VW independent staff/submitted information
PAULDING — Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative (now known as Paulding Putnam) proudly introduced its bold new brand during its annual Member Appreciation Day event on July 12, celebrating the cooperative’s history and future. With over 1,200 members, families, and guests in attendance, the event marked a major milestone in Paulding Putnam’s 90-year legacy of service.
The new tagline — “A Legacy of Power. A Future of Connection.” — honors the cooperative’s strong foundation while signaling its forward-thinking direction. Based on last year’s member survey, the co-op simplified its name to the familiar “Paulding Putnam,” uniting both its electric and internet services under one trusted name. The updated logo now tells the full story: a lightning bolt stretching between the two Ps represents the co-op’s electric roots, while a cable swoosh symbolizes its future with fiber internet.
“A new service deserved a new brand to unite our electric and internet offerings as one,” said Samantha Kuhn, Paulding Putnam’s Marketing and Communications Manager. “We listened to our members and created a fresh identity that reflects where we’ve been — and where we’re going. Two essential services, one trusted cooperative.”
“After 90 years of powering homes and farms, our mission has grown beyond electricity,” added CEO Randy Price. “This new brand captures who we are today — a member-focused, technology-driven cooperative ready to connect our rural communities to the future with high-speed, reliable fiber internet.”
Paulding Putnam announced the launch of its lifestyle-based fiber internet plans designed to meet the unique needs of each household. Once service becomes available, each member will be able to choose from six tailored packages, ranging from casual browsing to ultra-connected smart homes, parental controls, gaming, and home offices. Pricing and plan information can be found online at www.ppec.coop/fiber.
Currently under construction are areas of Paulding and Putnam counties, including Paulding, Blue Creek, Latty, Washington, and Monterey Townships. These areas are expected to go live with fiber service within the next 3-6 months. Members may see contractor ITG out in the field or at their home, installing mainline fiber cable in marked Paulding Putnam vehicles.
(more…)POSTED: 07/16/25 at 12:56 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
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PAULDING — Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative invites its members and their immediate family to join the co-op for its 2025 Member Appreciation Day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 12, at the co-op headquarters located at 401 McDonald Pike, Paulding. Parking will be located behind the Paulding Putnam office in the Paulding County fairgrounds lot. The annual celebration is an opportunity for members to enjoy free food, prizes, and family fun while getting a sneak peek at what’s next for their co-op.
A new look and a new chapter
As Paulding Putnam celebrates 90 years of service to local communities, the co-op is rolling out a fresh new brand that better reflects who it is today and where it is headed. This milestone is a chance to honor the co-op’s rich history while embracing a legacy of power and a future of connection. Members will be among the first to see the new brand and learn about plans for the years ahead.
Members will also get the first look at fiber internet package options. While internet sign-ups are not yet open, members are encouraged to fill out an interest form to help plan for when service will be available in their area. The form can be found on Paulding Putnam’s website: www.PPEC.coop.
Activities for all ages
Kids are welcome. Activities will include:
- Tethered hot air balloon rides (weather permitting)
- Giant fun slide
- Zip line
- Inflatable bounce houses, slides, rock climbing, and sports challenges
- Face painting, balloon artist, stilt walkers, kid’s photo booth
- Live linemen demonstrations including pole top rescues, underground locates, and touch a truck
POSTED: 07/04/25 at 8:12 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
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FORT WAYNE (IN) — GreenWay Bank has announced Rob Slusser as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, starting July 14.
With over 30 years of experience in banking and financial services, Rob brings a wealth of expertise in strategic growth, market insight, and collaborative leadership to the position. Most recently serving as SVP Market President at F&M Bank, he is widely recognized as a community-focused industry leader. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for GreenWay and aligns closely with the bank’s mission to build lasting relationships and support the communities we serve.
“Finding the right person for GreenWay’s future was one of the most important decisions our Board has made,” said Gary Clay, Chairman of the Board. “Rob’s background stood out not only for his success at a $3.6 billion bank headquartered in northwest Ohio since 1897, but because he shares our values and integrity. That makes him the right fit.”
Mike Cahill, GreenWay’s former CEO, echoed that sentiment.
“I can’t think of a better person to carry GreenWay Bank forward,” Cahill said. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Rob for more than a decade. He’s a thoughtful leader and team builder, someone who listens, inspires trust, and understands the heart of community banking.”
