Museum releases reprint of 1882 Paulding Co. history

Van Wert HS Class of 1971 reunites

VW independent staff/submitted information

The Van Wert High School Class of 1971, the 100th class to graduate from VWHS, held its 55th reunion party at the American Legion Community Building in Ohio City on Saturday, October 10. Over 80 expected and a few walk-in guests attended. Breakfast through lunch snacks and beverages were provided and a hot dinner with sides was catered by Collins Fine Foods.

Local artist Eric Miglin performed an evening of soft, light jazz and boss nova music. Retired Judge and classmate Dan Gehres gave one of his usual, delightful, humorous speeches. There was a moment of silence for the 62 known classmates who have passed on and mention of the Class of 1971’s military service members, plus pictures from classmate Steve Early from his deployment in Vietnam.

For class members, it was a delight to have retired elementary Principal Harvey McMillen, 97, join the celebration. A background TV let those in attendance watch Ohio State defeat Maryland 45-16. An impromptu gathering took place at the Elks the evening before and everone was in agreement – it was great visiting with old friends.

Students of the Month!

Crestview Elementary recently named its Students of the Month sponsored by Van Wert Cinemas. Students making the Knight Leader Board each month will be put into a drawing for a free 30-day pass to the movie theater for their entire family. Van Wert Cinemas September Students of the Month are: Bailey McClure, Urban John, Cheyenne Duncan, Kovyn Huston, Niah Jones, Phillip Tyas, Jaxon Owens, Novalee Mies, Henry Schaffner, and Ruby Grant. Photo submitted

Auditions scheduled for new production

Submitted information

The holidays will heat up at Van Wert Civic Theatre with a fast-paced, festive frenzy that turns holiday tradition completely on its head. Auditions are open for Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez, featuring original music by Will Knapp. This hilarious show is directed by Joelle May and presented through a special arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

What happens when a cast of three decides they’re completely bored with doing Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol for the millionth time? They mutiny and perform every other holiday story instead. In this 90-minute comedic whirlwind, three actors tackle everything from The Grinch to Frosty the Snowman using wild costumes and hilarious antics. It’s a fast, furious, and festive ride through all your favorite seasonal classics packed into one single night.

This entire show rides on a small, mixed-gender cast. Director Joelle May is looking for three distinct, utterly fearless comedic actors who possess immense comedic timing, high physical energy, and strong improvisational instincts. Hopefuls must have the vocal capability to sing basic holiday tunes and the endurance to seamlessly juggle dozens of characters, rapid-fire costume changes, and zany prop transitions without losing the show’s breakneck pace.

Auditions are scheduled for Sunday, October 18 and Monday, October 19, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 S. Race Street.

Measles case confirmed in Van Wert County

Submitted information

The Van Wert County General Health District is reporting one laboratory-confirmed case of measles in Van Wert County. The health district is conducting follow-up investigations to identify potential exposures, notify contacts, and provide guidance to individuals who may have been exposed. There are currently 254 confirmed cases of Measles in Ohio as of Tuesday of this week, and 40 cases in Indiana as Wednesday.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. The measles virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area. Individuals who are not vaccinated are at highest risk for infection.
 
Symptoms of measles may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery or red eyes and a rash.
 
Symptoms generally develop 7–14 days after exposure, however it can take as long as 21 days for symptoms to appear. The onset of symptoms may be delayed in individuals with compromised immune systems.

What to do if you have symptoms

• Avoid contact with others and contact your healthcare provider immediately
• Call your healthcare provider before arriving at a medical facility and inform them that you may have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms. Calling ahead allows healthcare providers to take appropriate precautions to prevent potential exposure to other patients and staff.
• Individuals with concerns about symptoms, exposure, or vaccination should contact their healthcare provider or the health district at 419.238.0808 for guidance.

How to prevent measles

The best way to protect against measles is vaccination. The measles (MMR) vaccination is recommended for anyone age 1 and older who may be unvaccinated to protect themselves and others. Children should get the MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine at 12–15 months and again at 4–6 years. Earlier doses (as young as 6 months) may be recommended during special circumstances such as for travel or during outbreaks. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status should contact their healthcare provider or the health district to determine whether vaccination is recommended.

 You are considered protected (immune) if you have one of the following:

• You were born before 1957, or
• You have documentation of at least 1 dose of MMR vaccine (two doses are recommended to be considered fully immune), or
• You have ever had measles diagnosed by a healthcare provider

Local bank helps with renovation project

VW independent staff/submitted information

While the 2026 high school football regular season winding down, it’s not too late to support the Eggerss Stadium renovation project. That’s just what First Federal of Van Wert is doing. First Fed has purchased the naming rights to the goal post pads in both endzones.

“First Federal is proud to be part of the amazing renovation project at Eggerss Stadium,” First Federal President/CEO Brian Renner said. The entire atmosphere is tremendous, and we are excited to be included in the Cougar’s Friday night lights experience.”

