What's Up! Wells County

Saturday, June 14, 2014

What's Up! Monday, June 16, 2014

Wet Wacky Wednesday June 18
Wet Wacky Wednesdays will be held June 18.  The pool will be open for evening family swim every Wednesday during the pool season. Pool hours are 6:30-8 p.m. and cost is $1.50 per person over age five. 
All youth must be accompanied by an adult. 

Free Alzheimer series begins June 18
The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter will host a three-part series, “Living with Alzheimer’s: For the Middle Stage Caregiver”, on Wednesdays, from 3 to 5:30 p.m., with part one and the beginning of part two on June 18, and the remainder of part two and part three on June 25. The program will be held at the Mishawaka Public Library, located at 209 Lincoln Way E. There is no fee to attend the program, but registration is requested by calling the 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Limberlost Family Run/Walk June 19 & 26
On two Thursdays, June 19 and 26, Limberlost State Historic Site will sponsor a family friendly series of Run/Walks at the Loblolly Marsh.
A 3K race will take place Thursday, June 19 at 7 p.m. A 4K race will take place on June 26 at 7 p.m. Entry fee for both is $5. Pre-registration is NOT required. Just show up at the Loblolly Pavilion on race night in time to register for the race.  
This is a race SERIES, and all three races will be timed by a printer stopwatch.  Points are earned for each race you participate in.  You must participate in at least two races to be eligible for prizes.  Series prizes will be awarded following the 4K finish to the top 15 male and top 15 female runners.  
Prizes are also awarded for the top male and female finisher for each of the three races.  There are no age group divisions.  
Prior to each race, there will be a “Point 5K” (0.5K) fun run for kids 10 years old and under.  The first place boy and girl receives a prize.
All proceeds go toward the maintenance and enhancement of the Loblolly Marsh pavilion and hiking trails. Post-race amenities and restrooms will be available on site.
The Loblolly Marsh parking lot is in Jay County at 8323N-250W, which is half mile north of Highway 18 on county road 250W, 3.5 miles west of Bryant.

Circus at Markle June 21
The Culpepper and Merriweather Circus will be in Markle Saturday, June 21 for a show at 2:30 p.m. at the east lawn of Markle Church of Christ. The event is a fundraiser for Markle Wildcat Days Festival. Advance tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 2-12. For more information call 260-758-2171.
Hartford High School Reunion June 28
The Hartford High School Alumni will meet Saturday, June 28 at South Adams High School in the commons area. A visiting session will begin at 5:15 p.m. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

Anyone who have ever attended Hartford is welcome to join the event. For reservations or for more information call Carolyn Fryback at 260-525-0204 or 260-589-3266.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, June 12, 2014

Saturday Night at The Village June 14
Saturday Night at the Village will offer free entertainment June 14 from 7 to 8 p.m. June 14 in Swiss Village’s Auditorium. Residents and guests will hear entertainment by Southern Gospel Group Still Blessed.   
Saturday Night at the Village is open to the public and everyone is invited to attend.  For more information about Saturday Night at the Village call 260-589-3173 or visit www.swissvillage.org. 

Kokomo’s Ribfest entertainment
As part of Kokomo’s  annual Ribfest the Performing Arts Pavilion at Foster Park will host Booker T with special guests Token Blue, Inside Out, the Jason Skaggs Band and Rewind on Saturday, June 14, from 5 to 10:30 p.m.
The concerts are free and the site is located at the corner of Washington and Superior Streets in downtown Kokomo. More information at www.kokomosummerseries.com

Lancaster Chapel Bible School June 16-20
Lancaster Chapel United Methodist Church will sponsor a Bible School entitled “Gangway to Galilee” June 16-20 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. for children in grades three through six.
The chuch is located at 4510E-400N, Craigville.

For more information call 260-597-7321.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Wet Wacky Wednesday June 11
Wet Wacky Wednesdays began June 4.  The pool will be open for evening family swim every Wednesday during the pool season. Pool hours are 6:30-8 p.m. and cost is $1.50 per person over age five.  All youth must be accompanied by an adult. Dates are: June 18, 25 July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and Aug. 6.

Soup ‘n Sandwich Lunch June 14
The Monroe United Brethren Women’s Missionary Fellowship will sponsor a Soup ‘n Sandwich Lunch on Saturday, June 14, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. The church is located in Monroe at 205 S. Adams St.
Lunch will consist of chili, chicken noodle and cheeseburger soup, sloppy jo’s, hot dogs, chili dogs; homemade pies and cakes and drinks. 
All proceeds go for sending kids to church camp and/or mission projects. 
Maps for the community garage sales taking place that day will be available at the church.

Teen Movie Night June 14
Since the Parks and Recreation Department has had requests for movies geared for teens they will offer a movie night Saturday June 14 at Kehoe Park starting at 8:45 p.m. The free drop in movie will be “The Hunger Games – Catching Fire” and is rated PG 13.  (fully funded by Wells County Foundation). Free popcorn will be provided by All Things Power. Those attending should bring their own seating and bug spray. 

Touch-a-Truck June 14
Bring the entire family to the Bluffton Parks Department annual Touch a Truck event Saturday, June 14 from 9 a.m. to noon. Kids will experience the inside of a variety of different vehicles. NEW this year we are planning on having a “Jaws of Life” demonstration to show how rescue crews open badly damaged vehicles. 
This FREE drop in program is held at the Washington Main Commons parking lot (across from the post office) weather permitting. 
This is also the day of our annual kids garage sales. Bring a little spending money to purchase a toy or glass of lemonade. Questions call 824-6069.

Alzheimer’s Association offers free programs
The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter will be host “Know the 10 Signs,” a workshop on detecting the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, on Thursday, June 12, from 1 to 2 p.m. The program will be held at the LaGrange Council on Aging, located 125 W. Fenn St., Suite 400.
“Know the 10 Signs” is a program developed by the Alzheimer’s Association to understand the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. The program has interactive video clips of those living with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter will also be hosting “Living with Alzheimer’s: For the Late-Stage Caregiver,” on Tuesday, June 17, from 2 to 5 p.m. The program will be held at Parkview Hospital Randallia, located at 2200 Randallia Ave., in Fort Wayne. 

There are no fees to attend these programs, but registration is requested by contacting the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. 

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Father’s Day Make & Take June 14
Huntington City-Twp. Public Library and Huntington Area Master Gardeners will present a Father’s Day Make and Take garden craft workshop for kids ages 4 years to Grade 5 at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14 at the Main Library, 255 W. Park Drive, Huntington.
Local Master Gardeners​ ​members ​ ​will assist children in making a bottle terrarium and designing a Father’s Day card to take home as a gift for dads, grandfathers, or any special person a child would like to honor on Father’s Day. In addition, ​ ​library staff​  will offer a special story time during the craft session. 
The Father’s Day garden craft workshop is free of charge, but space is limited, and registration is absolutely required to attend. Adults and caregivers are encouraged to attend to assist younger children with their craft project. Call the Library’s Children’s Department at 356-2900 to register your child.

Touch-a-Truck June 14
Bring the entire family to the Bluffton Parks Department annual Touch a Truck event Saturday, June 14 from 9 a.m. to noon. Kids will experience the inside of a variety of different vehicles. NEW this year we are planning on having a “Jaws of Life” demonstration to show how rescue crews open badly damaged vehicles. 
This FREE drop in program is held at the Washington Main Commons parking lot (across from the post office) weather permitting. 

This is also the day of our annual kids garage sales. Bring a little spending money to purchase a toy or glass of lemonade. Questions call 824-6069.

