From Thursday
Sheriff gets fingerprint device grant
The Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department received a grant from a familiar face on Wednesday to upgrade its fingerprint scanning equipment. Lonnie “Rudy” Rudasill, a Van county deputy under former sheriff Don Thomas who now is identification director for the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI), presented Sheriff Stan D. Owens with a grant for $38,303 to be used to update the department’s Livescan fingerprinting system. The grant allows the local sheriff’s department to choose an Ohio-certified vendor for the equipment and then be reimbursed for the purchase of the upgrades. The equipment is used to electronically scan finger and palm prints of criminal suspects at the time of their arrest. “Upgrading this equipment is essential to ensuring that Ohio’s criminal-history database remains a complete and reliable resource for our law enforcement agencies,” said Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann. “Additionally, this technology will greatly reduce the resources expended on fingerprint processing by local agencies and the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation).” The Livescan units funded by the grant consist of a computerized booking station with both 10-print and palm-capture capability, a rugged stand, duplex printer, installation, training and three years of vendor maintenance and support. Dann and BCI are in the process of disbursing nearly $3 million in federal grant money to approximately 89 law enforcement agencies in need of the equipment upgrades. In the meantime, Dann is seeking additional funding to equip more agencies with new units. Awards are based on an agency’s annual number of fingerprint submissions, as well as population size and number of agencies served. BCI, which is housed within the Criminal Justice Section of the attorney general’s office, maintains the state’s criminal-history repository and Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). BCI is currently in the process of expanding AFIS’ capabilities to accommodate palm prints, which can be captured by the new Livescan equipment. Sheriff Owens said his agency is waiting on a website that is being developed by BCI , which will allow his department to submit fingerprints over the Internet. “It is a piece of equipment that I’ve wanted ever since we opened the jail,” Sheriff Owens said of the Livescan system, and thanked the attorney general’s office and Rudasill for their help in obtaining the system. “Otherwise, we could never have gotten this equipment, due to the cost,” the sheriff noted. Rudasill said BCI hoped to work with the Ohio Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security to obtain additional funding so that Livescan units could be purchased for as many police departments as possible, with priority given to departments with higher population and high fingerprint submissions.
Photo caption: Lonnie Rudasill (left) of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI) presents Van Wert County Sheriff Stan D. Owens with a check for $38,303 to purchase a Livescan fingerprint scanner. Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/31

Indiana man gets prison term for chase
An Indiana man who led local authorities on a high-speed chase while driving a stolen car in which his 73-year-old mother was a passenger, was sentenced to prison on Wednesday. Victor E. Cihonski Jr., 50, of Michigan City, Ind., received a three-year prison term on a charge of failing to comply with an order or signal of a police officer during a sentencing hearing held in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court. Cihonski was convicted of the charge  during a jury trial held in December 2007. Judge Charles D. Steele found that Cihonski was not amenable to community control, largely because of a lengthy criminal record stretching back to 1993. Judge Steele did give the defendant credit for 269 days served in jail awaiting sentencing. According to testimony during the trial, as well as a Van Wert County Sheriff’ Department investigation, Cihonski was stopped by a county sheriff’s deputy in May 2007 for speeding, but fled after the deputy discovered the man had no valid driver’s license and the car he was driving was reported stolen. According to the sheriff’s department report, the chase covered more than 9 miles, starting west of Delphos and ending near Vantage Career Center at the east edge of Van Wert. Speeds in the case reached 112 mph, according to the deputy who was chasing Cihonski. Also Wednesday, a man accused of a number of area burglaries changed his plea to guilty on related charges during a hearing in Common Pleas Court. Jonathan M. Fulk, 24, of Van Wert, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary and one count of receiving stolen property. According to the sheriff’s department, Fulk and Chad Kouts, 18, also of Van Wert, are charged with involvement in several county burglaries, including a break-in at Lincolnview Local Schools and two residences from October-December 2007. Fulk faces a maximum of 22 years in prison on the charges. Judge Steele ordered a presentence investigation in the case and set sentencing for 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 12 (click here for more court hearing results).
1/31

