Guest column: financial literacy

By Jamie Crawford

COLUMBUS — April marks Financial Literacy Month, and the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is encouraging Ohio communities to deepen their focus on financial well‑being by expanding access to practical, reliable financial education.

As part of that effort, the Division is reminding eligible organizations across the state to apply for funds available through the Ohio Financial Literacy Grant Program before the April 30 deadline, ensuring financial skills reach more Ohioans where they live, learn, and work. The program offers grants of up to $50,000 to nonprofits, schools, and community organizations that offer programs that teach essential skills to Ohioans of all ages, such as budgeting, saving, managing credit, and planning for unexpected expenses. Full details and application materials are available at com.ohio.gov/FinLitGrant.

In 2025, the Program received record interest from organizations, receiving more than 600 applications for grant funds. That interest aligns with statistics that show the need for financial literacy programs is substantial. According to a report from the National Endowment for Financial Education, 88% of Americans said they entered 2026 facing some level of financial stress. Poor financial literacy cost Americans more than $246 billion in 2025.

“These challenges show how essential it is for communities to prioritize strong financial education,” said Division Interim Superintendent Ingrid White. “Organizations across Ohio play a vital role in helping people understand how to budget, save, and make informed decisions. The Financial Literacy Grant Program helps expand that reach so more individuals, especially young people, can begin to build secure financial futures.”

DoverPhila Credit Union in Dover, Ohio, who received $13,000, was one of eight organizations across the state to receive grant funds in 2025. They used funds to offer financial education workshops and tools to students, families, and educators, equipping participants with practical money management skills to improve economic outcomes.

“Anytime that we can show members of our community how to manage their finances and put themselves in a better position, we put the community as a whole in a better position,” said Katy Steinebrey, Certified Financial Counselor with DoverPhila Credit Union.

“Without these grant dollars, there’s no way that the North College Hill City School District would be able to afford this program, which means our students would miss out,” said Dr. Eugene Blalock, Jr., superintendent of North College Hill City School District, which also previously received grant funds.

To support all Ohioans in strengthening their financial footing, the Division offers these straightforward, practical steps that can be adapted to anyone’s situation:

• Know Your Income: Use your net income, not gross, to form a plan you can stick to.
• Monitor Your Spending: Get a clear picture of where your money goes to spot opportunities to cut back or redirect.
• Set Clear Goals: Prioritize achievable targets like building an emergency fund or reducing debt.
• Stay Flexible: Revisit and adjust your budget as life circumstances shift.
• Automate Savings: Make saving effortless by setting up automatic transfers to stay consistent.

Guest column: seniors and scammers

By Jamie Crawford

COLUMBUS — The number of Ohioans approaching the age of retirement is as high as ever before. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an estimated 18.8 percent of the state’s population, or 2.21 million Ohioans, are aged 65 years or older. That is up significantly from 13.3 percent in 2000. Nationwide, the United States is currently in a “peak 65” period, with approximately 11,200 baby boomers set to turn 65 every day through 2027, which is up from 10,000 roughly a decade ago.

Given the wealth that many retirees have accumulated throughout their lives and an increased risk posed by bad actors, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Securities is using National Consumer Protection Week to call attention to the threat that retirees – and their nest egg – face from scammers who target older individuals.

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Americans aged 60 and older reported more than 140,000 complaints and nearly $5 billion in losses to scams in 2024. In addition, Ohio ranked eighth in the nation for the total number of complaints filed by this age group.

Older adults are often singled out because they typically have more savings, might be less familiar with fast-changing technology, and can be hesitant to report fraud to authorities. Scammers attempt to exploit these vulnerabilities with convincing stories designed to create fear and urgency, making victims sometimes believe they’re fixing a problem rather than sending money to criminals who will disappear overnight. Losses among older adults are staggering. According to the Federal Trade Commission, reports of scams costing $10,000 or more have quadrupled since 2020, while cases involving losses of $100,000 or more have increased nearly sevenfold.

“Every day, more Ohioans retire to enjoy the resources they spent their lives building,” said Ohio Securities Commissioner Andrea Seidt. “Unfortunately, scammers see those resources as an opportunity. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect your hard-earned savings and ensure your golden years aren’t tarnished by fraud.” 

Common Scams Targeting Retirees

• Grandparent Scam: A caller pretends to be a grandchild in urgent need of money.
• Financial Services Scam: Fake banks or debt collectors claim your account has been compromised and they need your account information to resolve it.
• Tech Support Scam: Fraudsters pose as tech experts to trick you into giving personal information to gain access to your devices.
• Government Impersonation Scam: Scammers spoof agencies like Social Security or Medicare to trick you into giving sensitive information.
• Romance Scam: Criminals build fake relationships online, solicit money from the victim, then disappear without a trace.

