All Bluffton Icon News

The Bluffton Lions Club is no longer collecting batteries for recycling at Bluffton Town Hall. In most communities, single-use alkaline batteries may be disposed of in household trash, according to www.epa.gov.

By Sarah Turske, Student Pharmacist and Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist

“Puff, the Magic Dragon” was released in January of 1963 by the American folk group Peter, Paul and Mary.  The song peaked at number 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in March of 1963.  The song was written by Peter Yarrow based on a poem by fellow Cornell University student Lenny Lipton. They shared writing accolades for the lyrics.  

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).

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