Bluffton Public Library will host a local author signing event on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 6:30 p.m. Fred Steiner will be on hand to discuss his newly published book, "A Good Place to Miss - Bluffton Stories 1900-1975."

The book includes local stories, which Steiner collected from the 75-year period of 1900 to 1975. Each chapter represents a different decade, starting with a 1900 story by Dr. J.J. Sutter, who explains how and why he started a sanitarium that eventually became the Bluffton Hospital. The collection ends with a 1970s-era story of a "streaker" incident at Bluffton High School.

In addition, the book includes a chapter of vignettes, which Steiner says are very short but too interesting to ignore. Among these includes several John Dillinger bank robbery stories.

The book also provides a list of the first 50 years of Bluffton High School graduates, by class, from the first graduating class in 1881 through the year 1930.

Steiner completed the book at the request of Beverly Amstutz of Bluffton's sesquicentennial committee. He says that he is thinking about a sequel, which may be released by Christmas 2012.

This event, which will be held at the library at 145 S. Main St., is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

The book is available for $15, including Allen County sales tax.

Books are also available at:
o Greg's Pharmacy
o Book ReViews
o Common Grounds
o Senior Citizens Center
o Bluffton University Bookstore

Books are also available on The Icon eStore and may be paid through Paypal.