Five boys named finalists for R.K. Thompson award

OhioHealth donates to clock project

VW independent staff/submitted information

OhioHealth has donated $6,000 to Historic Main Street Van Wert to provide the final funding needed to bring the National Bank Clock project to completion. It’s a significant part of a major revitalization project to transform downtown Van Wert.

Located on the corner of Main and Washington Streets, the clock is an iconic piece of local history. Last year, Main Street Van Wert set out to raise $60,000 to fund the clock restoration and now, OhioHealth has helped the non-profit meet that goal.

“I am honored to announce our enthusiastic support and funding for the renovations of the historic clock, symbolizing our commitment to preserving Van Wert’s rich heritage,” said Joy Bischoff, President of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “This collaboration between OhioHealth and the Van Wert community exemplifies our dedication to both preserving the past and building for the future.”

OhioHealth acquired Van Wert Hospital in March of 2023, with the goal of becoming integrated into the community.

“We appreciate OhioHealth for closing the gap on the fundraising efforts. We got through the finish line, and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Main Street Van Wert Director Mitch Price said.

Restoration work is being done by Smith’s Bell and Clock Service of Camby, Indiana. The clock was disassembled last June and the original estimate for completion was said to be 8-12 months.

The iconic clock, which has been in the same spot since 1923, previously ran on a mechanism that was largely underground. Those parts are still there but once it’s back in place, the clock will run via the internet and will be more accurate than ever, keeping time with atomic time. Other enhancements will include LED lighting with color changing capabilities for various holidays and other events. Stained glass panels that say Van Wert National Bank will remain on the clock.

AAA: pay attention in construction zones

VW independent staff/submitted information

As warm weather returns, so too do the many road construction zones on streets and highways, as crews work to maintain and repair roadways. April 15-19 is 2024 National Work Zone Awareness Week, and AAA is joining with transportation, construction and traffic safety agencies at the state and federal level, to remind drivers to stay focused and drive with caution in road work zones.

“This week — and really the entire road construction season – is a annual reminder that work zone safety for all road users – including motorists and vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and highway workers on foot – is extremely important,” said Kara Hitchens, public affairs manager for AAA. “Work zones and highway workers are crucial to upgrading and maintaining our roadways.”

Ohio Work Zone Facts

• In 2023, the Ohio State Highway Patrol website reports there were more than 4,000 work zone-related crashes. Many were property damage crashes.
• Tragically, there were 8 fatal crashes in work zones and another 1,000 people sustained minor to serious injuries.
• The majority of the collisions occurred during the warmer months of May-September with August having the most crashes.
• The Ohio ‘Move Over’ Law requires motorists on four-lane highways to switch to the lane farthest from any stationary vehicle displaying flashing lights, if it is safe to do so, and to slow down. Citations start at $250 fine plus court costs.

AAA has worked to support and help establish “Slow Down, Move Over” laws in all 50 states to protect those at the roadside, including emergency responders, construction crews, and tow truck operators.

Legislators are considering expanding the “Move Over” law in Ohio and increasing fines.

The national theme of this year’s work zone safety recognition period is “Work zones are temporary. Actions behind the wheel can last forever.” Wednesday, April 17 is being recognized as Go Orange Day in Ohio to show support to highway workers and bring awareness to work zone safety.

Marijuana discussion set for next Monday

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor

To say they are controversial topics is probably an understatement, but they’ll be discussed during a special “Council of the Whole” meeting in Van Wert one week from today, Monday, April 22.

Two topics are expected to be addressed at the meeting and Van Wert City Council is looking for public input on both of them. One deals with a possible ban on recreational marijuana dispensaries within the Van Wert city limits. The other is an ordinance that, if approved, would prohibit marijuana consumption on city-owned properties, most notably places like parks and the Municipal Building.

A potential ban on recreational marijuana dispensaries was first brought up by Mayor Ken Markward last December and then again last month. He reminded city council that when medical marijuana became legal in Ohio in 2016, a city law was passed that prohibited medical marijuana dispensaries in Van Wert. He also recommended that city council approve a similar ban on recreational marijuana dispensaries, and Council President Thad Eikenbary suggested council members take some time to consider the request and to gather feedback from city residents. He also assigned the matter to council’s Judiciary and Annexation Committee for possible legislation.

While it failed locally last November, the majority of Ohio voters (57 percent) approved the legalization of recreational marijuana, making it legal statewide. The issue also included a provision that allowed any municipality to ban dispensaries. Some cities and towns, including St. Henry, have already approved legislation prohibiting sales.

Any law passed by city council would not affect marijuana grown at home. Currently, Ohio law states up to six cannabis plants may be cultivated at home for personal use.

