Homecoming parade…

The Van Wert High School football team and the Cougar Pride Marching Band took part in Wednesday night’s homecoming parade in downtown Van Wert. The football team and the band will both be in action at Cougar Alumni Field at Eggerss Stadium Friday night, as the Cougars host Ottawa-Glandorf. Bob Barnes/Van Wert independent

Recent Vantage Day of Caring a success

By Tressa Ringwald/special to the VW independent

The United Way of Van Wert County and Vantage Career Center held its 27th annual Day of Caring events this past weekend. This annual event helps replenish food and blood supplies within our community. As always, when there is a need in our county, our local businesses and residents step up to the plate to give, volunteer, and advocate.

As fall sometimes does, Friday morning was unfortunately met with a fog cancellation for school. Students were unable to attend, but volunteers continued to sort food donations that were brought in from local businesses and schools. The food drive collected over nine pallets worth of food. All donations were split between the three local food pantries: Salvation Army, Trinity Friend Church, and Van Wert Co-Operative Ministries. The blood drive collected 84 units to replenish local blood bank supplies, and potentially saving 252 lives. Thank you local girl scout troops for cookies that were given to the blood donors.

Many thanks go to all local schools for their amazing efforts with the food drive! To Vantage Career Center for the use of their facility, to the staff and students for all their work helping collect the food drive items, and to the many United Way Board Members, employees from Ohio Health, Shultz, Huber & Associates, The Marsh Foundation, Community Health Professionals, and food pantry volunteers that help throughout the weekend. A big thank you to Klosterman Pizza for donating pizza and Walmart for donating donuts for the volunteers!

National debt subject of legislation

VW independent staff/submitted information

COLUMBUS — State Representatives Roy Klopfenstein (R-Haviland) and David Thomas (R-Jefferson) are leading House Concurrent Resolution 24, legislation urging Congress to address the growing national debt, which has now surpassed $37 trillion — more than 123 percent of the United States economic output. The resolution highlights that the debt amounts to about $108,000 per Ohio resident, with over $8 trillion held by foreign investors, including more than $800 billion owned by China.

“Responsible spending doesn’t burden our children and grandchildren with insurmountable debt. It is vital that we draw attention to this issue and urge immediate federal action because every delay deepens the debt and indentures the future for the next generation,” said Rep. Klopfenstein.

The resolution highlights several concerns, including In 2024, the federal government spent over $1 trillion more than it brought in. Programs like Social Security and Medicare are projected to run out of funding to cover full benefits within the next ten years. Meanwhile, the government is now spending more on interest payments for the national debt than it does on the entire U.S. defense budget, raising concerns about long-term national security.

“It is my hope that our congressional leaders in Ohio can use this resolution as an example for the need and backing to carry out reforms at the federal level to lower the debt,” Rep. Klofenstein said.

“At some point, it will become a state issue with impacts on our national security and ability to operate services and now is past the time to take steps to help,” Rep. Thomas stated.

 Both Representatives emphasized that Ohio wants to send a clear message to Congress that it’s time to get back to responsible budgeting and take steps to reduce this dangerous debt.

The resolution has been referred to the House Government Oversight Committee and awaits its first hearing.

Klopfenstein represents Ohio’s 82^nd District, which includes all of Van Wert, Paulding, and Putnam counties and the southern portion of Defiance County.

Historical Society plans special event

Submitted information

A wide-ranging celebration of the past and future is happening in Van Wert.

The Van Wert County Historical Society and the Van Wert County America 250 Committee have announced plans for a Community Appreciation Day that will include laughter, learning and legacy for all in attendance. It’s planned for 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday, October 19, at the Van Wert County Historical Society, 602 N. Washington St., Van Wert. Admission is free and open to the public.

At 2 p.m. that day, the Black Swamp Medicine Girls will return. The beloved Black Swamp Medicine Girls take center stage with an act sure to entertain. With a blend of humor, historical flair, and outrageous “cures,” these ladies will transport the audience back to the days of snake oil salesmen and swamp root remedies. Double chin treatments and dubious tonics are just some of the bizarre beauty and health fads of yesteryear that will be on display. This apothecary adventure is packed with laughs, knowledge, and antics that will leave attendees wondering how anyone survived the age of quack medicine/

Happy 263rd Birthday, Isaac Van Wart! In honor of Revolutionary War hero Isaac Van Wart, guests will enjoy birthday treats during the special presentation. Join us in celebrating his legacy and contributions to American independence with sweet surprises and historical reflections.

