DARE graduation

Van Wert DARE graduates (above) receive handshakes from a line of dignitaries that include Mayor Louis Ehmer, City Council President Gary Corcoran, Police Chief Joel Hammond, First Ward City Councilman John Marshall and Superintendent of Schools Ken Amstutz, and hugs from DARE Officer Greg Blackmore, during ceremonies held Tuesday in the S.F. Goedde Building gymnasium. Below, Officer Blackmore congratulates DARE essay winners. (photos by Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent)