Volunteer group neuters city’s feral cats

VW independent/submitted information Community cats (also known as feral cats), as well as domestic cats, are a growing concern for Van Wert and the country in general, says Van Wert Mayor Jerry Mazur. However, a group of local residents has implemented the “Trap-Neuter-Return” (or “Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return”) program to reduce the cat population over time. TNR program volunteers […]

Yearbook donation

For the second year in a row, Gary Taylor of Taylor Auto Sales underwrote the cost of yearbooks for the students of LifeLinks Community School. Because of Taylor’s generosity, students were able to purchase 2015-2016 yearbooks at a fraction of the original price. Shown presenting Taylor with a copy of the yearbook is Zach Smith, […]

Central sponsors summer Tech Camp

VW independent/submitted information Central Insurance recently held its inaugural summer Tech Camp for students entering grades 7-8. The weeklong camp included interactive, hands-on projects to give the students a glimpse into future career possibilities in computer programming and multimedia design. Students designed and built their own video games using block code, created commercials using green […]

Railroad Week donation

The Venedocia Lions Club donated $100 to the Van Wert County Historical Society to be used for Railroad Heritage Weekend July 30-31 at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Here, Railroad Weekend representatives Bill Stanley (left) and Chuck White (right) pose with Jerry Koenig of the Venedocia Lions. (photo submitted)

Apex sponsors swim day

On June 14, Apex Clean Energy sponsored a day at YMCA Camp Clay Aqua Park. More than 160 swimmers came out to enjoy the park and learn about wind energy. Shown are (from the left) Sarah Moser (Apex Clean Energy development manager) and her sons, along with Scott Hawken (Apex Clean Energy’s director of project […]

Marjorie L. Bolinger

Marjorie L. Bolinger, 96, a former resident of Van Wert, passed away at 3:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23, 2016, at Willow Brook Christian Home in Columbus. She was born June 13, 1920, in Decatur, Indiana, the daughter of Charles and Dora (McClish) Massonne, who both preceded her in death. On August 10, 1941, she married […]

Vantage bd. learns about new program

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor The Vantage Career Center Board of Education said good-bye to Vantage Director Ben Winans and hired his replacement, while also learning about a new program for the upcoming school year during its July meeting held Thursday. Winans thanked the board for its support over the past three years he has been director, […]

VW Fire Equip. opens expanded facilities

VW independent news Van Wert Fire Equipment owners Jenni and Brandon Bowen cut the ribbon Thursday on their renovated and expanded facilities. After purchasing a county-owned building across the street from their main facility at 134 E. Crawford St., the Bowens moved their hydro-testing and fire extinguisher recharging operations to that building and renovated their […]

Fireworks donors listed; more $$ needed

VW independent/submitted information The Holiday at Home Committee is preparing for its annual Fourth of July celebration, and that includes a fireworks display behind the Van Wert High School-Middle School complex. This year, a number of organizations and businesses donated funds to ensure there will be a fireworks display for this year’s celebration. Those organizations […]

VW Manor issues open house reminder

VW independent/submitted information Just a reminder that Van Wert Manor, 160 Fox Road in Van Wert, will host a community open house celebration from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, June 29, to show off its newly renovated facility. Van Wert Manor is inviting the entire community to attend the open house event. Guided tours, snacks, and refreshments […]