SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
The newest member of the Van Wert City Schools Board of Education was sworn in on Wednesday.
Lifelong Van Wert resident Scott White is taking the reins from Thaison Leaser, who resigned June 30 due to a move just outside the school district. White was one of three applicants for the vacant seat. All three were interviewed last week. He joins Board President Anthony Adams, Vice-President Julie Burenga and board members Dr. Debby Compton and Greg Blackmore.
“As a Van Wert High School graduate I saw this as an opportunity to give back to the community, the students, teachers and the administration,” White said after the meeting. “I think there’s going to be a lot of learning going on initially – they’ve done a nice job of laying out a transition program for me that I look forward to learning.”
Board President Anthony Adams said all three applicants interviewed well for the open seat.
“We would have been happy with any of them but after some discussion, we chose to ask Mr. White to join the board,” Adams stated. “He’ll do a great job. We love the experience he brings with him and his professionalism.”
To keep the seat, White, who serves as the administrator at VanCrest Health Care Center in Van Wert, will need to run in a special election in November of 2027 for the remaining two years of the term that ends on December 31, 2029.
A number of personnel items were on Wednesday’s agenda, including the resignations of kindergarten teacher Emily Vondran, elementary intervention specialist Molly Baltzell, early childhood center paraprofessional Taylor Semer, and the retirement-resignation of social worker Diana Morrow.
The board approved the hiring of Robin Everett as a kindergarten teacher, Aliviah Bates as an early childhood center paraprofessional, Mark Breece as head elementary school custodian, and Charles Berry as custodial/maintanence worker.
(more…)POSTED: 07/22/26 at 8:23 pm
Van Wert Middle School teacher Noah Carter presented a plaque and a flag to Principal Darla Dunlap during Wednesday’s school board meeting. Carter serves as a member of the Indiana Air National Guard and the flag was flown during one of his unit’s missions. Carter missed the end of the 2025-2026 school year after being called to duty and he praised fellow teachers and administrators for working with him during his leave. He also thanked middle school students who wrote letters and sent care packages while he was away. Scott Truxell/Van Wert independent
POSTED: 07/22/26 at 8:22 pm. FILED UNDER: News
SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
Much of Wednesday’s meeting of the Lincolnview Local Schools Board of Education meeting was dedicated to preparing for the 2026-2027 school year.
During the meeting, one-year limited retire-rehire teaching contracts were approved for Deborah Stetler and Sandra Dowdy. Other contracts given the green light were for John Kerner, OBI instructor; Kathryn Wortman, part-time cook; Sharon Brincefield, substitute bus driver, and Theresa Anderson, junior high/high school assistant band director.
Three resignations were accepted, including Kasey Knippen, fifth grade teacher; Megan Wollenhaupt, junior high/high school guidance secretary, and Paige Cook, part-time cook.
Some housekeeping items were approved for the 2026-2027 school year, including:
- Cafeteria prices and latchkey fees
- The list of open enrollment students for the upcoming school year.
- An agreement with Westwood Behavorial Services to provide on-site mental health services to students from August to May of next year.
- An agreement with the Western Buckeye Educational Service Center.
- The transfer of $20,000 from the general fund to the athletic fund.
- Renewed membership in the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding.
- Renewed membership in the Northwestern Ohio Educational Research Council Inc.
- An agreement for the eduction option program administered by the Wood County Educational Service Center for the Wood County Juvenile Detention Center, the Juvenile Residential Center of Northwest Ohio and the Wood County Academy.
POSTED: 07/22/26 at 8:20 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
The Van Wert County Republican Party will host its annual American Freedom Dinner on Tuesday August 11, in Van Wert. Congressman Jim Jordan will be the keynote speaker for the event. Van Wert County will be part of Ohio’s 4th Congressional District beginning in 2027. Congressman Jordan is running for re-election in November.
In addition to Jordan, Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy will also be speaking at the event. Chief Justice Kennedy was elected Chief Justice in 2022 and has served on the Ohio Supreme Court since 2012.
“The Van Wert County Republican Central Committee is pleased to host this exciting event for Van Wert County,” the Van Wert County Republican Party said in a press release announcing the event. “Congressman Jim Jordan has always fought for conservative values across our great country and we are eager to support him as he seeks re-election in November. In addition to Congressman Jordan and Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy, several other statewide candidates and office holders will be in attendance.”
“This event is an important step for our county Republican Party both as a fundraiser and to ensure that those who represent us in Washington and Columbus are paying attention to the concerns of Van Wert County voters.”