Monday, June 9, 2014

What's Up! Monday, June 9, 2014

Movie Day at Sheets Wildlife Museum June 14
Sheets Wildlife Museum and Learning Center will sponsor a movie day at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday,  June 14. The movie is free. Tours of the museum are $1. The movie will last approximately 60 minutes.
The movie we will be showing will be Best of Minnesota Bound. Ron Schara and Raven wll be exploring nature’s nooks and crannies. 
There will be an easy quiz with the top three youth receiving a gift certificate to be used in the museum gift shop.
Seating is limited so it is suggested that you call 356-9453 to reserve a seat.   

Soup ‘n Sandwich Lunch June 14
The Monroe United Brethren Women’s Missionary Fellowship will sponsor a Soup ‘n Sandwich Lunch on Saturday, June 14, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. The church is located in Monroe at 205 S. Adams Street.
Lunch will consist of chili, chicken noodle and cheeseburger soup, sloppy jo’s, hot dogs, chili dogs; homemade pies and cakes and drinks. 
All proceeds go for sending kids to church camp and/or mission projects. 
Maps for the community garage sales taking place that day will be available at the church.

Youth Revival and Purity Retreat June 17 & 18
Covenant Chapel will offer a Youth Revival and Purity Retreat beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 17 unitl 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 at 3550S State Road 1, Bluffton.
The retreat is open to all youth ages 13-18. Cost is $35.Registration deadline is June 12.
This will be a lock-in activity with adult supervision at all times. The boys retreat and the girls retreat will be separate. except during featured speaker. 
Retreat Curriculum from Bob and Danna Gresh (author of Secret Keepers) www.purefreedom.org
For more information call 260-273-7656.

Registration opens for Camp Little Red Door
Little Red Door Cancer Agency will hosti Camp Little Red Door, a five-day summer camp for children with cancer. The camp will be held from July 27 through Aug. 1 at Bradford Woods in Martinsville. The registration deadline is June 13.
Any child 8-18 years old with cancer or in remission living in Indiana is eligible to attend. One sibling/friend per patient is welcome to attend, if space allows. The camp is Indiana’s oldest camp for children with cancer. Children from outside Indiana are welcome to apply and will be notified if spots are available after the registration deadline of June 13.
The camp will include swimming, canoeing, fishing, archery, camp fires, arts and crafts and more! An experienced medical staff will be onsite 24 hours a day. The Robert T. Grand Leadership Academy, open to previous campers at least 16 years-old, will be held July 25 through July 27.
The cost is $25 per camper and $50 per sibling/friend. Financial assistance is available. Download the application at www.littlereddoor.org/camp or call 317-925-5595. The agency is located at 1801 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.

For more information, visit www.littlereddoor.org. 

Thursday, June 5, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, June 5, 2014

Penny French Exhibit going on now
The Portland Center of Arts Place is displaying the works of artist Penny French. The display is going on now through June 27. The Portland Center of Arts Place is located at 131 E. Walnut St., Portland.  
Penny French-Deal grew up on a farm in Wabash County, Indiana. It was life on the farm that began a life-long journey to capture the essence of her surroundings. For more information about this exhibit and other exhibits of Arts Place Inc., contact Lauren Lane at 260-726-4809, ext 230. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mississinewa Outdoor Adventure Showcase, June 7
The Mississinewa Outdoor Adventure Showcase will be held on Saturday, June 7. The Outdoor Vendor Extravaganza will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with RVs, campers, mountain bikes, outdoor equipment, water safety and more. The band, Pottsie’s Pasttimes, will perform from 5 to 7 p.m. All events will take place at Mississinewa Beach, Miami State Recreation Area. Most activities are free with paid admission at the gate.
Indiana State Park and Reservoir gate fees are $5 per in-state vehicle, $7 per out-of-state vehicle. 
For more information log onto: stateparks.IN.gov/2955.htm. The park is located at 4673S-625E Peru, 46970.

Hoosier Harmony at Sauder Village June 8
The annual Gospel Music Concert will be held on Sunday, June 8 at Sauder Village. During the afternoon concert Hoosier Harmony, Sojourner Quartet and pianist Jim Stewart take the stage at 4 p.m. in Founder’s Hall.
Historic Sauder Village is open this summer Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The Village is closed on Mondays, except holidays. Admission is $16 for adults, $10 for students (6-16) and free for members and children 5 and under. Active duty military personnel and their families are also free through Labor Day. Again this year, children 16 and under are free every Sunday this season – including for the Gospel Music Concert. 
For more details call 800-590-9755, visit www.saudervillage.org.                     

Jay County Pow Wow June 7 & 8
The 11th Annual Gathering of Great Lakes Nations Pow Wow, hosted by National Center for Great Lakes Native American Culture, will be held June 7 and 8 at the Tri-State Antique Gas Engine Association Grounds at 1010 Morton St. in Portland.
The 11th Annual Gathering of Great Lakes Nations Pow Wow is a celebration of the Great Lakes Native Americans and their culture.  It features Native American drums, singers and dancers 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday June 8, from  10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will also be native American foods, a pre-1840 re-enactment camp complete with atlatl and tomahawk demonstrations, artisan demonstrations, and children’s activities.  

Friends of Shelter meeting June 9
Friends of the Shelter, the organization that provides support for the Bluffton/Wells County Animal Shelter, will meet at 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 9 in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall at 128 E. Market St.
Items on the agenda include shelter operations and update on new dog park and future events.
The meeting is open to the public. Call 273-1742 for more information.

Women Ministries Flea Market June 7
Women’s Ministries of Trinity Life Chapel will sponsor their annual Flea Market Saturday, June 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The church is located on Hwy. 27 between Berne and Geneva. Vendors are welcome. Spots are $10 each. Call 260-450-4647.

Free Agriculture Lecture June 9 at Sauder Village

Sauder Village is hosting a free Agricultural Lecture Series at the Heritage Inn this season in conjunction with the renovation of the historic Grist Mill. Todd Price, Founding Director of Historic Wagner Farm, will present a lecture on Monday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. entitled “The Dawn of the Golden Age of Agriculture – Early 20th Century Farming in the Heartland.” For more details call 800-590-9755.

Christ Child Society Garage & Bake Sale June 12 & 13
The Christ Child Society of Fort Wayne will be holding their annual Garage & Bake Sale to benefit children in need in the Fort Wayne area. 
The sale will be held Thursday, June 12 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, June 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Queen of Angels Activity Center located at 1500 West State Street.
All proceeds of the sale will be used to fund the programs of the Christ Child Society operating to improve the lives of local children in need.  Vvisit www.christchildfw.org.

Sign Up for Summer Music Lessons
Arts Place is currently accepting registrations for summer MusicWorks instruction at its Portland Center. Adults and students may enroll in individual instruction. Lessons begin June 16 and continue through July 23.  Registration deadline is Wednesday, June 11.  After that date, students will be accepted on a space-available basis.  Instruction will be held at Arts Place, 131 East Walnut Street in Portland, Indiana.
Call 260-726-4809, email artsland@artsland.org, or visit the website atwww.artsland.org.

Redesign T-shirt Class June 12
The Parks and Recreation Department Designer shirt, No Sew Purse and Headband class  will be held Thursday, June 12 from 11 a.m. to noon at Washington Park. 
This class is for girls ages 8–18 years old. It will show them how to change old shirts into new creations. 
Each participant needs to bring four too big t-shirts 50/50 blend and $1 to the class. Space is limited and you MUST PRE-REGISTER BY CALLING 824-6069.

Mini Basketball Camp June 11-13
The Parks and Recreation Department is offering another Mini Basketball Camp since the first camp was filled.
The camp is for children ages 5 to 7 years June 11 through 13 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Bluffton City Gym. 
There are eight openings left. Call the park office at 824-6069. This is a FREE program.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Sauder Village offers free admission to military
Sauder Village has announced that they are participating in the Blue Star Museums Program again this year by offering free admission to military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2014.
This is the fifth year for Blue Star Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve and their families.
Sauder Village summer hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon-4 p.m.  The Village is closed on Mondays, except holidays. Regular admission is $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, $10 for students (6-16) and free for members and children five and under. Again this year, children 16 and under are free every Sunday this season! 
For more information call 800.590.9755, visit www.saudervillage.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @SauderVillage.

