FROM BLUFFTON ICON - Summer open houses at Schumacher Homestead began last Saturday.
“Are you a ghost?” a little girl once asked Schumacher Homestead volunteer Susie Gratz, who was dressed in the somber black cap, long full dress, and apron worn by women in the Bluffton-Pandora area Swiss Settlement in the mid 1800s.
Gratz assured the youngster that she was real and alive, and could show her how families in the area lived more than 150 years ago.
This summer, Gratz will be one of more than a dozen guides who will give tours at the “Swiss Haus” at 8350 Bixel Road, welcoming visitors from 1-5 p.m. on Saturdays, now through the end of August.
Summer Park play dates will be held on the first and third Mondays of June, July and August at the Jenera Community Park Playground at 9:30 a.m.
According to planners of the events, persons may come when you can and stay as long as you are able. Bring your kids and grandkids of all ages and enjoy time to play outside and enjoy the summer weather.
The kids can play with others, run around and burn off some energy while the moms, grandmas, and caregivers visit.
The park is located just south of the village on state Route 698. More information is at 262-391-7994 or email [email protected].
Alger Public Library kicks off its summer reading program today, Thursday, June 6, with the Hillbilly Silly Science Spectacular Comedy Show at 3 p.m.
Dr. Cletus Beaker, MD (also known as Curt Strutz) brings over 10 years of professional speaking and children's entertainment to the stage. His show encourages education and humor for families in Alger and the surrounding communities.
Also this week, is Lego Club on Friday, June 7, at 11 a.m and again at 5 p.m.
Many of the library's summer activities are open to all age groups. All activities are free and all materials are provided by the library.
FROM BLUFFTON ICON - It's trout derby week in Bluffton.
The 75th annual Bluffton Sportsmen's Club trout derby, originally set for May 5, was moved on Sunday, June 9, due to the spring flooding in Bluffton. The derby takes place in the Buckeye.
The number one trout for this year's Trout Derby is named "Big 75" - not in reference to the nearby Interstate, but in honor of the 75th year of the Bluffton Sportmen Club's trout derby.
Derby details
Trout number one is worth thousands in cash if caught during derby hours. The jackpot is built up with $5 donations to a 50/50 drawing.
The village of Mt. Victory, hosts a wine and chocolate walk from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, June 14.
Mt. Victory merchants will offer treats while its shops are open for the walk.
Three of local wineries will be on site pouring and selling bottles of wine (Bokes Creek Winery, Rose Acres, and Bear Vine Winery).
New this year, visitors may purchase a VIP ticket (only 30 available) and get a one hour open air (weather permitting) paint and sip experience with Artist Marilyn Reed.
In addition, The Plaza Inn Catering BBQ will provide live entertainment from various acoustic performers.
The 11th annual Ada War Memorial truck pulls is set for 7 p.m., Friday, June 7, at the Ada park. Gates open at 3 p.m. and registration starts at 5 p.m. A rain date is 6 p.m., Saturday, June 8.
The following classes will run:
6500 street gas 4 x 4
6500 pro street/altered gas 4 x 4
8000 2.5/2/6 combo diesel 4 x 4
Altered semis
Tractor pulling legends
6500 stock gas 4 x 4
6500 cheater street gas 4 x 4
8000 workstock diesel
Street legal semis
9500 open
Tri-state limited hot farm
8000 stock diesel 4 x 4
