFD TV in connection with Bearcreek Farms. In May and June of 2011 she will be performing in the production of “Mame.”

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Wells County Council on Aging

Office Hours Monday through Friday are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 2008
2011 Senior Discount Cards are NOW available at the Wells County Council on Aging from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cards are $7 and are not transferable or $8 laminated. Many local vendors participate in this senior discount program. If it is impossible to go to the Council on Aging office to purchase a card, you can receive it by mail Send the agency a stamped, self-addressed legal sized envelope; enclose the $7 per card and the additional $1 fee if lamination is desired. If you are a business owner and are interested in sponsoring a discount, contact Margaret Whitesel at 824-1070.
Wells on Wheels (WOW) Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Wednesdays from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call
824-4WOW or 824-4969.
Monday through Friday
11:30 a.m. — Nutrition Program at Capri II Sponsored by Aging & In-Home Services of NE Indiana. Those age 60 and over are free will donation. Under age 60 meals are $5.25. Menus available at Council on Aging. Contact the Nutrition Site 24 hours in advance between 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 824-2260.
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.—Pathways, Wells County Senior Citizen Activities Guide may be picked up at the Wells County Council on Aging, 225 W. Water Street.
Friday, Jan. 14
9 a.m.-1 p.m.—Foot Clinic by Toni Mowery, LPN. Includes foot soak, foot inspection, nail and callous care and lotion massage for $23. Call 824-1070 to make an appointment.
1-4:30 p.m.—Pool: 8 Ball at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. For more information call Marcia Meyer at 565-3000.
1-4:30 p.m.—Cards: All kinds at Christian Care Retirement Community. Participation is free. Call Marcia Meyer at 565-3000.
Monday, Jan. 17
OFFICE CLOSED
to Observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Wednesday, Jan. 19
10 a.m.-Noon—Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.

‘Mud & Metal’ open house Jan. 16

A bunch of area potters and metal workers will welcome guests to view their works at the Balentine Gallery in the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 Water St., Bluffton this Sunday, Jan. 16, for coffee at 3 to 4:30 p.m. The potters group is regional guild of successful artists who host and autumn sales event at Orchard Gallery in Fort Wayne.
Potter Kimberly Rorick resides in Ossian. Her bright, whimsical works are in many collections in Wells County homes. Kristy Jo Beber’s works display earthy, natural color tones of the clays used and are embellished with curves and unique patterns.
Mobiles on display are the work of clock smith Steve Makowski of Bluffton, whose precision in construction contributes to the “balancing act” these pieces require. The bronze bear figures were created by Doug Rich, a Colorado artists who hales from Wells County. Trina Pope, whose works often depict horses in paintings and clay, will display a unique figure of a horse fashioned of wire.
At this opening event, guests will be able to chat with the artists a bout the works and any purchases made will be at a 10% discount, courtesy of the art council. Light refreshments ill be served at the free event. The exhibit will be viewable through Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and evenings to 7 p.m. on Mondays and Thursday, or by arrangement.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Area Things to See and Do

FORT WAYNE
COLISEUM EVENTS
BRAD PAISLEY, DARIUS RUCKER & JERROD NIEMANN—Jan. 21, $29.75 to $59.75.
WINTERJAM—Sunday, Jan. 23, 6 p.m.., $10. Featuring Newsboys, David Crowder Band, Kutless, Red Newsong, Tony Nolan.
JEFF DUNHAM—Thursday, Feb. 10, no ticket info.
CHRIS TOMLIN & LOUIS GIGLIO—Wednesday, March 9, 7 p.m., $25 & $30.
MIKESCHAIR—Sunday, March 27, Mad Ants Faith Night, game 5 p.m. and concert 7:30 p.m., $8 in advance.
Tickets via Ticketmaster, Coliseum box office 1-800-745-3000.

