Joan M. Smith

Joan M. Smith, 100, of Van Wert, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Joan was united in marriage to William Anthony Smith on August 30, 1944, and he passed away on March 28, 1975. Survivors include her daughter, Becky Kranz; son, Greg (Kimberly) Smith; daughter, Beth (Dr. Peter) Rahko; son, Jeff (Lana) Smith; sister, […]

DeWine cuts ribbon at rest area building

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Governor Mike DeWine paid a visit to western Van Wert County on Friday, to help celebrate the opening of two new rest area buildings. Governor DeWine was joined by local community leaders as he cut the ribbon at the eastbound U.S. 30 Convoy rest area, which welcomes people into Ohio. He noted […]

ODOT open house to be held Monday

VW independent staff/submitted information A reminder that the Ohio Department of Transportation has invited the public to a meeting to discuss three projects designed to improve safety along the U.S. 30, U.S. 224, and U.S. 127 corridors in Van Wert County. The meeting will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, July 21, at Vantage Career […]

Heat taking a toll on Ohio’s roads

VW independent staff/submitted information This summer’s blazing 90+ degree days aren’t just uncomfortable, they are wreaking havoc on Ohio’s asphalt roads. While potholes typically make their grand entrance in spring, scorching heat can contribute to cracking, warping, and weakening pavement all summer long. Additionally, heat can soften asphalt, making it more susceptible to rutting and deformation […]

Teamwork made waterslide a reality

VW independent staff/submitted information A long-anticipated addition to Camp Clay’s Aqua Park has finally arrived. After nearly two years of planning and fundraising, the YMCA has unveiled its newest feature – a 27-foot waterslide – thanks to the support of the local community. The waterslide project, which cost $111,000, was made possible through a collaborative […]

Summer EBT benefits distributed

VW independent staff/submitted information COLUMBUS — Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Matt Damschroder has announced that the department had distributed $122.6 million in Summer EBT benefits, also known as SUN Bucks, from June 11 through July 4. “To date, we have provided nearly $123 million in food assistance to Ohio children […]

Alleged scam lands man in jail

Submitted information Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach announced that the Sheriff’s Office arrested an individual on Thursday in connection with a possible scam. Sheriff Riggenbach stated that deputies received a call about a person contacting someone and requesting that the person pay a bond. The caller allegedly identified themselves as being with a […]

VWCO Sheriff’s activity log 7/17/2025

Thursday, July 17, 2025 12:39 a.m. – Deputies responded to a residence on North Race Street in the City of Van Wert to assist a motorist locked out of their vehicle. 7:11 a.m. – Deputies responded to a report of an assault on Gamble Road in Ridge Township. Middle Point EMS responded for a subject […]

Ray of Hope helps kids dealing with grief

Submitted information CHP Home Care & Hospice recently held its three day Rays of Hope day-camp for kids dealing with grief at YMCA Camp Clay in Van Wert. Rays of Hope offers a safe place for kids dealing with the loss of a loved one to find support and connection. Together with other kids who […]

Fair entries now being accepted

Submitted information The Van Wert County Agricultural Society, the managing organization of the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, has announced entries are now open for the 169th Annual Van Wert County Fair, which will run from Tuesday, August 26 through Monday, September 1. Exhibitors may submit entries online at vanwertcountyfair.com or turn in a printed entry […]