SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
“Lincolnview school district, the county (Van Wert County) and the City of Van Wert are going to receive hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue back into our community.”
Those words were spoken by Van Wert Area Economic Corporation Executive Director Brent Stevens during a weekend radio program that aired on 99.7 FM WKSD and WERT 1220AM/104.3FM.
Stevens was talking about the sometimes controversial data center that will be built at the Mega Site, which is in the city of Van Wert and in the Lincolnview Local Schools district.
“For a community of this size, that’s going to be significant and it’s going to allow us to do a lot of things what we would never ever have an opportunity (to do),” Stevens said during the Commissioners Corner/Mayor’s Conference program, which airs at 8:25 a.m. each Sunday on WKSD/WERT.
During the program, Stevens addressed fears about water usage, electric rates and more.
A number of residents have expressed concerns about the data center and water usage, especially with drought conditions already in place locally. He also added the “end user” – the company that will build the data center in Van Wert has the latest technology available, via a closed loop system.
“They basically charge up this big loop with water and a little bit of glycol to make sure it doesn’t freeze and it’s like geothermal where it’s running underground, it’s going through a heat exchanger and it disapates the heat and goes back,” he explained. “The water and the chargents inside this closed loop can last for decades. We’re not going to be taking any water out of the aquifer, no water out of the reservoir – it’s going to be this closed loop system (for cooling).”
“The closed loop system system itself, just to give you a number saves 45 million gallons of water per year,” he added.
Stevens also noted that Danfoss, located in Van Wert, has a patent that’s used in closed loop systems for data centers and it’s going to be used on the local data center. He added that within the last 12 months, Danfoss has hired 50 additional workers just in their cooling division to be able to supply the parts, and he said they have plans for further expansion and the hiring of more employees.
(more…)POSTED: 03/08/26 at 8:48 pm
VW independent staff/submitted information
CONVOY — The Village of Convoy Historical Society is inviting everyone to an “Open House at the Opera House and a Local Author Book Signing event” from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, March 14.
Built in 1901, the Convoy Opera House, 111 S. Main St., served as asignificant source of entertainment for this small farming community at the turn of the century. Over the years the building has also served as a firehouse and the city hall.
Restoration of the building by the Village of Convoy Historical Society began in 2017. In March of 2021, the Convoy Opera House received national recognition by being named to the National Register of Historic Places.
Featured in the opera house on the second floor will be an author book signing event. Six published authors with a Convoy connection will each share their individual book writing journey. The featured authors include Stephanie Eding (fiction), Lucinda Hoffman (self-help, fiction, poems and short stories), Keith Langdon (poetry & inspirational), Jeremy Stemen (fiction), Tona King (children’s book), and Ric Grubaugh (grief journey – loss of spouse). Each author has their own distinctive writing style and genre. Individually signed copies of their books will be available to purchase.
Representatives from the Brumback Library will be on hand to help individuals obtain a library card. They will provide information on services provided at the Brumback Library in Convoy and Van Wert, including Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Parents of children birth to age five are encouraged to stop in and learn about this free program.
Convoy, Convoy Union, and Crestview yearbooks will be available in the museum at no charge. The event is free and the Opera House is handicap accessible, with a closed lift available.
POSTED: 03/08/26 at 8:46 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
Van Wert City Schools will again permit students from any Ohio school district to apply for open enrollmen for the 2026-2027 school year.
Applications will be accepted beginning April 1 on a first-come, first-serve basis, according to the date the superintendent of Van Wert City Schools receives the application. All open enrollment applications must be completed and returned no later than May 15.
Applications can be found online at www.vwcs.net on the homepage by clicking the “Open Enrollment” icon or under the Parents tab > Forms & Registration > Open Enrollment. Interested individuals may stop by the superintendent’s office in the S.F. Goedde Building, 205 W. Crawford St., to pick up an application.
Parents of students currently enrolled in the 2025-2026 school year must complete a new open enrollment application for the 2026-2027 school year. These applications will be considered before new requests are acted upon.
For more information, call the superintendent’s office at 419.238.0648.
POSTED: 03/08/26 at 8:45 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
The Union Township Trustee meetings for the month of March will be held on Tuesday, March 10, and Tuesday, March 31, both at 7 p.m. at the Union Township Building. The meetings on Thursday, March 12, and Thursday, March 26, are canceled.
POSTED: 03/08/26 at 8:44 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
Van Wert Cinemas will host a special community celebration as part of the statewide Ohio Goes to the Movies initiative on Wednesday, March 11.
