Local Roundup June 22, 2013

Historical Museum will host ice cream social June 30

The Wells County Historical Society will host its annual ice cream social from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at the Wells County Historical Museum, 420 W. Market St.

Stephanie Shultz will provide folk and Early American music on her dulcimer and recorder. She is a concert pianist and will be in the West Room on the upright King piano, and she will also be displaying her hand crafted gourds fashioned into various types of rhythm instruments.

Robert Harter’s World War II model planes will also be on display.

Board members will be present on each floor to guide and explain artifacts. Those who visit the Country Store in the basement and play 78 rpm records on an old-fashioned hand cranked Victrola or check out the children’s bedroom and toys on the second floor.

This is a free event.  Donations are always welcomed and appreciated to cover the costs and upkeep of the museum.

Ossian council will meet Monday evening

The Ossian Town Council will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, June 24, at the Ossian Town Hall, 507 N. Jefferson St.

Items on the agenda include the review of a tax abatement compliance forms filed by Berne Apparel and H&N Properties and a report by Town Manager Luann Martin and council member Tom Neuenschwander on the flood plain appeal process. Tim Ehlerding, Wells County’s economic development director, and a representative from the H.J. Umbaugh and Associates public financing firm to discuss a tax increment financing district.

The council will hold an executive session at 6 p.m., prior to the regular meeting. During the executive session, which will be closed to the public, the council will discuss the job performance of individual employees.

Bluffton Board of Works to meet Tuesday afternoon

The Bluffton Board of Public Works and Safety will meet at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, in the meeting room on the first floor of City Hall.

Items on the agenda include the opening of sidewalk bids, a request for a monitoring well, and the approval of a camp contract.

Wells County BZA will  meet Tuesday evening

Three items are on the agenda for this week’s meeting of the Wells County Board of Zoning Appeals. The BZA will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, in the multi-purpose room on the lower level of the Well Carnegie Government Annex, 223 W. Washington St.

The only item of old business on the agenda is an appeal of a violation notice. Ronald Mang and Bruce Leas are appealing a violation issued in regard to a satellite manure lagoon.

Also Tuesday, the Poneto United Methodist Curch is requesting a variance to reduce the 35-foot front yard setback at 36 E. Walnut St. in Poneto. The existing sign is 26 feet from the center of the road.

AlmcoSteel Products Inc. is asking for a variance to reduce the front yard setback requirement from 40 feet to 20 feet. The property is located at 173 N. Oak St. in Bluffton.

Bluffton Common Council will meet Tuesday evening

The Bluffton Common Council will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall.

The only non-routine item on the agenda is consideration of an ordinance concerning stop intersections in the city.

Ossian stormwater board to meet Wednesday evening

The Ossian Stormwater Management Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 26, at the Ossian Town Hall.

Items on the agenda include an updates on the Roe Street project, Archbold Wilson Park, Heyerly Drive, Maplewood Drive, and the board’s budget. Also on the agenda are a discussion on a ditch at 302 Bittersweet and an update from Town Manager Luann Martin on new projects

What's Up June 20, 2013

Bluffton Farmer’s Market on Saturday

The Farmer’s Market is 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 plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products, fresh coffee beans and ground coffee, rhubarb, and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Openings for Flank Steak Class

The Parks Department has two openings left in the Flank Steak Meals class for adults on Monday, June 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bluffton Middle School Culinary Arts Room (enter door 9).

Cost is $10 due that night. Call to register at 8247-6069. Hurry, space is limited.

Openings in Preserve Nature’s Bounty Class

Bluffton Parks Department has openings in the Preserving Nature’s Bounty class for adults who would like to learn canning, freezing and drying.  This class will be held Tuesday June 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the second floor City Hall. 

Cost is $3 per person and everyone who attends can help themselves to free seeds for next year’s garden. Call 824-6069.

Chihuly glass exhibit at FWMA begins June 29

From June 29 to Sept. 29, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art will be presenting two exhibits featuring work by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Two exhibits will highlight the breath of style in contemporary studio glass.—The 41st Annual International Studio Glass Invitational Award Winners and The Next 

Generation of Studio Glass. 

A members only preview party will be held on  Friday, June 28, with a lecture by Ferdinand Hampson. A public lecture will be held on Friday, July 19 with a discussion  led by Bruce Harkey. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 .a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and until 8 p.m. on Thursday and noon to 5  p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and $10 for families. Free admission every Sunday and Thursday.

What's Up Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Bluffton Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Huntington, Markle libraries offer summer reading for the whole family

Summer Reading programs are underway for all ages at the Huntington City-Twp. Public Library, 255 West Park Drive, Huntington, and the HCTPL Markle Branch Library, 197 East Morse Street, Markle.

 This summer’s overall theme, Dig Into Reading! The program is divided into age groups with each having its own theme, format and requirements for earning prizes.  For more information call 260-356-0824.

