All Bluffton Icon News

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James "Mike" Picklesimer "Pickle," 66, passed away October 25, 2025, at the Meadows of Ottawa.

Mike was born May 9, 1959 in Findlay, to James Leo and Betty (Grant) Picklesimer who preceded him in death. On August 23, 2002 he married Jennifer (Strahm) Picklesimer who survives.

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Bluffton University hosts 2nd and 7th graders

OCT 23 MEDIA RELEASE__Bluffton University recently welcomed second- and seventh-grade students from Bluffton elementary and middle school for two days of hands-on outdoor education experiences at the Bluffton University Nature Preserve and Little Riley Creek.

Led by Jacob Buchanan, assistant professor of environmental science and M'della Moon Endowed Chair in Botany and Environmental Science, the program introduced younger learners to the wonders of the natural world through direct exploration and discovery.

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By Paula Pyzik Scott

Yes, the temperature is in the 30s but the sun is shining and Saturday morning is simply the best time to be out and about in Bluffton.

Today the Icon enjoyed photo ops at Pancakes for Peace at First Mennonite Church, the last Bluffton Farmers Market of the 2025 season and Crossroads Crisis Center's donation drive at Community Markets.

You'lll find these photos on the Icon's Facebook page, too.

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By Lisa Harmon, RD, LD, CDCES
Registered Dietitian, Endocrinology & Diabetes Specialists of Northwest Ohio 

Fall brings more than just apple pie and pumpkin spice to our tables. It's the season we can enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables like cranberries, winter squash, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, pears, sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, kale, cabbage, pomegranate, radish, turnips, parsnips and of course, apples and pumpkins! Buying produce when it's in season typically results in better flavor and is easier on your wallet. 

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On October 23, WBGU-PBS premiered an episode of Scenic Stops & Stories featuring the Schumacher Homestead, 8350 Bixel Rd. The production took place during a Second Saturday event and includes interviews with board member Jason Althaus and docent Van Risser. The next event at the homestead will be the Christmas Open House on December 6-7.

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OCT 24 MEDIA RELEASE__Dr. Jacob Buchanan, assistant professor of environmental science, M'della Moon Endowed Chair in Botany and Environmental Science at Bluffton University, will present the Colloquium, “One Year of Public Programming at the Bluffton University Nature Preserve,” at 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, in Centennial Hall’s Stutzman Lecture Hall.

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