How to Protect Yourself

• Pause and verify: If someone contacts you about an urgent problem, hang up and call the number found on their official letterhead or website.
• Never share personal information or passwords over the phone, email or via text.
• Avoid quick payments and pressure tactics: Scammers often demand gift cards, wire transfers, or peer-to-peer apps. Don’t make payments via these methods because they can be extremely difficult to track.
• Talk to someone you trust: A second opinion can help identify and stop a scam in its tracks.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has been targeted by an investment fraud, contact the Division’s Investor Protection Hotline at 1.877.683.7841 or email sgeneral@com.ohio.gov.

Guest column: have money waiting?

By Franklin Freytag

COLUMBUS — In recognition of National Unclaimed Funds Month in February, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Unclaimed Funds is reminding Ohioans to check for any potential money they might have waiting to be claimed. Whether the money is in your name, a loved one’s name, or your business, all it takes is a couple of minutes to see if you have money waiting for you.

Unclaimed funds come from a variety of sources, including dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, stocks and bonds, utility deposits, or unclaimed wages. Last year at this time, the Division launched a new system that streamlines how Ohioans search for, claim, and track their unclaimed funds. If it’s been a while since you last searched for funds, now’s a good time to check again. That’s because funds are reported to the Division throughout the year by banks and other entities.

Here are the top five reasons to search for and claim your missing money right now.

• Searching is quick, free and easy – Conducting an online search takes just a few minutes at unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov. There’s no cost and the process is secure.
• Financial boost for important needs – Recovered funds can help pay bills, increase savings or cover unexpected expenses, providing real value when reinvested in your financial health.
• Decade deadline – Ohioans have 10 years to claim any unclaimed funds that have been reported to the Division. In addition, if any funds reported this year and going forward are not claimed within 10 years, then they will be considered abandoned and will no longer be claimable.
• Get peace of mind – If this has been on your to-do list for a while, think of how relieved you’ll feel once you start the process of putting this money back where it belongs – in your pocket.
• It’s a win-win – There is no downside. Searching for unclaimed funds is free, and you might discover money you didn’t realize you, or even a loved one, have. Even small amounts can add up.

In addition to conducting searches, Ohioans can upload required documents and track their claims status without leaving the new platform. This system also offers greater communication with claimants about the status of their claim in the event items are missing that the Division needs in order to complete its review.

“This system was built with Ohioans in mind,” said Division Superintendent Akil Hardy. “By leveraging technology, we’ve made the search and claims process easier for claimants. I’m proud of how our team has leveraged this new system to return even more money back to Ohioans.”

The Division is still experiencing a historically high volume of claims due to increased public interest and media coverage surrounding unclaimed funds. It’s important to note that each claim is different and processing times can vary based on the complexity or simplicity of the claim, and if all of the required documentation is submitted in a timely manner. Incomplete document submission remains one of the main reasons for slow processing times.

To learn more about best practices for claiming your funds, check out our recent release about the do’s and don’ts of claiming your unclaimed funds.

Editor’s note: Franklin Freytag is the public information officer for the Ohio Department of Commerce.

Op-ed: strengthen against addiction

By Alicia Bruce

Northwest Ohio knows how to pull together, something I’ve seen time and again as a social worker and Program Director with the Tri-County ADAMHS Board serving Mercer, Van Wert and Paulding counties. I see it also as the representative from our area (Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert and Williams counties) on the OneOhio Recovery Foundation Board of Directors, where Ohio’s opioid settlement dollars are being put to work to drive addiction prevention, treatment and long-term recovery.

In the Foundation’s last grant cycle, seven projects in our region received $583,086, with most funding supporting recovery services along with targeted investments in treatment and other efforts—local partners solving local problems. With Regional Grant Cycle 2 underway and the Grant Portal now open, it’s a good opportunity to build on this work. Here are a few ideas to help strengthen your proposal:

Focus on barriers. Recovery falls apart when the support basics fail. Transportation in rural communities, childcare for outpatient visits, safe beds for women and children, legal help to stabilize housing or employment—these are just a few challenges that can be overcome with the right ideas and resources. Spell out how your project can remove such friction points.

Link the chain. Some of the best efforts to take on addiction connect prevention to treatment to recovery, not in theory but through working partnerships. A court-based program that diverts eligible defendants into treatment should show the handoffs to counseling, peer supports, housing and employment, for example.

Show the math. How many people would be served? What are the projected outcomes at 6 and 12 months? How will they be tracked. If you’re building capacity—a van route, evening hours, a peer-mentor cohort—quantify it realistically.

Plan for after the grant. OneOhio’s dollars are meant to be catalytic. Show how a project will sustain the work with reimbursements, collaborations or local philanthropy.

