The Van Wert County Courthouse

Monday, May. 4, 2026

Terrell D. Berryman, 84, of Venice, Florida, passed away at 6:17 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026, at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Robert Davis, in Bradenton, Florida. He was born on February 25, 1942, in Van Wert, the son of Daniel K. Berryman and Anna Marie (Hipp) Berryman, who both preceded […]

POSTED: 04/12/26 at 8:17 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Early voting is underway and Republican voters in Van Wert County must decide which of two candidates will serve the next full term as Juvenile/Probate Judge. The race features an interesting little twist.  Former Van Wert County Prosecutor Eva Yarger was appointed to the seat by Governor Mike DeWine in February. She […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:16 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW independent staff The Van Wert Peony Festival is currently seeking talent acts to perform at first ever local talent showcase, scheduled for Saturday evening of this year’s festival. Organizers are seeking acts of any kind – singers, dancers, actors, musicians, comedians or anything else. Individuals and groups are encouraged to participate. Anyone interested should sent […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:13 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW indpependent staff/submitted information In response to community interest and feedback, the Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation is expanding access to information regarding the proposed data center project in Van Wert County. Printed copies of frequently asked questions and project information are now available for public pickup at the Van Wert Area Economic Development […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:11 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Van Wert Elks Lodge 1197, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks recently installed their new officers for the 2026-2027 Lodge year.  John E. Ream was installed as the new Exalted Ruler for the Van Wert Lodge. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks are known for their promotion of Americanism, Drug Abuse Education and support […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:09 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW independent staff/submitted information Tickets remain for the Van Wert Chamber of Commerce’s fourth annual Van Wert on Tap Craft Beer Festival, which will be held from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, April 18,  in the Junior Fair building at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Those attending will be able to enjoy unlimited tastings of selected wine […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:08 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Submitted information The YMCA of Van Wert County’s Good Friday prayer breakfast was held last Friday, April 3, at Hickory Sticks Golf Course banquet hall.Community members gathered early for prayer, reflection, and connection ahead of Good Friday. The morning centered on gratitude, encouragement, and support for neighbors across Van Wert. Guest speakers Colby Kuhn and […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:08 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW independent sports Baseball Van Wert 17 Kenton 5 (five innings) In the home opener and WBL opener, Van Wert scored five runs in the first inning then added 10 in the fourth and the Cougars enjoyed a run-shortened 17-5 victory over Kenton on Friday. Already leading 2-0 in the first inning, Conner Harris singled […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 9:06 pm. FILED UNDER: Sports

Thursday, April 9, 2026 12:36 a.m. – Dispatched Convoy EMS to a residence on East Tully Street in the Village of Convoy for a subject having difficulty breathing. 2:08 a.m. – Deputies responded to a residence on East Bellis Road in the Village of Middle Point to check an abandoned 911 call. 8:23 am. – […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 8:12 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 7:57 a.m. – Deputies responded to an area of Frothingham Street in the City of Van Wert for a report of a loose dog. 9:03 a.m. – Deputies served a warrant issued by Van Wert Common Pleas Court for a bond violation. Jeremy Charles Dunbar, 29, of Putnam County, is being […]

POSTED: 04/10/26 at 7:56 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement