Burkley supports decision to arm centers

VW independent/submitted information COLUMBUS — State Representative Tony Burkley (R-Payne) applauded Governor John Kasich’s decision to authorize personnel at Ohio National Guard recruitment centers to carry weapons. This decision came in response to the tragic shooting that took place at a military recruiting center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, last week that claimed the lives of four […]

Wren Wiffleball tourney banners offered

VW independent/submitted information WREN — Banners are now being sold for Wren’s annual Wiffleball tournament. The 24th annual Wiffleball tournament is part of Wren Homecoming festivities, scheduled for August 20-22, and there are only a few days left to buy a banner. For more information, call Monica at 419.495.2752.

Carroll J. Wilhelm

Carroll J. Wilhelm, 78, of Delphos, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2015, at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 16, 1937, in Delphos, the son of Louis “Bounce” and Evelyn (McClish) Wilhelm, who both preceded him in death. On March 24, 1961, Carroll was united in […]

Vera M. Pruden

Vera M. Pruden, 92, of rural Rockford, died at 8:26 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2015, at the Laurels of Shane Hill near Rockford. She was born November 11, 1922, in Schumm, the daughter of Alfred Lawrence “Jack” and Viola Henrietta (Reidenbach) Handwerk, who both preceded her in death. On February 11, 1965, she married Glenn […]

First Financial buys Oak Street Holdings

First Financial Bank information CINCINNATI — First Financial Bank is continuing to grow through acquisitions; the latest being the nationally recognized lender, Oak Street Holdings Corporation. The Cincinnati-based bank has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Oak Street, which provides funding, lending and servicing to insurance agents and brokers throughout the United States. “We view […]

PPEC program funds area organizations

Paulding Putnam Electric information PAULDING — Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative recently donated more than $12,000 to area organizations as part of its Operation Round-Up program. For those not familiar with Operation Round Up, the idea is to give members the option of having their bills rounded up to the nearest dollar every month, with those […]

VWCS board discusses finances, physics

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor The Van Wert City Board of Education learned about a new middle school physics program coming to Van Wert Middle School, while Treasurer Mike Ruen had positive financial news for the district’s General Fund as well during its July meeting on Thursday. The district treasurer noted that the General Fund took in […]

MOD Boutique expands

Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce board members and development officials look on as MOD Boutique owner Emily Banks cuts the ribbon on a remodeling project for her store, 107 W. Main St. The boutique offers new women’s and children’s clothing and accessories — at least 10 new items a day every day it’s open […]

United Way approves agency allocations

Van Wert independent/submitted information The United Way of Van Wert County board of trustees approved allocations during the monthly board meeting on Thursday, June 18th. Funding was awarded to 26 programs offered by social service agencies throughout the county. Nine community volunteers reviewed grant applications and recommended the distribution of United Way grant funds. The […]

Free day at Camp Clay

The Camp Clay Aqua Park, splash pad and climbing wall will all be free to use today, thanks to local dentist Dr. Roger J. Okuley and an anonymous donor teaming up to provide a free day at Camp Clay from noon to 6 p.m. Also during business hours, 200 free hot dogs and water will […]