County Spelling Bee date announced
Sandra Freeman, coordinator of gifted education for the Western Buckeye Educational Service Center, invites the public to attend the 2008 Van Wert County Spelling Bee. The event will be held Thursday, February 7, starting at 7:30 p.m., in the Marsh Foundation Auditorium on East Lincoln Highway. Fourteen individual school champions from grades 5-8 will compete for the honor of representing Van Wert County at the Journal-Gazette Area Spelling Bee in Fort Wayne, In., in March. Individual school champions are as follows: Colt Hegemeier, Crestview Elementary; Matt Holden, Crestview Junior High School; Karen Kline, Franklin Elementary in Delphos; Caris Burgos of the Goedde School in Van Wert; Rachel Mahlie of Jefferson Middle School in Delphos; Chase Getz of Landeck Elementary in Delphos; Dylan Nagel of Lincolnview Elementary School; Samantha Karalunas of Lincolnview Junior High School; Travis Herron of Lincolnview Marsh; Benn Youngpeter of St. John School in Delphos; Matthew Bidlack of St. Mary of the Assumption School; McKenna Merkle of Van Wert City Schools sixth grade; Alex Bair of VWCS seventh grade; and Vincent Moreland of VWCS eighth grade. Dr. Robert Scheidt, M.D., of Van Wert, will be the pronouncer for the Spelling Bee. Judges for the contest include Crestview Elementary Principal Kathy Mollenkopf, Lincolnview Elementary Principal William Kelly and Goedde School Principal Beth Runnion. Delphos Franklin Elementary School Principal Tim Larimore will preside as master of ceremonies, while Lincolnview Marsh School Principal Roger Salisbury is in charge of the physical set-up of the competition. First Federal Bank of Delphos will sponsor the event and provides U.S. Savings Bonds for first-, second-, and third-place finishers, as well as plaques for all the school champions. Contestants should report to the Marsh School Library at 7 that evening to prepare for the competition.
1/31

Voter registration ends on Monday
The Van Wert County Board of Elections has announced that the close of registration for the March 4 primary election is Monday, February 4, at 9 p.m. The Board of Elections office will be open from 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. on February 4 to take last-minute registrations. Anyone not currently registered in Van Wert County or who has moved since the December 11, 2007, General Election and not changed their address with the Board of Elections should stop by one of the following locations and update their registration. The registration locations in Van Wert County are the Van Wert and Delphos license bureaus; Brumback and Delphos Public libraries; the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) agency; the Department of Job and Family Services; the county treasurer’s, auditor’s and clerk of court title offices in the Courthouse and the Board of Elections office, 120 E. Main St. Questions regarding voter registration may be answered by contacting the Board office at 419.238.4192.
1/31

Insurance group donates to Vantage
A group of local insurance women recently presented Vantage Career Center with a check for $950. The Buckeye Insurance Women, a local association of the National Association of Insurance Women, held fundraisers – shopping trips, barbecue chicken dinners and soup and salad luncheons – throughout the year to raise money in order to “give back” to the community. Kathy Denny and Penny Duer, members of the group and employees of Central Mutual Insurance Company, selected Vantage to receive this gift because the organization wanted to help promote and finance the youth of our local communities in education and leadership.  This money will be used to assist students who need financial aid to compete in state and national contests, as well as the Vantage GRADS program.  The group has previously donated to Habitat for Humanity, the DARE program, the YWCA and local county fire departments. Both Denny and her husband, Jay, attended Vantage.  In addition, their son, Jayme, is a senior at Vantage in the Building and Grounds Maintenance program. Buckeye Insurance Women is a local association of the National Association of Insurance Women (International), which is an association of insurance professionals dedicated to development of leaders in the insurance industry. Nearly 13,000 members belong to local associations across the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada and other countries. Buckeye Insurance Women hold their monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at Central Insurance Company. Anyone interested in attending a meeting or requesting further information can call Reneé Linn, membership chair, at Central, 419.238.1010, extension 2384.
Photo caption: Kathy Denny (left) presents a check to Vantage Career Center Director Bob Vennekotter from the Buckeye Insurance Women. Looking on is Penny Duer, president-elect of the group. (Vantage photo)
1/31

Buehrer legislation goes to governor
The Ohio Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to concur on House changes to Senate Bill 157, legislation sponsored by State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-Delta) that would make needed changes to state law to give the parents of developmentally disabled children greater authority in selecting a guardian for those children once they reach adulthood. The bill, which is Buehrer’s first to pass the General Assembly as a member of the State Senate, now heads to Governor Ted Strickland for his signature. “I would like to thank my colleagues in the General Assembly for their strong support of this important legislation,” said Buehrer. “It is my hope that these reforms give parents a greater role in planning their children’s future.” Senator Buehrer noted that a significant number of developmentally disabled children now survive well into adulthood, and it is important that their parents have a choice in who cares for them later in life. Current Ohio law does not allow the parent of a child who is developmentally disabled to name a guardian for that child. “It just makes sense that the parents of a disabled child – the people who have lived with them for years and know best what services they need – should play a role in choosing a guardian to care for that child during their adult years,” explained Buehrer. “This bill is designed to not only improve the quality of life for Ohio’s developmentally disabled adults, but give their parents greater piece of mind knowing their child is in good hands.”
1/31