Marty Zide to speak at Grace Bible Church June 23

Marty Zide will be the guest speaker during the 10 a.m. morning service at Grace Bible Church, Sunday, June 23. His topic will be “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”  Zide is the director for Midwest Messianic Center. It is an evangelical faith missionary organization that began in 1924 with the purpose of proclaiming Jesus as Messiah to anyone, but with an emphasis to the Jewish people.   He will also speak in the evening he and will lead in a full Passover Seder meal that begins at 5 p.m.  The meal will consist of partaking in food from the Passover Feast and an explanation of the meaning and significance surrounding the Passover customs.  

The community is invited and encouraged to participate in the worship service in the morning and the Passover Seder in the evening. 

For more information call 260-589-2687.

Musical Entourage Pizza Hut Fundraiser tonight

Members of the Bluffton High School Musical Entourage will sponsor a Pizza Hut fundraiser Monday, June 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. The choir will receive $1 per buffet plus all tips and donations.

First Presbyterian in Ossian VBS June 23-27

The First Presbyterian Church in Ossian will sponsor their Vacation Bible School  for children age four thorugh grade six June 23-27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. each evening. Registration deadline is June 23. Call 260-622-7178.

What's Up June 6, 2013

Grandpa and Me Build a Wooden Car June 9

The Bluffton Parks Department will sponsor Grandpa and Me build event where they will build a wooden car is Sunday, June 9 at Kehoe Park. Cost is $5. those attending should bring a hammer and screw driver. 

The 2-3:30 time is full, but there are openings in the 3:30-4:30 time. You must pre-register by calling 824-6069.

Bike Bluffton June 9

Bike Bluffton, a 20 Mile bike ride, has a new date! It is now Sunday, June 9 at 2 p.m. Registration is $5 and includes two refreshment stops: Lancaster and Roush Parks. Call 824-6069 to reserve a spot.

Military Appreciation Day at the Zoo June 10

 To honor those who serve America, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo will hold Military Appreciation Day on Monday, June 10.

Active duty military, retired military, National Guard members, Reservists and their immediate families will receive free zoo admission on June 10 with a valid military ID.  Immediate family includes spouse/partner and children age 18 and under.

 The zoo will be open for regular business hours on June 10, from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information call 260-427-6820.

Dairy Days and Tractor Event June 11-16

Dairy Days will be held June 11-16 and the Tractors, Tractors, Tractors event on will be held Saturday, June 15 at Souder Village in Archbold, Ohio.

While activities and demonstrations will vary from day-to-day, costumed guides will be preparing dairy-related recipes throughout the week and there will be historic recipes for guests to pick up and try at home. Some of the dairy-related historic cooking demonstrations planned include making cheese, cream dressing and buttermilk pie. Guests will be able to try their hand at churning butter and making biscuits. In the Homestead area guests can help hand-crank and taste the ice cream and watch cream separating demonstrations.

On Saturday, June 15 the “Tractors, Tractors, Tractors” event will combine with Dairy Days for an in-depth agricultural experience. This tractor-themed event will focus on the machines that make farming possible. There will be modern farming equipment on display from Liechty Farm Equipment and Archbold Equipment. Guests will have an opportunity to get an up-close look at farming equipment of today.

Nearly 40 antique tractors will be on display in the Historic Village. The historic tractors are from the 1930s to the 1960s and some participants will even be doing demonstrations throughout the day. There will also be a Pedal Tractor Pull for children to enjoy thanks to the Tinora Young Farmers and the Archbold FFA.

For more information call 1-800-590-9755, visit www.saudervillage.org, like Sauder Village on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @SauderVillage

Bluffton Christian Writers Group to meet June 10

The Bluffton Christian Writers Group meets the second Monday of every month in the library at River Terrace.  The next meeting will be Monday, June 10 at 6:30 p.m. with a prayer. The meeting will end at 8:30 p.m.  Those attending are encouraged to share writing advice and personal writing successes. Everyone is welcome to read their writing and receive honest, but kind, critiques. Children and teen writers are welcome to join the fun if attending with an adult.

Relay for Life Fundraiser at Pizza Hut June 10

The Wells County Public Library Relay for Life team will sponsor a fundraiser at Pizza Hut in Bluffton Monday, June 10 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Staff members from the library will be serving and all tips received will go to the Wells County Relay for Life, which helps the American Cancer Society save lives from cancer. Plus, Pizza Hut will donate $1 for every buffet during those two hours.

Gardening Workshop at the library June 11

Master Gardeners Tom Woodward and BJ Gray will give a program on different sizes of gardens from pot to large beds at the Wells County Public Library in Bluffton on Tuesday, June 11 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. 

Attendees will learn about mixing flowers and vegetables in the same flower bed and some general tips on gardening.

Each year Tom and his wife, Mary Lou, host a “Mum Walk,” and have more than 700 mums in their landscape. They’ve been featured in many local newspapers and in Indiana Gardener magazine. BJ Gray is the President of the Wells County Master Gardeners. The program is best suited for teens or adults. Registration is appreciated. To sign up stop by the library, visit the library’s website at www.wellscolibrary.org, or call 260-824-1612.

Touch a Truck June 15

Bluffton Parks Department Touch a Truck will be held Saturday, June 15 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Washington/Main Parking lot (across from the post office). 

