Study in abstract

After studying the abstract art of Piet Mondrain, Bluffton first graders made textured designs by gluing yarn to cardboard to make shapes and then covered it with tin foil. They studied the use of patterns in art and filled each shape with a unique design. These pieces are also two-sided as they created a similar design in reverse with gel markers on black paper. Here's an example of first grader creations, on display in the elementary display case.

BFR announced its 2012 winter "Keeping Active" programs, which run from Jan. 16 to Feb. 25, according to Carole Enneking, director.

"Be inspired or inspire someone you care about to become more active this winter," she said. "Try out free exercise classes, add walking for exercise, and more more about healthy eating and fitness."

Bluffton Public Library will host two special film screenings this month.

First, in celebration of Winnie the Pooh creator A.A. Milne's birthday, a newly-released animated film will be shown on Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 3:15 p.m. The movie is rated G with a run time of 63 minutes.

In honor of the Chinese New Year, a Dreamworks animated film will be shown on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 3:15 p.m. with a run time of 90 minutes.

Robert E. Steiner

Robert Eugene Steiner, 74, formerly of Bluffton, died on Jan. 4, 2012, in Phoenix, Ariz. He was born on Jan. 20, 1937, to Wilford and Mabel Herr Steiner, who preceded him in death.

He was married to Sharon Black, who is deceased and survived by two children, Shaunna Sibbons and Andrea (Cory) Axness and five grandchildren.

He later married Coleen Steiner who survives. He is also survived by one brother, Bill (Joan) Steiner, of Bluffton.

Todd A. Mason

Todd A. Mason, president and chief executive officer, First National Bank, Pandora, was elected to the board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, effective Jan. 1.

In making the announcement, the Federal Reserve Bank also announced the following reappointments to its board:

Icon:

Have you ever stumbled upon something quite by accident, than over a period of time realized you found something worthwhile, something life-changing.

I am a Bluffton High School parent who has found that something! My son came to us his Sophomore year expressing an interest in joining the Bluffton High School wrestling team.

Ted Schwartz

Bluffton University together with First Mennonite, Grace Mennonite, Lima Mennonite, and Salem Mennonite will host Ted and Company in the First Mennonite Church sanctuary at 7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 6.

Ted and Company will present one of their newer shows, "I'd Like to Buy an Enemy." It is a show that is suited more for adults and youth rather than children.

Here is what the Ted and Company website says about this show:
"A hilarious and poignant satire that explores peace, justice, and the American way...

Nitza's and Pears Avenue, 300 N. Main St., Lima, join The Icon's family of advertisers this week.

Nitza's offers a buy 1 get 1 free offer on all jewelry Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 26-28. Pear's Avenue introduces a new line of customer jewelry "with local flair," by artists Libbi Penninglan.

Both businesses are in the Met Block, downtown Lima.

Three promotions were announced this month by the Board of Directors of First National Bank.

Larry E. Hoffman has been promoted to senior vice president in his current role as chief financial officer; R. Douglas Shaneyfelt to vice president/information technology; and Nita J. Crawford to vice president/human resources.

Safety awareness is the theme of a special program held during the Jan. 20 varsity boy's basketball contest with Allen East, according to Rick Skilliter, Bluffton police chief.

A collaboration between members of the Bluffton Emergency Services - police, fire and EMS - Allen County Sheriff's Office, Bluffton Exempted Village Schools, Allen East Schools and the Lima-Allen County Safe Communities Coalition takes place during the Jan. 20, home Bluffton boy's basketball game. The Pirates will host the Allen East Mustangs for the 6 p.m. contest.

Pages