Grants don’t only go to large, established organizations, smaller ones are eligible also. Faith-based groups, civic organizations and other community-driven efforts should consider applying or partnering with other groups to apply. If you run a volunteer driver program, a moms’ support group with childcare, a skills class that leads to living-wage work, you can be part of the solution—especially in rural communities where distance magnifies every hurdle.

Regardless of if you are big or small, know that accountability and transparency are part of the equation. The Foundation manages its funds for the interest of all Ohioans and grantees are performing work with these funds that are in service to the people of our state. Careful, responsible and effective use of funds are expected and tracked. Grantees should understand that and be willing and able to comply with accountability and reporting requirements.

OneOhio exists because the addiction epidemic touched every zip code in our state, every income, every education background. The settlement funds are a chance to invest in what works to strengthen our state and help all those impacted heal. Region 16’s first awards helped stitch together transportation, housing, legal help and treatment so that people are more able to rebuild. With more strong proposals, we can make that progress better and brighter for everyone.

Please visit OneOhioFoundation.com/Grants to learn more. Talk with partners in the next community or county over. If your idea helps someone get to treatment, stay housed, find work and keep custody, that’s an idea worth submitting. Our families, communities and state recover together.

Note: the author is the Region 16 representative on the OneOhio Recovery Foundation Board of Directors and a licensed social worker. She currently serves as the Program Director for the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Services Board serving Mercer, Van Wert, and Paulding counties.

Guest column: Reseting finances

By Jamie Crawford

COLUMBUS — With the holidays officially over, it’s a matter of time until credit card bills from last month’s spending find their way into Ohioans’ mailboxes. While many individuals may be tempted to quickly set those bills aside, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions (DFI) encourages everyone to slow down, review statements for any questionable charges, and consider how they might keep their financial goals on track in 2026.

According to a recent report, the average credit card balance per consumer now stands at $6,523, which is up 2.2 percent year over year. If that sounds like you, the Division recommends taking the following steps: 

• Negotiate a lower interest rate. Call your credit card company and highlight your history of on-time payments or mention competitive offers from other lenders. Even a small reduction can save you money over time.
• Try a low-spend month. Commit to spending money only on essentials, such as housing, transportation, and groceries, for 30 days. This can be an effective way to offset holiday costs and reset your spending habits.
• Create a debt payoff plan. Don’t panic if you can’t pay everything off immediately. Instead, develop a realistic plan to tackle your debt as quickly as possible – and stick to it.

“All of us want to start the year feeling confident about our finances,” said Division Superintendent Kevin Allard. “Taking time now to review your financial situation and make some changes can help you set the stage for a stronger financial future this year and beyond.”

This is also a good time to thoroughly review your credit card statements to ensure there aren’t any unusual or strange charges. If you discover such charges, you should take the following steps: Lock or cancel your card; report the charge to your card issuer; update your online accounts including passwords; review other recent transactions and accounts; file a report with the FTC; and consider filing a police report since some banks and credit bureaus may require that in the event of large losses.

For more information and resources on financial health, fraud prevention, and credit improvement, visit the Division’s Office of Consumer Affairs website at com.ohio.gov/OCA.

Addressing property tax problems

By Dr. Howard Fleeter

A new report from the nonpartisan Ohio Education Policy Institute (OEPI) tells the story of how Ohio residential and agricultural property taxpayer costs have increased significantly over many years as well as a series of options to address the problem.

Authored by R. Gregory Browning, former state budget director under Gov. George Voinovich, and Dr. Howard Fleeter, Ohio’s leading school funding expert, the report is titled “Analysis of Residential Property Taxes in Ohio: A Balanced Approach to Reform. It identifies four forces that have combined to raise residential property taxes to the point that Ohio ranks eighth nationally in the weight of these local taxes. The four forces include:

1) years of state tax reforms that include dramatically reduced state income tax rates, significant reductions to some and elimination of, other business property taxes, and reductions to the property tax “rollback” — the mechanism by which Ohio pays a share of local property taxes. These changes, done in response to significant economic challenges and tax fairness issues, have also come at a price:

• Since 1991, the residential and agricultural share of school property taxes has increased from 47.5 percent to 67.5 percent in 2023, while the business share of property taxes has decreased from 52.5 percent to 32.5 percent.
•  State tax revenue has not kept pace with inflation over the past 20 years, and Ohio is currently 42nd nationally in its ranking of state-only per capita taxation.
• State education expenditures over the past 20 years have not kept pace with inflation. While there has also been a decline in public school students over this period, per-pupil state education expenditures have increased an average of only 0.7 percent annually once adjusted for inflation. Ohio now ranks 45th in the state share of K-12 revenue, down from 35th in 2002.
• Overall, Ohio has fallen from 15th nationally in total per-pupil spending on K-12 education to 20th nationally, spending slightly less than the national average.