Get an up close look at the big trucks. Take pictures for the photo contest. Tag us on facebook and we will draw a winner on June 24th. This is a FREE event!

What's Up June 5, 2013

Wells County Democrats breakfast meeting June 8

The Wells County Democrats will hold their montly breakfast meeting Saturday, June 8 at Democrat Headquarters at 119 S. Johnson Street.

Breakfast will start at 8 a.m. A short meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. Chairman Bricker will discuss recent events as well as plans for upcoming activities.

Haystack Luncheon June 9 at Swiss Heritage Village

A Haystack Luncheon will be held Sunday, June 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Switzer Barn at Swiss Heritage Village and Museum.

A haystack dinner resembles an enhanced taco with ground beef over crushed tortilla chips with a choice of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, olives, rice and beans, along with salsa, sour cream and cheese. Dessert will be a an old fashioned Swiss dish called strawberry sturm which is similar to strawberry shortcake.

Bluegrass music will be provided by The Harmony String Band.

The event is sponsored by the Swiss Heritage Society. Proceeds will go toward the continued restoration and preservation of the village.  Donations will be accepted.  

Those who attend the Haystack meal are also invited to take a stroll through the indoor museum and enjoy a number of newly fashioned displays. 

Free lunch offered June 11 & 25 

Southern Wells Community Church will be serve free lunches (no donations) at the corner of Main Street and Ind. 18 in Montpelier and also at the intersection in Keystone. from noon to 1:30 p.m. on the following dates: June 11, June 25, July 10, July 24 and  Aug. 7. 

Available will be sandwiches, chips, drinks, etc. Any questions, call 765-728-2154.

Hartford High School Alumni event June 15

The Hartford High School Alumni will be held Saturday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at South Adams School. Socializing will begin at 5:15 p.m. This will be a celebration of the last graduating class before consolidation.

Anyone who has ever attended Hartford is welcome to attend the event.

For reservations or for more information call Carol King at 260-692-6131.

What's Up Tuesday, May 4, 2013

Bluffton Farmer’s Market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaza (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Great Lakes Nations Pow Wow June 8 & 9

The 10th Annual Gathering of Great Lakes Nations Pow Wow hosted by National Center for Great Lakes Native American Culture will be held on June 8 and 9 at the Tri-State Antique Gas Engine Association Grounds at 1010 Morton Street in Portland. This event is sponsored in part by the Jay County Visitor and Tourism Bureau and First Bank of Berne.

The 10th Annual Gathering of Great Lakes Nations Pow Wow is a celebration of Great Lakes Native Americans and their culture. It features Native American drums, singers and dancers from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday June 8 and from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Sunday June 9.

All activities are included in the gate admission of $4 per person, children under 12 are free with a maximum of $15 per carload for families. Parking is free. Camping is available on site for $20 per night including electricity.

For more information call 765-426-3022 or kay.neumayr@ncglnac.com.

What's Up Monday, June 3, 2013

Sheets Wildlife Museum and Learning Center Movie Day June 8

The Sheets Wildlife Museum and Learning Center in Huntington will sponsor a movie day at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 8.

The free movie, “Shark Quest,” will last about an hour. A tour of the museum will cost $1 per person. 

There will be a quiz with the top three youth receiving a gift certificate to be used in the museum gift shop.

Call 260-356-9453 for more information.

What's Up May 30, 2013

Regan Kreigh in Civic Theatre cast June 1, 7 & 8

When The Wedding Gift, winner of the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Playwright Festival, is performed on June 1, 7 and 8, BHS graduate Regan Kreigh will take the leading role of Ashley Ferguson.

Nancy Carlson Dodd wrote the story which is “a happy romp that takes you into the best homes and elegant country clubs” for plenty of surprises, laughs and a very unusual wedding girl. Gregory Stieber is director and Aaron Ahrndt is assistant director/stage manager.

The Saturday, June 1, and Friday, June 7, performances will be held at 8 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, all at the Arts United Center. Tickets are $15 in advance through the box office at 260-424-5220. (The box office is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Limberlost Cross Country Run/Walk June 6, 13, 20, 29

The Friends of the Limberlost will sponsor the Limberlost Trailblazer Series. This is a cross country run/walk. All races will be held at the Loblolly Marsh Nature Preserve.  The Loblolly Marsh Nature Preserve is located three and one-half miles west of Bryant on State Road 18 then north one-half mile on Jay County road 250-West.  The street address is:  8323 North   250 West.

The Trailblazer Series includes the following events:

Thursday, June 6: 2K starting at 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 13: 3K starting at 7 p.m.

Thursday, June 20: 4K starting at 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 29: 5K starting at 8 a.m.

Entry fee for 2K, 3K, and 4K is $5 per race; No pre-registration required

The number one male and number one female in each race will receive a free entry for the 5K race.

Prior to the 2K, 3K, and 4K races there will be a Half K fun run for children 10 and under starting at 6:30 p.m. There is no entry fee.

Proceeds go toward maintenance of the Loblolly Pavilion and surrounding trail system.

For more information contact: 260-368-7428 or email: loblollybill@yahoo.com or loblollybill@yahoo.com 368-9990.

