26 JUN. 2024 · In this episode of Local Voices Bluffton, hosts Sam Springer and Jim Enneking interview Wendy Chappell-Dick, manager of Ten Thousand Villages in Bluffton, Ohio. Wendy shares the history of the Christmas in July sale and the store itself, tracing back to Edna Ruth Byler, who started a fair-trade movement 75 years ago by selling needlework made by women in Puerto Rico. Wendy explains how the movement grew, leading to the establishment of the first storefront in Bluffton in 1974, originally called Self Help Crafts. She highlights the store's impact on artisans worldwide and its ongoing mission to provide a stable market for their products. Wendy also announces upcoming events, including a Christmas in July sale from July 1-13 and a grand reopening after a store renovation in August. The episode emphasizes the importance of community support and the store's connection to the Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs (BCE), which aids local businesses through initiatives like the business plan competition.  For more information on the 50th Annaversary of Et Cetera Shop, Inc, check out https://fmcbluffton.org/et-cetera-shop-50/.

6 JUN. 2024 · In this episode of "Local Voices Bluffton," hosts Sam Sprunger and Jim Enneking interview Jessica Meyer, co-owner of Sanctuary Housing. Jessica and her husband Ryan purchased a vacant church on Elm Street in Bluffton with plans to convert it into eight apartment units, including two unique short-term rentals. They aim to preserve the building's historic features, such as stained glass windows and timber frames, to attract visitors to Bluffton. Jessica shares their initial doubts about the demand for short-term rentals, which were quickly dispelled when their first Airbnb listing received an immediate booking. She describes the challenges and excitement of transforming the church, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining its character and history. Jessica also highlights their involvement in the Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs' business plan competition, which helped them organize their project and gain valuable insights. The episode underscores Jessica's passion for hospitality and her vision to create a unique, community-oriented housing experience that honors the building's legacy.

22 MAY. 2024 · In this episode of "Local Voices Bluffton," hosts Sam Springer and Jim Enneking interview Jon Kinn, Funeral Director at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services. Jon shares his journey from mowing the lawn at a funeral home in seventh grade to becoming a licensed funeral director in 2000 after studying management, marketing, and mortuary science. He explains the differences between a funeral director and a mortician, emphasizing that one can be a funeral director without being an embalmer. Jon discusses the rising trend of cremation in Bluffton and the various options available for handling ashes, including unique choices like creating diamonds or sending ashes into orbit. He stresses the importance of pre-planning funerals to ease the burden on families, noting that pre-paid plans are transferable and can be protected in irrevocable trusts. Jon advises families to have open conversations about their funeral preferences to ensure their wishes are respected. The episode offers valuable insights into the funeral industry and highlights the compassionate role funeral directors play in supporting grieving families.

8 MAY. 2024 · In this episode of "Local Voices Bluffton," hosts Sam Sprunger and Jim Enneking interview Police Chief Ryan Burkholder from the village of Bluffton. Burkholder discusses his background, including his time in the Marine Corps before joining the Police Department. He shares insights into his role as chief, handling emergency situations like abductions and missing persons cases, and emphasizes the importance of internet safety for children. The conversation also touches on permits for door-to-door solicitors and ends on a lighter note with a discussion about favorite donuts, with Burkholder expressing a preference for apple fritters. The episode highlights Burkholder's dedication to serving the community and provides valuable information on various aspects of law enforcement and safety.

24 ABR. 2024 · This episode of "Local Voices Bluffton" spotlights Marlena Ballinger and The Dough Hook. Marlena shares her journey with The Dough Hook, which began in 2008 when her parents started the business, initially offering baked goods before expanding into a successful meat market. Marlena's involvement with programs like the Small Business Information Series from the Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs has been instrumental in honing her business planning skills and contributing to The Dough Hook's growth. "Local Voices Bluffton" serves as a platform to showcase Marlena's journey as a business owner and the resources available to support local businesses like The Dough Hook in Bluffton.

11 ABR. 2024 · The podcast transcript features speakers Sam Sprunger and Jim Enneking discussing the creation and growth of Lounge Media Group in Bluffton. Sam shares his passion for sports broadcasting and graphic design, leading to the formation of the group to give back to the community. They talk about producing podcasts and internet television shows, focusing on local sports events and gaining support from businesses and the school. Sam's motivation stems from his love for radio broadcasts and wanting to keep his elderly mother updated on local sports. The group sponsors various aspects of the broadcasts, prioritizing community involvement over profit. The speakers express gratitude for the community's support and acceptance, highlighting Bluffton's importance in their lives. The podcast emphasizes the importance of community involvement and support in pursuing passions and giving back. The episode closes with a message of gratitude and a reminder to tune in to future episodes of "Local Voices Bluffton."

29 MAR. 2024 · The podcast featured speakers including the police chief Ryan Burkholder and fire chief Jon Kinn discussing the upcoming eclipse event happening on April 8th in Bluffton. They talked about the preparations needed for the influx of 30,000 visitors, including increased police presence, staffing the fire department, and potential road closures. The importance of having a plan in place to handle the large crowds and ensure emergency services can still respond effectively was emphasized. They also mentioned the need for patience, cooperation, and preparedness from both residents and visitors, including having essential supplies on hand. Overall, the discussion focused on the logistical challenges and safety measures needed for a successful event in the community.

27 MAR. 2024 · The podcast featured the executive director of the Bluffton Center For Entrepreneurs discussing the differences between the BCE and the Chamber of Commerce, focusing on education, assistance, and promoting entrepreneurship. The conversation highlighted the complementary services of the two organizations, with a focus on helping new businesses succeed. The BCE offers mentoring, advice, and resources to help businesses grow, including a Small Business Information series and a Business Plan competition with prize money. The goal is to provide services to smaller businesses and help them succeed in the community. The BCE also collaborates with the Chamber to offer support and encourage businesses to eventually become Chamber members. The BCE aims to assist businesses in navigating the challenges of starting and growing a business, regardless of Chamber membership. The partnership between the BCE and Bluffton University provides additional resources for entrepreneurs in the community. The BCE serves as a valuable resource for businesses in the Bluffton area, offering support and guidance for success.

12 MAR. 2024 · Learn about the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce and why you should join the Chamber.

11 MAR. 2024 · Introduction to Local Voices Bluffton.