Heartland Patriots “schooled” at meeting

Submitted information

Lisa Nolan was the featured speaker at the Heartland Patriots meeting last Tuesday night at Wesley Church in Van Wert. She gave a presentation about the new Christian school that is scheduled to open the fall of 2025-26 at Trinity Friends Church. Jessica Hissong, representing the home school co-op, then gave an update on the home-schooling group in the Van Wert area.

Nolan stated that the idea for a Christian school first came up many years ago, even before the Family Life Center was built at Trinity Friends Church. In 2021, God spoke to her about making the school a reality. A team was put together, and with much prayer and fasting, they came up with a plan. Much research had to be done. Some of the principles and goals set up were to have a safe place with a Biblical world mindset, and to involve Jesus in all activities. A big focus will also be on character development.

In order to be a charter school, they will need at least three grades and 15 students. They will have the freedom to use their own methods and materials. Handbooks will be given to both students and parents. Nolan said that interested people can help in three ways – pray, spread the word (it is open to all families in the Van Wert area), and consider a donation.

$100,000 is needed up front and items such as computers, curriculum, and playground equipment need to be purchased. Tuition costs can be alleviated by contacting Ed Choice at the Ohio Department of Education. Any questions or concerns can be addressed Nolan by calling 419.238.2788.

Hissong opened by saying in 2021 there were 176 homeschoolers in Van Wert County and roughly 40 of them attend the local Christian co-op. The age groups they have are 4-6, 7-10, and 11-14. Their Statement of Faith is based on the inerrancy of the Bible, and their code of conduct is to reflect positively on Christ. There have been recent changes to the law that make it easier to home school and have given homeschooling families more freedoms. Some resources if needed are the HSLDA and CHEO. They have guest speakers come into their co-op to present to the students and also take educational field trips as a group as well.

The home school co-op is passionate about Christ and families. Anyone interested in contacting the co-op should email vwachg@yahoo.com.

Five girls named finalists for award

Submitted information

Five area girls have been selected for the 2024 R.K. Thompson Self Reliance Award, according to Breanne Sudduth, Keri McClure and Anthony Adams, co-chairpersons of the Van Wert Service Club’s selection committee. The program provides cash awards to seniors of Van Wert County High Schools who best exhibit the trait of self-reliance. These awards are designed to seek out and honor the student who does the best with what she has.

Below is a brief bio of each finalist.

This year’s girl finalists include Amy Chavez, daughter of Octavio Chavez and Martha Salinas; Sydney Dowler, daughter of Bruce and Ruth Dowler; Macy Johnson, daughter of Demond and Lisa Johnson; Lillian Mount, daughter of Shawn and Melissa Mount and Addison Williman, daughter of Timothy and Kelly Williman.

Ms. Chavez is a senior at Lincolnview High School where she is a member of National Honor Society, Lincolnview Service Club and Spanish Club while also serving as a Junior Rotarian. Following graduation, Amy plans to attend the Ohio State University pursuing a degree in nursing. Work experience includes time with Vancrest of Van Wert through the C.E.O. program.

Ms. Dowler is a senior at Van Wert High School where she is a member of National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as President of Service Pack. Sydney is also captain of the Van Wert soccer team and Cougar Robotics Club. Outside of school, Sydney is an active member of First United Methodist Church while also volunteering with the Salvation Army. Following graduation, Sydney plans to attend Wright State University majoring in medical laboratory science. Work experience includes time with Cheers & Gears, Van Wert Parks Department and Ohio Health through the C.E.O. program.

Ms. Johnson is a senior at Van Wert High School where she is a member of National Honor Society and Captain of the Cougar soccer and track and field teams. Macy also represented Van Wert High School in the Peony Pageant. Macy is an active member of First United Methodist Church and an advocate for the YWCA. Following graduation, Macy plans to pursue a degree in social work. Employment experience includes time with Reloved Boutique, Chiefs Supermarket and the YWCA through the C.E.O. program.

Church to host Gospel Music Expo

VW independent staff/submitted information

The sounds of gospel music will soon fill the Family Life Center at Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert as the 23rd annual Southern Gospel Music Expo kicks off on Friday, April 19.  

Cheryl Burk and Kim Mason make up the gospel group Trinity and it was their vision, along with founding member Gary Adams, to bring a singing convention to Van Wert back in 2001. After attending similar events in other areas, the trio began to pray about it and then approached Trinity Friends Church for the venue. It began as a one night sing but has grown to a four and then back to three night event over the years.  

The music will begin at 5 p.m. Friday, April 19, with gospel groups and soloists from Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Michigan and Kentucky.  A gospel group or soloist will take the stage approximately every 15 minutes throughout the evening.  All of the ministries will have product tables set up around the gymnasium where you can chat with your favorites, purchase their music or book them for an upcoming service or event.  

The music will begin an hour earlier, at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 20.

The grand finale will be Sunday, April 21, with Trinity and The Guardians. The doors and food court will open at 4:30 p.m. and the concert will begin at 6:30 p.m.   