St. Joseph Church Trash to Treasure Sale June 7

St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bluffton will sponsor a Trash to Treasure Sale Friday, June 7 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, June 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The garage sale is sponsored by the St. Joseph CCW (Council of Catholic Women.) Proceeds will benefit various church and community causes.

Jay community band concert June 9

On Sunday, June 9 at 6 p.m. the Jay County Community Band will present a concert at the Hudson Family Park Amphitheater in Portland.

The free concert will follow a community cookout that begins at 4 p.m. Proceeds from the cookout will support and sustain the MusicWorks program presented by Arts Place in Portland. For more information call 866-539-9911.

What's Up May 29, 2013

Bluffton Farmer’s Market begins on Wednesdays and Saturdays

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaze (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

NHS Music fundraiser June 1at Baer Field Speedway

Baer Field Speedway presents: the first annual

Members of the Norwell Music Department will host an evening Saturday, June 1 at Baerfield Raceway to raise money for new uniforms.

Band members have tickets to sell at discounted tickets at $10 each (regular price is $12.) Baer Field Speedway will donate $7 off of each NHS ticket sold, back to the Norwell High School Band Boosters. Those interested can call the school at 565-4647 to get tickets. Those attending the show are encouraged to wear school colors during the pre-race band performance and national anthem. The racing program will feature McMahon Tire Late Models, Fantastic Sams Modifieds, Street Stocks, Mini Stocks and Front Wheel Drives! Gates will open at 4 p.m. Qualifying is at 5:30 p.m. Racing will start at 7:30 p.m. A pre-race ceremony will be held at 7:15 p.m.

Christ Child Society fundraiser June 13 & 14

The Christ Child Society Annual Garage sale to benefit children in need will be held June 13 and 14 at 1500 W. State Street in Fort Wayne. Hours on Thursday will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours for Friday will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  All proceeds of the sale will be used to fund the programs of the Christ Child Society operation.

What's Up! May 23, 2013

River Terrace Car Show May 25

River Terrace Estates on State Road 116, east of Bluffton will sponsor a River’s Edge Car Show and Family Fun Day Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m For more information call 273-0535.

Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony May 27 in Fort Wayne

The public is welcome to support the Allen County Council of Veterans during the annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum on Monday, May 27.

The parade, which begins at the corner of Parnell Ave. and State Blvd., will start at approximately 11 a.m. and end at the Coliseum. 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 p.m. on Friday, May 24 until 9 p.m. on Saturday, May 25 at the Veterans Memorial Shrine, located at 2122 O’Day Road, Fort Wayne.

For more information about the Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, as well as, the Watchfire event, contact Allen County Council of Veterans c/o Craig Savage at (260) 747-2977 or via email atpatricia.allison1@frontier.com.

Youth Ranch Charity Benefit and Horse Development Clinic June 5

Dare to Dream Youth Ranch will be sponsor a fundraiser benefit dinner and horse behavioral clinic, conducted by Four-Star Certified Horse Development Specialist, Ryan Rose. The event will be held on Wednesday, June 5, from 6-9 p.m., at Manasseh Stables, in Roanoke.  

The event is open to the public and aimed at novices and experienced riders alike, as well as supporters of the Ranch’s cause. Admission is $10 and children 12 and under attend free. Parking is also free, as is a dinner, provided by the Dare to Dream staff. 

Next Generation begins June 6

C&C Bible Fellowship will begin the NEW Next Generation Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m. at 4383 S.,  150 E. in Berne. They will meet each Thursday evening.  The program will be made up of upcoming high school juniors and seniors, and college-age young adults. This program is designed for attendee participation. 

Meet your Merchants Day in Montpelier June 8

Montpelier will sponsor Meet your Merchants Day Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Area businesses will be out to meet and greet the public. 

There will be food vendors, a Cookie walk and music. A petting Zoo will be located by Edward Jones. Representatives of the Blackford County animal shelter will be on hand to answer any questions. The Lions Club will be open with food. Kiwanis members will be selling $1 hot dogs, The Farmers Market will be open  on the corner of Main and Huntington. The Civic Center will be open for tours. The American Legion Past Presidents and Auxiliary will be selling baked steak and a bake sale at the legion post on the corner of Green and Main Streets. Call Renda at 728-2246.

Great Lakes Nations Gathering June 8

The 10th Annual Gathering of Great Lakes Nations, hosted by National Center for Great Lakes Native American Culture, Inc., will be held June 8 and 9 at the Tri-State Antique Gas Engine Association grounds, 1010 Morton Street in Portland. There will be Native American singers, dancers, foods and vendors, a pre-1840 camp, free children’s activities and artisan demonstrations. 

Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 8 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 9. Admission: $4, children under 12 free and a maximum of $15 per carload.

Bluffton Farmer’s Market tonight and Saturday

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaze (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

BHS Class of 2003 reunion June 1

The Bluffton High School Class of 2003 will hold their 10 year class reunion Saturday, June 1 from noon to 5 p.m.at Washington Park pavilion.

Hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be provided. Those attending should bring a dish to share. Cost is $5 per adult. The event is free for kids.

There will also be a gathering for adults only that evening at the Stag Bar in Bluffton beginning at 8 p.m.

Those wishing to attend the reunion during the day can send money to: Bluffton Parks Department, attn: Pam Vanderkolk, 128 E. Market St., Bluffton, IN 46714.

For more information call Sammi at 260-353-9709.

C&C Next Generation begins June 6

C&C Bible Fellowship will begin the NEW Next Generation Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m. at 4383 S.,  150 E. in Berne. They will meet each Thursday evening. 

The program will be made up of upcoming high school juniors and seniors, and college-age young adults. This program is designed for attendee participation. 

Annual Ossian garage sale day June 15

The 8th annual Ossian town wide garage sale will be held Saturday, June 15, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free garage sale is open to all residents of Ossian and the surrounding area. To be included in the flier, register on-line at ossiantownmanager@comcast.net or via the drop box at the Town Hall by 5 p.m. June 7. Each ad must be limited to 20 words.

A list of garage sale locations with your advertisements and maps will be posted on the Town of Ossian website at www.ossianin.com and in a brochure that will be available for pick up in local businesses and the Town Hall.

The Revitalization Committee is offering reusable garage sale signs for $3.50 that can be purchased at the Town Hall and Do-It-Best Hardware. 

You are welcome to erect your own signs; however, remember that hanging signs on utility poles is illegal and subject to fines.

Annual Ossian trash pickup June 22

The Ossian town wide trash pickup will begin at 6 a.m. Saturday, June 22. The drop-off site for electronic recycling is the Ossian Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 622-4251 with any questions.

What's Up Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Exchange student hosts needed

World Heritage Student Exchange Program, a public benefit organization, is seeking local host families for high school students from over 30 countries.

Couples, single parents and families with and without children in the home are encouraged to host. 

For more information call 1-800-888-9040 or email to: info@world-heritage.org or log onto the website at: www.hosts.com

AC Schools to start Memory Garden

Adams Central Community Schools is creating a Memorial Gardent for people that have passed away while a student at Adams Central. All names collected will be put on a wall plaque which will be permanently presented in the memorial garden.

Anyone who knows of a family member or a friend who passed away while a student at the school can call 260-692-6193. Adams Central is looking for names starting in 1950 to the current year of 2013. Names will be taken between May 16 and June 14.

Garage sale at Swiss Village May 23

Swiss Village will sponsor a garage sale Thursday, May 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the auditorium. 

Items for sale include bedding, purses, clothing, fabric, home furnishings, and more. Everything will be sold at bargain prices! 

The proceeds from the sale will go towards funding Swiss Village’s activity department.

For more information call 260-589-3173.

Montpelier library book sale June 1

The Montpelier Friends of the Library will hold a Book Sale Saturday, June 1 from 9 a.m. to noon duing the city wide garage sales.

Small Fruit Seminar June 1

Ricky Kemery, Purdue Horticulture Extension Educator for Allen County, will be offer a seminar on growing small fruit on Saturday, June 1 at the Allen County Extension office.  He will discuss growing fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, currents, and grapes. The seminar begins at 10 a.m. To reserve a spot call 260-481-6427. Space is limited. Free parking is available at the office located on the IPFW campus.

Chicks Run June 6

The Bluffton Parks Department will sponsor a 5K just for women on Bluffton’s River Greenway Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m.  There will be refreshments, prizes and awards. 

There will be clock to know individual times, but awards will go to winners in fun categories including: Craziest outfit, Best t-shirt slogan, First mom/daughter team, Largest girlfriend team and more.Cost is $5 per person or $15 per person with a t-shirt. Download a registration form.  at: http://www.ci.bluffton.in.us/

A few swim lesson openings left

The Parks Department has a few openings for summer swim lessons. Call 824-6069 for details. Cost is $5.50 per child. 

Cooking classes start June 6

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation Department has scheduled a variety of cooking classes this summer.

The following classes have a few openings left for adults and youth over 15 years old.  Each class is $10 due that day.  Call 824-6069 to register, space is limited.  All classes are held at the Bluffton Middle school Culinary Arts Room (enter door #9).

Thursday, June 6: Cooking with Spices from 6-7:30 p.m.                         

Thursday, June 13: Homemake Pasta from 6 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, June 20: Fine Desserts from 6 to 8 p.m.

Arts Place Offering Music Class for Infants and Toddlers

Arts Place is currently accepting registrations for the parent-child music class, First Steps in Music, at its Portland Center located at 131 East Walnut Street in Portland. Classes will meet weekly on Wednesday mornings from June 12 through July 17. Registration deadline is Wednesday, June 6. Cost is $45 plus a one-time $15 materials fee.  Scholarships are available for those with financial need. For more information contact Arts Place at 260-726-4809, emailheidib@artsland.org or visit www.artsland.org.

Apple Dumpling Fundraiser in Zanesville June 9

The Zaneville Lions Club will sponsor an Apple Dumpling Fundriaser Sunday, June 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the ballpark.

