You are not in Bluffton anymore. However, that's Dave Sycks, Bluffton band director on the podium.
In late March the Bluffton Junior High Band traveled to Riverdale for an exchange concert.
"The day was spent rehearsing with each other's band director, rehearsing on our own, rehearsing together, playing some 'get to know you' games and performing a joint concert for Riverdale's elementary students," said Sycks.
The Riverdale director is Beth Voll, also from Bluffton.
Eight Bluffton middle school students participating at the District Science Fair at Ohio Northern University in late March, according to Dave Bracy, science teacher.
Three students received Excellent scores and five received Superior scores and will move on to the State Science Fair competition on May 5.
Bluffton seventh and eight grade musicians earned several superiors and other otherstanding ratings at Saturday's junior high solo and ensemble contest.
Last week strange sounds erupted from a large gathering room at Maple Crest - the booming of a bass drum, peals of laughter, shrieks and screams and infectious giggles.
What in the world was going on in there? "The Drum Guy" (Russ Welker) was leading a drum circle for residents, and everyone was responding to his enthusiasm.
Welker has played drum "on the side" for most of his life, but since 2009, he's been involved in a "dream job" - playing around with drums as his sole employment and seeing his love for "the beat" bring joy and relaxation to others.