Grandpa and Me Build a Shelf June 8
The Parks Department is accepting registration for Grandpa and Me Build a display shelf. 
This event will be held on Sunday, June 8 at Kehoe Park from 2 to 3:30 p.m. It is open to both boys and girls. Cost is $6 per shelf due that day. Those attending will need to bring a hammer. To register call 824-6069. 

German choir concerts listed
The Fort Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor will be presenting several concerts this season.
On Sunday. June 8. at 11 a.m. they will be at Saint Peter Catholic Church in Fort Wayne for a Germanfest Deutsche Messe.
On Sunday, June 8, at 4:30 p.m. they will present Germanfest Heimatabend Konzert at Park Edelweiss, 3355 Elmhurst Dr. in Fort Wayne.
Other appearances will be at Oktoberfest, Sept. 27; A Taste of Germany, Oct. 18; Christmas Market, Nov. 22, and Weihnachtskonzert on Dec. 14.
More information about the group at www.fortwaynemaennerchor.us

Gospel Meeting June 11 & 18
A Gospel meeting will be held June 11 and June 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wells County Public Libray. It is open to the public.
This is a non-denominational gospel meeting. No literature will be given and no collection will be taken.
Speakers will be Jason McInally and Mark Peters. For more information call 301- 643-3675

Editor’s Note: The use of the Wells County Public Library’s meeting facility does not constitute the library’s endorsement and sponsorship of the program or the organizer’s policies or beliefs.

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

WCT’s quilt fundraiser
A quilted wall hanging, created by Susan Schultz, is being used as a fund raiser for the Wells Community Theatre.
Schultz is the costumer for the musical “South Pacific” now in rehearsal to be presented the weekend of June 13-15 at the Life Center auditorium in Bluffton.
Tickets to become the new owner of the quilt are $5 each and are available at the CAC office or from any “South Pacific” cast member.

Wet Wacky Wednesday June 4
Wet Wacky Wednesdays begin June 4th!  The pool will be open for evening family swim every Wednesday during the pool season. Pool hours are 6:30-8 p.m. and cost is $1.50 per person over age five. 
All youth must be accompanied by an adult. Dates are: June 4, 11, 18, 25 July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and Aug. 6.

Chick’s Run set for Thursday

Chick’s Run will be held Thursday, June 5 at 7 p.m. This is a “Just For Women”, “Just For Fun” 5K Run/Walk on the River Greenway.  Awards are not given for mile time, but will be given for craziest running outfit, best t-shirt slogan, diva runner, largest team, go go cheerleader and more!  Cost is $5 or $15 with a t-shirt. Download a registration form from http://ci.bluffton.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/2014CHICKSRUNENTRYFORM.pdf.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, May 29, 2014

Wildflower Safari at Limberlost site
Loblolly Marsh Nature Preserve will sponsor a Wildflower Safari on Saturday, May 31. 
Join a Limberlost naturalist for a leisurely stroll along the Loblolly trails to discover what spring wildflowers and plants are growing and learn how man and animal have put these plants to use.  
The event lasts from 10 a.m. until noon and cost of admission is $3 per person.  Participants should meet at the Loblolly Marsh parking lot, which is located in Jay County.  Turn north off Ind. 18 on to Jay County Road 250W.  

For more information call 260-368-7428 or email cburnette@indianamuseum.org.  

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

David Dreiband Kickball benefit May 31
A kickball benefit will be held for David Dreiband, who recently suffered a stroke,  at the Wells County 4-H Park in Bluffton.
David is 47 years old.  He has been in the hospital since March 5th.  He is just now beginning to move his right arm and leg and getting his speech back.  He could be in the hospital for several months for rehab. 
Team and individual registrations begin at 10 a.m.  Activities include the kickball tournament, a silent auction, raffles, cake walk, children activities and food vendor. Visit www.facebook.com/kickballfordave for more information.  

Home Canning, Drying and Freezing class June 23
The Parks and Recreation Department and instructor Molly Hoag will offer a canning, drying, and freezing class on Monday, June 23 from 6-8 p.m. on the second floor of city hall. Cost is $3 per person and participants must register by calling 824-6069 or e-mailing the park office at parks@ci.bluffton.in.us by June 13.
Home canning of vegetables and fruits, along with drying culinary herbs and freezing produce are all excellent ways of assuring that families reap the rewards of their home grown or farmer’s market produce throughout the year.

Soggy Jog June 28
Registration is open for the Soggy Jog Kids 1 Mile Mud Run set for Saturday, June 28 at 8:30 a.m. This is a one mile obstacle course mud run for kids ages 7 to 14. Cost is $10 and includes a t-shirt.

Download a registration form at http://ci.bluffton.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/2014MudRunEntryForm_000.pdf or register online at http://raceroster.com/events/2014/2325/rough-and-muddy-5k-trail-run-and-kids-1-mile-soggy-jog.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, May 27, 2014

SLR Camera Workshop June 17
Those who would like to learn more about their cameras can join the SLR camera workshop to be held Tuesday, June 17, and Wednesday, June 18, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the second floor of city hall. 

Those attending should bring a camera and a one time fee of $22 the first night. To register call the park office at 824-6069. Space is limited.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, May 22, 2014

Memorial Day Parade May 26
The annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will be held at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum on Monday, May 26. The parade will begin at the corner of Parnell Ave. and State Bld. and will start at approximately 11 a.m. After the parade, there will be a Memorial Day ceremony just outside of the Coliseum’s Memorial Hall.
Additionally, the Allen County Council of Veterans will hold their annual Watchfire event from 9:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23 until 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 24 at the Veterans Memorial Shrine, located at 2122 O’Day Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46818. Call 260-747-2977 for more informaiton.

Grandpa and Me event June 8
On Sunday, June 8 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. grandfathers and can bring a hammer to Kehoe Park for a fun afternoon of building and bonding with their grandchildren (open to boys and girls). 

Cost is $6 per project due the day of the event (exact change preferred). Call the park office at 824-6069 to register by June 5.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Dunkirk Glass Days May 28-31 
The 48th Annual Dunkirk Glass Days Festival will be held this year in downtown Dunkirk from May 28 to May 31. Each year Dunkirk hosts its Glass Days Festival to celebrate and remember the town’s heritage.
Activities include but are not limited to:
Wednesday May 28, senior citizen events start at 11 a.m. and the hog roast at Dunkirk American Legion will run from 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
On Thursday the talent  show starts at 5 p.m. and The Bulldogs perform at 8 p.m.
On Friday the Glass Factory tours will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The cutest baby contest starts at 5 p.m. The Lil Miss and Mister Glass contest starts at 6 p.m. and The Remedy performs at 8 p.m. 
On Saturday the 4th annual 5K run/walk starts at 8 a.m. The parade starts at noon with a cornhole contest following at 3 p.m. Cook and Belle will perform at 7:30 p.m.

Community Theater fundraiser June 2
A fundraiser for Wells Community Theater’s production of “South Pacific” will be held at Pizza Hut on Monday, June 2 from 5-8 p.m. 
Enjoy a buffet of salad and pizza along with entertainment from the cast of South Pacific. Adult buffet cost is $7.69 and children up to the age of 12 is $.50 multiplied by their age.  

Art in the Park begins June 6
Join the Parks Department every Friday from June 6-July 18 for a free craft at Washington Park from noon to 1 p.m.
This is open to all ages, but adult supervision is required for children under age 6. Call the park office at 824-6069 to register.
Dates and activities are as follows:
June 6 - Color your own tropical paddle ball game.
June 13- Decorate your own superhero gliders.
June 20- Frog Shaped Doorknob Hanger.
June 27- Decorate your own paper riding horse.
July 4- No Craft today.
July 11- Color your own wild wonder animal glasses.
July 18-Decorate your own paper crown.