Cost is $2 each. Carmel toppping is included. To pre-order call 260-638-4327. Dumplings may be purchased the day of the event. The ballpark is located at 3088 W. Van Horn Street. Proceeds will go toward the upkeep of the Lions Community Park.

Youth Track Meet June 11

A Youth Track Meet will be held Tuesday, June 11 from  5-7 p.m. at the Bluffton High School Stadium.  The event is Open to boys and girls ages five to 14. Cost is $1 per event. 

Events include: 50-m dash, 100-m dash, 200-m dash, 400-m dash, 800-m run, 1600-m run, long jump and high jump.

Ribbons will be awarded to all participants. To pre-register call 824-6069.

What's Up! May 16, 2013

Bluffton Farmer’s Market on Saturday

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaze (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Montpelier library book sale to be held June 1

The Montpelier Friends of the Library will hold a Book Sale Saturday, June 1 from 9 a.m. to noon duing the city wide garage sales.

Loblolly Wildflower Safari May 18

Loblolly Wildflower Safari will be held Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to noon at Loblolly Marsh Nature Preserve at 8323N 250W. Cost is $3 per person.

Join a naturalist for a stroll along the Loblolly Marsh trails focusing on the beautiful and varied spring wildflowers – what they are and the many incredible ways man and animal use them.  For more information call 260-368-7428 cburnette@indianamuseum.org. 

Veterans program at Wells Historical Museum May 19

Wells County Historical Society will be honoring the WWII veterans on Sunday, May 19 at 1 p.m. at the museum, 420 West Market St, in Bluffton. All veterans are welcome to attend. 

The program will begin at 1:30 p.m. A short history of the “What Caused the War” will be presented by Connie Brubaker followed by a short history of the “Women who Served” by Bernice Klausky. 

 World War II vets will share their experiences while serving our great country. Refreshments will follow.

On display for this month is Bob Harter’s collection of model airplanes from several countries involved in the war. His collection contains over 100 different planes. Bob has spent several hours, days and weeks assembling  the planes. Bob will be at the museum on this Sunday for a question and answers time. The program is free and open to the public. Summer hours for the museum are Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and beginning Wednesday June 5, 1-4 p.m. Always free with donations accepted.

Senior Luncheon in Berne May 22

The monthly Senior Luncheon will be held Wednesday, May 22 at noon at the South Adams Senior Center at 825 Hendricks Street in Decatur. Entertainment will be provided by Carolyn Fletcher. The cost is $6 per person. The menu will include the following: beef and noodles, mashed potatoes, California blend, assorted pies, roll with butter,  coffee and punch.

Please call the Senior Center at 589-8078 no later than Monday, May 20.

Stars in the Park contest July 18 & 25

Stars in the Park is a five evening event planned by the Jay County Chamber of Commerce for the summer of 2013.  The concept is much like the television show America’s Got Talent.

 To register visit www.starsinthepark.com. Print out and complete an audition form and mail with registration fee to 118 S. Meridian Street, Portland, IN 47371 by May 31. Those participating will be contacted for an audtion time. Auditions will be held at the Jay Community Center on East Water Street in Portland during the last week of June. 

Peformance dates are July 18 and July 25 and Aug. 1 and 8.

Semifinals and finals date is  Friday, Aug. 16 at Hudson Family Park Amphitheater, South Wayne Street, Portland. Finalists will be selected and prizes wil be awarded.

Admission to the performances is $5 per person per session for each quarterfinal event, and the semifinal-final event. Children 12 and under are free. A season pass good for all five events is $20

 Votes for contestants are $1 each. Voting will take place at each quarter-final, the semi-finals and the finals.  $5 admission ticket price includes three votes. 

There will be three to four professional judges. The judges votes will account for 50 percent of the total votes and the audience will account for 50 percent of the total vote.  Three finalists will be selected each quarter final event and three finalists will be named in semifinal. The final performance will determine grand prize ($1,250), first runner-up ($500) and second runner-up ($250).

For audtition forms visit the website: www.starsinthepark.com.

For more information contact Vicki Tague, Executive Director, Jay County Chamber of Commerceat 260-726-4481.

What's Up! May 9, 2013

Summer Striders begins

Summer striders began May 8 and will run on Wednesday Nights through June 26 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The eight-week program is tailored to help striders meet their goals – whether it’s going from being a couch potato to walking regularly, or increasing from three miles to six, or going from a 20 minute mile to a 15 minute mile. The program is directed by a trained wellness coach and licensed health and physical educator. Registration is required for this program. Reserve a space today by contacting the Parks Department at: parks@ci.bluffton.in.us or call 824-6069.  The program is cost is $10 due the first night. Children under 10 are free. Maximum family price is $20.  Program participants must be healthy enough to participate in moderate physical activity.

K-12 swim lesson registration May 11

The Parks Department will offer swim lessons for students in kindergarten through grade 12 this summer. Register will be Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at City Hall.  Cost is $5.50 for county residents and $11 for out of county children. The fee is due at registration. Students must have already completed kindergarten to participate.  Classes will be held in two-week sessions either June 10-21 or July 8-19 (weather permitting).