2) Dramatically escalating home values in recent years have turned into residential property tax increases despite long-standing legal constraints designed to stop this from happening.

3) A relatively slow-growing Ohio economy with a persistent pattern of below-average per capita personal income makes it relatively harder to pay ever-higher property tax bills.

4) The goodwill of residents to keep voting for local property tax increases — increases that arguably come more frequently with slower growth in state funding.

The report spells out a short list of policy principles, including tax fairness — particularly for low-income property taxpayers, people with disabilities and eligible veterans — and the need for the state-local school funding partnership to continue by sharing the burden of addressing residential and agricultural property tax reform.

The analysis ends with a list of policy options anchored in these principles and providing substantive ways to address real property tax problems in Ohio. These options include:

1) Limiting automatic property tax increases in school districts at the 20-mill (required) floor to the rate of inflation. School districts at this level include the majority of Ohio school districts.

2) Targeted and expanded property tax relief by meaningfully expanding the state’s existing homestead exemption and/or limiting taxation for these eligible people to no more than 1% of their property value, a rate that roughly approximates the national average.

3) Give local governments new tools to lower property taxes through a voter-approved local homestead exemption.

4) Provide schools and other local governmental entities with new tools to help them improve operational cost ediciencies, thereby reducing the need for further tax increases over time.

These ideas require further development but represent a balanced approach to real property tax reform. It’s an approach that will fix what is broken without destroying Ohio’s longstanding, largely well-working system of funding schools and other essential local governmental services.

Editor’s note: Dr. Howard Fleeter is a consultant with the Ohio Education Policy Institute.

Guest column: Beyond the Mortgage

By Brandon Klein

COLUMBUS — Buying a home is one of the largest purchases many individuals will ever make, that means there’s also the potential for this experience to become one of the largest headaches, especially if consumers aren’t prepared. To help ensure Ohioans are equipped with the information they need to fully understand the full financial commitment involved with buying a home, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing and Ohio Department of Insurance have partnered to break down these costs before someone enters the housing market.

Knowing the various components that contribute to a monthly mortgage payment is key to making informed financial decisions and avoiding unnecessary financial strain.A typical house payment consists of the following elements: principal and interest, escrow fees for homeowner’s insurance, property taxes and private mortgage insurance (PMI), which protects the lender if you are unable to make payments on your loan. When combined, these elements can significantly impact overall affordability, especially when compared to just looking at the cost of the home itself.

“We’ve recently heard from a number of real estate agents that homebuyers have had to back out of real estate agreements in the final stages due to surprises with costs,” said Daphne Hawk, Superintendent of the Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing. “Buying a home is one of the most significant financial commitments many people make. Having a full and complete understanding of the recurring costs, like property taxes and insurance, helps homebuyers avoid potential surprises and ensures they only commit to what fits their budget.”

Interest rates and varying tax and insurance rates across Ohio mean potential costs can fluctuate greatly from one area to another. Prospective homebuyers are encouraged to assess how each factor affects their payment and ensure their monthly housing costs don’t exceed 30 percent of their gross income. This benchmark can help to maintain financial stability and protect against overextending personal budgets.

Tips for Calculating Monthly Housing Costs

The Ohio Department of Insurance and the Ohio Department of Commerce offer the following tips to help buyers research and estimate their true house payment:

• Research interest rates: Compare rates across multiple lenders to find a competitive mortgage rate. Online loan calculators can help estimate monthly payments for different rates. Homebuyers should work with a lender to understand the rates and get preapproval before shopping for a home.
• Estimate property taxes: Access your local county auditor’s website or contact their office to identify current property tax rates in the area where you’re looking to buy. Homebuyers interested in purchasing a home should review property taxes of recently sold nearby homes to estimate potential costs.
• Understand PMI: If your down payment is less than 20 percent of the home, make sure to account for private mortgage insurance (PMI) in your calculations. PMI protects the lender if you are unable to make payments on your loan. You have the right to ask your servicer to cancel PMI on the date the principal balance of your mortgage is scheduled to fall to 80 percent of the original value of your home, so make a note of when that will occur. Note, this only applies to conventional loans, not government loans.
• Shop for insurance: Obtain homeowners insurance quotes from different companies and carefully compare coverage and prices to ensure appropriate financial protection. Work with an insurance agent to determine where coverage adjustments can impact the price, and consider bundling with other insurance policies to potentially save money.

By taking these steps, homebuyers can confidently determine what they can afford and avoid taking on a commitment that risks their financial security. The Ohio Department of Insurance offers a range of educational homeowners insurance information, including a guide to homeowners insurance, available at insurance.ohio.gov. Homebuyers can also learn more by accessing the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Homebuyers Guide here or by visiting com.ohio.gov/real.

