SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
It’s been approximately three months since a new transit service officially began operations in Van Wert County and, by all accounts, it appears to be going well.
Lima-based Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) officially began transportation services in Van Wert County on January 19, a month after releasing information about the state’s investment in new transportation opportunities called the New Ohio Workforce Mobility Partnership. Late last year, ACRTA was awarded more than $600,000 for a one-year pilot program in Van Wert County, which was used to purchase two vehicles and help subsidize ride costs.
Speaking at a “Lunch and Learn” event held last week at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, Allen County Regional Transit Authority Executive Director of Operations Brian Wildermuth spoke about the service and answered various questions from those in attendance.
“I would say it’s going a little better than we expected,” Wildermuth said. “It took off faster than we thought. We had 46 trips in our first month but, in fairness, we started mid-month and we had (inclement) weather, then we were up to 273 in February and 278 trips in March.”
“On average we have one bus here at all times then on an as-needed basis we’ll have a second driver come over when we’re getting logjammed,” he continued. “I think the way the numbers are going, I can see there being two buses here during all the ‘hot’ times.”
All rides are on small handicap-accessible buses that look similar to large vans, and are offered to the public with door-to-door service in two ways: microtransit and demand-response.
“Microtransit is a door-to-door service in certain areas,” Wildermuth explained. “Demand-response takes a person wherever they’re scheduling themselves to go.”
(more…)POSTED: 04/24/26 at 10:21 pm
VW independent/submitted information
ARCHBOLD — Northwest State Community College will host a series of hands-on summer STEM camps for learners of all ages, beginning on June 15 with Moon Bot Adventure Camp: Robot Rescue. The camp season will wrap up July 8. Campers can expect fun, hands-on learning activities as part of their action-packed camps!
For all grade ranges listed below, it is the grade students finished in 2026 unless the camp specifies otherwise.
JUNE CAMPS
Moon Bot Adventure Camp: Robot Rescue (Grades 1-2), LEGO Adventure Island: Build, Explore, Survive (Grades 1-2), Royal Magic Makers: A Princess STEAM Camp (Grades 1-2), RoboMania: Where Fun Meets Future Tech (Grades 3-4), Swing Into STEM – LEGO Mini Golf Challenge (Grades 3-4), Lights! Camera! STEM! Stop Motion Movie Camp (Grades 3-4), Cookies, Crafts & Confidence GIRLS Camp (Grades 5-8), Wild About Animal Art (Grades 5-8), First Aid Camp (Grades 5-8).
JULY CAMPS
Sole Lab: Vintage Sneaker Masterclass (June 29-July 1 – for Grades 5-8), SPIKE Robotics (June 29-July 1 – for Grades 5-8), Bot to the Future: Smart Delivery Robotics (Grades 5-8), Master Builder Lab: Motion & Mechanics (Grades 5-8).
For a complete listing of Northwest State summer camps, including dates, ages, fees and registration information, visit https://NorthwestState.edu/Camps or contact Jani Tisovic at the college by phone at 419.267.1381., or by email at SummerCamps@NorthwestState.edu.
POSTED: 04/24/26 at 10:17 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
An open house will be held Tuesday, April 28, from 1:30 to 5 p.m., to celebrate the retirement of Van Wert County Emergency Management Director Rick McCoy
The public is invited to this event, which will take place at the EMA Office, 1230 Lincoln Highway on the Marsh Foundation property.
All are welcome to recognize McCoy on his remarkable career and wish him the very best in retirement.
POSTED: 04/24/26 at 10:13 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
Five area girls have been selected for the 2026 R.K. Thompson Self Reliance Award, according to Anthony Adams and Keri McClure, co-chairs of the Van Wert Service Club’s selection committee. In its 56th year, 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.
This year’s girl finalists include Zaria Harter; Caroline Marks, daughter of Ashley Marks; Elyssa Renner, daughter of Dennis and Maria Renner; Paige Smith, daughter of Victoria Setili, and Grace Spieles, daughter of Mark and Molly Spieles.
Harter is a senior at Vantage Career Center, where she participates in the Criminal Justice Program while serving as a student ambassador and president of the German Interact Club and Criminal Justice Leaders. Zaria is also a member of National Technical Honor Society and a state qualifier in the Skills USA Competition.
At Lincolnview High School, she is a member of the Lancer Marching Band, Pep Band, track and field team and National Honor Society. Outside of school, Zaria is an active member of the Ohio City Church of God Youth Group.
Following graduation, Zaria plans to enlist in the Marine Corps. Work experience includes time at Ohio City Express and Work-Based Learning with Vantage School Resource Officer Jill Gemmer.
Marks is a senior at Crestview High School, where she serves as Student Body president, treasurer of FCCLA and secretary of the National Honor Society chapter. Caroline also competes on the Crestview Knight football and basketball cheer squads and the Knight Vision show choir.