Tickets can be purchased online at www.vwgop.com
Main dinner program
- Walnut & Main Event Space – 223 E. Main St. Van Wert.
- Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., program at 6:30 p.m.
- Tickets: $60/individual, $100/couple
- Dinner will be catered by Gibson’s BBQ and bar service will be provided by Collins Fine Foods.
VIP reception
- 5 p.m. at R Place Stone Grill – 138 E. Main St. Van Wert.
- Tickets: $125 – includes VIP reception, dinner program, and a photo with Congressman Jordan
Table sponsorship
- Tickets: $1,200 – includes eight VIP tickets and preferred seating
POSTED: 07/22/26 at 8:19 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff
A total of five criminal hearings were held between July 13-22 in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court. Judge Martin D. Burchfield presided over each of the hearings.
Sentencings
Devin Couch, 21, of Van Wert, was sentenced to 180 days in jail with credit for 159 days already served for assault. He was also ordered to pay court costs. In a separate case, Couch is facing eight serious felony charges tied to the discovery of drugs at a N. Washington St. home in late 2025. Those charges include trafficking in cocaine, a first degree felony with a major drug offender specification; possession of cocaine, a first degree felony with a major drug offender specification; aggravated trafficking in drugs, a second degree felony; aggravated possession of drugs, a second degree felony; trafficking in hashish, a second degree felony; possession of hashish, a second degree felony; trafficking in marijuana, a third degree felony, and possession of marijuana, a third degree felony. He’s being held without bond on those charges.
Anthony Brandolini, 36, of Ohio City, was sentenced to five days in jail with credit for two days already served for OVI, a first degree misdemeanor. His driver’s license was suspended for one years and he ordered to pay a $565 fine and court costs.
Arraignment
Kameron Cooper, 47, of Grover Hill, entered a not guilty plea to theft, a fifth degree felony, and misuse of credit cards, a first degree misdemeanor. Cooper was released on a surety bond and a pre-trial conference was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. August 12.
Bill of information
Tristan Thompson, 20, of Celina, entered a guilty plea to a prosecutor’s bill of information charging him with abduction, a third degree felony; having weapons while under disability, a third degree felony and assault, a first degree misdemeanor. Judge Burchfield ordered a pre-sentence investigation and scheduled sentencing for 9 a.m. September 2.
Bond violation
Corey Salisbury, 44, of Rockford, admitted violating to his probation by failing to provide a current address to probation. Judge Burchfield sentenced him to time served and set a trial date of September 15, for another case.
POSTED: 07/22/26 at 2:53 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
Community leaders, developers and local partners gathered Wednesday morning to celebrate the groundbreaking of two significant projects that will expand housing and lodging opportunities in Van Wert.
The first groundbreaking ceremony was held at The Landing at Dickenson Farms, a new apartment and townhome development located just off Van Wert Decatur Road. The project will add between 84-108 housing options for current and future residents while supporting the workforce needs of Van Wert County’s growing business community.
Immediately following, local officials celebrated the groundbreaking of a new Hampton Inn located behind First Federal on N. Washington St. The 87-room hotel will expand overnight accommodations for business travelers, contractors, visitors and families traveling to Van Wert. It have a swimming pool, a 1,000 square foot meeting room and will also feature eight suites and accommodations for Niswonger Performing Arts Center performers and their teams. Once it opens in late 2027, the Hampton Inn will become the city’s fifth hotel/motel.
Van Wert Area Economic Development Executive Director Brent Stevens said together, the developments represent continued private investment in the community and demonstrate confidence in Van Wert’s long-term growth.
“These projects are a direct reflection of the momentum we’re seeing in Van Wert,” Stevens said. “Major investments like the QTS data center have helped position our community for continued growth by attracting additional private investment. As construction begins and new employers continue to invest here, we’re seeing increased interest in housing, hotels and other amenities that support both our workforce and our quality of life.”
“These are exactly the kinds of developments that help ensure Van Wert is ready for the opportunities ahead,” he added.
(more…)POSTED: 07/22/26 at 11:28 am. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
Beginning Monday August 3, OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital will implement weapons-free screening at designated public entrances as part of a systemwide effort to support a safe, secure environment across OhioHealth care sites. While weapons have long been prohibited at OhioHealth facilities, screening helps reinforce that policy at the point of entry.
Healthcare organizations across the country are facing increased safety challenges. In response to these evolving risks, OhioHealth continues to evaluate and enhance security measures to help maintain safe environments for care and healing.