Guest editorial: modern investments

By Dean Monske

Over the next decade there will be trillions of dollars invested in infrastructure for AI data centers in the United States. Now is the time for northwest Ohio to make certain we are prepared for what may be the largest economic development opportunity ever presented. Our region has already attracted billions of dollars of investment in this evolving space, and we have the opportunity to attract billions more, but only if we work together to lay the proper foundation for an extraordinary opportunity that will benefit our communities.

For too long our area has been bypassed when similar opportunities have come and ultimately gone. The jobs and revenue went to other markets while northwest Ohio still pursues its place in the new, advanced economy.

Many of our forefathers capitalized on opportunities to create a vibrant community. We built the wealth of the region by attracting and welcoming the glass and automotive assembly industries. We developed traditional energy facilities at our refineries, and with First Solar, we have taken the lead in the growing renewable energy sector. Those clusters will continue to serve us well, but Northwest Ohio needs more to prosper. We are a great place to live and work but we have still not returned to pre-Covid employment levels in our region. Too many of our children and grandchildren are moving elsewhere to build their futures. Our region’s population is in slow decline and our community’s wealth continues to erode.

As some of the largest businesses in the world look to locate next-generation investments, it is clear the Northwest Ohio area has the desired attributes. We have flat land, water and sewer infrastructure, a strong electrical grid, an advanced fiber backbone with multiple providers, and modern high volume and pressure natural gas lines to meet energy needs. We have outstanding universities to educate tomorrow’s workforce and a strong skilled trades and construction sector.

But our advantages are only temporary. Other regions are scrambling to build similar infrastructure to attract these developments. Our region needs to act quickly and carefully to maintain our lead.

Op-ed: Overide property tax vetoes

By Steve Stivers

Ohio’s business community is facing mounting challenges, and skyrocketing property taxes are at the top of the list. At the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, we represent more than 8,000 businesses of every size, industry, and region across our state. When we surveyed our members last year, one message came through loud and clear: the most pressing tax concern for Ohio’s employers is property taxes.

Since receiving those results, the Ohio Chamber has been working with other business associations, including Ohio REALTORS and the County Auditors’ Association of Ohio, to study the property tax system and tirelessly advocate for reforms.

That’s why we were encouraged to see the General Assembly take meaningful action in the state operating budget to curb the unsustainable growth in property taxes. Their commonsense provisions would have brought much-needed predictability and relief for employers and homeowners alike, particularly in a time of rising valuations and local levy growth. Unfortunately, that relief was vetoed.

Now, the Ohio Legislature has an opportunity — and a responsibility — to override those vetoes.

The property tax burden in Ohio has reached a tipping point. According to the Ohio Chamber’s Ohio Tax Benchmarking Analysis, property taxes in Ohio are 72 percent higher than the peer locations analyzed nationwide. Business owners across the state are being squeezed by double-digit increases in property valuations, compounded by an ever-growing stack of local levies. These rising costs erode competitiveness, discourage investment, and ultimately drive up costs for consumers.

Increasing home values paired with lack of ballot transparency have contributed to the overwhelming burden of increased property tax. In 2024, the average sale price of a home in Ohio increased by 7.3 percent compared to the previous year, reaching $291,062, according to Ohio REALTORS. And in 2024, inflation was 2.9 percent while (three-year) reappraisals increased home values by over 30 percent in many areas.

Guest column: travel scam dangers

By Jamie Crawford

COLUMBUS — With nearly 82 percent of Americans planning to travel this summer, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Financial Institutions is urging Ohioans to be on the lookout for travel scams and fraud as they plan their summer getaway.

Last year Booking.com reported there had been between a 500-900 percent increase in travel scams over the previous 18 months due to advancements in AI technology. Often times, these scams impact travelers before they ever arrive at the airport or hit the road. 

To keep travelers safe and informed, the Division is highlighting steps consumers can take – and what to look for – to ensure their travels go smoothly.

“The more informed you are, the easier it becomes to avoid becoming a victim,” said Division of Financial Institutions Superintendent Kevin Allard. “Planning a trip doesn’t have to be stressful. By following a few simple tips, you can safeguard yourself and your finances without unnecessary hassle.”

