Christian Gomes bought his first car – a 1985 BMW 318i with 130,000 miles on it – eight months before he was old enough to get his driver’s license.
He’s been in love with cars ever since.
Earlier this month he joined Stratton Auto Group as shop manager of Bluffton Auto Repair Center, 302 N. Main St. He accepted the position upon the retirement of Jim Kinn.
Originally from New York state, Gomes is a December graduate of University of Northwest Ohio, Lima. He holds degrees in applied science plus automotive technology, high performance and commercial driving.
At the age of 19, Simon Herr began the harness-making trade in Bluffton. The shop was first located where the Stager Grocery store stands. (In 2017 this is the site of the Bluffton Laundromat on Main and Jefferson).
A photo of Mr. Herr is at the bottom of this story.
He later moved his business to the Western Auto Supply building. (In 2017 this is the location of Diller Flooring and Interior, 119 N. Main St.)
Provided by Jason A. Granger
Steiner & Granger
141 N. Main St., Bluffton
419-358-0689 (Phone)
419-358-8507 (Fax)
The Markets
Equities: The year didn't start off well for equities, but by the end of 2016 each of the indexes listed here posted year-over-year gains, some reaching all-time highs. The Dow recorded its best performance since 2013, gaining almost 13.5% from its 2015 closing value. Stocks weathered several financial crises, including China's economic downturn and the Brexit vote.
Saturday, Jan. 21, is National Popcorn Day and Shirley'ls Gourmet Popcorn Co., is all set for the event, according to Pete Suter.
Here's the message Suter sent to his customers about the event:
We'll be celebrating at our stores in Bluffton and Lima with free fresh-popped theatre style popcorn for everyone. Plus, all bags of every flavor are buy-one-get-one-free (equal or lesser value, limit 2).
Julie Stratton of The Black Lab, 121 N. Main St., will present a free marketing workshop following Friday's chamber breakfast in the town hall.
In the Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs-sponsored workshop Stratton will present five key things that will help keep your business current with trends and keep your brand fresh to your customers.
She will provide practical tips on marketing, events, timing and managing fear and risk.
