All Bluffton Icon News

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Bluffton writer Joanne Niswander (1929-2022) was also a voracious reader as indicated by her mini book reviews for the Bluffton Public Library. The library shared monthly “Joanne Reads” installments from January 2021-October 2022.

The sampling below from October 2022 hints at the range of Niswander’s reading and a glimpse into her perspective as a reader.

All books are available through https://ohio.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/blu/

“REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES” BY SHELBY VAN PELT
This first novel might have been just another story about love and loss, with a spare list of ordinary characters with the usual quirkiness that carries a plot along. But, instead, plan to be charmed by the most unusual of - shall we say - heroes? Marcellus, an aging giant Pacific octopus tops the chart as this book's most surprising (and astute) character who will wrap you in his tentacles and make the ensuing story a delight. It's a great read.

“LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY” BY BONNIE GARMUS
Chemistry was never my favorite subject, but this novel had me smiling all the way through. Because, even though the story line is all about chemistry and chemists, it's a humorous and imaginative (but still believable) tale taking place 60-some years ago when women in science were almost unheard-of and certainly had no future for recognition of their talents. Congratulations to our author who has created delightfully original characters who make the story sing.

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The Putnam County District Library is offering free technology help to individuals who need assistance with a smartphone, tablet, iPad etc. Call and set up a 30-minute session with the technology trainers. They are available at these and other locations:

Columbus Grove - Mondays 1:30-5:30 & Thursdays 2:00-5:00  419-659-2355

Pandora - Wednesdays 12:30-4:30  419-384-3232

This service is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio. 

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Request issued by AEP Ohio at 9:00 a.m., December 24 with the note that customers should use electricity needed for personal safety and to protect against property damage.

"Extremely cold temperatures across the region have created extraordinary demands on the power system. PJM Interconnection, the electricity grid operator for 65 million people in 13 states and the District of Columbia, has requested the public in its region to conserve electricity.

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UPDATED 11:00 P.M. DECEMBER 24

On the second day of winter storm Elliott, being out of doors continues to be dangerous due to extreme cold, wind, snow and ice.

For the Bluffton area, the National Weather Service a Winter Storm Warning until 1:00 p.m. and predicts "Mostly cloudy and cold, with a high near 9. Wind chill values as low as -25. Breezy, with a west wind around 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph."

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PANDORA–Kevin F. Snavely, 78, passed away December 21, 2022, at his residence.

Kevin was born August 24, 1944 in McComb, to Floyd and Joyce (Sharninghouse) Snavely who preceded him in death. On July 24, 1970 he married Lynda (Norbeck) Snavely who survives.

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Village Administrator Jesse Blackburn passed along to the Icon that Rumpke will maintain the normal collection schedule during the holiday weeks for Christmas and New Year's.

Both holidays fall on a Sunday, which does not delay trash and recycling pick up collection.

He notes, "Thank you for spreading this news! December 26th is a trash pick-up most families can’t miss...."

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