A Heritage Tree Planting Ceremony is planned for 3:30 p.m.  A native white swamp oak – symbolic of strength and endurance – will be planted on the Historical Society’s campus to honor America’s upcoming 250th birthday. Inspired by the iconic Liberty Tree of Boston, this initiative aims to root patriotism and remembrance across all 88 Ohio counties. This planting is part of the America 250-Ohio Heritage Trees Program made possible by Presenting Sponsor Cenovus Energy.

Dewine bans intoxicating hemp products

VW independent staff/submitted information

COLUMBUS — Governor Mike DeWine has signed an executive order that requires Ohio retailers to cease the sale of all intoxicating hemp products by Tuesday, October 14. Retails who fail to obey face hefty fines.

The order does not apply to non-intoxicating hemp products legalized by the Ohio General Assembly in 2019 and has no impact on the regulated sale of marijuana.

According to a press release from Governor DeWine’s office, Clandestine chemists have created intoxicating hemp by manipulating compounds found in the legal, non-intoxicating hemp plant and creating intoxicating compounds, including delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC that are found in marijuana. The products create a high similar to marijuana, but unlike marijuana, intoxicating hemp is not regulated and is legal for anyone, including children, to purchase. Intoxicating hemp products have no quality control and are sold in a variety of stores marketed as candy, cookies, gummy candy, and other products that are attractive to youth.

“Intoxicating hemp products are known to have significant impacts on young, developing brains, yet these products are legally marketed to kids, sold to kids, and ingested by kids in Ohio,” Gov. DeWine said. “When voters chose to legalize marijuana, they voted for a highly regulated market that only allows sales at licensed dispensaries to those 21 and older. Intoxicating hemp completely bypasses these laws, and we must do more to keep these products away from kids.”

Plea changed in vehicular homicide case

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor

A Van Wert woman facing a misdemeanor charge filed after a fatal accident has changed her plea.

Barbara Nickles, 66, appeared in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Wednesday morning and changed her plea from not guilty to no contest to a single count of vehicular homicide, a first degree misdemeanor. Judge Martin D. Burchfield then found Nickles guilty of the charge and scheduled sentencing for November 19. She faces up to six months in the county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Other penalties include probation and/or suspension of driving privileges.

The charge is tied to a July 28 accident in the parking lot of Ruler Foods in Van Wert. An accident report from the Van Wert Police Department said  Nickles was operating a 2023 Cadillac XT5 while in the grocery store’s parking lot, when she began to accelerate in reverse at a high rate of speed from her marked parking space. The accident report stated she struck the pedestrian, later identified by a family member as Omar Sites, causing him to collide with another parked motor vehicle, which resulted in serious injuries. After striking Sites, Nickles continued to operate her vehicle at a high rate of speed in reverse, causing damage to multiple parked motor vehicles.

Sites, who was airlifted to a Fort Wayne hospital, passed away August 11. There was no evidence that showed the incident was intentional.

Nickles was initially charged in Van Wert Municipal Court with vehicular assault, a fourth degree felony, and negligent assault, a third degree misdemeanor. The case was bound over to a Van Wert County grand jury, but its members opted against a felony charge.

Arraigments, other hearings held locally

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor

This week’s Van Wert County Common Pleas Court criminal docket included five arraignments, a bond violation hearing, one sentencing and three plea changes. All of the hearings took place Tuesday and Wednesday and Judge Martin D. Burchfield presided over each of the hearings.

Arraignments

Daniel Craig, 43, of Van Wert, entered a not guilty plea to domestic violence,a third degree felony. He was released on a surety bond; and a pre-trial conference was scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday, October 22.