FW’S EMBASSY
THEATRE EVENTS
THE COLOR PURPLE—Tuesday, Jan. 25.
LYLE LOVETT & JOHN HIATT—Saturday, Feb. 5, 8 p.m., $37.50 to $67.50.
RIVERDANCE—Wednesday, Feb. 9.
SPRING AWAKENING—Wednesday, Feb. 13, musical.
CLAY AIKEN—Wednesday, March 2, 7:30 p.m., $29.50 to $75.

Club Calendar

Wednesday, Jan. 12
Poplar Grove Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 13
Bee Happy Quilters--Wells County Public Library; 7 p.m. Susan Lesh will present the lesson. Show and tell. Public welcome. 824-1463.

Saturday, Jan. 15
The Wells County Genealogy Society--meeting and carry-in meal at 429 W. Market St.; Meeting at 10 a.m. Carry-In after the meeting. Vegetable soup chili, drinks and tableservice will be provided. Please bring a dish to share.

What's Up

Adult Crochet
Lessons on Mondays
Crochet Lessons for adults on will be held on Mondays from 3 to 4 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall in Bluffton. Learning to crochet will give you a lifetime of pleasure and relaxation. You can learn to create handmade items for yourself and people you love. Classes will be taught by Kathy Gehrett. Cost for 3 hours of group lessons are $10 due the first day. Yarn and instructions will be provided and you will need to bring your own size H hook. Call the office at 824-6069 to pre-register. Classes are held in January and February. Class size is limited and open to beginners and advanced students.

Scrapbooking
Workshop for Youth Jan. 22
Allen County 4-H Clubs are offering a Scrapbooking Workshop on Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Allen County Extension Office, 4001 Crescent Ave. Fort Wayne, (east side of IPFW campus). Workshop will be from 9 to 10 a.m. Then stay to work on your newly gained Scrapbooking skills.
This workshop is being offered by volunteer instructors. It is open to all youth grades three through 12. Reservations are required by Jan. 14 to hold your spot. Please call 481-6826 and provide name and current grade. Recommended supplies to bring include: regular scissors, pictures to use on a two page layout; acid free writing pen to use for journaling; a selection of paper you wish to use, including solid color cardstock; adhesive tape runner or photo tabs The instructor has additional tools that you may use at this workshop. Parents are welcome.

Craft Club to meet at City Hall beginning Jan. 19
Over three-quarters of American households have at least one family member who spends an average of 7.5 hours weekly engaged in crafting or hobbies. It’s time to put these creative minds in one room for an afternoon of artistic fun. Each session will have a craft prepared for you to work on that will vary from free to $3, or feel free to bring your own and enjoy socializing with others like you. The classes will be held the third Wednesday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall (right after Bingo ends). Instructor is Kathy Gehrett to find out what the craft is call 824-6069 at the beginning of the month.

Monday, January 10, 2011

What's Up

Mystery Dinner Theatre Jan. 29
St. Joseph Hessen Cassel will sponsor a Myster Dinner Theatre in their parish hall Saturday, Jan. 29. Cost is $25 per person and includes appetizers, dinner and theatre performance and socializing after the show. A cash bar will be available.
Dinner will be at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information or to order tickets call 260-415-2900. Tickets are available at the church school at 11521 Old U.S. 27 South, Fort Wayne or the church office or at Nine Mile Restaurant.

Area Things to See and Do

Visit the Creative Arts Council’s Balentine Gallery at the Arts, Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 West Water Street, Bluffton, Indiana 46714. (260)-824-5222 or wellscocreativearts.com Find event & membership information, view exhibits, purchase tickets, take classes, or volunteer. No admission charge to view gallery exhibits.
HOURS—Weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and until 7 p.m. on Thursdays and by arrangement with CAC Office. Email: cac@adamswells.com.

