For the second year Bluffton is among recipients of honors in the 2018 America in Bloom National Awards program.
Awards were announced Sept. 29 in Lexington, Kentucky.
Bluffton is winner of the outstanding achievement award for flowers. Judges scored Bluffton a 6-star rating out of a possible 10 stars and received special recognition for its flowers.
Bluffton University has moved its Welcome Center to the front door of campus.
The Houshower House, a beautiful cottage with a rich campus history, now serves as Bluffton’s first point of contact for campus visitors, including prospective students. The house is located at the corner of College Avenue and Spring Street, just off of the main entrance to campus.
“When alumni talk about their campus experience, they talk about developing relationships and building a family on campus,” said Dr. Jane Wood, president.
Joan Elizabeth Wilkins, 88, died Oct. 1, 2018, Bridge Hospice Care Center in Findlay. Joan was born Aug. 12, 1930, in Benton Ridge to the late Clifford and Lois (Reiter) Niswander. On Oct. 24, 1952 she married Leland Wilkins and he survives.
Joan graduated from Mt. Cory High School. She was a homemaker and had previously worked at Triplett Corp., Bluffton, and had owned and operated the Posey Patch in Mt. Cory. Joan was a member of Mt. Cory United Methodist Church.
Bluffton Presbyterian Church will be hold a Blessing of the Animals event on Saturday, Oct. 6, on the church lawn. 112 N. Main St., according to Rev. Karol Farris, pastor.
"Local pets and their owners are invited to gather around 10 a.m., and a brief service of blessing will begin at 10:30, concluding by 11 a.m.," she said.
Cats, dogs, and others welcome – all animals must be leashed or crated. A pet picture may be brought if preferred.
Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce invites sponsors to this year's Blaze of Lights.
"The Blaze is one of the most beloved of Bluffton traditions. Our managers, sponsors, and volunteers go all out to make the parade, entertainment, and decorations a spectacular reason to be in Bluffton," said Paula Scott, chamber CEO.