Common Travel Scams to Look Out For

Ohio travelers should remain on alert for these prevalent travel scams:

• The Arrival Trap: This involves individuals guiding travelers to use more expensive transportation options once they land at an airport.
• Guest Desk Deception: This involves a traveler receiving a call from someone who claims is from their hotel and says they need the traveler’s credit card information. That information is then used to be fraudulent purchases.
• “Free” Vacation Offers: Fraudulent vacation promotions often come with hidden fees and taxes. Legitimate companies won’t require payment in order to receive free prizes.
• Robocall Vacation Deals: Unsolicited robocalls offering discounted packages are often illegal and indicative of scams.
• Fake Travel Documents: Be wary of websites that charge for services such as visas or international driving permits that are available through legitimate government channels.
• Vacation Rental Fraud: This involves scammers creating fake vacation home listings to steal money from unsuspecting vacationers. Once payment is made, the scammers will disappear, and you may travel to a vacation rental that doesn’t exist.
• Charter Flight Scams: Be on the lookout for advertisements that promote charter flights that disappear once payment is made. 

How to Stay Safe

The Division encourages Ohioans to take the following precautions to avoid becoming a victim of travel scams:

• Do Your Research: Confirm the validity of travel offers, agents, and booking websites by checking reviews or verifying business details with trusted organizations like the Better Business Bureau.
• Know the Payment Methods: Avoid paying for travel packages or accommodations with wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Consider using a credit card for added security.
• Be Wary of High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers will often push you to make quick decisions or payments. Be sure to take your time and ask for cancellation and refund policies upfront.

Tips to Plan a Secure Vacation

• Seek recommendations from trusted sources, including friends, family, or accredited travel agents.
• Use reliable travel booking platforms for airfare, hotels, or rentals, and double-check any unfamiliar websites for customer reviews and complaints.
• Compare hotel rates carefully, paying attention to hidden fees like resort charges and city taxes.
• If purchasing travel insurance, make sure the provider is licensed and review the terms of coverage thoroughly.

Travelers who suspect a scam should report it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies like the FTC or BBB to help combat fraud.

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Columns and letters on the Opinion page are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the VW independent.

Local attorney recommends Yarger

To the Editor,

My name is Steve Diller. I am now in my 47th year of practicing law. I have lived in Van Wert County the majority of my life. I would like to provide my opinion to the voters of Van Wert County on matter on the ballot in the upcoming election. It is the race for Juvenile/Probate Court Judge between Todd Wolfrum and Eva Yarger. The opinion I am advancing to you is based on my interactions over the years with the attorneys and Judges including Mr. Wolfrum and Ms. Yarger and factors including the frequency of appearances in the Courts of Van Wert County, the type of cases being handled, the manner and effort shown in fulfilling their duties as advocates for their clients.

First, I would indicate to you that I personally like both candidates and both of them have been exceptional assets to this community, Mr. Wolfrum as a Commissioner of Van Wert County for over 13 years and Ms. Yarger as an assistant Prosecutor, then Prosecutor and finally being appointed as Judge of the Probate and Juvenile Court upon Judge Taylor’s retirement.

The Juvenile Court is a crucial part of not only our system of justice in our community and society. It is a Court solely established to deal with children and it is reserved for dealing with the youth of our community that have committed acts ranging from truancy to violent crimes. It is a challenging area as often it is a product of a child’s home life. It takes knowledgeable, committed and wise individuals involved at all stages of the process, but ultimately it is the Judge who makes the fmal decision.

My opinion is based on the factors set forth above and in great part based on a phrase that “no one can serve two masters.” It has been my observation that in carryout his duties as a commissioner it took Mr. Wolfrum away from the practice of law. In contrast, Ms. Yarger’s duty and appearances increased across the board in all the Courts of Van Wert County.

That is why I recommend to you to vote for Ms. Yarger this election. She is extremely qualified for this position and I believe that if she is elected it will result in justice to those who appear before her and more importantly perhaps make a positive difference in in their lives and this community.

Sincerely,

Steve Diller

Van Wert

Van Wert County vs. State Machine

To the Editor,

There is a lot of noise surrounding the upcoming election for the Van Wert County Probate and Juvenile Court, but we need to look past the campaign signs and focus on a much deeper issue: the survival of local control in Van Wert County.

To be clear, this is not about whether one candidate is “better” than the other. Both individuals involved have their own records of service. This letter is not an endorsement or an attack on a person. It is a critique of a broken process and the state-level “machine” that fueled it.

When a vacancy occurs in our local courts, there is a clear expectation of how the process should work. Our local leadership – the people we elected right here in Van Wert County – did their due diligence. They vetted the options, understood our community’s specific needs, and sent their recommendations to Columbus. They spoke for us. Governor DeWine chose to ignore them.

By going directly against the wishes and recommendations of our local people to install a hand-picked appointment, the Governor sent a clear message: Columbus believes they should control our courthouse. When you add the weight of outside endorsements from organizations like the Koch network into a local race, the “machine” is no longer just a theory — it is a visible attempt to exert top-down control over our area.

Why does this matter to the citizens of Van Wert County?

