SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor It may seem not so close but when you’re planning a grand parade to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, it’s really not that far away at all. Navy Club Ship 726 is organizing this year’s special semiquincenntenial celebration and while it will be held in Van Wert, it will be a countywide celebration. […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 10:13 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information Van Wert County’s unemployment rate of 4.1 percent in February was slightly under January’s rate (4.2 percent). According to estimates released by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services on Monday, 13,500 of the county’s total workforce of 14,100 were employed during the month, leaving approximately 600 people unemployed in […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 10:12 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information LIMA — The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) and Area Agency on Aging 3 is announcing a new season of the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). Eligible Ohioans will once again have access to $50 in fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs, and unprocessed honey. Enrollment is scheduled to begin at […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 10:11 pm. FILED UNDER: News
To the Editor: I am writing to offer my support of Jim Hoops, in his candidacy for State Senator of District 1. Jim Hoops has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to serving communities with integrity, dedication, and practical leadership. His ability to listen to constituents, understand the challenges facing working families, and deliver thoughtful, results-driven […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 9:19 pm. FILED UNDER: Letters to the Editor
Monday, April 20, 2026 9:45 a.m. – Deputies responded to a residence on State Route 709 in Liberty Township to check the welfare of a juvenile. 1:28 p.m. – Deputies responded to a residence on East Jackson Street in the Village of Wren for a report of an attempted theft. 2:26 p.m. – Deputies responded […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 11:44 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement
Janet L. Slagle, 86, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026. She was born September 9, 1939, to Merita (Thompson) Wilt and Clovis “Bud” Wilt. Janet graduated from Sidney High School in 1957 and went on to attend The Ohio State University, where she earned a degree in journalism in 1961. While attending Ohio State, […]
POSTED: 04/21/26 at 11:33 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
VW independent staff/submitted information NEW ALBANY — More than 50 elected officials, community stakeholders, business leaders and education partners from Van Wert County traveled to New Albany on Monday to tour one of Ohio’s most established data center and industrial park developments. Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Brent Stevens said the visit […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 10:15 pm. FILED UNDER: News
DAVE MOSIER/for the independent CONVOY – The Crestview Local Board of Education approved a number of housekeeping personnel items — including a position trade by two administrators — during its April meeting on Monday. First, though, board members were treated to a Focus on Education presentation by six elementary Technology Class students who showed off […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 10:02 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Independent staff/submitted information Average gasoline prices in Ohio have fallen 17.7 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.67 per gallon on Sunday, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 5,345 stations in Ohio. Prices in Ohio are 4.1 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 60.2 cents per gallon higher than a […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 9:56 pm. FILED UNDER: News
The YMCA of Van Wert County will host Healthy Kids Day Saturday, April 25 — a free community event designed to help children and families explore fun, practical ways to support physical health, mental well-being, and overall wellness. Healthy Kids Day is built to show kids that healthy habits can be enjoyable and approachable. The […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 9:52 pm. FILED UNDER: News