USDA RD offering home mortgages
Most people don’t think of USDA, as a home lender; however, more than 2.5 million families have obtained more then $97 billion in loans and loan guarantees from USDA’s Rural Development agency. There are two programs, with different eligibility rules.  The guaranteed loans are made through approved lenders.  These fixed-rate 30-year loans require no down payment and bear market interest rates.  The government charges a 2 percent, one-time fee for the guarantee, which can be included in the amount borrowed.  There is no requirement for private mortgage insurance.  To be eligible, a household cannot have income greater then 115 percent of the local median. Under the second program, the agency lends the money directly.  The term is 33 years, and the interest rate is now 5.625 percent.  No down payment is required, and a subsidy is provided, based on income, which can lower the effective interest rate on these loans to as low as 1 percent.  The direct housing program begins with their evaluation of the family income and debt levels in order to identify a comfortable payment plan.  Credit is also a factor in the eligibility process. Income limits and other information can be located on our website at: http://rurdev.usda.gov/rhs/common/indiv_intro.htm. For more information or an application, call the Rural Development Findlay Area office at 419.422.0242, extension 113, or email Karen.Westrick@oh.usda.gov.
1/31

From Wednesday
Cold front blows into Van Wert County
Icy roads, windy conditions force local schools to delay classes
After reaching nearly 50 degrees on Tuesday, temperatures took a tumble as a strong low-pressure system blew into the area. Blowing winds downed trees and utility poles while plunging temperatures made roads and streets icy as the strong cold front moved into Van Wert County on Tuesday night. The icy roads caused Van Wert and St. Marys, Lincolnview, Crestview and Vantage Career Center to go to a two-hour delay, while Thomas Edison Center and First United Methodist, Calvary and Convoy preschools are on a one-hour delay this morning. Winds that gusted up to 50 mph created wind chills predicted to be from 1 below to 11 below zero overnight. A number of trees and utility lines and poles were downed by the high winds, while plunging temperatures, which dropped 20 degrees in a couple of hours, were down a full 40 degrees – from 49 degrees at 6 p.m. Tuesday to 9 degrees at Van Wert Middle School – by 1:45 a.m. Wednesday. Police, fire and street personnel were out several times overnight to deal with wind-related problems. A wind advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Wednesday, and the National Weather Service warns drivers of “high-profile” vehicles to drive slower due to the higher tip-over possibilities. A small area of the city was without power for a brief period of time, while larger areas experienced flickering light and even power outages that lasted a second or two. Up to an inch of snow was predicted with the low-pressure system, but that storm swung to the north, bypassing the county. The week could still see some of the white stuff, though, as a new system expected to hit the county on Thursday is supposed to include a moderate amount of snow, as well as colder temperatures.
Photo caption: A tree blown down by strong winds fell on this car in front of 208 E. Sycamore St. Tuesday evening. Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/30

Commish get good insurance news
The Van Wert County commissioners heard some good news about health and life insurance, and some “maybe” good news related to unsewered areas along Richey Road. Commission Chairman Gary Adams said the news was good at the five-county insurance consortium meeting hosted in Van Wert on Tuesday. “In health insurance, there was about $200,000 less in claims last year,” Adams said, attributing the decline, in part, to a wellness plan implemented a few years ago. The decrease in claims payments could possibly result in a premium reduction if last year’s figures hold up in the first quarter of this year, Adams noted. “We’ll have to take a look after the first quarter to see if the trend continues,” he added. The commissioners are also hoping for similar good news down the road related to unsewered areas along Richey Road that have been a problem for the county for several years. Jason Menchhofer of the Van Wert County Health Department, met with the commissioners to provide an update on activities related to a compliance schedule with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency related to several unsewered areas in the county. One of those areas, located along Richey Road, could benefit from an alternative sewer system that has the health department excited. The system would cost from $3,000-$10,000 less than conventional systems, use less land, is more environmentally friendly and has a proven track record, Menchhofer said, adding that local contractors and suppliers are also available to install the system. Meanwhile, the OEPA would have to approve installation of the systems before homeowners could move forward. That approval would have to come fairly soon, since Richey Road, like other unsewered areas of the county, is on a compliance schedule agreed to by the commissioners and the EPA.
1/30