Corey Salisbury, 44, of Van Wert, entered a not guilty plea to menacing by stalking, a fourth degree felony; violating a protection order, a fifth degree felony, and nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images, a third degree misdemeanor. Judge Burchfield set bond at $50,000 cash or surety and ordered Salisbury to have no contact with victim. A pre-trial conference was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 22.

Cedrick Davis, 55, of Delphos, pleaded not guilty to domestic violence, a third degree felony, and strangulation, a fourth degree felony. Bond was set at $250,000 cash or surety and a pre-trial conference was scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday, October 22.

Logan Linton, 32, of Van Wert, entered a not guilty plea to aggravated possession of drugs, a fifth degree felony. He was released on a surety bond and a pretrial conference was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. November 5.

Chloe Morefield, 21, of Van Wert, pleaded not guilty to domestic violence, a fourth degree misdemeanor. She was released on a surety bond and a pre-trial conference was scheduled for 8 a.m. November 5.

STREAM brings learning, fun to school

VW independent staff/submitted information

Lincolnview Elementary’s recent STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math-Music-and Movement) Family Night was a huge success, bringing students and families together for an evening filled with creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning.

The night began at the Scientist Signature Studio, where each student created a personalized Laboratory Access Badge complete with their headshot and a unique scientific name. With their badges in hand, students set off to explore the many exciting learning stations spread throughout the elementary building.

From there, the adventures began. Students got messy while making kinetic sand, crafted their own musical instruments, and explored the walls of the gymnasium during an art walk scavenger hunt. They incorporated movement with a fitness treasure walk, which ended with a tasty trail mix reward.

Technology took center stage as students experimented with Indi robots and Bee-Bots, while literacy was woven into the evening with fall and harvest-themed books and seasonal crafts in the media center.

Lincolnview extended a special thank-you to guests from Brumback Library, who issued new library cards and invited students to spin a colorful prize wheel. Safety Officer Sam Brummett also engaged students in a fascinating lesson on fingerprints—allowing each child to make and take home their own fingerprint set.

In addition, Courtney Linton, physican’s assistant at Van Wert Family Physicians, guided students through the popular “germ infestation” station, where participants used a special light to see the germs on their hands and learn about proper handwashing techniques.

Other highlights included tangram puzzles, a photo booth, and plenty of smiles and laughter as students, families, and teachers explored the wonders of Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math-Music-and Movement together.

Crestview to conduct required safety drill

Submitted information

CONVOY — Crestview Local Schools will conduct a safe school drill the morning of Tuesday, October 14. Local law enforcement and emergency personnel will be present during this time. 

This planned exercise will prepare students and staff with safety procedures in the event that there is a serious threat to the safety of  students on campus. The drill, which is required by law to be conducted, will serve as an opportunity to ensure that all people are prepared if an emergency situation arises. 

The student body will be maneuvering around campus but not fully evacuating. Student early dismissals will not be permitted during the course of the drill.

“Y Not Get Spooked” at the YMCA

VW independent staff/submitted information

The YMCA of Van Wert County invites families to join in on a night of Halloween fun at the annual “Y Not Get Spooked: event, scheduled for 6-9 p.m. Saturday, October 25, at the YMCA. This free community event promises a spooky maze for kids to explore and a family-friendly Halloween movie in Gym No. 5, creating a safe, festive evening for all ages.

Events like Y Not Get Spooked are more than just entertainment. They provide children with a safe place to celebrate, spend time with friends, and create lasting memories. By keeping kids engaged in positive activities, the YMCA continues its mission of supporting youth development while offering in-town fun for families.

The YMCA extends heartfelt gratitude to this year’s sponsors – Ohio City Express, Rocky Top, Brent’s Place, and Engrave to Shine – whose generosity helps bring this event to life. These partners understand the value of investing in the community, ensuring that children have access to free, meaningful experiences that keep them active, engaged, and connected.

“This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our local sponsors,” Program Director Corey Clifton said. “Together, we are giving families a place to enjoy Halloween traditions in a safe and welcoming environment.”

Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and get ready for a night full of spooky surprises, laughter, and memories that will last for years to come.

The YMCA of Van Wert County is partially funded by the Van Wert County Foundation and United Way.