IN THE BALENTINE GALLERY
CURRENT EXHIBIT—Mud & Metal—pottery and mobiles. Open house Sunday, Jan. 16, 3-4:30 p.m. Greet the artists and enjoy 10% discount on purchases. Exhibit end Feb. 27.
SCHOOL OF BALLET
Regular classes in session.
TWO NEW OPPORTUNITIES—Beginning the first week of February will be Creative Expressions for those 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 on Thursdays with Ms. Jeni, $48 and Lyrical Dance for those 12 to 21 on Mondays with Ms. Amanda, $54.
Mark calendars for free ballet stage performance featuring scenes from Alice in Wonderland, Sunday, May 15, 3:30 p.m., Bluffton High School.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
YOGA FOR BEGINNERS—In the gallery with Susy Jones, 8 week session begins Jan. 18, $70.
RHAPSODY, RHYTHM & RHYME—”Sea Sounds,” music for toddlers with Cynthia Lemmen beginning Jan. 10, for eight weeks, Mondays from 10 to 10:45 a.m., $64.
OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP—Friday, Feb. 11, 9 am. to 4 p.m., with hour for lunch, with artist Gwen Gutwein, request enrollment brochure.

EVENTS
OPENING RECEPTION—Sunday, Jan 16, for Pottery & Mobiles Exhibit, free event.
ICE CARVING DEMO—Thursday, Jan. 20, 5 p.m., watch ice artist Bud Lies create a sculpture from a 300 pound block of ice at the terrace of the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre. No admission charge.
SERIES ON THE OUABACHE—”Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry,” Sunday, Jan. 23, 4 p.m., with Vickie Kibellus, $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Sponsor, Alexin, LLC
TRAVELOGUE—Thursday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m., “Wales: Land of Song,” admission is $6 adults and $3 for children.
VALENTINE DINNER CONCERT—Monday, Feb. 14, concert by Linda Reiff, meal by Roses are Forever, $25 per guest with reservations needed by Feb. 9.
INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE CLASSES—Coming in March with more information to be announced.

Ongoing Activities:
CAC board of directors—Monday Jan. 17, 5:15 p.m.
PHOTOGRAPHERS FORUM—Thursday, Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m. Tips on portrait techniques, a session with photographer Ben Jones.
READERS’ CIRCLE—Tuesday, Feb. 22, noon, carry in lunch and readings. Discussing Paula Deen’s autobiography.
Artists in Action—Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Work space by arrangement with CAC office.
CUISINE ARTISTS—Thursday, Jan. 13, 12:30 p.m., lunch at the Snug, reservations to CAC. “How to Roll Sushi,” course on Thursday, Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m., $7, eat what you create!

Creative Arts Center sponsoring free demo of ice sculpturing Jan. 20

On Thursday, Jan. 20 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. folks stopping by the Bluffton Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre’s terrace will be able to watch ice artist Bud Lies as he transforms a 300 pound block of ice into a wonderful sculpture.
Lies recently created a grand piano out of a 3,000 pound block of ice, complete with all the ivories in place, for the Shipshewana Ice Festival. Another major sculpture by Lies was a C 130 Aircraft with a 30-foot wingspan using 55,000 pounds of ice in Fairbanks, Alaska’s annual ice carving competition.
There is no charge to stop by to watch the process and visitors will have access to the centre to warm up and to view the current exhibit of Mud and Metal.
Lies and his wife, the former Linda Rittenhouse, are now residents of LaPorte. Lies plans to participate in the annual “Fire & Ice” Festival in Columbia City later this month.

Club Calendar

Monday, Jan. 10
Widow to Widow Group--Corner Depot Restaurant; 6 p.m.
Wells County Man-to-Man Prostate Cancer Support Group--Council on Aging, 225 W. Water St., Bluffton; 4-5:30 p.m. This is the beginning of the 15th year. Interested parties and significant others are welcome to attend the meeting.
Bluffton Christian Writing Club--River Terrace Estates, two miles west of Bluffton on State Road 116; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Encouragement and information to all who attend. No Cost. Everyone welcome! 260-273-9264 or kjreusser@adamswells.com

Tuesday, Jan. 11
Homemaker's Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 12
Poplar Grove Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 13
Bee Happy Quilters--Wells County Public Library; 7 p.m. Susan Lesh will present the lesson. Show and tell. Public welcome. 824-1463.