Local trust — our county leaders know our families, our values, and our unique challenges better than any politician or strategist in Columbus ever will.

The “machine” play — when outside interests and state-level power players try to “control the bench,” they turn our legal system into a political tool rather than a local service.

Our voice — the Probate and Juvenile Court handles our most private family matters. That seat should be occupied by someone chosen by this community, not someone installed by a machine that snubbed our local representatives.

This isn’t about party lines, and it isn’t about Candidate A vs. Candidate B. It is about whether we believe Van Wert County should be governed by its own people or by a political machine in the state capital.

On Election Day, we have the opportunity to send a message. Let’s show Columbus that Van Wert County belongs to the people who live here, and our courthouse is not a satellite office for state-level interference. 

Jarret M. Hammons

Van Wert

Local attorney supports Yarger

To the Editor,

As a lifelong resident of Van Wert County and a practicing attorney, I write to express my personal support for Judge Eva Yarger for the Van Wert County Juvenile and Probate Court.

Judge Yarger is currently serving in this role by appointment, filling the remaining term of Judge Kevin Taylor following his retirement. Prior to taking the bench, she served as Van Wert County Prosecuting Attorney, bringing with her significant courtroom experience and a deep understanding of the law.

In my experience, the qualities that matter most in a judge are integrity, sound judgment, respect for the rule of law, and the ability to treat all parties fairly and impartially. Judge Yarger demonstrates these qualities. Her professional background and temperament reflect a commitment to applying the law thoughtfully and without bias.

Our courts depend on public confidence. That confidence is built when judges approach each case with preparation, patience, and respect for the process. Based on what I have observed, Judge Yarger possesses the character and discipline necessary to continue serving our community in this important role.

This endorsement is offered in my personal capacity as a member of the legal community who values a fair and impartial judiciary.

Sincerely,

Charles F. Koch

Van Wert

Writer supports Riedel, Wolfrum

To the Editor,       

The flyers we got in the mail this week claiming Craig Riedel is “not MAGA” was disgusting and untrue. It looked like a repeat of possibly one that was sent out when Craig ran in the primary against Democratic Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. Obviously, the person (or outsider group) who sent this out doesn’t know the real Craig Riedel.

When I first met Craig several years ago we talked at length as I determined whether to support him for our state representative. I told him that he needed to get up to speed on the wind and solar issues affecting our area. He won that race and Craig and State Senator Rob McColley became our tireless advocates in producing and passing a bill that allowed townships – the people – to vote on whether we wanted wind and solar. Craig listened and isn’t it interesting that President Trump also has worked against the wind and solar energy scam that has tried to destroy agricultural acres.

That is just one of the many ways that Craig has aligned with our great president. People need to check out Craig’s voting record when he served us in the state house. You will find that he is truly a conservative. He is not the candidate that voted with the Democrats in supporting transgenders in girls sports—Jim Hoops is. If you have a concern, he is the one who will always take your phone call.

Why should people in this state senate district be influenced by a federal political group that doesn’t know what we stand for? It is similar to what happened this winter when the local Republican Central Committee sent Gov. DeWine their choice for probate/juvenile judge. Their choice was overwhelmingly Todd Wolfrum, but Governor DeWine – an outsider who truly does not know the values of Van Wert County – went with someone else who does not share the values of the committee.

Are you tired of being influenced by outsiders? Do your own homework.

From our own personal experience, Eva Yarger has proven time and time again that she is no friend of farm families.  We need Todd Wolfrum, who is impartial and discerning, regardless of what your last name is. 

Vote Riedel and Wolfrum. 

Sincerely,

Linda Baker

Ohio City

Data centers to ease tax burden

To the Editor,

The recent news regarding Google’s $500 million investment in Lima (“Google officially behind data center project,” March 16) is a landmark moment for northwest Ohio. As we watch our neighbors secure this project, Van Wert is doing more than just “exploring” the field — we are actively preparing to lead it.

Large-scale developments naturally spark skepticism. In Van Wert, we view concerns regarding water and the electric grid not as obstacles, but as a roadmap for smarter planning. These projects are catalysts that fund the very infrastructure – roads, water, and sewer – that benefits every resident.

We have a unique advantage: the technology making data centers sustainable is being built right here. Danfoss, a Van Wert staple, holds the patents for the closed-loop cooling equipment that ensures water sustainability. Their recent addition of 50 jobs to meet this demand proves that local manufacturing can, and will, build the backbone of the 21st-century economy.

With 250 high-salary positions and $200 million in tax revenue projected over 15 years, our proposed data center isn’t just a tech project—it’s a long-term strategy to fund our schools and ease the tax burden on our citizens.

Brent Stevens

Executive Director, Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation

Major Weigner says thank you

To the Editor,

Thank you to the community for “Giving with Joy” in 2025.                   