Delphos church gives to hospice
Trinity United Methodist Church in Delphos has pledged $5,000 toward Community Health Professionals’ Inpatient Hospice Center, currently under construction on Westwood Dr. in Van Wert. Keith Kiggins, church treasurer (left), and Rev. David Howell presented the church’s pledge to Shelly Barrett of CHP. The pledge comes from the church’s mission committee and is a demonstration of the Trinity United Methodist’s commitment to extend Christian outreach into the community, according to Rev. Howell. Designed exclusively for hospice care, the 12-bed, $3 million facility will provide 24-hour end-of-life care to patients and families in Van Wert and surrounding counties. (CHP photo)
1/30

Latta for economic stimulus package
U.S. Representative Bob Latta (R-5^th District) voted in support of the House bipartisan economic growth package today, which in its current provisions will provide a $145.9 billion boost to the economy through a tax rebate expected in May or June of 2008. “This package is important because it provides an immediate boost to the economy, and returns money to the taxpayer’s wallets – where it belongs.  While this is not a perfect or permanent solution, this will provide our economy the boost it needs in order to fight the short-term problems it is facing.  After this economic stimulus package is passed, Congress must continue to work on making previous tax cuts permanent to help keep our economy strong in the long run and again return money to the taxpayers.  If previous tax cuts are not made permanent, over 116 million American taxpayers will be paying $1,800 more in taxes per year on average,” Latta said, adding, “The package also includes important tax relief for businesses, specifically small businesses, for capital investments.  Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, there is no extraneous spending or tax hikes included in this package.  This will ensure that the stimulus package will truly stimulate the economy while also reducing government spending.”
1/30

Real estate tax bills due date nears
Van Wert County Treasurer Beverly Fuerst has announced that real estate tax bills have been mailed and are due Wednesday, February 13. If a property owner has not received a tax bill, they should call the Treasurer’s Office immediately at 419.238.5177. Failure to receive a tax bill does not excuse failure to pay or delay in paying taxes, nor does it avoid any penalty incurred for that delay.  In the case of mailed payments, they must be postmarked on or before February 13 to avoid any penalty. Taxpayers are reminded that credit card payments will NOT be accepted in the Treasurer’s Office.  Those choosing to use a credit card to pay their taxes can do so by contacting Official Payment Corp. at 1.800.272.9829 (Jurisdiction Code 4532) or visiting the Treasurer’s website at www.vanwertcounty.org.  There will be a convenience fee charged for this service. Treasurer Fuerst encourages taxpayers to contact her office should they be interested in a monthly prepay tax installment plan or having their taxes automatically debited from their bank account.  Call the above telephone number or email the treasurer at treasurer@vanwertcounty.org for more information.
1/30

VW Fed donates to JA
Junior Achievement of Van Wert County recently received a check from Van Wert Federal Savings Bank to help provide JA programs at area schools.  Shown are (from the left) Phil Bair, vice president and CFO of Van Wert Federal; Ralph Shields, Junior Achievement Board treasurer; and Mark Schumm, assistant vice president for Van Wert Federal.  Along with providing annual funds to JA, Bair and Schumm both volunteer their time to teach the sixth grade Global Marketplace program at Van Wert Middle School and Crestview Junior High School. (JA photo)
1/30

Brown wants more money for HEAP
With the Senate expected to consider an economic stimulus package this week, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) joined his Senate colleagues to call for emergency funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to be part of that package. “With energy prices out of control, we have to help people in desperate need pay for soaring heating costs this winter,” Brown said. “More and more people qualify for LIHEAP assistance. Yet every year, the program runs out of funding, leaving the elderly and other vulnerable populations literally out in the cold. That’s a breach of public safety and a lapse in human compassion. We must to do something about it.” The expected increase in heating costs in part reflects predictions of colder weather this year, requiring households to consume more energy to heat their homes. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration is expecting this winter to be 4 percent colder than last year across the country. As a result, the Department of Energy expects that heating costs this winter will be 10 percent higher than last year. Heating oil prices could be 16 percent higher this winter and the price of propane for heating is 12.9 percent higher than last winter, according to estimates by the Joint Economic Committee. The average U.S. household is likely to spend $977 to heat their homes between October and March, according to forecasts released by the Department of Energy. That is an average increase of $88 per household over last winter’s heating bill. Heating oil prices in Ohio rose 48 cents per gallon since October of this year and funding levels for LIHEAP are insufficient to meet current needs. “For an economic stimulus package to work, it must both stabilize the economy and provide immediate assistance to Americans in desperate need,” Brown said. Brown has also called on Congress to fund the full authorizing level of $5.1 billion for LIHEAP in Fiscal Year 2009.
1/30