Free Computer Classes at the Wells County Public Library

The Wells County Public Library will be offering free basic and intermediate computer classes in January and February at the main library. Participants can sign up for just one class or all seven, depending on availability. Classes range from computer basics training, learning Internet, photo editing, creating documents in Microsoft Word, and using the popular social networking site Facebook.

A complete list of classes and times are listed below. Those wanting to attend can register at the library, call 260-824-1612, or online at www.wellscolibrary.org. Classes are free and open to the public. Space is limited, so make sure to sign up as soon as possible.

Computer Basics Computer Class
Thursday, January 27: 1:00-2:30 pm or 6:00-7:30 pm
This beginning class will cover a general overview of the computer, starting with how to turn it on, using the mouse and keyboard, working with Windows, and basic computer terminology. Great for seniors or those thinking about buying a computer. Also good for people who are self-taught and want to get a basic understanding of computer functions and how they work.

Internet Basics
Tuesday, February 1: 1:00-2:30 pm or 6:00-7:30 pm
Learn about the World Wide Web, how to navigate a Web browser such as Google, and explore the library’s Web site. To get the most out of the class, participants should have Computer Basics training or familiarity with basic mouse, keyboard, and computer functions.

Intermediate Internet
Thursday, February 3: 6:00-7:30 pm
Provides hands-on exercises and goes into more depth about Internet searching. Must have Internet Basics training or good knowledge of the Internet.

Digital Photo Editing
Thursday, February 17: 1:00-2:30 pm
Bring your digital camera, USB port plug, and flash/ thumb drive to save pictures. We’ll go over how to transfer pictures from your camera to the computer, printing, and basic photo editing.

Intro to Microsoft Word
Tuesday, February 22: 1:00-2:30 pm
Participants will get an overview of Microsoft Word 2007, create a simple document, correct spelling, adjust margins, save, print, and open files. Attendees should be able to maneuver the mouse easily to get the most out of this class.

Intermediate Microsoft Word
Thursday, February 24: 1:00-2:30 pm
Expand your knowledge of Microsoft Word 2007. Learn to create tables, lists, headers, footers, envelopes, labels, and more. Must have Intro to Microsoft Word training or familiarity with basic Word functions.

Intro to Facebook
Monday, February 28: 6:00-7:30 pm
Create an account on the popular social networking website Facebook, and learn basic techniques for communicating with friends and posting information. Must have Internet Basics training or good knowledge of the Internet.

Friday, January 7, 2011

What's Up!

Stuff and Fluff Feb. 7
Ladies bring that special girl in your life for a memorable evening she will never forget. Watch her eyes light up as the two of you make her very own stuffed animal. Stuff and Fluff will be held Feb. 7 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall. Be sure to wear play clothes since we will also be doing valentine crafts. Cost to participate is $20 per girl. Call 824-6069 by Jan 31st to register and pick out your animal.

Games Galore offered monthly
Games Galore is offered every first Wednesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall. Play your favorite games or learn some new ones. FREE. For more information call 824-6069.
Craft Club offered monthly
Craft Club is offered every third Wednesday of the month from 3 to 4 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall. Supplies will be provided and price will not exceed $3. Call for details at 824-6069.

Senior Center Garage Sale Feb. 3-8 in Celina
A six day garage sale, sponsored by the Mercer County Council on Aging, will be held Feb. 3-8 at the Senior Citizen Center at 217 Riley Street, Celina, Ohio.
For more information call 419-586-16445.

