By Myron D. Lewis
FACHE, President & CEO, Blanchard Valley Health System
This week, Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) had the honor of hosting Senator Jon Husted for a thoughtful discussion on the future of healthcare in rural Ohio. His visit was more than a courtesy call, it was a genuine demonstration of leadership and concern for the communities we serve every day.
In an era where rural hospitals face mounting challenges—financial, operational, and demographic—it matters when elected leaders take the time to listen and learn directly from those on the front lines. Senator Husted’s presence in Findlay and his willingness to sit down with our leadership team was not just appreciated, it was necessary.
The first article in the Bluffton Exempted Village Schools 2025-2026 Summer District Newsletter is featured below. The entire newsletter, which is mailed to residents, is attached below.
By Greg Denecker
Bluffton Exempted Village Schools Superintendent
The first part of this summer newsletter provides context for the Bluffton Exempted Village School purchase of property across from the elementary school on Vine Street. As you know, Bluffton Exempted Village Schools is a landlocked district in the middle of town. This presents both benefits and challenges. A benefit is that our school helps to promote a vibrant community within downtown Bluffton. Before and after school, students can be seen walking uptown or being picked up by their parents in the downtown area, which contributes to a sense of oneness between the school and downtown.
On April 28, 1978, Steve Martin released King Tut on his album A Wild and Crazy Guy. The song was previewed on Saturday Night Live (SNL) on April 22nd of the same year. The song hit number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was great advertising for the Tutankhamun Treasures exhibit touring in 7 U.S. cities at the time.
Admission is $5, free for members and anyone under age 17
MEDIA RELEASE__The Swiss Community Historical Society of Bluffton and Pandora will host its third and final Second Saturday event of 2025 at the Schumacher Homestead, 8350 Bixel Rd, on Saturday, August 9, from 1-4:00 p.m.
The featured activity will be Van Risser demonstrating and sharing some examples of hearth cooking in the summer kitchen.
On Saturday, August 9 the Bluffton Historical Society (BOHS) will recall the days when the Bluffton Sportsmen's Club building at Buckeye Park was a depot for the Lake Erie and Western Railroad (at a former location). The event will take place from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at 405 N Spring St.
HARROD__The Bluffton boys golf team teed off its season by finishing 15th at the 21-team Colonial Golfers Club Invitational Tuesday, August 5 in Harrod.
Perrysburg won the event with 299 strokes, 18 shots ahead of their closest competition.
Mansfield Madison and Shawnee tied for second at 317, while Allen East came home right behind them by one stroke in fourth (318).
CLICK Gallery to enlarge and view at your own pace / Bluffton Icon staff photos
By Paula Pyzik Scott
Bluffton American Legion Post 382 made its annual check presentations on Monday, August 4, presenting a total of $9,000 in support for 12 local non-profit organizations. Post Commander Kurt Emans provided background information on the recipients and committee members Sam Reineke, Tom Benroth, Fred Rodabaugh and Dennis Morrison presented individual checks.
This weekend marks Bluffton's annual Alumni Soccer games! We are excited to announce that we're expanding the festivities to include even more fun events for the entire family, including grandparents.
We will have a Golf Scramble Friday morning, the Alumni games Saturday early evening, then come hang out on Vine St until 10 p.m.! Wristbands are now available for purchase at The Twisted Whisk in Bluffton for $10. These wristbands will grant you special discounts throughout the weekend. All proceeds from the weekend will go directly towards the new Legacy Park.
5:00 p.m. Girls alumni game, 7:00 p.m. Boys alumni game at Steinmetz Field
Donations to Bluffton Food Pantry will be collected
AUG 5 MEDIA RELEASE__The Bluffton Community is invited to come out and see the 2025 BHS Soccer teams for the first time, watch some of your favorite former student-athletes in action, and support the Bluffton Food Pantry.