(more…)POSTED: 04/23/26 at 10:33 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce held its fourth annual Van Wert on Tap Craft Beer Festival at the Junior Fair building at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds on Saturday April 18.
A complimentary drinking glass for the event, featuring First Federal of Van Wert as the event’s Premier Sponsor, was given to all attendees. The event was also supported by Central Insurance, Tekniplex, Tenneco Inc., Laudick’s Jewelry, Mid-State Industrial, Danfoss, Sisters Styles & Gifts and Bridgemill Private Wealth.
Returning breweries for this year’s Van Wert on Tap event included Moeller Brew Barn, Buffalo Rock Brewing Co., 1820 BrewWerks, Second Crossing Brew Co., Findlay Brewing Co., Twenty One Barrels Hard Cider, False Chord Brewery, 4KD Crick Brewery, and Brewing Green. New breweries this year included Juniper Brewing Co., Oncore Brewing, Ottawa Brewing Co., and Old Route 69 Brewery. Wine was offered by Collins Fine Foods, featuring selections from the Winery at Versailles.
“We would like to thank First Federal Van Wert for their continued support as our Premier Sponsor,” said Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Mark Verville. “They have been our Premier Sponsor since the event’s inception and we really value them. We would also like to thank our volunteers and the Van Wert County Fairgrounds for their partnership.”
POSTED: 04/23/26 at 10:31 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
CONVOY — The Convoy Spring Market will be held Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Convoy Opera House & Convoy Opera House Annex.
The Village of Convoy Historical Society pre-sale fry pie order pick-up and extra fry pies for sale from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. that same day in the Convoy Opera House Annex.
Shop handcrafted goods, enjoy sweet treats, take part in the spring photo op, services and more by local vendors. Here is a sneak preview of what will be offered: Madison Hagaman Photography, Shoogie’s Sweets, Legacy Catering, The Paper Co., Placke’s Crafts, Young Living Oils, Grimms Magic Touch, Gilkey Homestead, Scentsy, The Secret Garden, Dakota’s Treats & Sweets, Jehovah Bakery, Sipster Sodas, and Made with Love Vinyl Design.
Downtown businesses will also be open for shopping and dining experiences.
POSTED: 04/23/26 at 10:30 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
The Van Wert High School Junior Class would like to invite the public to a Prom Open House this Saturday, April 25, from 1-3 p.m. in the Van Wert Middle School gymnasium. This year, students chose “Tangled” as the theme.
Come and see how the students transformed the gym and get a picture with our cast! Please enter the open house on the north side of the building, middle school door number M44.
The public is also invited to attend the Promenade from 7-8 p.m. in the high school gym.
POSTED: 04/23/26 at 10:15 pm. FILED UNDER: News
DAVE MOSIER/for the independent
Van Wert City Board of Education members received an update on the final phase of the Eggerss Stadium renovation project, and also learned about the art, music, and physical education programs at Van Wert Elementary School during their April meeting on Wednesday. They even received a dance lesson as a bonus.
District Treasurer Troy Bowersock noted that contracts totaling approximately $1.1 million have been signed for Phase 4 of the Eggerss Stadium project, adding that approximately $7.1 million has been paid out on the project to date.
“The end is in sight, we have the contracts in place…,” Bowersock said of the multi-year renovation/construction project.
During his report, Superintendent Mark Bagley noted work at the stadium is about a week ahead of schedule, adding that the new concession stand /restroom facility has progressed quickly, with completion expected fairly soon.
He said there will be a Movie Night scheduled at the stadium on August 1, adding that a formal dedication ceremony will be held on September 18 during the football game against Defiance. VWHS graduate Joel Fry (Frysinger) also provide a free concert on September 19 at the stadium, Bagley said.
(more…)POSTED: 04/22/26 at 9:57 pm. FILED UNDER: News
DAVE MOSIER/for the independent
Two people were arraigned and four others sentenced as part of hearings held in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court this past week.
Drake Scheumann, 18, of Delphos, entered a not guilty plea to one count of burglary, a second-degree felony, during an arraignment held Monday in Common Pleas Court. A $5,000 cash or surety bond was first set, but on a motion by the defendant, was later modified and he was ordered released on a personal surety bond. Pretrial was set for 8 a.m. Wednesday, May 13. He is to have no contact with the alleged victim in the case.
Theresa Bakle, 40, of Van Wert, pleaded not guilty to one count of aggravated possession of drugs, a felony of the fifth degree. She was released on a surety bond and pretrial was scheduled for 8 a.m. May 13.
Those sentenced include Kaden Ballard, 24, of Van Wert, who was sentenced to 326 days in jail, with credit for 236 days already served, on a charge of probation violation.
Others sentenced are as follows:
Brandon Cooper, 28, of Van Wert, was sentenced to 60 days in jail, with credit for 8 days already served, on a charge of aggravated possession of drugs, a fifth-degree felony.
