All Bluffton Icon News

From BlufftonIcon.com Charles VanDyne practiced law in the Ada area for over 70 years

Charles VanDyne, age 95, of Ada, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his residence.  

He was born on September 19, 1930, in Marion Township, Hardin County, Ohio, to Okey and Ethel (Preston) VanDyne, who preceded him in death.  

By Ailing Chen, MD, Pediatrician, Primary Care at Wellness Park

Tummy time is a critically important part of your newborn's healthy growth and overall development. Tummy time involves placing your baby on their stomach when they are awake and under your supervision. Incorporating regular tummy time into your daily routine not only supports your baby's physical development but also encourages sensory and motor skills, fosters bonding between you and your child, and promotes optimal brain growth. 

Why Is Tummy Time Important?

On AdaIcon.com: VFW flag retirement ceremony honors the Stars and Stripes 

By Paula Pyzik Scott

How many times have you seen a U.S. flag baking under a hot sun or stretched out in a brisk wind? The flag is considered a living symbol of the United States of America, but the fabric and thread that are the physical means of displaying love of country fade and wear under those conditions.

CLICK TO ENLARGE GALLERY

5:00 p.m. Parade - 6:30 p.m. Lighting Ceremony - 7:00 p.m. After Blaze

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The 2025 Blaze of Lights festival--the 39th annual event--features many Bluffton traditions and a few new ways to celebrate the holiday season. The Blaze of Lights is coordinated by Jim Enneking and Rene Gabriel of the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce with the Bluffton Cultural Affairs Committee and the support of many individuals and organizations. A list of sponsors is below.

  • Horse-drawn wagon rides return - Free and sponsored by GROB Systems
  • Free RTA Trolley rides-- the 4th year for this treat
  • Santa will visit with families in the little red house across from the Ream display; children may drop off letters to Santa through December 23
  • Hope Railway rides on Main St. - Free thanks to Ebenezer Mennonite Church
  • The After Blaze returns on Vine Street with a heated tent, food and beverages; live entertainment by Stedic Music is sponsored by CCR Realtors

SHOP SMALL SATURDAY
Before the Blaze, local businesses will be rolling out the red carpet for shoppers, and many will stay open late. The Chamber has collected the following special opportunities:

First published on December 27, 2024

By Bill Herr

Thousands have seen the Ream Christmas display that originated on the Ream farm in 1938 and is now displayed each year at Christmastime on the Bluffton Presbyterian Church lawn. This story is about its founder, Harry Ream.

I first met Harry on October 22, 2001, when he had just become a resident at Richland Manor Nursing Home near Beaverdam. I was a volunteer there, meeting with men who were residents for a weekly meeting.

The Icon staff will be enjoying a pause from Thursday-Sunday, November 27-30. We'll still post breaking news, including sports. On Saturday, our top story will keep information about the Saturday, November 29 Bluffton Blaze of Lights at your fingertips! Please send news and advertising 24/7 to [email protected]. Happy Thanksgiving!

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