Now with two locations, First Federal has been serving the community since 1893.

“We are fortunate to have partners and supporters like First Federal be part of our transformation,” said John White, Eggerss Legacy Chair.

While red and gray are not the organization’s normal color scheme, they agreed to keep the integrity and consistency within the stadium. The next time you attend a game at Eggerss and there’s action near either end zone, First Federal will be front and center for the next score for years to come.

“There are still more legacy naming opportunities for businesses or individuals, and we would love to talk to anyone interested,” White said.

He can be reached at 419.203.1217 and more information on Legacy naming rights can be found here.

The Cougars will host Shawnee tonight, then will finish the regular season next Friday at Kenton. Van Wert is expected to qualify for the playoff and there is a chance the Cougars could host an opening round game on Friday, October 30.

Search warrant leads to drug arrest

VW independent staff

A Delphos man is incarerated at the Van Wert County Correctional Facility after his arrest on a drug charge.

The West Central Ohio Crime Task Force arrested Phillip Cross, 36, after executing a serach warrant at his S. Cass St. home on Tuesday. Law enforcement officers seized approximately 70 grams of suspected cocaine, mushrooms and $1,200 in cash. The investigation continues and additional charges are possible.

Cross is currently charged with drug possession a first degree felony.

Keirns joins Rotarians…

The Van Wert Rotary Club has welcomed Liz Keirns as its newest member. A Van Wert native, Keirns (shown with fellow Rotarian Shad Foster) brings a passion for giving back to the community that helped raise her. Keirns works at First Financial Bank and volunteers with Haven of Hope and Career Connections. Her commitment to serving others aligns with Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.” Outside of work and volunteering, Keirns enjoys hiking, pickleball, disc golf, reading, and spending time with friends and family. The club meets Tuesdays from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the Elks. Anyone interested in learning more about Rotary or becoming a member is encouraged to contact club President John Hatcher. Photo submitted

Hearing set in domestic violence case

VW independent staff

A pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for a former Delphos St. John’s coach and administrator charged with domestic violence.

Online court records show the hearing for Todd Schulte is set for 10 a.m. November 17 in Van Wert Municipal Court. Records also indicate Schulte wants a jury trial, should it come to that.

Shulte, 52, was arrested at his home and jailed in mid-September. According to a report from the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, the alleged victim made the complaint in the lobby of the Sheriff’s Office. The victim claimed the incident occurred approximately one and a half weeks prior. Pictures were provided showing injuries.

Two days later, Schulte entered a not guilty plea to a charge of domestic violence, a first degree misdemeanor and was released on his own recognizance.

A statement issued by Nathan Stant, Head of School at Delphos St. John’s, said Schulte “stepped away” from his responsibilities as dean of students, athletic director and head football coach.

Sentencing, bond violation hearings held

VW independent staff

Four defendants appeared in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court for sentencing on Wednesday. Three of the defendants were previously convicted of drug charges. Judge Martin D. Burchfield presided over each of the hearings.

Christopher Runyon, 50, of Van Wert, was sentenced to three years of community control and 30 days in jail at a later date for aggravated possession of drugs, a fifth degree felony. He must seek and maintain employment, complete a mental health and substance abuse assessment and any treatment, consume no alcohol or drugs without a prescription, under random drug screens, and must pay court costs.

Joshua Burnett, 48, of Van Wert, was sentenced to up to six months at the WORTH Center, three years of community control and 30 days in jail at a later date for attempted trafficking in drugs, a third degree felony. He must perform 100 hours of community service, seek and maintain employment, complete a mental health and substance abuse assessment and any treatment, consume or possess no alcohol or drugs without a prescription, undergo random drug screens and pay court costs.

Raymond Bressler, 62, of Ohio City, was sentenced to three years of community control and 30 days in jail at a later date for possession of cocaine, a fifth degree felony. He must perform 50 hours of community service, complete a mental health and substance abuse assessment and any treatment, and was ordered to pay court costs.

Lorenzo Frye, 37, of Van Wert, was sentenced to three years of community control and 30 days in jail at a later date for violating a protection order, a third degree felony. He must complete a mental health and substance abuse assessment and any treatment, consume or possess no alcohol or drugs without a prescription and undergo random drug screens. He was also ordered to pay partial appointed counsel fees, monthly probation fees and court costs.

Two defendants were in court Wednesday for allegedly violating conditions of bond.

Fire Dept. to “push-in” new fire engine

VW independent staff

A longstanding fire service tradition – one that dates back to the days of horse-drawn apparatus – will be held in Van Wert later this month.

The Van Wert Fire Department will hold a push-in ceremony for the department’s new fire truck, Engine 3, at 11 a.m. Monday, October 26, at the fire department. The community is welcome to attend.

Back in the day, firefighters pushed their equipment back into the station by hand. Now, a push-in ceremony offers an opportunity to welcome our the department’s new fire engine and celebrate with the community.