Free Tennis Lessons begin June 9 
Beginning Monday, June 9 and running through Friday, July 18 the Parks and Recreation Department will offer free tennis lessons at Washington Park (weather permitting). 
A parent must register their child the first day they attend. (No early registration) 
Class times are as follows: Students finishing grades: 
3rd-5th from  10-11 a.m. 
6th-7th from 11 a.m.- noon. 
8th-11th Girls from noon -1 p.m. 
8th-11th Boys from 12:30 -2 p.m. 

If the weather changes or the courts are too wet please watch our facebook page for cancellations. Questions call 824-6069.

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Homemade Card Class May 22
The Parks Department will offer a Homemade Card Class on Thursday May 22 at 6 p.m. This month those participating will be making congratulations cards.  There is a choice of sentiments for the cards! Cost for four cards is $7, each additional is  $1. To register call 824-6069.

Healing Ministries Revival May 23-25
The Click Family from Clarksburg, W. Va., will perform during the Healing Ministries Revival May 23-25 at 5012S-500E, Markle. The revival will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 10 a.m. on Sunday. For more information call 260-224-3376. (Pd. Advt.)

Dunkirk Glass Days May 28-31 
The 48th Annual Dunkirk Glass Days Festival will be held this year in downtown Dunkirk from May 28 to May 31. Each year Dunkirk hosts its Glass Days Festival to celebrate and remember the town’s heritage.
Activities include but are not limited to:
Wednesday May 28, senior citizen events start at 11 a.m. and the hog roast at Dunkirk American Legion will run from 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
On Thursday the talent  how starts at 5 p.m. and The Bulldogs perform at 8 p.m.
On Friday the Glass Factory tours will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The cutest baby contest starts at 5 p.m. The Lil Miss and Mister Glass contest starts at 6 p.m. and The Remedy performs at 8 p.m. On Saturday the 4th annual 5K run/walk starts at 8 a.m. The parade starts at noon with a cornhole contest following at 3 p.m. Cook and Belle will perform at 7:30 p.m.

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays, Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. 
Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Jack Imel to speak May 29
Jack Imel from the Lawrence Welk Show will speak at Swiss Village Retirement Community in Berne at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 29. 
Imel is a dancer, musician, comedian, and producer, best known for his tenure on the Lawrence Welk Show from 1957-1982. 
He will be talk in the auditorium about his years with Lawrence Welk as a Tap-Dancing Marimba Player. A book signing will conclude the presentation. Books will be available to purchase for $20. 

For more information call 260-589-3173 or visit www.swissvillage.org.

Monday, May 19, 2014

What's Up! Monday, May 19, 2014

Five Points School supper May 22
A carry-in supper for friends and neighbors will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22 at Five Points School.
Available will be hot dogs, drinks and table service. Those attending are encouraged to bring a dish to share. There will be a business meeting after the meal.
Five Points is located at 5250W-1100S-90, Montpelier. For more information call 765-728-5269 or email: dnb41@hotmail.com.

Around the World Class begins June 11
The Parks Department will offer a new summer program for girls called “Around the World”. 
Classes will be Wednesdays June 11, 18, 25; July 2, 9, 16 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Washington Park for girls finishing K-fifth grade. 
There is a onetime fee of $5 to cover materials. Each week kids will look at a different country, play games, do crafts and learn about other cultures. 
This program is sponsored by the Girl Scouts, but girls do not need to be a member to join. To register call 824-6069.

Teen Movie Night June 14
Since the Parks and Recreation Department has had requests for movies geared for teens they will offer a movie night Saturday June 14 at Kehoe Park starting at 8:45 p.m. The free drop in movie will be “The Hunger Games – Catching Fire” and is rated PG 13.  (fully funded by Wells County Foundation).

Free popcorn will be provided by All Things Power. 

Thursday, May 15, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, May 15, 2014

Pick up list of summer actitivies
For a list of more than 100 summer activities that the Parks and Recreation Department offers visit this link:  http://ci.bluffton.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/2014-summer-activities.pdf.
To register for the events call 824-6069. (Some activities are full, while others may be offered again at additional times)

Spring studio tour in Brown County
Brown County’s Back Roads of Brown County Spring Studio Tour is now underway from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Sunday evening, May 18.
Twenty-three selected artists in 12 rural locations are participating. Maps available by calling 812-325-5924 or checking out BrownCountyStudioTour.com

Chick’s Run June 5
Chick’s Run will be held Thursday, June 5 at 7 p.m. This is a “Just For Women,” “Just For Fun” 5K Run/Walk on the River Greenway. 
Awards are not given for mile time, but will be given for craziest running outfit, best t-shirt slogan, diva runner, largest team, go go cheerleader and more!  Cost is $5 or $15 with a t-shirt. 
Download a registration form from http://ci.bluffton.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/2014CHICKSRUNENTRYFORM.pdf  or sign up online at http://raceroster.com/events/2014/2125/chicks-run

Vendors wanted for Montpelier Rummage June 7
Montpelier Town Wide Rummages will be held June 7.
Nazarene Church has table space available inside and outside. They will be serving breakfast and lunch. Call 765-728-5905. (Pd. Advt.)

Grandpa & Me Build a Shelf June 8
The Parks Department is accepting registration for Grandpa and Me Build a display shelf. 

This event will be held on Sunday, June 8 at Kehoe Park from 2 to 3:30 p.m. It is open to both boys and girls. Cost is $6 per shelf due that day. Those attending will need to bring a hammer. To register call 824-6069.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Swap Meet & Craft Flea Market May 14-17
The Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association will hold its 32th annual swap and sell meet May 14-17 at the Tri-State Club Grounds, located at 1010 N. Morton St. in Portland.
The annual event will feature antique engines, tractors, and related parts. A consignment auction is scheduled for Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. Camping is available.  Admission to the event is $5 Wednesday through Saturday. Free on Sunday. Children under 12 years $2. 
For more information contact Tourism Bureau 260-726-3366 or visit www.tristategasengine-tractor.com.
The Jay County 4-H Clubs will also hold an Antique Collectibles and Crafts Flea Market at the Jay County Fairgrounds 4-H  from May 14-17. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday  through Friday; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.  
For more information contact. Cindy Murphy 260-251-0888.

Blackford 4-H Rummage Sale May 17
The Blackford County 4-H Fairboard will sponsor a Rummage and Flea Market Saturday, May 17 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the fairgrounds.
For more information call 765-348-3213.

Car Show at Jay County May 17
The Arch Bridge Kroozers will sponsor a Springtime Kroozen the Courthouse on Saturday, May 17 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
The entry fee is $10. Registration will be from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. There will be trophies, door prizes, and dash plaques. 
The Arch Bridge CafĂ© will be open at the old fire station.  TC and  Rockin Renee from Mt. Orb, Ohio will be playing 50s and 60s music. The show is sponsored by Several local business. 
For more information call Ron 260-726-4085 or Ron 260-251-1202. Additional information available on the Jay county Visitor and Tourism Bureau web-site:  www.visitjaycounty.com.

Auditions ‘My Fair Lady’ May 18
Break out your English accent and dust off your dancing shoes!  The Pulse Opera House auditions for the musical My Fair Lady are Sunday, May 18 at 2 p.m. Roles are available for adults and youth (12 years old and up).  
Bring a short prepared song, preferably from a musical. An accompanist will be provided, however, you can use a CD.  Rehearsals are held Monday-Friday evenings from 7:30-9:30 p.m.  Not everyone is called every evening.  Performances are scheduled for July 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31 and Aug. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9.   
Auditions are open to the general public.  With a “little bit of luck,” this could be a summer to remember!