Swim lesson times are 10-10:50 a.m. or 11-11:50 a.m. Diving lessons will only be offered in July at 10 a.m. for strong swimmers. Please note that there are no early registrations. Those unable to attend can send someone else in their place to register a child or call 824-6069 Monday, May 13 to see if there are any openings left.

Toddler swim lesson registration May 11

Toddler swim lesson registration will be held Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at City Hall. 

Cost is $5.50 for county residents and $11 for out of county children due at registration. Children must be ages four –pre-K with an adult who will participate in the lesson. Lessons are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays the week of June 24. Swim times are 11-11:45 a.m. Please note that there are no early registrations. Those unable to attend can send someone else in their place to register a child or call 824-6069 Monday, May 13 to see if there are any openings left.

Head Start Preschool Fundraiser May 11

Members of the Head Start Preschool will sell lemonade from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the courthouse plaza in Bluffton. Proceeds will go toward field trips and classroom materials.

Breakfast Fundraiser May 11

Members of the Chester Twp. Volunteer Fire Department will sponsor an All-You-Can-Eat Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Breakfast Saturday, May 11 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the fire department south of Southern Wells High School. A free will donation will be accepted during the event.

Self Defense Class May 18

Learn how to keep yourself safe and out of harm’s way as well as how to defend yourself if you find yourself in a dangerous situation during a free Women’s Self-Defense Class Saturday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the City Gym. 

The class is open to all women ages 13 years and older. Participants will be trained on how to use pressure point techniques. 

Pre-registration is required by calling 824-6069.

What's Up May 8, 2013

Summer Sports Camp brochures available in Warren

Basketball Camp and other Sports Camp brochures for elementary, junior high and high school age athletes are available at the Warren Pharmacy.  Many Camps are sponsored by area Colleges.

Bluffton Farmer’s Market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaze (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Saturday Night at The Village May 11

Swiss Village will sponsor Saturday Night at the Village from 7–8 p.m. May, 11. 

Entertainment will be provided by vocalist, Robert Kowalczyk. He is a native of Berne, and has a bachelor’s degree in Music and Vocal Performance with a minor in Theatre Arts from Heidelberg University. 

He has studied in York, England. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration at Indiana Wesleyan University. 

Kowalczyk, continues to perform locally at several churches throughout the year, as well as directing community musicals. 

The event is open to the public. For more information call 260-589-3173 or visit www.swissvillage.org.

Make a Mother’s Day Gift at the WCPL May 11

 The Wells County Master Gardeners will host a Mother’s Day craft program at the Wells County Public Library in Bluffton on Saturday, May 11. 

Children ages four to 12 can come and decorate a pot and plant flowers as a gift for their mother or other special guardian. Drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and noon in the Children’s Room Craft Area to work on your gift. 

Registration not required. For more information please call the Wells County Public Library at 260-824-1612.

May Day Bird Count May 11

The Big May Day Bird Count is will be held Saturday, May 11. Forms and record sheets can be downloaded and printed from the Indiana Audubon Society website. Those participating can report their results by email in Wells County to Kathy Fuller at fulkat@yahoo.com or in Adams county to Terri Gorney at BandTGorney@aol.com

Comic Book Convention May 11

The Appleseed Comic Con will visit downtown Fort Wayne and the Grand Wayne Center Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The 2013 convention will feature a writing workshop, a living statue workshop, and a kids’ costume contest. The regional event welcomes comic book fans of all ages and is intended to celebrate the art and craft of comic books, as well as the comics community.

Admission to the event is $10. Children age 12 and under will be admitted for free with a paid adult admission. Tickets will be available at the door.

For more information log onto: http://www.appleseedcon.com. Information regarding the ACPL workshops can be found at http://www.acpl.lib.in.us/children/

Mother’s Day concert May 12 in Ossian

A free Mother’s Day concert will be held May 12 at 6 p.m. at the Ossian Nazarene Church, 302 N. Metts St., Ossian. The concert will feature the premier Gospel group “The Lesters.” Every mother will receive a free gift to take home. Guys are definitely welcome too!

Sara Nordling Exhibit at Portland beginning May 17

Contemporary Fiber Artist, Sara Nordling will be exhibiting her work at Arts Place Portland Center from May 17-June 29 in the Hugh N. Ronald Gallery of Arts Place Portland Center, located at 131 East Walnut Street, Portland. An opening reception for the artist will be held on Friday, May 17 from 6:30-7:30 p.m., just before George Bilgere’s poetry reading event. 

All Arts Place exhibit receptions are free and open to the public. More information about this exhibit and future exhibitions can be found on the Arts Place website atwww.artsland.org, calling 260-726-4809 or visiting the Arts Place Portland Center.

What's Up May 7, 2013

Make a Mother’s Day card in Montpelier May 8

Montpelier residents can  each make a free card for their mothers, grandmothers or anyone special in their lives from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday at Neff Insurance office. An experienced card maker will be on hand to help participants. The event is open to the public, no age limit. For more information call 765-728-2462.