Kyle Cable, 40, of Elida, was sentenced to 30 days in jail on charges of domestic violence, a first-degree misdemeanor, and attempted intimidation of a witness, a felony of the fourth degree. Because he also violated an ongoing term of probation with the new charges, he was also given a new three-year probation term.
Crystal Robison, 37, of Van Wert, was sentenced to three years of community control, on a charge of strangulation, a fourth-degree felony. Sh’e must also perform 100 hours of community service, undergo mental health and substance abuse assessments, as well as any treatment recommended.
Three others also appeared for court hearings during the week.
Derek Eland, 33, of Van Wert, admitted violating his bond by using intoxicants. Judge Martin Burchfield then set a $500,000 cash or surety bond in the case and scheduled pretrial for Wednesday, April 29.
Victoria Warford, 29, of Van Wert, changed her plea to guilty of aggravated possession of drugs, a felony of the fifth degree. No date was released for sentencing in the case.Dustin Lehmkuhle, 36, of Van Wert, changed his plea to guilty to possession of drugs, a third-degree felony offense. He then requested, and was granted, intervention in lieu of conviction, and his case was stayed pending successful completion of treatment.
POSTED: 04/22/26 at 7:51 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
The YWCA of Van Wert County invites golfers of all skill levels to tee off for a great cause at its annual Golf Outing fundraiser on Friday, June 19, at Willow Bend Country Club in Van Wert. This event combines friendly competition and fun challenges to raise vital funds for the YWCA’s Youth Development and Survivor Services programs.
This year’s outing offers two flight options. The morning flight will feature teams of four teeing off at 8 a.m. for an 18-hole round, while a new afternoon experience invites women of all ages to participate in the Queen of the Green Challenge, a ladies-only 9-hole, two-person scramble beginning at 1 p.m.
Golfers can look forward to classic skill challenges such as closest to the pin and longest putt, as well as the opportunity to purchase mulligans to better their score and 50/50 tickets to win cash. Players can test their skills in an optional skins game, while all participants will have a chance to win prizes and cash throughout the day.
Returning this year is the “Hit It to Get It” Brown Bag Challenge, where golfers can test their putting skills for a chance to win prize bags filled with lottery tickets, gift cards, drink tickets, golf accessories, and more. New this year is a golf cart Poker Run that will add a fun twist throughout both flights and an afternoon, ladies-only “Queen of the Green” challenge, where two-person teams will compete for the title in a fun 9-hole competition.
“Last year’s outing was well attended, and we’re excited to build on that momentum,” said YWCA President/CEO Kimberly Laudick. “By adding a ladies-only event and incorporating new activities like the golf cart poker run, we hope to welcome even more players.”
Morning flight golfers will receive 18 holes with cart, lunch, and a premium leakproof six-pack cooler. Queen of the Green (afternoon) participants will enjoy 9 holes, cart, a drink ticket, and the same cooler gift.
The YWCA is also offering a variety of sponsorship opportunities for local businesses. Many sponsorship levels include a team entry, along with valuable promotional benefits. “Sponsors receive a variety of benefits, including social media and website marketing, signage featuring their logo, and a chance for their employees to represent the company on the course,” Laudick added. “This is a great time for businesses of all sizes to get involved and show their support for the YWCA.”
To register a team or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.ywcavanwert.org. Various payment methods are available and registration begins April 27. Questions may be directed to julies@ywcavanwertcounty.org.
The YWCA of Van Wert County is an agency of the United Way of Van Wert County and is partially funded by the Van Wert County Foundation.
POSTED: 04/22/26 at 7:50 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information
Director Emily Gehle, Assistant Directors Alyssa Taylor and Abbie Mengerink and Music Director Grace Doctor will be holding auditions for young people ages 5-18 by appointment for Dear Edwina Jr. on Sunday, May 3, and Monday, May 4, in select time slots at The Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 S Race St. in Van Wert.
Dear Edwina Jr. follows the adventures of plucky advice-giver-extraordinaire Edwina Spoonapple as she directs the neighborhood kids in a series of buoyant production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly “Advice-a-Palooza.”
Edwina and her friends share wisdom on everything from trying new foods to making new friends, through clever, catchy, and poignant songs. Dear Edwina Jr\. is a fast-paced show with more than 30 roles and opportunities for doubling.
Each audition slot accommodates a maximum of 20 auditioners and lasts around an hour. Each auditioner is expected to have signed up prior to auditioning, so make sure to fill out the audition form “(https://forms.gle/W3yrJNY3c5PcYVus8).
Auditioners will be asked to arrive no more than 5 minutes early or late to the start of their chosen time slot. Anyone auditioning should come prepared to sing a song (30-60 seconds long) of their choice, learn choreography in a short timeframe, and read lines from a script. Please sing songs a capella; those who prefer to use a backing track will be expected to bring that themselves.
Auditioners do not need to bring sheet music and there is also no need to memorize or prepare anything from the show prior to auditions.
Contact the director with any questions at Emily@vwct.org
POSTED: 04/22/26 at 7:47 pm. FILED UNDER: News