River’s Edge  Classic  Car Show May 24
River Terrace Estates will sponsor the third annual River’s Edge Classic 2014 Saturday, May 24 at 400 Caylor Blvd. (State Road 116) in Bluffton.
Registration is from 8 a.m. to noon. Awards will be given at 2 p.m.
This is a truck, bike and car open show. There will be dash plaques, door prizes, contests and games. A food tent will be  on site.
For show information or to sponsor a trophy call 260-353-3943 or 260-273-1447.
Proceeds of the event will go to support the Alzheimer’s Association.

Creature Feature Limberlost Reptile Mania May 24
The public is welcome to attend to the Limberlost State Historic Site Visitor Center at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 24 for the spring Creature Feature: the Limberlost Reptile Mania! 
Limberlost will join forces with the Mobile Reptile Zoo (MRZ) for a special two hour reptile-focused event. The reptile-filled bus of the MRZ will be parked in the Limberlost Visitor Center parking lot.  Participants will be able to tour the bus and enjoy programs and displays in the Visitor Center.
 Alligator program times will be 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.  A show-and-tell touch table filled with turtle shells, snake sheds, and other reptile biofacts will be available. Everyone can try out real snake-handling equipment with rubber snakes.  
The event lasts from 10 a.m. to noon. Admission is $3 per person.
For more information call 260-368-7428 email cburnette@indianamuseum.org. 

Montpelier City-Wide Sales June 7
The Montpelier Chamber of Commerce will sponsor its annual  City-Wide Garage Sales on Saturday, June 7. Location maps can be picked up at Neff Realty.

Lions Club 5K Run/Walk June 7
The 11th annual Monroe Lions Club 5K Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, June 7, at 8:15 a.m.  
The race will begin on the east side of Adams Central School in Monroe. There will be eight age categories for male and eight age categories for female competitors.  
This race is part of the Adams County Challenge Series and will be chip timed.  
Registration is $15 prior to May 30 and $18 thereafter including race day.  T-shirts will be given to all pre-registered participants. Race day registrants may not receive shirts.  
All proceeds will benefit the Monroe Lions Club project fund. For registration form call Al Arnold at 260-692-6610 or email pamalarn@centurylink.net. 

Register now for Alzheimer Walk
Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter invites Fort Wayne residents, individuals and companies in the surrounding counties can unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s to be held Saturday, Sept. 20 at Headwaters Park, located at 333 S. Clinton St. Participants can register by visiting alz.org/indiana.
Last year, the Fort Wayne walk raised more than $180,000 and had over 1,000 participants. 
For more information, call 800-272-3900.
Frankenmuth, Mich. trip Aug. 26
The Arthur and Gloria Muselman Wellness Pavilion will sponsor an overnight trip to Frankenmuth, Mich., for any senior age 55 and older Aug. 26 and 27.
The cost is $120 per person with two people per room, or $95 per person with four people per room.

The cost does not include meals. Payment will be due at the time of registration. Call 260-589-4469 for registration and more information.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Theater Thursday May 15
Theater Thursday will be held at 10 a.m. May 15 at  the Wells County Public Library. The movie will be Gravity. The Bluffton Parks and Recreational Department, Wells County Public Library and Bluffton Regional Senior Circle have partnered together to offer a free monthly movie for  adults. 
There will be free snacks, a 10 minute health info and prizes will be part of the program. This is a year round event that is the third Thursday of every month. 

Square Dance event May 17
The Bill Werling Band “Break Away” will play during a Square dance at St. Aloysius School at 14607 Bluffton Road, Yoder, from 8 p.m . to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 17. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Ages 16 and up are welcome. 
Cost is $10 per person and includes one drink ticket for beer and wine (for those age 21 and older). Water, snacks and sodas will be complimentary.

Free admission to History Center May 17
 Beginning May 17, the Barr Street Farmer’s Market presented by Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana in collaboration with the History Center will open for the season and run each Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Admission to the History Center is free during the market hours. This summer, market goers will be invited to help create a history time-line as part of the events.
A variety of vendors offer fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses and other food products as well as jewelry, crafts and other activities for adults and children each week on the market, which is located at the corner of Wayne and Barr streets behind the History Center in downtown Fort Wayne.
For more information, contact the History Center at (260) 426-2882 or visit the website at www.fwhistorycenter.com.

Card Class May 22
The Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor a Card Class at City Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 22.
Angie Honegger will teach those attending  how to create cards. Cost is $7 for 3-4 cards and a gift item. Cards will be simple, elegant, and punch art along with easy techniques thrown in to the mix. As always various sentiments will be available during each class for a different occasion.
Call to pre-register at 824-6069. The card to be created May 22 will be a congratulations card.

Bluegrass Festival May 22-25
The 38th annual Tri-State Bluegrass Festival will be held May 22-25 at Noble County 4-H Fairgrounds in Kendallville.

For more information and prices log onto: www.BluegrassUSA.net.

Monday, May 12, 2014

What's Up! Monday, May 12, 2014

Master Gardener’s Spring Plant Sale May 16 & 17
The Wells County Master Gardener’s Spring Plant Sale will be held Friday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday, May 17 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Wells County 4-H Fairgrounds in Bluffton.
A selection of annuals and perennials from members’ gardens will be available, including hostas donated by Donna Binkley from the collection of the late Dr. Vic Binkley. Proceeds will go twoard several ongoing projects in Wells County.
Bring old pots to be recycled or drop them off at the old Meyer’s Gunshop located at 0408 N. Oak St. Ext. in Bluffton.

Outdoorsman’s swap meet May 17
The fourth annual outdoorsman’s swap meet and garage sale will be held at the Ossian Conservation Club, 9950N-100E, Ossian, May 17 from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
Sale items include old and new fishing tackle, archery equipment, fire arms, ammo, knives, antiques, miscellaneous. Food, drinks, Amish deep fried pies, and homemade ice cream will be available. A silent auction for a Sid King wood carving will also be offered.
All vendors are welcome. Spaces are $10 on a first come basis. 
Vendor setup is Friday, May 16, after 6 p.m. and/or event day.
For more information and space reservations contact Dave Saalfrank at 260-622-7107 or Rose Barrick at 260-622-4733. 
For Club directions visit www.ossianconservationclub.com.

Women’s Self Defense Class May 17
A free Women’s Self Defense Class will be held for ladies age 13 years and older in the Bluffton city gym on Saturday, May 17 from 9 to 11 a.m. 
In this session ladies will learn pressure point techniques that do not require much strength. Each participant will also receive a free self defense stick that can attach to your key ring.  
Call to register by the Friday before at 824-6069 or e-mail at parks@ci.bluffton.in.us
Bike Bluffton 
May 18
On Sunday, May 18 at 2 p.m. the Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor Bike Bluffton. It is a 20 mile bike tour around the Bluffton area and its parks. 
This is a “ride at your own pace” event. Those attending are allowed to peddle fast or slow as they want. Cost is $5 per person. An event t-shirt is  $10. 
Rest stops and refreshments on the route. Helmets required. 

Download a registration form at http://ci.bluffton.in.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/2014BikeBlufftonRegistration.pdf  or can sign up online at : http://raceroster.com/events/2014/2401/bike-bluffton.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, May 8, 2014

City pool passes go on sale May 10
Pool passes will go on sale Saturday May 10 during swim lesson sign up in city hall at 128 E Market from 10:30 a.m.  to 12:30 p.m. and in the office afterwards. 
Packets of 25 tickets can be purchased for $40 and are good for any age, any day of the week this year and the first few weeks of the next pool season.  Adult lap swim punch cards will also be on sale at 12 visits for $15 during the weekday noon lap swim times. 
Pool hours and rental information can be found at the following link:  http://ci.bluffton.in.us/parks-department Questions call 824-6069.