The evening will begin with complimentary hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m., followed by a brief presentation at 6:30 p.m. exploring the history of movie theatres in Van Wert County. After the presentation, guests will enjoy a screening of the cult classic film Howard the Duck on the big screen.
Admission to the event is free but seating is limited. Guests are encouraged to reserve tickets online or at the Van Wert Cinemas box office in advance.
“Movie theatres have always been more than just places to watch films,” said Donna and Rod Saunders, owners of Van Wert Cinemas. “They are gathering places where communities come together to share stories, laughter, and memories. We’re excited to celebrate that history here in Van Wert County and invite everyone to join us for a fun and nostalgic evening.”
The Ohio Goes to the Movies program is part of the statewide America 250-Ohio celebration, recognizing Ohio’s deep connection to film and moviegoing while bringing communities together through special screenings and events across all 88 counties.
Guests attending the Van Wert event will enjoy:
- Complimentary hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6 p.m.
- A short presentation on the history of movie theatres in Van Wert County at 6:30 p.m.
- A free screening of Howard the Duck immediately following the presentation
Van Wert Cinemas invites the community to experience a fun night celebrating movie history, local heritage, and the magic of the shared theatre experience.
VW independent staff/submitted information
The Western Buckeye Educational Service Center held its annual Franklin B. Walter Scholarship Banquet at Vantage Career Center on Monday of this week.
Each year, one outstanding high school senior from each of Ohio’s 88 counties is selected for the Franklin B. Walter All-Scholastic Award. Recipients are chosen based on exceptional academic performance, high achievement, and success both in and outside the classroom. The Franklin B. Walter All-Scholastic Award Program was established by the Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) to promote and recognize outstanding academic achievement.
In the application for the Franklin B. Walter Scholarship, each of the students are asked to name the educator that has had the greatest impact on their educational career. Each influential educator then introduces their students at the banquet noting their accomplishments.
Superintendent Jeff Snyder from Lincolnview and Chris Etzler from Paulding filled in for educators that were not able to attend. Each school district winner receives a plaque and $100 Scholarship. Each county winner receives a plaque, $500 scholarship, and the opportunity to be recognized at the state “Best and Brightest” of the Class of 2026 Awards Luncheon held in Columbus in April.
Van Wert County Winners included: Rain Risley from Crestview Local Schools with Mr. Gregg Mosier as her most influential educator, Kendall Hoffman from Lincolnview Local Schools with Ms. Valerie Parsell as her most influential teacher educator, and Katie Kramer from Van Wert City Schools with Ms. Krista Bauer as her most influential educator. Katie Kramer was selected as Van Wert County’s overall winner.
Paulding County Winners included: Hampton Rogge from Antwerp Local Schools and Mrs. Harla Long as his most influential educator, Trenton Manz from Paulding Exempted Village and Ms. Kristina Williams as his most influential educator, and Toree Sinn from Wayne Trace Local Schools and Mr. Jack Baumlee as her most influential educator. Toree Sinn was selected as Paulding County’s overall winner.
Western Buckeye ESC thanked the following organziations and businesses for their charitable donations that made this year’s event possible: John Paulding VFW Post, Central Insurance, Kiwanis of Paulding County, Danfoss Corporation, and Vantage Career Center.
POSTED: 03/06/26 at 11:08 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
COLUMBUS — As we prepare to “spring forward” one hour this weekend (2 a.m. Sunday), the State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging everyone to use it as an opportunity to test their smoke alarms, check their expiration dates, and replace their batteries.
Working smoke alarms remain one of the simplest and most effective tools for preventing fire-related tragedies. Home fires spread rapidly, and properly working smoke alarms give you advance warning and precious extra seconds to escape safely. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, the risks of dying in a home fire are reduced by 60 percent when working smoke alarms are present.
“Taking just a few minutes to test your smoke alarms can save your life as well as the lives of your loved ones,” said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “The upcoming time change serves as natural reminder to make sure your smoke alarms are ready to alert you and your family in the event of an emergency.”
The Division of State Fire Marshal reminds Ohio residents of the following smoke alarm safety tips:
- Test every smoke alarm in your home. This can be done by pressing the alarm’s test button. Smoke alarms should be tested on a monthly basis.
- Replace batteries in smoke alarms that use replaceable batteries.
- If your smoke alarm is 10 years old or older, replace the entire unit. You can find a manufacture date printed on the back of the unit.
- Make sure smoke alarms are installed in every room of your home, in main hallways, and on every level, including the basement.
The time change is also a good time to check carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, orderless gas that can be deadly without warning.
“Fire and carbon monoxide safety rely on early detection,” Reardon said. “Testing alarms during the time change, and once each month, is simple step that can make all the difference.”