From Tuesday
City Council looks at carryover issue
It was a fairly brief meeting, but Van Wert City Council discussed several issues that could prove controversial – or at least spark further discussion – down the road. Those issues included Finance Chairman Gary Corcoran’s inclusion in the appropriations ordinance of a statement that the city’s carryover be equal to, or exceed, 10 percent of the appropriations. Such a statement would prevent Mayor Louis Ehmer’s administration from appropriating funds that would lower the carryover below that amount. The limitation is designed to ensure that the city has an adequate contingency fund to handle unexpected emergencies or a possible economic downturn that decreases city revenues. Corcoran said the 10-percent clause would still allow Mayor Ehmer’s administration to use a portion of the current million-dollar carryover, but not to the extent that has been planned. City Council voted to introduce an appropriations measure that includes that language, but it still has to go through two more readings. Council had a similar mandate included in last year’s appropriations measure and that Council also reviewed city financial statements provided by then-mayor Don Farmer to ensure that appropriations didn’t exceed the 10-percent figure. There was also some indication that the city might go after delinquent taxpayers, and also possibly those delinquent on their utility payments. Mayor Ehmer reiterated a statement that his administration would be taking action, “that would possibly include court  action,” to get the existing 130 people delinquent on their taxes to pay up. “We are pursuing this right to the end,” the mayor told Council in his report. Water and Sewer Committee Chairman Brent Crone also noted in his report that 538 water/sewer accounts are delinquent, to the tune of $47,154, but did not state what action the city might take to get those accounts current. Crone also listed the six highest water users in the city, which include Eaton, Federal-Mogul, Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert Manor and Vancrest Health Care Center nursing facilities and Central Insurance. Also introduced Monday was legislation allowing for the rezoning of property owned by Michael and Diane Thompson from R-2 (residential) to B-1 (business), and to create a new fund for the Tier 2 grant recently received by Main Street Van Wert for downtown revitalization projects. Corcoran also talked about a discussion he and Mayor Ehmer had with Pat McCauley of Time-Warner Cable. Corcoran said the discussion was positive in many ways, but that there was still some disagreement on specific concerns the city has about the future of the cable franchise after the agreement with Time-Warner expires in 2011. “We did agree to disagree on a few things,” Corcoran noted. The Third Ward councilman said city officials did get assurances from McCauley that Van Wert’s public access channel would be maintained, although there was no assurance that a second channel guaranteed under the current agreement, if sought, would be placed in the lowest tier of channels. Corcoran said there is also no guarantee that, after the current franchise agreement expires, the city would continue to receive its current 5 percent franchise fee, noting that federal legislation guarantees that communities would receive anywhere from nothing to a maximum of 5 percent. Streets and Alleys Committee Chairman Steve Gehres also scheduled a series of meetings on the issue of sidewalks and also sought a legal opinion on the issue from Law Director Greg Unterbrink. Gehres said the discussions would try to determine “not only what the problem is, but where do we come up with the money to do the solution that we have.” Those discussion, Gehres said, may result in a conclusion that there are no city funds to do sidewalks without raising taxes.
1/29

CHS basketball homecoming
Crestview High School Student Council is pleased to announce this year’s 2007-2008 Winter Homecoming Court. Homecoming ceremonies will take place this Saturday, February 2, at Crestview High School during the junior varsity/varsity boys’ basketball game versus Leipsic. Senior queen candidates are (seated, from the left) Morgan Hicks, Noelle Bautz, and Ashley Brehm. Class attendants include (standing, from the left) junior Shena Simmons, sophomore Katie Thompson, and freshman Jessica Burger. (Crestview photo)
1/29

City police probing teenager's death
The Van Wert Police Department is investigating the death of a teen that occurred over the weekend. According to a news release, the death of Zachary Gent, 19, who was found unconscious at his residence at 239 N. Jefferson St., Apt. 28, early Sunday morning, remains under investigation by VWPD Detective Bureau. Police received a 9-1-1 call at 3:22 a.m. Sunday that Gent was found unconscious in his apartment and police and EMS units were dispatched. The person who found Gent started CPR efforts, which were continued by the police officer who was next on the scene. When EMS personnel arrived, they continued resuscitation efforts but were unable to resuscitate the teenager. A staff member from the Van Wert County Coroner’s Office was contacted and he pronounced Gent dead at the scene. The teen, a 2007 Van Wert High School graduate and a former wrestler and football player at the school, had been the alleged victim of an assault at Wal-Mart on Saturday morning. At this point, there has been no indication that Gent's death is suspicious or the result of foul play.
1/29

