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MEDIA RELEASE__The Allen County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile app, providing residents with a convenient way to stay informed, receive important alerts, and connect directly with the Sheriff’s Office.

15 minutes with new full-time resident pastor

By Marlena Ballinger

St. Mary Catholic Church in Bluffton has welcomed its first-ever resident pastor, the Rev. Kyle Gase. Gase began his priestly assignment to Bluffton on July 1, 2026, after former Bluffton pastor, the Rev. John Murray, CSsR, was reassigned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish in Kansas City, Missouri. Murray was a Redemptorist priest assigned to Bluffton in 2023.

Larry "Eddie" E. Shepler Jr., 66, passed away July 18, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Eddie was born on August 11, 1959, in Bluffton to Larry Shepler Sr. and Dorothy (Pore) Leiber who survive. On September 27, 1980, he married Beverly (Oberly) Shepler, who survives.

CLICK to enlarge / 1970s photo of Gillett Pastry Shop, courtesy of Bluffton Public Library digital archive

By Paula Pyzik Scott

Have a favorite restaurant or bakery from days gone by? A pleasure that you can still taste in your imagination? For many in Bluffton, Gillett's Pastry Shop is that place. It was located at 111 N. Main St, where Fortman Insurance is currently located.

By Marlena Ballinger / PHOTOS from Facebook

Here is a preview of the bands Hardintucky, Riley Creek Strummers and Two of Hearts, which are scheduled to play in Bluffton for the 2026 Play Music on the Porch Day (a.k.a. PorchFest) on August 29. Play Music on the Porch Day is a worldwide movement featuring live music performances in neighborhood settings.

This is the third year for the event locally, with 30 bands signed up to perform in and around Bluffton. A performance map and schedule will be provided closer to the event.

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