Friends of Shelter meeting May 12
Friends of the Shelter, the organization that provides support for the Bluffton/Wells County Animal Shelter, will meet at 5:30 p.m., Monday, May 12 in the Council Chambers on teh second floor of City Hall, 128 E. Market Street.
Items on the agenda include shelter operations, Garage Sale Fundraiser report and final planning on 2014 events.

The meeting is open to the public. For more information call 273-1742.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Farmer’s Market Wednesdays and Saturdays
The Farmer’s Market is now open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Current features include: garden and bedding plants, fresh cut asparagus, fresh baked goods, fresh roasted coffee, woodworking products, candles, and more. (Pd. Advt.)
Parks Department seeking donations
The Parks and Recreation Department is looking for donations to keep the summer activities low cost or free. Anyone who comes across any of the following items during their spring cleaning or left over after a garage sale, consider donating them at the Park office on the secon floor of city hall. 
Items needed are: chalk, yarn, balloons, bubble solution, paint brushes, paint rollers and trays, Legos, colored paper, drying racks for clothing, beads, card stock, jump ropes, bike helmets, play dough, cookie cutters, rolling pins, basket making supplies, hotpad looms, white or colored tool, glow sticks or paint, grass skirts or Hawaiian decorations, yoga mats, plastic straws, fuse beads, Dawn dish soap, lace, ribbon, small - medium outdated electronics and colored duct tape.
For more information call 824-6069.

Elks 796 Cancer Benefit scheduled for May 17
Schedule of events for Elks 796 Blues, Brews and BBQ Cancer Benefit: 
Fat Jon’s BBQ Rib Dinner: $15, serving from 5 to 7 p.m.
Corn Hole Tournament, $10, Blind Draw. Thirty percent to cancer fund. Seventy percent prize money. Sign up by 12:30 p.m.
Bake Sale, Live Auction, 7:30 p.m. 
Reverse Raffle, 50-50’s.
Live band with Jamie Lewis (And Kirk Potter!)
Proceeds will go to Indiana Elks Cancer Research Fund, Steve Kelly Cancer Relief Foundation. (Pd. Advt. )

Gallop for the Greenway May 17
Gallop for the Greenway Tri K 5K Run/Walk will be held Saturday, May 17 at 9 a.m. at Bluffton High School football stadium at 1 Tiger Trail.
Cost is $20 pre-registration by May 10 or register by midnight May 15 through online link at: trik5k.blogspot.com. Cost the day of the race is $25.
A kids one mile race is $10. Register by May 14 to guarantee a T-shirt.
For more information call Brook Newsom at 260-273-3139 or email her at: tri.k.5k.run@gmail.com.

Vendors wanted for Montpelier Rummage June 7

Montpelier Town Wide Rummages will be held June 7. Nazarene Church has table space available inside and outside. They will be serving breakfast and lunch. Call 765-728-5905. (Pd. Advt.)

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

'what's Up! Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Pee Wee Lessons Registration May 10
Parks and Recreation Pee Wee Registration will be held at City Hall from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday May 10. Cost is $5.50. 
Lessons will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday the week of June 23. Swim time is from 11-11:45 a.m. A parent must get in the water with each child. No unattended children on pool deck during lessons. 
Limited enrollment.  
For more information call 824-6069. NO EARLY REGISTRATION.

Mother’s Day workshop May 10
 Huntington City-Twp. Public Library and Huntington Area Master Gardeners will present a Mother’s Day make and take garden craft workshop  for kids ages four years to grade five on Saturday, May 10 at the Main Library at 255 West Park Drive, Huntington.
The Master Gardeners will assist children in potting a flower and designing a Mother’s Day card to take home as a gift for moms, grandmothers, or any special person a child would like to honor on Mother’s Day.  In addition, the library’s Children’s Department will offer a special story time during the craft session.
 The Mother’s Day garden craft workshop is free of charge, but space is limited to 35 children, and registration is absolutely required to attend.  
Adults and caregivers are encouraged to attend to assist younger children with their craft project. 
Call the Library’s Children’s Department at 356-2900 to register your child.

Noodle dinner May 18
A Noodle Dinner will be held Sunday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Montpelier Lions Club at the corner of High and Jefferson Streets.
Available will be chicken or beef and noodles with all the trimmings. Eat in or carry out is available. 

A free will donation will be accepted at the event.

Monday, May 5, 2014

What's Up! Monday, May 5, 2014

Parks Fundraiser underway
A Laundry Soap and Fabric Softener Fundraiser to support River Greenway Repairs is underway to pay for River Greenway repairs from this past winter. Repairs include removal and replacement of deteriorated trail, resurfacing, damage posts from ice, removal of 80 dead trees and refurbishing signage along the trail. The total will be close to $108,000. 
From now until May 16 the Parks and Recreation Department will be take orders for Liquid Laundry soap and Fabric softener at the price of $35 for a five gallon bucket. For each bucket sold, $10 will go toward the Greenway repairs.
The soaps are the comparable equivalent to Tide (original scent; scent/dye free; April Fresh; with bleach; with fabreeze and all of those are also available for high efficiency machines) or Gain (original; with bleach; and special for high efficiency machines). 
There are also buckets of the equivalent to Downy fabric softener (blue April fresh; Free and sensitive; Lavender; and Green Mountain spring scent)
For more information on how to order call the park office at 824-6069.

Alzheimer’s Assoc. to offer series May 7
The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter will host a three-part series, “Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers: Middle-Stage,” on Wednesdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Part one will be held on May 7, part two on May 14 and part three on May 21. The program will be held at Aging and In-Home Services, located at 2927 Lake Ave. in Fort Wayne.
Attendees will learn about the relationship changes that occur in the middle stage. Ways to maximize safety, prepare for emergencies and access respite care will be discussed as well as effective ways to provide personal care and manage challenging behaviors. Attendees will also have a chance to hear from those directly affected by the disease. 
Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter is also hosting a “Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: The Basics” program on Tuesday, May 27, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Senior Center, located at 233 W. Main St.  
This program is designed to provide basic information about memory loss that everyone needs to know. Typical aging versus problematic memory changes, an overview of how Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain, risk factors and information on obtaining a diagnosis will be covered.
There is no fee to attend the programs, but registration is requested by contacting the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272-3900.

Sign up now for Summer Striders  
Summer Striders will be held on Wednesday nights: May 7 to June 25 from  5:30 to 6:30 p.m. First session will meet in City Hall. 
The eight-week program is tailored to help people meet their goals – whether it’s going from being a couch potato to walking regularly, or increasing from 3 miles to 6, or going from a 20 minute mile to a 15 minute mile. 
This program is geared to help motivate people to achieve walking goals while increasing knowledge of nutrition, injury prevention, shoe selection, training strategies, and so much more. 
The program is directed by a trained wellness coach and licensed health and physical educator. 
Registration is required. Reserve a space by contacting the parks department  at parks@ci.bluffton.in.us or 824-6069. 
Cost is $10 due the first night, children under 10 are free and maximum family price is $20.  Program participants must be healthy enough to participate in moderate physical activity. Bring a filled water bottle each time. For more information visit the blog: http://blufftonsummerstriders.blogspot.com/http://blufftonsummerstriders.blogspot.com

State Park Picnic and Nature Walk May 9
The Arthur and Gloria Muselman Wellness Pavilion will be host a picnic and nature walk at Ouabache State Park for any senior age 55 and older on Friday, May 9 at 11 a.m.  The cost is $6 per person and includes a sack lunch and transportation. Members and non-Members are welcome to attend this event. 
Those attending will journey through the beautiful trails and scenery that Ouabache has to offer. 
Sign up by noon, Friday, May 2 at the Wellness Pavilion Front Desk. Payment is due at time of sign up and is non-refundable. 

For more information contact Sarah Conrad call 260-589-4496 or visit www.swissvillage.org.