Crochet lessons
Feb. 7, 14, 21
Learn to crochet or use a knifty knitter. Lessons are on the second floor of city hall from 3 to 4 p.m., Monday Feb. 7, 14 and 21. Cost is $10 due the first day. Call to register at 824-6069 and bring a size H hook to class.

USS Maddox Destroyer Assoc. Reunion Aug. 25-28
Members of the USS Maddox Destroyer Assoc. (DD731, DD622 and DD168) will hold their reunion Aug. 25-28.
For more information contact Dennis Stokhaug at 571W., 14562 Hidden Creek Ct., Muskego, Wisc. 53150 or call 262-679-9409 or email: maddox64@aol.com.

Register now for the IU Mini Marathon on April 2

Indiana University newsroom release:

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Register now for the sixth annual IU Mini Marathon and 5K Run/Walk, taking place on Saturday, April 2. For the first time, the Indiana University Alumni Association will coordinate the event.

"The IU Mini Marathon brings together the Bloomington community, IU students, and alumni from around the country," said J Thomas Forbes, executive director of the IU Alumni Association. "The IU Alumni Association is pleased to bring IU family and friends together to raise awareness and support for IU students who are cancer survivors."

The half marathon and 5K course will wind through the IU campus and downtown Bloomington. The first 500 people to register for the half-marathon pay only $40. After that, the cost rises to $50 per person, or $45 for IU alumni, faculty, staff and students. The cost to participate in the 5K is $30 per person for the general public, or $25 for IU alumni, faculty, staff and students.

Register online at http://alumni.indiana.edu/events/iumini or by calling 800-824-3044.

"We know that a large number of alumni return to Bloomington each year to participate in the IU Mini Marathon," said Mark Skirvin, IUAA's senior director of alumni outreach. "We look forward to hosting a fun, successful event this spring."

The IU Mini Marathon and 5K Run/Walk benefit the Bill Z. Littlefield Scholarship fund for cancer survivors who are also IU students. Littlefield, an IU Kelley School of Business faculty member, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.


The routes for the half marathon and 5K course will wind through the IU campus and downtown Bloomington.
To honor Littlefield, who succumbed to cancer in 2005, Kevin MacCauley, Myles Grote and Samantha Roper developed the IU Mini Marathon while students at the Kelley School of Business at IU Bloomington. MacCauley, Grote, and the event's original adviser, Cynthia Rex, continue to serve on the IU Mini Marathon's steering committee. Since the half-marathon and 5K began in 2006, more than 10,000 people have participated with more than $100,000 being raised in support of the cancer survivor scholarship fund.

"We knew a time would come when larger IU involvement would be necessary for this event to prosper," said MacCauley. "The IUAA is the perfect home for the IU Mini Marathon and we expect great things to come for the university. As for April 2, I have already registered and am ready to run -- though not as fast as Myles, he's a former track athlete!"

The Indiana Running Company has partnered with the IU Alumni Association to coordinate the event.

"We look forward to supporting the 2011 IU Mini Marathon," said Ben Bartley, IU Mini Marathon committee member and owner of Indiana Running Company. "We're excited to see the event heading in a direction that can meet its potential."

The IU Alumni Association is dedicated to serving the university and its diverse alumni, students, and friends. As one of the nation's largest alumni organizations, serving more than 540,000 graduates worldwide, the IUAA provides many programs and services to its members, nonmember alumni and the university. For information, visit www.alumni.indiana.edu or call 800-824-3044.

Bluffton Parks Department Stuff to Do

Bluffton Parks Dept Stuff and Fluff - Ladies bring that special girl in your life for a memorable evening she will never forget. Watch her eyes light up as the two of you make her very own stuffed animal. This event is held February 7th, from 6:30 to 8 pm on the second floor of City Hall. Be sure to wear play clothes since we will also be doing valentine crafts. Cost to participate is $20 per girl. Call 824-6069 by Jan 31st to register and pick out your animal.