Red kettles – thank you for every person who took time to ring a bell or stand at a kettle and thank you to all kettle sponsors. Thank you for every person who put a donation in a kettle.     

Angel Tree – thank you to all businesses, churches and organizations who adopted angel tags. Thank you to every person who bought a toy or clothing.     

Toss a Toy – thank you to every location that hosted a truck and collected toys. Thank you to every person who gave a financial donation to buy toys. Thank you Lee Kinstle GMC Sales and Service staff for the numerous hours of manpower driving trucks, picking up toys, and delivering them to the Salvation Army .        

Food – thank you to everyone who bought food for the Christmas boxes and to fill our pantry. Thank you to all of the volunteers and friends who helped with hundreds of hours to make this season a success. . 

Again, thank you for making the 2025 Christmas campaign a great success for all citizens of Van Wert County, where all funds stay in our community to help our neighbors in need.

Major Deborah Weigner

Salvation Army Van Wert

Retired judge says thank you

Dear Citizens of the Van Wert community,

As a result of my retirement as Judge of the Van Wert County Probate and Juvenile Court on December 31, 2025, I want to thank the residents of Van Wert County for your kind support and friendship over these past years.

I have had the honor and privilege of serving as Probate and Juvenile Judge for almost fourteen years and prior to that, more than twenty-six years as an assistant prosecuting attorney.

When I came to Van Wert in 1977, I never dreamed that I would be afforded the privilege of serving as a judge. Van Wert County is a great place to live and raise a family. The friendships that I have acquired over the years are too numerous to mention.

I do want to commend and thank my tremendous staff in the Van Wert County Probate and Juvenile Court who have each day performed their duties and made my job much easier. Iwish the best to my fellow citizens of this county for continued progress and prosperity.

Sincerely yours,
Kevin H. Taylor
Retired Van Wert County Probate and Juvenile Judge

Renner thanks Lancer community

To the Editor,

I would like to take this time to thank our Lancer community for helping to make my final program as Veterans Day Coordinator a success. It was a privilege to have so many Veterans and their family members present for our program and catered meal by Burtch’s Barn to Table. I am grateful to every student who brought a Veteran with them as well as Grace Custer (steel drum member) for providing music during the meal.  It is bittersweet to step down after 15 years as the Veterans Day Coordinator. However, I will continue to follow my passion of helping veterans and work with various local and national organizations that support our nation’s heroes. I have enjoyed planning every event over the years to honor and celebrate our veterans. I hope each Veteran knows how much you truly mean to me.

I would also like to acknowledge our very generous program sponsors. Without the support from these businesses, organizations, and families – this program and the programs in the past – would not be possible. These sponsors also helped in raising funds for Honor Flight to allow more Veterans and families to take part in this wonderful opportunity, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency program to help bring our fallen heroes back home, Angels for Veterans in Celina, and The Van Wert CAMO Court.

Thank you to the 2025 Veterans Day sponsors:

• 1^st Federal of Van Wert
• StateWide Ford
• Leland Smith (Randy Myers)
• Thaison Leaser of Edward Jones
• Randy Carey of Carey Insurance and Financial Services
• Huggy Bear Campground
• Van Wert Carts & More
• Overholt Moorman Electric/All-Temp Refrigeration
• GLM Transport
• Four-U Office Supplies
• Van Wert Propane
• H.A. Dorsten, Inc.
• Straley Realty & Auctioneers, Inc.
• K & L Ready Mix
• Scott & Amber Davis Family
• Venedocia Lions Club
• Dellinger Bros.
• Vancrest
• Industrial Maintenance Team, INC.
• Alexander & Bebout, Inc.
• Laudick’s Jewelry
• Daniel Shellabarger & family

With gratitude,

Mrs. Stephanie Renner 

Resident supports council candidate

To the Editor,

“He also mentioned transparency and accountability.”

“I feel like people need that in order to feel comfortable with how we’re using your taxes,” he stated. “I feel like taxes should be earned and should be earned through good financial reporting and providing quality services.”

The above is copied from an article in the Van Wert independent, October, 16, 2025.

This statement alone will convince me to vote for Mr. (Hall) Block, for city council. One huge area of transparency and accountability I would like to see is in the Van Wert Water Works Department. The City Council was quick and eager to increase our rates by a total of twenty percent, but we have not been updated on how much more revenue that increase has brought, nor how that revenue is being allocated. The Safety Service Director’s office was very vocal on updating the city’s water filtration infrastructure in its hurried and arbitrary lobby for the rate increase (tax), but now not a word as to how that endeavor is moving forward. Where is that money going, and can we see an itemized accounting of that money? Mr. Block offers to bring some transparency and accountability…please start here.

Mike Williams

Van Wert