Montpelier Bake and Plant Sale May 10
The Montpelier Friends of the Library will sponsor a Bake  and Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Farmers Market corner.  

Thursday, May 1, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, May 1, 2014

Shane Brothers concert at Presbyterian Church
The concert for the Shane Brothers will be held at the Ossian Presbyterian Church Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.

Rescue Mission to Host Gala fundraiser May 2 
On Friday, May 2 The Rescue Mission of Fort Wayne will host the fifth annual Charis House Gala live and silent auction. This year’s theme is “Transforming Lives for a Brighter Tomorrow”.
 The event is the Mission’s largest fundraiser, and one of the largest in the area that supports homeless women and children. Dollars raised from the event will help to support Charis House, The Rescue Mission’s ministry for women and children.
The event will take place at Ceruti’s Banquet and Event Center at 6325 Illinois Road in  Fort Wayne at 5:30 p.m.  Tickets are $75, and a limited number are still available. Attire is semi-formal. To purchase a ticket or reserve a table, contact Leesa Huston at 260-426-7357 ext. 136 or visit www.therescuemission.net/auction.

Mendelssohn’s ‘Elijah’ performed May 4
Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” will be performed by the Mennonite Choral Society on Sunday, May 4 at 7 p.m. at the First Mennonite Church in Berne. The event is under the direction of Brent Hymna.
This presentation of Elijah will feature bass soloist Dr. Craig Priebe from Ball State Univeristy; soprano/alto soloist Dr. Lisa Dawson from Indiana Wesleyan University; tenor Jacob Wilder from Van Wert, Ohio; tri alto Alexis Cramer from Berne; trio soprano Brittany Sprunger from Grabill and youth soloist Camden Hyman of Berne. Accompanists will be pianist Judy Martin of Decatur and organist Gloria Wendell of VanWert, Ohio.
A staffed nursery will be provided. A free will offering will be taken at the event.

Miami Indian Heritage Days Kick off May 3
Miami Indian Heritage Days will kick off on Saturday, May 3 at the Chief Richardville House, 5705 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne.
The Chief Richardville House is recognized as the oldest Native American structure in the Midwest, the first Greek Revival style house in Indiana, and the only extant Treaty House in the nation.  The Chief Richardville House, Akima Pinsiwa Awiiki, was named a National Historic Landmark in 2012.
Sponsored by the History Center, Miami Indian Heritage Days programs are held from 1-4 pm on the first Saturday of the month, May through November, and feature local artists, performers, and representatives from the Miami Indians and other Native American groups demonstrating aspects of their lasting heritage for the public to enjoy.
 Admission for each Saturday event is $7 adults and $5 students and seniors. For more information, contact the History Center at (260) 426-2882 or visit the website atwww.fwhistorycenter.com.

Adoption  Fundraiser May 3
Greg and Lora Osborn Adoption Fundraiser will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 3 at Dutch Mill Plaza, 360 N. Main Street, Bluffton.
Fat Jon’s BBQ Concessions  will be available serving whole hog, pulled pork sandwich meals. Carry out available. (Pd. Advt.)

Spring Fling Banquet May 6
The South Adams Senior Center will sponsor a Spring Fling Banquet at 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 6. Featured entertainment  will be aWells County Vocal Duo.
The event is open to the public. The cost of the meal is $10 per person. The meal will be furnished by Berne Dining. For reservations call 589-8877.

Warren Alumni Banquet May 10
The alumni banquet of Warren High School will be held at Knight-Bergman Center in Warren on Saturday, May 10. All former students, teachers and friends are welcome to attend the event. 
The classes of 1954 and 1964 will be recognized as honored classes. All graduates 1944 and before will also be recognized. Social hour will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m. The Salamonie Valley Museum will be open during the afternoon and evening.
To make reservations call Jim Howell at 375-3048 or email: howellj@citznet.com.

Swim Lesson Registration May 10 
Bluffton Parks and Recreation Swim registration is for children who just finished grades K-12 and will take place at the City Hall from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday May 10. 
Class lessons are held Monday through Friday June 9-20 OR July 7-18 for a total of 10 lessons. Class times are either 10-10:50 a.m. or 11-11:50 a.m. Cost for non Wells County Residents is $11 and discounted to $5.50 for residents (due at registration).

 NO EARLY REGISTRATION. For more information call 824-6069.

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Garage Sale May 1-3
The annual Lutheran Life Villages Bargain Bonanza Garage Sale will be held May 1-3 at the International Park and Commerce Center at 2701 S. Coliseum Blvd. in Fort Wayne. Proceeds will go to benefit residents of Lutheran Life Villages and will be matched by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Hours are May 1, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; May 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and May 3, 9 a.m. to noon.

Adoption Fundraiser May 3
Greg and Lora Osborn Adoption Fundraiser will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 3 at Dutch Mill Plaza, 360 N. Main Street, Bluffton. Fat Jon’s BBQ Concessions  will be available serving whole hog, pulled pork sandwich meals. Carry out available. (Pd. Advt.)

Sausage & Gravy Breakfast May 3
Members of Chester Twp. Volunteer Fire Department will sponsor a Sausage and Gravy Breakfast Saturday, May 3 from 7 to 10 a.m. at the Chester Fire Station, south of Southern Wells High School. A free will donation will be accepted during the event.

Ernie Couch and Revival May 4
Ernie Couch and Revival will be at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 16933 Thiele Road, Fort Wayne, May 4, at the 10 a.m. EC&R is high energy in motion featuring a sound reflective of the diverse musical heritage that has made Music City internationally famous. 
Afterward a swiss steak dinner will be served in the gymnasium. Swiss steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, applesauce, rolls, cake, pie, and beverage will be served for a freewill offering. For more information call Kay Disher, secretary, at 622-4886.

Zumba Classes May 1
Zumba will be held at the Bluffton City Gym at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 1; 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 6; and 6 p.m. Thursday, May 8. Lauren Smith will be the instructor. Each session is $5 per person. For those who can only attend the morning or evening sessions, let the Parks Department know and they can discount the session price. Call 824-6069.

Rummage Vendors wanted June 7

Montpelier Town Wide Rummages will be held June 7. Nazarene Church has table space available inside and outside. They will be serving breakfast and lunch. Call 765-728-5905. 

Monday, April 28, 2014

What's Up! Monday, April 28, 2014

NMS band Pizza Hut night April 28
On Monday, April 28, from 5 to 7 p.m. the Norwell Middle School Band will be holding a fundraising event at the Pizza Hut in Bluffton. 

Elks Blues, Brews and BBQ Cancer Benefit May 17
Schedule of events:  Fat Jon’s BBQ Rib Dinner: $15, serving from 5 to 7 p.m.
Corn Hole Tournament, $10, Blind Draw. Thirty percent to cancer fun. Seventy percent prize money. Sign up by 12:30 p.m.
Bake Sale, Live Auction, 7:30 p.m. 
Reverse Raffle, 50-50’s.
Live band with Jamie Lewis (And Kirk Potter!)
Proceeds will go to Indiana Elks Cancer Research Fund, Steve Kelly Cancer Relief Foundation. (Free: 4/28; Pd. Advt. 5/5)

Scholarship available
Blackford County Community Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2014-2015 academic year from students, other than high school seniors, who are enrolled in college or vocational schools and programs.
Applicants must be a legal resident of Blackford County and have a current GPA of 2.50 or greater. 
Forms are available online at www.blackfordcofoundation.org or at the Foundation’s office, 121 N. High St., Hartford City. Submission deadline is June 26. For additional questions, please contact the Foundation at (765) 348-3411.

Vendors wanted for Montpelier Rummage June 7
Montpelier Town Wide Rummages will be held June 7.