Toddler Tuesdays & Thursdays – Bring your kids to the city gym every Tuesday and Thursday from 11-noon to give them a large indoor space to play with others their age. Parents must stay to supervise, some equipment is provided. FREE

Weekday Walkers – Come in out of the cold every weekday from 8:30-10:30am to walk laps in the city gym. Enter the glass door on the West side of the building. FREE

Bingo – is offered every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 1-2:30 on the second floor of City Hall. Enter the glass door on the West side of the building then take the elevator. FREE

Games Galore – is offered every 1st Wednesday of the month from 11-12:30 on the second floor of City Hall. Play your favorite games or learn some new ones. FREE

Craft Club – is offered every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 3-4pm on the second floor of City Hall. Supplies will be provided and price will not exceed $3. Call for details at 824-6069.

Crochet Lessons – Learn to crochet or use a knifty knitter. Lessons are on the 2nd floor of city hall from 3-4pm on Monday Feb 7, 14th & 21st. Cost is $10 due the first day. Call to register at 824-6069 and bring a size H hook to class.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Club Calendar

Saturday, Jan. 8
Korean War Veterans Assn., Indiana Chapter--VFW Post #857, 2202 W. Main Street, Fort Wayne. Meeting starts at 10 a.m. Lunch after. Spouses and friends are welcome to attend the meeting.
River Terrace Estates--Ed Higgins playing piano; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 9
River Terrace Estates--Carol Impola and Helen Kreps singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

Monday, Jan. 10
Widow to Widow Group--Corner Depot Restaurant; 6 p.m.
Wells County Man-to-Man Prostate Cancer Support Group--Council on Aging, 225 W. Water St., Bluffton; 4-5:30 p.m. This is the beginning of the 15th year. All interested parties and significant others are welcome to attend the meeting.
Bluffton Christian Writing Club--River Terrace Estates, two miles west of Bluffton on State Road 116;6:30-8:30 p.m. Encouragement and information to all who attend. No Cost. Everyone welcome! 260-273-9264 or kjreusser@adamswells.com

Tuesday, Jan. 11
Homemaker's Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 12
Poplar Grove Club--Corner Depot; 11:30 a.m.

Every Tuesday
Optimist Club — Meets each Tuesday morning at 6:45 a.m. at Corner Depot Restaurant in Bluffton.

Every Wednesday
10 a.m.-Noon — Bluffton Parks Department, City Hall on second floor. Senior Social Time. Cards, games, occasional bingo, guest speakers and crafts. Participation is free. Call 824-6069.
The Kiwanis of Greater Bluffton Club meets at noon every Wednesday at TimberRidge Golf Course for lunch and a brief meeting. Call Jon Brown at 824-4095.

Every Thursday
TOPS — NEW MEETING PLACE. Group will meet at Lilac Lane Clubhouse, 1550 Plaza Dr., #4, Bluffton; 6-7 p.m. (Behind Kroger's). Weigh in 5-6 p.m. Call 824-1816.
Let's Play Bingo! — Cowboy's Restaurant in Bluffton on Main Street every Thursday night at 6 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Coon Hunters Assoc.

Every Saturday
Wells County Cycling Club--YMCA parking lot at 8 a.m. Open to all riders, tour riders, road cyclists and mountain bikers. All levels of experience are welcome. For more information contact: ajbikeswells@hotmail.com.

What's Up (for the New Year)

Fish Fry Jan. 14
A Fish Fry, sponsored by the Fort Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor will be held Jan. 14 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at 3355 Elmhurst Drive, Fort Wayne. Cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children age 12 and younger. The fish (paddock) meal will include scalloped potatoes, cole slaw, applesauce, rolls and cake. Live German music will be provided by the Haus Musikanten. For more information call Carol Mauch at 260-459-2225 or log onto: www.fortwaynemaennerchor.us.

