Musical duo learns, performs 50 songs for America 250
MEDIA RELEASE__John Jantzen and Wendy Chappell-Dick gave themselves a challenge: learn 50 songs in celebration of America 250! Popular in America from colonial times to the Civil War, these are the songs of immigrants, Native Americans, and enslaved African Americans about life, faith, work, and play, all accompanied by dulcimer, guitar, spoons, and harmonica.
Many will recognize songs from the beloved Little House on the Prairie books. The duo has a calendar of seven performances beginning on July 4:
July 4 Presbyterian Church, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
July 19 Little Riley Creek Farm, 1:00 – 5 p.m.
August 20 (Part 1) Bluffton Public Library, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
August 29, Play Music on the Porch Day
September 17 (Part 2) Bluffton Public Library, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
September 26 Fall Festival at the Schumacher Homestead
October 15 (Part 3) Bluffton Public Library, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Obituary for centenarian Lois Jean Andreas
- Thomas "Tom" J. Basinger served in the U.S. Army
- President Sider to present Aug. 25 State of the University address
- August 10 council recap: Spending increase for Benroth bridge repairs
- MHCO requests zoning change for construction of senior duplexes
- WIP Wednesday: 1915 kitchen gets a charming DIY remodel
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
- Pirate girls tennis 2nd at Lima City tourney
- Professor Parquet on the passing of Don Nelson
- Bluffton historical society to discuss upcoming events, fundraising
- Bluffton Public Library hosts Mobile Health Clinic on Aug. 13
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Tommy Jenkins, Cat Dailey, Szabo Trio
- Chair massages offered at the Senior Center
- Bluffton Senior Center to host Spa Day