“Everyone who walks through our doors deserves to feel safe,” said Chris Blaney, director, OhioHealth Protective Services. “As violence in healthcare settings continues to rise nationwide, we’re taking proactive steps to better protect our patients, visitors, associates and providers. Weapons-free screening is one way we’re helping create a safer environment while ensuring our communities continue to have access to the care they need close to home.”
Beginning August 3, patients and visitors can expect screening at designated entrances, including metal detectors, bag and purse checks, and support from OhioHealth Protective Services officers, with a process designed to minimize delays.
Entry through Door No. 1 or Door No. 2 only:
- Door No. 1: Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Door No. 2: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Patients who receive cardiac rehabilitation may continue to use Door No. 6 and will be contacted with additional information.
- Around-the-clock onsite coverage by OhioHealth Protective Services officers.
- Emergency treatment and life-saving care to remain the hospital’s highest priority at all times.
POSTED: 07/21/26 at 8:24 pm. FILED UNDER: News
The Van Wert FOP Lodge 62 had the privilege of supporting the community through a pair of donations to the Van Wert First United Methodist Church. FOP associate nember April Ellerbrock (right) presented two $500 checks to the church’s administrative assistant, Storm Whitaker. These funds are dedicated to two vital programs: one for Operation Back to School, helping local students prepare for the upcoming academic year. The other is for the church’s food pantry, which supports the church’s ongoing efforts to provide food security for those in need. FOP Lodge 62 is honored to partner with the First United Methodist Church in their mission to serve the community and Lodge 62 thanked everyone who supports the FOP and made the contributions possible. Photo submitted
POSTED: 07/21/26 at 8:23 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
CHP Home Care & Hospice thanked everyone who made last Friday’s Chip In Fore Care Golf Outing at Hickory Sticks Golf Club a success. Despite the weather and air quality, the event welcomed 20 golf teams and 45 hole sponsors in support of the CHP Adult Day Center in Van Wert.
“We were thrilled with the turnout for our first Chip In Fore Care Golf Outing,” said Emily White, Adult Day Center Coordinator. “The event not only raised funds for activities at our Adult Day Center, but also brought awareness to a program that provides care for seniors and adults with disabilities while offering much-needed respite for caregivers right here in Van Wert. We’re incredibly grateful for our community’s support.”
Tournament winners
- First place: Jeff Elston, Nathan Elston, Steve Elston & Mike Elston;
- Second place: Van Wert YMCA team;
- Third place: Perry ProTECH Team.
Contest winners included Closest to the Pin: Coty French and Lance Mawer; Longest Drive: Sean LaFountain, and Longest Putt: Kaden Shaffer.
CHP thanked Hickory Sticks Golf Club, Advanced Insurance Group, PERRY proTECH, TMC, Black Angus, Sarah Sheets (The Well Nutrition) Burcham Printing, Ashlea’s Crafty Affairs, CHP staff, volunteers, golfers, hole sponsors, raffle donors, and everyone who supported the event.
POSTED: 07/21/26 at 8:22 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
The Van Wert County General Health District is investigating three lab confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis among Van Wert County residents. Public health officials are working closely with the Ohio Department of Health, healthcare providers, and other public health partners to investigate reported illnesses and monitor the situation.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclosporacayetanensis. People become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. While fresh produce, including berries, leafy greens, cilantro, basil, and other herbs, has often been associated with Cyclospora infections, the source of the current infections being investigated have been connected to shredded iceberg lettuce across five states.
The Van Wert County General Health District is advising the public to avoid consuming shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell and the voluntarily recalled shredded lettuce products from Taylor Farms. As a reminder, the investigation related to this outbreak is still ongoing.
Symptoms typically begin 2-14 days after exposure and may include:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Low-grade fever
Without treatment, symptoms can last for several days to weeks and may recur over time. Anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other symptoms consistent with cyclosporiasis should contact their healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help shorten the duration of symptoms.
(more…)POSTED: 07/21/26 at 3:39 pm. FILED UNDER: News
The investigation continues into an early Sunday afternoon crash on Lincoln Highway along Van Wert’s east side. According to a report released by the Van Wert Police Department late Tuesday morning, the accident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. Sunday when an westbound car driven by Doris D. Jones, 74, of Lima went off Lincoln Highway and hit a tree near the intersection of Stripe Road. Emergency responders found Jones unconscious and non-responsive and lifesaving measures were performed by Van Wert EMS. She was transported to OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Bob Barnes/VWFD photographer
POSTED: 07/21/26 at 10:45 am. FILED UNDER: News