Rummage Sale Jan. 22
A rummage sale, sponsored by the Fort Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor will be held Saturday, Jan. 22 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3355 Elmhurst Dr., Fort Wayne. Miscellaneous items for sale donated by members of the Fort Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchior. For more information call Carol Mauch at 260- 459-2225 or log onto: www.fortwaynemaennerchor.us.

Antique Arms Show Feb. 19 & 20
Members of the Conner Longrifles will sponsor the 28th annual Antique Arms Show Saturday, Feb. 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds. The show is devoted to antique arms, related items and reproductions representing the period prior to 1900. Admission is $5 per person. The fairgrounds is located in Noblesville just west of Highway 37 on Pleasant Street. For more information call Heber Cassidy at 317-773-8690.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Area Things to See and Do

BRYANT
GOODTIMES
THEATRE AT
BEARCREEK FARMS
For more information and reservations call 260-997-6822 or check out www.bearcreekfarms.com

FORT WAYNE’S CIVIC THEATRE
RENT—coming in February with guest director Ranae Butler. Feb. 26-March 13. For more information call 260-422-8641 or check out www.fwcivic.org

FW’S SCIENCE
CENTRAL EVENTS
Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 for all except free to those 3 and under. More information at 260-424-2400 or at www.sciencecentral.org

FORT WAYNE
COLISEUM EVENTS
ELMO’S GREEN THUMB—Tuesday, Jan. 4, 7 p.m. & Wednesday, Jan. 5, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., tickets $13 & $18. Gold circle seats $25 and Sunny Seats (premium seats ad pre-show meet and greet) $50. Ticket info at 260-483-1111.Tickets through Ticketmaster.
BRAD PAISLEY, DARIUS RUCKER & JERROD NIEMANN—Jan. 21, $29.75 to $59.75.
JEFF DUNHAM—Thursday, Feb. 10, no ticket info.
CHRIS TOMLIN & LOUIS GIGLIO—Wednesday, March 9, 7 p.m., $25 & $30.

Weekday walkers can come to City Gym

Adults can have a warm place to walk this winter in the City Gym from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Monday throughFriday FREE. Enter the glass door on the west side of the building and sign in on the wooden gym door before you begin. Call 824-6069 or log onto: www.blufftonindiana.net.

Bluesman to Honeywell Center

On Tuesday, Jan. 11, at 7 p.m. legendary bluesman B.B. King will be appearing at the Honeywell Center in Wabash. Tickets are $48 and $68 and may be arranged for by calling 260-563-1102 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or at www.honeywellcenter.org

Little Sweethearts 2011 Contest Entry Form

The Bluffton Lions Club will sponsor the Little Sweetheart of 2011 Contest for entrants with birthdays be­tween Sept. 14, 2009 through Dec. 10, 2010.
Those interested can fill out the following registration form and include $3 registration fee for each child, four (4) wallet size pictures labeled with child’s name and mail to: Robin's Nest, Attn: Barb Trubey, 119 W. Cherry Street, Bluffton, IN 46714. Deadline for entries is Feb. 4, 2011.

Child’s Name


D.O.B.
Boy/Girl
Parents

Address:

Phone #:

Club Calendar

Saturday, Jan. 8
Korean War Veterans Assn., Indiana Chapter--VFW Post #857, 2202 W. Main Street, Fort Wayne. Meeting starts at 10 a.m. Lunch after. Spouses and friends are welcome to attend the meeting.
River Terrace Estates--Ed Higgins playing piano; 9:30 a.m. in Healthcare.

Sunday, Jan. 9
River Terrace Estates--Carol Impola and Helen Kreps singing; 2:30 p.m. in ALD.

Monday, Jan. 10
Widow to Widow Group--Corner Depot Restaurant; 6 p.m.
Wells County Man-to-Man Prostate Cancer Support Group--Council on Aging, 225 W. Water St., Bluffton; 4-5:30 p.m. This is the beginning of the 15th year. All interested parties and significant others are welcome to attend the meeting.