Rob has held leadership roles in retail, commercial banking, private banking, and real estate lending. His experience driving market growth, innovation, and operational excellence has strengthened every organization he’s served, benefiting both customers and the community.
“It’s a privilege to join GreenWay Bank,” said Slusser. “Gary and the Board built a strong foundation, and Mike, with an outstanding team, expanded it with vision and care. I look forward to building on that legacy, applying my experience to help GreenWay grow, serve with excellence and stay rooted in the communities we care about.”
Rob is also active in local nonprofit leadership, currently serving on the board and executive committee of Arts United and Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, where he contributes his time and expertise. He looks forward to continuing his service in both Fort Wayne and Van Wert.
Rob holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Purdue University Fort Wayne and is a graduate of both the Indiana Bankers Association Commercial Lending School and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.
POSTED: 07/03/25 at 9:53 am. FILED UNDER: Business
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PAULDING — First Financial Bank teamed up with associates and community members on a successful book drive in May, with 189 books dropped off in bins at the First Financial locations in Paulding and Van Wert, and a grand total of 5,726 books dropped off in First Financial locations in four states. These books will now be donated to local schools, libraries and nonprofit organizations in areas served by the bank.
“We appreciate everyone in the community and our First Financial team for another incredibly successful book drive—gathering so many volumes in the name of improved community financial literacy,” said Roddell McCullough, chief corporate responsibility officer for First Financial.
The book drive continued from May 5-31. First Financial also provided a list of recommended books on financial literacy, available at each financial center during the book drive.
First Financial’s commitment to the community continues through its annual book drives and food drives, in addition to philanthropic support. First Financial and the First Financial Foundation have already reached $4.7 million of the $18 million goal for philanthropy, under its five-year, $2.4 billion Community Benefits Agreement with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition that launched last year.
POSTED: 06/27/25 at 8:58 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
VW independent staff/submitted information
Van Wert based Braun Ambulances, considered a trusted leader in the design and manufacturing of custom emergency vehicles, has announced it has officially achieved Ford Pro Upfitter Qualified status. This elite designation is part of Ford’s revamped accreditation program, formerly known as the Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) program, designed to strengthen the relationship between Ford and final-stage vehicle manufacturers like Braun.
The Ford Pro Upfitter program ensures that upfitters meet rigorous standards across multiple areas, including regulatory compliance, manufacturing operations, quality control, customer service, and industry participation. Braun Ambulances’ acceptance into this program is a direct result of its unwavering focus on excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction.
“This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Matt Kramer, Quality System & Continuous Improvement Manager at Braun Ambulances. “From the way we engineer our ambulances to the way we support our customers after delivery, we’re driven by a commitment to continuous improvement. Being named a Ford Pro Upfitter Qualified manufacturer confirms that our systems and processes meet or exceed the highest standards in the industry.”
For Braun customers and dealers, the designation translates to even greater confidence in the manufacturer’s ability to deliver well-integrated, reliable emergency vehicles built on Ford chassis. It ensures Braun ambulances are manufactured in clean, secure, and well-run facilities, in accordance with all applicable Ford and government regulations. It also confirms Braun’s longstanding commitment to responsive, customer-first service, as well as its continued involvement in key trade associations like the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA).
This new recognition underscores Braun Ambulances’ reputation for rugged durability, customizable craftsmanship, and legacy quality—attributes that have defined the company for over 50 years.
(more…)POSTED: 06/26/25 at 8:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
VW independent staff/submitted information
ST MARYS — An update on power supply shortages was the main discussion at Midwest Electric’s 88th annual meeting recently held at St. Marys Memorial High School. More than 1,000 members, families, and guests attended and enjoyed pony rides, a dinner buffet, kids’ games, bounce houses, a health fair, and more.
Adam Howe of St. Marys Memorial High School, son of Chris Howe, was the winner of the $1,000 scholarship drawing, and numerous members won a total of $2,000 in cash prizes.
Director election results were announced with each candidate serving a three-year term on the board:
- Steve Bauer (District 1: Auglaize and Shelby counties)
- Kathy Brake (District 3: Van Wert County)
- Jim Wiechart (District 4: Mercer and Darke counties)
CEO Matt Berry discussed the extreme cold this past January and all-time winter electric peak set in the 13-state regional power grid. While power supplies were tight, the regional grid operator managed it well by requiring all power plants to cancel planned maintenance outages, and ordering peaking power plants to be up and running, and canceling previously scheduled exports of power to other regions.
