All Bluffton Icon News

Corporate leadership roles will be shared across the two organizations

Mennonite Home Communities of Ohio (MHCO) has announced its formal affiliation with the Brethren Retirement Community (BRC) of  Greenville, Ohio, effective December 31, 2024.

The announcement notes, "This partnership marks a significant milestone in MHCO’s nearly 70-year mission of providing a Christ-centered community that promotes personal decision-making and purposeful living for older adults."

Under the terms of the affiliation, MHCO becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of BRC while maintaining its identity and presence in Northwest Ohio. MHCO will continue to operate as a separate legal entity, but corporate leadership roles—such as CEO and CFO—will be shared across the two organizations. This collaboration will enable MHCO to secure better rates for essential vendor contracts, including food, medical supplies and insurance, ultimately benefiting  residents and care partners. 

Additionally, MHCO’s name, signage and dedication to the community will remain unchanged.  A newly formed MHCO Mission Board will ensure local support and oversight of MHCO’s mission within the larger organization. 

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The following special council meeting has been scheduled by the Village of Bluffton at Bluffton Town Hall.

Special Council Meeting on Thursday, January 16 at 5:00 p.m. to approve the hiring of a full-time EMS Chief.

Donna Ruth (Hadley) Gisondi, age 88, of Bluffton, Ohio passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 29, 1936 she was the daughter of Donald and Margaret Hadley who resided in Waynesville, Ohio. On April 14, 1956 she married James (Jim) David Markley and moved to Lebanon, Ohio where together they would raise their family. James preceded her in death in April of 2000.  

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The Village of Bluffton council held its first regular meeting on January 13 accompanied by a hefty meeting packet of 59 pages (attached).

Bluffton Community Preschool has opened enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Families may email [email protected] for a registration form and more information.

112 Main Street, PO Box 277, Bluffton, OH 45817
419-358-0268
[email protected]
www.facebook.com/blufftoncommunitypreschool

 

By Cort Reynolds

ELIDA – The visiting Bluffton High School girls basketball team led at the half, but a bad third period doomed the Pirates to a 47-41 defeat at non-conference foe Elida Tuesday, January 14.

Bluffton fell to 8-7 overall after suffering their third straight tough loss. Elida improved to 10-6 with the home win.

The Pirates led 12-9 after the opening quarter. Bluffton also scored 12 points in the second stanza to build a 24-19 edge at halftime.  

But Elida turned the tables with a 17-5 third quarter to seize a 36-29 advantage heading into the final period. Bluffton captured the fourth stanza 12-11, but came up short by six.

Pirate senior post Ayla Grandey scored 13 points on four baskets and five foul shots. 

Junior Blair Utendorf and Macy Schaadt tallied nine points apiece. Freshman Maelee Miller added six markers. 

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