SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
While there is still some uncertainty about its exact track, weather forecasters are predicting a winter storm will impact Van Wert County and the surrounding area this weekend.
Earlier this week, most models predicted heavy snow would affect the Cincinnati area and points south, while sparing northwest Ohio. Now, those models have changed, so much so that Thursday afternoon, the National Weather Service Northern Indiana issued a Winter Storm Watch for Van Wert County from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday. It’s expected to become a Winter Storm Warning by Saturday.
According to NWS Northern Indiana, Van Wert County could see snow in excess of six inches. If the forecast is accurate, travel could become difficult. Residents are being encourage to delay travel, but if it’s absolutely necessary, take a winter storm kit with you, including jumper cables, a flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Local road crews are prepping for the storm, including those with the Van Wert Street Department.
“We prepare for the worst but we hope for the better,” Van Wert Street Superintendent Steve Thomas said. “All the equipment has been checked out to battle whatever may come our way. Better to be over prepared than under prepared.”
(more…)POSTED: 01/22/26 at 9:59 pm
SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor
A Paulding County man facing a dozen child pornography charges changed his plea in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court. He was one of eight defendants to appear before Judge Martin D. Burchfield on Wednesday.
Plea changes
Alec Shull, 24, of Cecil, pleaded guilty to pandering obscenity involving a minor or impaired person, a second degree felony; pandering obscenity involving a minor or impaired person, a fourth degree felony, and illegal use of a minor or impaired person in nudity-oriented material or performance, a fifth degree felony. In exchange for the guilty plea, nine similar charges were dismissed. The alleged crimes occurred between mid-December, 2024 and mid-January, 2025. Judge Burchfield ordered a pre-sentence investigation and set sentencing for 9 a.m. February 25.
Trenton Younts, 52, of Middle Point, changed his plea to guilty to aggravated possession of drugs, a felony of the fifth degree. He then requested and was granted intervention in lieu of conviction and his case was stayed pending completion of the treatment program. He was ordered to pay court costs.
Ernie Ginter, 24, of Van Wert, changed his plea to guilty to grand theft of a motor vehicle, a fourth degree felony. He requested and was granted intervention in lieu of conviction and his case was stayed pending completion of the treatment program. He was ordered to pay court costs.
Jordan Jackson, 32, of Lima, pleaded guilty to three counts of theft, all fifth degree felonies. He was then sentenced to 90 days in jail and was ordered to pay court costs and restitution in the amount of $898.
Carol Boyd, 51, of Van Wert, changed her plea to guilty of an amended charge of theft, a first degree misdemeanor. Sentencing was scheduled for 10:30 a.m. February 26.
(more…)POSTED: 01/22/26 at 9:59 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
WASHINGTON, DC — On Wednesday of this week, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) cast his 2,635th consecutive vote, marking the longest consecutive voting record of any sitting Member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
As first reported by Roll Call, a newspaper and website in Washington, DC, Congressman Latta has maintained a perfect voting record since 2020.
“Every vote is an opportunity to speak for the people of Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District, and it is my duty in Congress to make sure their voices are heard,” Congressman Latta said. “Missing a vote means silencing their voice in Congress, and that is not something I take lightly. This streak isn’t about setting a record, it’s about accountability.
I’m honored to hold the longest, consecutive voting record of any sitting Member of the U.S. House of Representatives,” he added.
“Congressman Latta’s exemplary attendance record is the gold standard for every House Republican. Bob is a team player and shows up ready to work for the people of his district,” Majority Whip Leader Tom Emmer said. “That’s really what service is all about.”
Latta has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since December, 2007, when he replaced the late Paul Gillmor. He has since won re-election nine times.
POSTED: 01/22/26 at 9:57 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff
The National Weather Service Northern Indiana has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the entire region, including Van Wert and Paulding counties, from 7 p.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday. In addition, the National Weather Service Office in Wilmington has issued a Winter Storm Watch from 7 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Monday for Mercer and Auglaize counties and points south. The current forecast says Van Wert and Paulding counties could receive in excess of six inches of snow. Mercer and Auglaize counties are expected to receive between 4-7 inches of snow.
Throughout the area, roads and especially bridges and overpasses will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult.
POSTED: 01/22/26 at 3:01 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
Due to the upcoming weather and low temperatures, the Van Wert County Solid Waste Management District will do their best to collect curbside recycling between January 23-30. However, there may be some routes/streets that are missed. To help alleviate this issue the drive-thru at the recycling center at 1135 N. Washington St., Van Wert, will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, January 23, and all next week, January 26-30, for residents who would like to bring their recycling in.
“We understand the frustration and inconvenience this has on Van Wert County residents, however we ask for your patience and understand during this difficult time,” Director Jeff Harmon said.
POSTED: 01/22/26 at 11:58 am. FILED UNDER: News
Editor’s note: this story has been updated with information provided by Van Wert Fire Chief Jon Jones.
VW independent staff/submitted information
A city home sustained heavy damage during a late Wednesday morning fire.
The Van Wert Fire Department was dispatched to the scene in the 600 block of N. Race St. shortly after 10:40 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found a working fire with heavy involvement in a bedroom in the rear corner of the residence. Initial reports indicated two possible occupants inside the structure.
According to Van Wert Fire Chief Jon Jones, crews quickly established a water supply, advanced attack lines and began both fire suppression and a primary search of the home. Additional alarms were sounded to bring in mutual aid from Middle Point and Ohio City for manpower and support. Vertical ventilation was performed to improve interior conditions and assist with fire control.
The fire was brought under control at approximately 11:17 a.m. Crews remained on scene for overhaul, investigation, and to ensure no extension of the fire into concealed spaces.
Chief Jones said the cause remains under investigation. The estimated property loss is approximately $65,000, with an additional $20,000 in content loss. No serious injuries were reported.
Along with Ohio City and Middle Point fire departments, Van Wert County CERT and the Van Wert Police Department provided mutual aid at the scene.
CERT is now working to raise support for the victims. After meeting with the family, it was determined that clothing and monetary donations are needed.
(more…)POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:36 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
The Van Wert County Treasurer’s Office has completed the bills for the first half collection of 2025 real estate tax and they have been mailed out. The due date for this billing period will be Wednesday, February 11. The Treasurer’s Office is open on Mondays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to -4 p.m.
The office accepts payments in the form of check, cashier’s check, money order and credit or debit cards. A 2.5 percent fee will be charged for all card payments by the credit card processor and an electronic check payment is available for a fee of $1.50. You can pay up to ten parcels for a single fee with your account and routing number with the electronic check. If you prefer to pay in cash, you may take your bill in its entirety, along with payment, to The First Bank of Berne, at 102 Christopher Crossing, Van Wert, next to Walmart. The First Bank of Berne will accept payments through the due date of February 11. Partial payments will not be accepted.
Credit card, debit card, and electronic check payments may be made online by visiting the county website at www.vanwertcountyohio.gov and clicking on Treasurer’s Office, then clicking on Payment Options. If you would like to make a payment over the phone, call 844.419.0200. You will need your parcel number, which is located on your bill, for all phone payments.
Anyone with questions about their property tax bill should call the office staff between the above business hours at 419.238.5177.
POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:35 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information
Don’t miss out on the sweetest event of the year as Historic Main Street Van Wert invites the community to enjoy a fun and flavorful stroll through downtown at the annual Chocolate Walk from 5-8 p.m. Friday, February 13.
Participants will be able to visit a variety of downtown businesses – some familiar favorites and others they may be discovering for the first time – while enjoying delicious sweet treats along the way. The Chocolate Walk is a perfect opportunity to explore downtown, support local businesses, and enjoy a memorable evening with friends or that special someone.
The cost is $25 per ticket or $40 for two tickets. Tickets can be purchased at the Main Street Van Wert Office at 136 E. Main St., Collins Fine Foods, The Maeve Salon, and R Place Stone Grill. Tickets may also be purchased via Venmo, and will be held at the door for pickup.
This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of these event sponsors:
- Van Wert County Foundation
- TekniPlex Consumer Products
- Superior Credit Union
- OhioHealth
- First Financial Bank
- Cooper Farms
Main Street Van Wert Executive Director Mitch Price said their support helps Historic Main Street Van Wert continue hosting events that strengthen downtown businesses and community connections.
POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:35 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
The Middle Point Lions Club is sponsoring a sandwich supper before the Lincolnview boys basketball game against Delphos Jefferson on Friday, February 6.
Sandwiches will be served in the Lincolnview cafeteria from 4-6 p.m. that day and the menu will include BBQ pork sandwiches, shredded chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, cookies, brownies and Joan’s famous “scotcheroos.” Proceeds will benefit the Middle Point Lions scholarship fund.
POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:34 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information
CELINA – Anyone wants to explore beekeeping and learn how to produce honey should consider joining the Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association’s (GGLBA) Beginning Beekeeping School. Participants will be taught everything they need to know about the world of beekeeping.
Whether you’re a “new-bee” or a current beekeeper looking to refine your skills, this event is for you.
The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, February 28, at the Richardson-Bretz Center in Celina. Cost of the class is $50 per family in advance, or $60 at the door.
During the class, participants will enjoy
- Instruction from experienced beekeepers on how to begin keeping bees
- Demonstrations on assembling hives and frames and installing foundation.
- Networking with other beekeepers
- The chance to win door prizes Paid registrants will receive
- A copy of the book Bee-Sentials: A Field Guide” (a $28 value)
- A one-year membership in Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association ($15 value)
- A one-year membership in the Ohio State Beekeepers Association ($20 value)
- Beekeeping supply catalogs, literature, and other handouts.
Attendees will also be able to order hive kits and locally produced honey bee nucleus hives (nucs) on the day of the class. A cash or check deposit is required for each nuc or hive kit ordered.
Space is limited. To enroll or for more information, contact Matt Leiendecker 567.208.2682 or Scott Cohen 937.470.2866. Registration information is also available by clicking here.
The Richardson-Bretz building is located at 119 W. Fulton St. in Celina, just behind the Mercer County Library. Lunch will be provided along with coffee, doughnuts and refreshments throughout the day.
The Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association (GGLBA) meets monthly on the second Tuesday of the month at the St. Marys Community Public Library. Meetings run from 7-9 p.m. and are open to the public.
POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:34 pm. FILED UNDER: News
The winners of the Crestview Middle School Spelling Bee were (left to right): Sophie Gardner, sixth grade champion; Iyla Moser sixth grade runner-up; Harper Perrott. eighth grade runner-up; Adalee Gardner, eighth grade champion; Kade Whetsel, seventh grade champion, and Liam Worden, seventh grade runner-up. The overall champion was Adalee Gardner with Kade Whetsel taking overall runner-up. Gardner moves on to the Scripps online bee with a chance to qualify for the Scripps Ohio Bee in Toledo. Photo submitted
POSTED: 01/21/26 at 9:33 pm. FILED UNDER: News