In addition to checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, Ohio families are encouraged to take time to review, or create, a fire escape plan. Every plan should outline two ways to exit each room in the home and identify a designated meeting place outdoors. Routinely reviewing this escape plan is key to ensuring everyone in the home understands what to do in the event of a fire.
POSTED: 03/06/26 at 11:06 pm. FILED UNDER: News
The Crestview Knights celebrate Friday night’s Division VI district championship win over Spencerville. The Knights trailed by as many as 13 in the third quarter before rallying to win in double overtime, 64-62. A full game story can be found on the Sports page. Wyatt Richardson/Van Wert independent
POSTED: 03/06/26 at 11:03 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
COLUMBUS — For the fourth consecutive year, Ohio has seen a decline in traffic fatalities. To maintain this positive trend, troopers with the Ohio State Highway Patrol plan remain highly visible on roadways across the state.
From 2021-2025, there were 5,688 fatal crashes on Ohio roadways, resulting in 6,149 deaths. Last year, there were 1,037 fatal crashes, which is a 3.7 percent decrease from the previous year’s total.
“While we are encouraged by the fact that more Ohioans have returned home safely over the last four years, the number of fatal crashes in our state remains far too high,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “Safety is a shared responsibility, and we must all do more to protect one another on the road.”
According to Patrol statistics, 26 percent of fatal crashes over the last five years were the result of driving off the roadway. Additionally, unsafe speed, driving left of center, failure to yield the right of way, following too closely and running a stop sign were the next top contributing factors in fatal crashes statewide.
To promote roadway safety, drivers are encouraged to look ahead and stay focused on driving, maintain a following distance of at least three seconds, adhere to posted speed limits, always wear a safety belt and never drive impaired.
“Patrol data shows that many fatal crashes are preventable,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “By simply practicing safe driving habits, you can increase the chances of you and other drivers on the road arriving safely.”
The public is encouraged to safely call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.
POSTED: 03/06/26 at 11:03 pm. FILED UNDER: News
SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
Top administrative contracts were approved during Thursday’s monthly meeting of the Vantage Career Center school board.
The board unanimously approved a one-year contract for Superintendent Rick Turner, August 1 through July 31, 2027. Turner has served as superintendent since the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year. In addition, the board also approved a resolution to re-appoint Denise Mooney as Vantage Career Center treasurer for five years. She was first hired in late 2023. Three year administrative contracts were approved by the board for Adult Education Director Angie Fahy, Supervisor of Student Operations Ashley Cline and Career-Technical Supervisor Julie Schroeder.
Three resignations were accepted during the meeting – Bob Spath, Project Lead the Way instructor; eduational aide Nancy Keith and Leslie Ringwald, aide on assignment.
During his report to the board, Turner said work continues inside and outside the Vantage Academy of Medical Careers.
“Inside, existing doorways are being resized or framed in, including the two overhead doors at the former loading docks,” Turner stated. “Externally, the loading docks and surrounding asphalt have been removed. The new roof deck is now in place, and the finish roofing material is expected to arrive in 4–5 weeks.”
“It is a busy site as construction continues to move forward at a steady pace,” he added.
Turner also said Vantage will host the Freedom 250 Mobile Museum April 20-21.
“As part of our nation’s 250th birthday celebration, a fleet of six interactive trucks is touring the country to bring American history to life,” he explained. “We are fortunate to provide this unique opportunity to our students and the local community.
High School Director Ben Winans told the board letters were sent to all students who applied letting them know if they were tentatively accepted or placed on a waiting list for their program of choice for next school year. He also said the administration is working to fill open positions.
(more…)POSTED: 03/05/26 at 9:50 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
Vantage Career Center will hold its second annual Vantage 5K event on Saturday, April 18, the career center in Van Wert.
The event is designed to bring people together in support of a great cause while promoting health, wellness, and school spirit. It will feature a 5K run/walk open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. Youth runners will also have the opportunity to participate in a kids fun run, taking place prior to the main race.
Community members, families, students, and local businesses are encouraged to join Vantage staff and students for a morning filled with excitement, fitness, and community pride.
Race Day Schedule
- 7:30 a.m. – Registration
- 8:30 a.m. – kids fun run
- 9:00 a.m. – 5K race start
Participants can register now by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/VanWert/VantageK.
Vantage Career Center thanked this year’s generous sponsors:
- Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office
- OhioHealth
- Paulding Ace Hardware & Rental
- Gen-X Training Studio
Their support helps make this event possible and strengthens the impact of community partnerships.
POSTED: 03/05/26 at 9:49 pm. FILED UNDER: News
