Facilitated by pastors Mark and DJ Fuerstenau, Strength in Christ is an informal group for individuals facing challenges such as the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, a failing relationship, a financial struggle, or someone who just doesn't know which way to turn.
The Bluffton Public Library is seeking donations for its Holiday Gift Silent Auction. Bidding on auction items will begin the evening of Monday, November 3 and will continue through Saturday, November 22. All packages will include a minimum bid and feature a special “buy now” price.
Suggestions for donations include themed gift baskets or individual items such as: gift cards, children’s items, (new books, toys, games or craft items), admission tickets (valid in 2015), merchandise for all ages, free services, lessons, and lodging. Cash donations are also welcome.
Bluffton council will act on the purchase of a new fire truck and new turn out gear later this month. The vehicle under consideration would replace the 1984 Ford that is in the department.
Council heard a presentation on Sept. 15 from a village safety services meeting held earlier. Details of the turn out gear and fire truck are in an attachment at the bottom of this story.
Council is considering the purchase of a 2015 Rosenbauer smart cab firefighter at a purchase price of $310,206. If purchased the vehicle will be delivered next fall.
Bluffton council will hold two special sessions in the next two weeks to interview potential candidates for the open council seat created when Mitch Kingsley resigned from council.
According to Judy Augsburger, Bluffton mayor, eight persons have expressed an interest in the seat. Council set special meetings for Thursday, Sept. 18, and Thursday, Sept. 25. Both sessions start at 6:30 p.m.
Both sessions will be in executive session with four interviews scheduled each evening.
On Monday, Sept. 15, the Bluffton council Street, Alleys, Light and Sidewalk Committee recommended to the full council to amend Ordinance No. 07-13 to extend the deadline for sidewalk repairs until July 15, 2015, for properties on the east side of Main Street.
Jesse Blackburn of the village, told The Icon, "The committee was pleased with the current 42% response rate from residents regarding sidewalk repairs."
Ruth E. Hartzler, 92, of Pandora, died at 2:28 p.m. Sept. 19, 2014, at the Hilty Memorial Home, Pandora. Arrangements are incomplete at Chiles-Laman Funeral and Cremation Services, Bluffton.