The situation remains critical, Berry said, because data centers are causing load forecasts to skyrocket. And the premature shutdown of coal, nuclear, and natural gas power plants continues, while much of the proposed new power generation is “non-dispatchable’ solar, wind and battery storage.
On the brighter side, Berry noted that Buckeye Power Supply Cooperative’s strategy of owning all of our power generation has resulted in us having lower electric rates than AEP and AES.
“We continue to have very good power plant performance, especially during critical periods when it’s unusually hot or cold,” Buckeye Power CEO Craig Grooms told members. “Investing in our resources and having a long-term focus on how we generate power continues to pay off and has helped us avoid some of the turbulence and volatility seen across the electric utility industry over the last few years.”
Grooms also discussed the influx of data centers in Ohio.
(more…)POSTED: 06/18/25 at 12:44 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
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The Board of Directors of First Federal of Van Wert has announced the promotion of Amanda Schulte to controller.
Schulte is a mother of three who balances family life with a passion for community service. She volunteers at Lifehouse in Waumbaland and is the secretary of the Van Wert Rotary Club. Schulte also serves on the Rotary Foundation, Rotary Board, and has most recently joined the Van Wert Chamber Leadership Committee. Her warmth, reliability, and commitment to helping others shine through in everything she does.
Schulte has been with First Federal for two years and has previously served as staff accountant.
“Amanda is a dedicated employee, and she exemplifies the determination of our whole team,” President & CEO Brian Renner said. We are excited for Amanda and her future at First Federal.”
POSTED: 06/11/25 at 1:50 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
VW independent staff/submitted information
PAYNE — MetaLINK Technologies has announced the commencement of the construction of a state-of-the-art fiber optic internet network in Payne. Ohio. The project is set to bring high-speed internet access and advanced connectivity to the residents and businesses in the village.
Project Overview: MetaLINK’s new fiber optic internet network will deliver synchronous 1Gbps internet speeds, offering a significant upgrade from current local wired provider services. The network promises to enhance the digital experience with faster downloads, seamless streaming, and improved reliability, addressing the growing demand for robust internet connectivity in today’s digital age.
Timeline: The construction is set to begin this month. MetaLINK is working closely with local authorities to ensure a smooth implementation process and minimize interferences.
“We are excited to bring cutting-edge technology to Payne, Ohio,” said Phillip Maag, CEO of MetaLINK Technologies. “This project emphasizes our commitment to providing high-quality internet services to underserved areas, ensuring that all communities have access to the connectivity they need to succeed in today’s digital landscape.”
POSTED: 06/02/25 at 8:28 pm. FILED UNDER: Business
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Alexander & Bebout, a trusted name in construction across northwest Ohio, is proudly celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025.
Since laying their first foundation in 1965, they have grown into a full-service design-build general contractor, dedicated to professionalism, quality craftsmanship, and long-term partnerships. They specialize in commercial construction, renovations, and design services, as well as residential construction, renovations and design services branded under A&B Home.
“For six decades, we’ve been more than builders—we’ve been teammates, problem-solvers, and community partners,” said Brad Ream, Vice President of Alexander & Bebout. “This milestone is a reflection of the incredible employees, clients, and collaborators who’ve helped shape our journey.”
With a core focus on building teams, dreams, and futures, Alexander & Bebout continues to lead the way in delivering exceptional commercial and residential projects. The company is opening a renovated office and design studio within the next few months, offering an enhanced experience for clients and a dynamic space for their growing team.
“As we mark this 60-year milestone, we’re not just honoring our past—we’re investing in the future,” said Sara Zura, President and granddaughter of one of Alexander & Bebout’s founders. “We’re looking ahead to the next generation of projects and partnerships, committed to being northwest Ohio’s professional partner focused on quality.”
Consider following A&B on social media where they update followers with project pictures, employee news and other promotions. They look forward to announcing their office and design studio open house soon.
POSTED: 05/23/25 at 6:02 am. FILED UNDER: Business
Wild West Wizards recently celebrated its official grand opening in downtown Van Wert. It brings a unique blend of fantasy and community to the downtown district. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the world of tabletop gaming, there’s something for everyone inside their magical doors. Wild West Wizards is open from 2-8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 12-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 12-4 p.m. on Sunday. The store is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Photo submitted
POSTED: 05/23/25 at 6:02 am. FILED UNDER: Business