Nazarene Church has table space available inside and outside. They will be serving breakfast and lunch. Call 765-728-5905.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

What's Up! Thursday, April 24, 2014

Spring Fling April 26

The fourth annual Spring Fling will be held Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bluffton National Guard Armory, 500 E. Spring Street, Buffton. Free admission, food, door prizes. Proceeds from raffle will go to the Steve Kelly Cancer Foundation. Call Deb Carson: 260-824-9219, 260-273-7950 or Linda Bradley: 260-273-9825. (Pd. Advt.)

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

What's Up! Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Sign up for Fall Master Gardener Volunteer Program 
The Purdue University Master Gardener volunteer program helps gardeners grow by providing them with intensive training in horticultural principles. Participants, in turn, share their knowledge by providing volunteer leadership and service to their communities. 
In 2014, volunteer training sessions will begin on Sept. 3 and conclude in early November. Training sessions will be conducted at the Allen County Extension office on Wednesday Evenings from 5:30–9 p.m.  and on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (weekly classes are separate teaching sessions – not the same session)
The $125 program fee includes class material and a reference notebook.  To learn more about this program or to pick up an application, visit the Allen County Extension office (4001 Crescent Avenue-on the IPFW campus) or call 260-481-6826 and press option 3.
Additional information and an application can also be downloaded from www.extension.purdue.edu/allen. (Click on Home Yard and Garden).

Circle W Riders Membership Drive April 25-27
The Circle W Riders will hold their membership drive for anyone wanting to join the club this weekend, April 25-27 at the home of Ed Thompson. For more information call 260-273-7675.

4-H hog roast, carnival & silent auction April 26
 Allen County 4-H Clubs Inc. will be sponsor a Hog Roast, Carnival and Silent Auction Fund Raiser Saturday, April 26 in the 4-H Exhibit Building at the Allen County Fairgrounds at 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne. The hog roast dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m. or until sold out.
The meal will include roasted pork, sauerkraut, mashed potato, green beans, applesauce, roll, butter, sour cream, assorted desserts and a beverage. 
Meal prices are $8 for adults and $6.50 for children age 6-11. Children age five and younger are free. All carry-out meals are $8. This is an “all you can eat” Hog Roast.
A Carnival with games staffed by 4-H club members will be available from 4-7 p.m. Tickets for the games cost .50 cents each or wristbands for $7.
In addition, a Silent Auction with numerous items to bid on will be held with bidding open from 4-6:45 p.m.
 All proceeds from this event will go toward Allen County 4-H Programs.

 For additional information, contact Purdue Extension – Allen County at 260-481-6826.

Dillman Church Garage Sale May 3
Dillman United Brethren Church will sponsor a garage sale Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 8888S-1100W, rural Warren in Wells County.
Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be a trunk sale at 2 p.m.
Proceeds will go to the church youth group mission trip to South Dakota and church camp scholarships.
The church is located three miles west of Ind. 3 on 900S or four miles east of the Van Buren Cemetery.
For more information call 260-375-2779.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

What's Up! Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Alzheimer Conference April 25
On Friday, April 25, the Alzheimer’s Association will host an Education Conference at the Indianapolis Marriott North hotel, located at 3645 River Crossing, Indianapolis. Professionals and family members of those living with dementia can come to explore issues surrounding Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and communication. 
The conference will begin at 7:30 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast, ending with a keynote speaker at 4:30 p.m. There is a registration fee of $40 for families, care partners, friends or students and $95 for professionals. 
The registration fee will include breakfast, break service, lunch and conference materials. CEUs are available for social workers and health facility administrators. Category 1 CEs are available through the Indiana Psychological Association. All other professional registrants will receive a certificate of attendance.
For a free conference brochure, or to register, visit alz.org/indiana or call 800.272.3900. Please note, registration closes on Thursday, April 24.

South Pacific auditions April 26
Auditions for Wells Community Theater’s production of South Pacific will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, April 26 and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 at First Presbyterian Church in Bluffton.
Performances will be June 13-15 at Life Commnity Church.  Families are also encouraged to audition for this multi-age show.  For more information, join South Pacific at WCT on Facebook or call CAC at 824-5222.

Huntington Book Sale April 27
The Friends of the Huntington Library will offer a one-day Spring Used Book Sale at the Main Library from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26. 
Featured at the sale will be cookbooks, travel books, gardening, hobby, craft, sewing, home decorating and maintenance, and other DIY project titles, a large selection of mass-market and trade paperback fiction, and a special collection of must-see, rare and unusual needlework patterns, including patterns for crochet and needlepoint projects and much more. 
Prices will start at 50¢ for mass-market paperbacks, $1 for hardcover books and most needlework patterns, and $2 for a small selection of gift-quality books.  

Free Senior Breakfast in Berne May 2
In recognition of May as National Older Americans Month, Swiss Village and the Berne Rotary Club will be co-sponsor their 24th annual Senior Breakfast on Friday, May 2, from 7 to 9 a.m. at 1350 W. Main St. in Berne.
Last year, more than 300 area seniors attended the breakfast. The breakfast will consist of scrambled eggs, biscuits, pancakes, sausage, orange juice and coffee. 
There will also be health screenings provided from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., including free blood pressure checks, free lipid profile checks, comprehensive metabolic profiles $25, thyroid panel $20, and hemogram $15. 
Everyone who attends the open house will have the chance to sign up to win one of eight $25 gas cards, and will receive a coupon for a free ice cream in the CafĂ© Suisse at Swiss Village. 
Parking will be available at the main circle drive entrance or in the north parking lot by the Social Corner. 
For more information, call 260-589-3173.

Decatur  Community Plant Swap May 3
The 2014 Community Plant Swap will be held from 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, May 3 at the Riverside Center in Decatur at 231 E. Monroe St. (U.S.-224 East).
The 2014 herb of the year is Artemisia.
The annual indoor event is open to the public as a way to sell or swap excess plants or to buy new plantings and cuttings. Doors will open at 6 a.m. for participants to set up their display of plants.
Sale starts at 7 a.m. Covered tables will be provided. There is a $10 fee per table to participate.
For more information call Sandy at 260-724-4061, Denis Franz at 260-724-9145 or Mary at 260-724-2447.

Pancake, Sausage and Egg Breakfast at Hope May 3
Hope Missionary Church Disaster Relief Team will sponsor the annual Pancake, Sausage and Egg Breakfast from 6 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 3 in the Family Life Center at 429 E. Dustman Road in Bluffton.
Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for kids age 6-12 and free for kids age five and younger. All proceeds will go toward providing relief efforts to individuals and communities dealing with catastrophic events. 

Call 260-824-1844.

Monday, April 21, 2014

What's Up! Monday, April 21, 2014

Benefit Dinner and Veterans Honor Blanket Program
A benefit dinner will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 25 at the Decatur American Legion Post 43. Cost for the dinner is an $8 donation. The meal will consist of a baked pork chop, potatoe, vegetable, roll, dessert and drink. Dine-in or carry-out is available. Free delivery in Decatur is possible upon request. The event is handicap accessible.
Proceeds from the dinner will go to the Veterans Honor Blanket Program where an American flag blanket is used to cover the veteran one last time by the Hospice Nurse and given to their loved ones as a keepsake. 
Entertainment will be porvidby Randi Stevens. Those attending can enter a drawing for a chance to win a blanket.
To purchase dinner tickets call the American Legion at 260-724-3705 or Family LifeCare at 800-355-2817, ext. 338 or alegion@onlyinternet.net ksweney@FamilyLifeCareIN.org.

Euchre Tournament April 25 in Berne
The Arthur and Gloria Muselman Wellness Pavilion in Berne will be host a Euchre tournament for any senior age 55 and older on Friday, April 25 at 2 p.m. at the Wellness Pavilion. Snacks will be provided. Members and non-members are welcome to attend this event.  
Sign up at the Pavilion by 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 24. There is no need to find a partner for this event as it will be a round-robin tournament with a different partner for each round. 

For more information call at 260-589-4496 or visit www.swissvillage.org.