John Darin Rowsey, Pat Barker, Scott Mullins and Paul Lancaster, collectively known as The Guardians are a southern gospel quartet with a unique sound, tight harmony and a passion for sharing the gospel through their music. Occasionally, they are joined on stage by founding member, owner and manager, Dean Hickman, who has been in southern gospel music for over 60 years. The group has three Dove Award nominations, and  multiple No. 1 songs and fan awards, and each member of the Group brings a sincere commitment to glorifying Jesus Christ. Therefore, their mantra remains echoing John the Baptist’s words in John 3:30: “He must increase but I must decrease.”

Local hospital joins network, eICU

Submitted information

OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital is now a part of the OhioHealth Stroke Network and Electronic Intensive Care Unit (eICU), adding additional layers for safety, expertise, and proactive care.

The Stroke Network uses advanced virtual health technology to connect the Van Wert Hospital emergency team with OhioHealth stroke specialists across the hospital system.

This partnership is advantageous for patients who need more intensive medical care. If necessary, they can be transferred to a higher level of care at a comprehensive or primary Stroke center. This collaboration ensures that communities throughout Ohio have direct and full access to advanced technology and critical care therapies.

Electronic ICU is a secondary layer of support for critical care patients which offers remote physician and nursing expertise. The addition of the eICU supplements the current team on the floor and the role of hospitalist and nurse practitioner will not change with this addition.

Physicians who specialize in caring for critically ill patients work in a control center instead of patients’ rooms. They coordinate with the physicians and nurses on the floor. The video is a live feed with no recorded information.

The eICU allows for constant observation of a patient’s status, using artificial intelligence, video, audio, and vital sign monitors and can pick up on small changes. When that happens, the eICU alerts physicians and nurses on the ICU floor to take corrective action right away.

“This technology provides an extra layer of safety for our patients by adding the ability for our nurses and physicians to consult with an intensivist in central Ohio,” said Joy Bischoff, president of OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. “OhioHealth has used this technology for years to support our care teams, and to enhance safety for our patients.”

ODOT lists local road projects

VW independent staff/submitted information

The following road work is anticipated to affect highways in Van Wert County. According to the Ohio Department of Transportation, all outlined work is weather permitting.

U.S. 30 rest areas between Ohio 49 and U.S. 127 in Convoy closed January 11 for approximately one year for complete reconstruction of the buildings.

U.S. 30 between the Indiana state line and Crawford County will have temporary shoulder closures until mid-April to replace signs.

Ohio 49 between South St. and Jackson St. (Wren-Landeck Road) in the village of Wren closed on January 29 for approximately 105 days for road reconstruction including storm, sewer, and water line installation. Traffic is being detoured along Ohio 81 to U.S. 127 to U.S. 30 to U.S. 224 and back to Ohio 49.

Ohio 81 between Willshire Eastern Road and Harrison Willshire Road will close April 29 for approximately 150 days to raise the roadway profile and replace two culverts. Access for local traffic to all properties will be maintained throughout construction. The official detour for other motorists will be Ohio 49 to U.S. 33 to Ohio 118, back to Ohio 81.

Ohio 116 between the village of Venedocia and the Mercer County line will be restricted to one lane for crack sealing operations.

Leeson Ave. between Shannon St. (Ohio 118) and Rose Drive in the city of Van Wert closed on February 7 for 245 days for reconstruction including curb and gutter, storm sewer, and a multi-use path on the north side of the roadway.

Dispatchers honored

Dispatchers with the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, the Van Wert Police Department and the Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol were honored a proclamation from the Van Wert County Commissioners for Telecommunications Week, April 14-20. The commissioners expressed their gratitude and appreciation for work done by all local dispatchers. Photo submitted

Bailey named Marsh program manager

VW independent staff/submitted information

The Marsh Foundation has named Lindsay Bailey the newest program manager at Clymer Hall. She has worked as a family teacher for four years and was promoted to a lead position. She has gained great experience and knowledge along the way that has prepared her for this new role.

According to Director of Residential Services Elizabeth Truxell, Bailey brings a wealth of leadership, communication and organization experience to the position.

“She has been immersing herself into learning more of the Teaching Family Model and she will use her strengths to benefit Clymer Hall and the Marsh Foundation,” Truxell said.

Bailey credits her mentors and trainers with impacting her and inspiring her to pursue a leadership role at the Marsh.

“I have experienced one on one coaching and encouragement from all of my supervisors from day one,” she said. “My program managers especially played a huge role in my professional development and without them I would have never gained the skills I needed to help our youth be successful. I am excited to be able to carry on this work.”

As the program manager of Clymer Hall, Bailey’s ultimate goal is to see youth complete the program and leave successfully. To do this, she acknowledges the role of family teachers.

“I look forward to helping shape and grow our family teachers to be successful in accomplishing this goal,” Bailey said.