Movie Day May 11 at Sheets Museum

Sheets Wildlife Museum and Learning Center will be having a movie day at 2 p.m. Saturday. It will last about one hour. The movie will be free. Tours of the museum will be $2 per person. The movie shown will be Wild Alaska. It is a visual portrait of wildlife on The Last Frontier. 

The film was shot in some of the most remote regions of Alaska to show  areas rarely visited. There will be an easy quiz given. The top three youth will receive a gift certificate that can be used in the museum gift shop. 

Seating is limited. Reservations are suggested by calling 260-356-9453.    

Make a Mother’s Day garden gift in Huntington May 11

The Huntington City-Twp. Public Library and Huntington Area Master Gardeners will sponsor a Mother’s Day make and take gardening craft workshop Saturday at the Main Library at 255 W. Park Drive. Kids ages 4 years to grade five are invited to decorate flowerpots and listen to a gardening story. They will then fill their decorated pots with gardening soil and a plant to give away for Mother’s Day. 

This workshop is free of charge, but space is limited and registration is 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.

Snake-apalooza May 11 at Limberlost

Learn all about snakes at Limberlost State Historic Site on Saturday, May 11, starting at 11 a.m.

Curt Burnette, Limberlost naturalist, will present a one hour Snake-Apalooza. He will share his knowledge of this often under appreciated member of the animal kingdom. 

Admission is $2 per person. It will take place in the classroom of the new Limberlost Visitor Center.  

The program will feature live snakes, a snake skin, rattlesnake fang, and rattle. Those attending can discover which snakes live in the Limberlost and the state of Indiana, including venomous snakes such as the endangered Massasauga rattlesnake. They will also find out what is the biggest snake in Indiana, in the US, and in the world.  

For more information  call 260-368-7428.

What's Up 5-6-13

Bluffton Farmer’s Market begins Wednesdays

The Farmer’s Market is open at the Dutch Mill Plaze (Main Street at the bridge) on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Current features include: bedding and garden plants, fresh baked foods and frozen meats, hand crafted and woodworking products and more. (Pd. Advt.)

Poetry entry deadline June 10

Poetryfest is the sponsor of the Free Poetry Contest. 

Those interested can send a poem of only 21 lines or less to: Free Poetry Contest, P.O. Box 3561, Ashland, OR 97520 or enter online at: www.freecontest.com. Deadline for entering is June 10.

There are 100 prizes on the line. The last poet standing will recieve a $1,000 cash reward.

Those sending entries should include their name and address on the same page as the poem. 

A winner’s list will be sent to all entrants, along with a free copy of the Contest Director’s essay “How to Win a Poetry Contest.”

Craft vendors needed for Oct. 26 bazaar

Craft vendors are needed for the Allen County 4-H Fairgrounds Craft Bazaar.  It will be held on Saturday Oct. 26, at the Allen County 4-H Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Chad at 260-704-0765.

Cooking workshop, cornhole tourney May 4

Ouabache State Park in Bluffton will host a cooking outdoors workshop and a cornhole tournament on May 4 in recognition of Welcome Back Weekend for Indiana’s state parks and reservoirs.

Welcome Back Weekend is May 3-5 and is a chance to celebrate the arrival of spring with special outdoor recreation events and hands-on programming at Indiana’s 24 state parks and eight reservoirs.

Winners of the cornhole tournament win a free weekend of camping at Ouabache. Entry forms will be at the gatehouse. Competition will be divided between youths, age 12 and younger, and adults, age 13 and older.

The double-elimination tournament will be on the campground comfort station lawn between A and B.

 At 4 p.m., “A Taste of the Outdoors” cooking workshop will be presented by the Kokomo Kookers. This hands-on opportunity is a chance to create dishes alongside seasoned outdoor chefs. Cost per person is $10 or $30 per family.

For more information, call 260-468-2127.

Ouabache State Park is at 4930 E. St. Rd. 201.

Owsley Family Historical Society Meeting June 6-8

The Owsley Family Historical Society annual meeting for 2013 will be held at Hilton Garden Inn at 8615 U.S. 24 West in Fort Wayne June 6-8. 

Fort Wayne is home of the second largest genealogical collection in the U.S., at the Allen County Public Library. 

The group has an an active DNA project on the http://www.FamilyTreeDNA.org website.  

For more information contact Sheila Patterson at lmnop9@juno.com or the website: www.ofhs.org or 417-368-6427.

Location: Hilton Garden Inn, 8615 US 24 West, Fort Wayne, IN 46804.

Grandpa & Me event June 9

The Bluffton Parks and Recreation will sponsor Grandpa and Me Build a wooden vehicle event Sunday, June 9 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Kehoe Pavilion. It is open to boys and girls of all ages.

Those attending will need to bring a hammer and a screwdriver. 

Cost is $5 per kit due that day. Call 824-6069 to pre-register. Space is limited.

Registration opens for Camp Little Red Door July 28-Aug. 2

Little Red Door Cancer Agency will host Camp Little Red Door, a five-day summer camp for children with cancer. 

The camp will be held from July 28 through Aug. 2 at Bradford Woods in Martinsville. The registration deadline is June 14. Any child ages eight to 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 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 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.