Culbertson Valentine's concert nears
On February 17, the Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio will offer a special Valentine’s weekend concert with award winning smooth jazz artist Brian Culbertson. Currently opening for mega superstar Barry Manilow’s U.S. tour, Culbertson takes time to bring his high-energy show and sensual music to Van Wert for an exciting evening of entertainment! There is a well-known and anticipated moment during every Brian Culbertson concert when the keyboardist creates a special moment for the audience in attendance. Over seven albums, Brian Culbertson has been creating “our songs” for the masses to great effect. He is the winner of the 2001 Smooth Jazz Award for Best Keyboardist, the 2005 American Society of Young Musicians’ “All That Jazz Award,” and of nine Downbeat student awards for performance and competition.  Also joining Culbertson will be saxophonist Michael Lington and, as a special treat, Culbertson’s father, trumpeter Jim Culbertson, is scheduled to join him. It will be a musical adventure for the senses. To celebrate the weekend of romance, a gift will be presented to each lady attending the show. Make the evening even more special by asking the box office about special dinner options available in town that night. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio is located at 10700 Ohio 118 south of Van Wert. Tickets are $30 for orchestra center seats, $25 for the rest of the orchestra, mezzanine and balcony center seating and $20 for balcony right and left seats. Tickets are now on sale and are available at the box office in the Grand Lobby of the Center or by phone from noon to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at 419.238.6722. Tickets are also available 24/7 on the web at www.npacvw.org. The February 17 Brian Culbertson concert is sponsored in part by Smooth Jazz 106.5, Time Warner Cable, Koch Law Office and Jim, Theresa, Megan and Julia Robideau. For more information about this concert and upcoming events please visit the website at www.npacvw.org or call 419.238.6722.
Photo captions: Top -- Brian Culbertson (left) performs. Bottom -- Michael Lington.
1/29

Recycling schedule set for February
The Van Wert Solid Waste Management District has released the township recycling schedule for the month of February. The recycling schedule will not be altered for the Presidents Day holiday. Hours for the township drop-off service are 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Residents and businesses can also deliver clean recyclable materials to the recycling drive-through located at the Van Wert Recycling Center on U.S. 127 north of the U.S. 30 interchange in Van Wert. The drive-through is normally open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and on the first and third Saturdays, from 8 a.m.-noon. Also, use the drive-through facility recycling drop-off for large quantities of recyclables as well. The township recycling schedule is as follows:

For more information on Van Wert County recycling programs, contact the Van Wert Solid Waste Management District at 419.238.7767 or visit the SWMD’s website at www.recyclevw.org.

1/29

Coupon books benefit hospice program
Cash Bonanza Marketing Company is currently selling coupon books benefiting Hospice-The Caring Way of Van Wert. The discount book offers up to $2,700 worth of coupons good throughout the year for food, merchandise, and services at local merchants. Coupon books are available to $54.95 at Community Health Professionals, 1159 Westwood Dr., Van Wert with 50% of proceeds benefiting the local hospice program. Coupon books are also being sold over the phone by Cash Bonanza Marketing Company with a smaller portion of the proceeds going to hospice. Questions or concerns regarding the coupon book should be directed to Cash Bonanza Marketing at its temporary office, 102 W. Main St., Van Wert, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Telephone is 419.238.0794.
1/29

Rotary gives to United Way
The Van Wert Rotary Club recently presented a $250 donation to the United Way of Van Wert County. President Gregg Bashore and Lisa Stemen, director, presented the donation to Deb Russell of United Way. United Way is one of several local organizations supported by Rotary. (photo submitted)
1/29

From Monday
Junior high girls take step into future
A number of area seventh- and eighth-grade girls got the chance to see what their future might be like in several nontraditional occupations during Vantage Career Center’s Step Into Your Future program on Saturday. The girls got a chance to get hands-on experience in such traditionally male careers as welding, carpentry, electrician and computer networking during the daylong program at Vantage. More girls seemed leery of the welding program than the other three areas, although a number enjoyed putting on heat-resistant gear and learning to make welds under the supervision of staff and student volunteers. The young girls rotated between the four areas to get a taste of what each was all about. The nontraditional careers workshop has been held at Vantage several years now and has sparked interest in such careers for young women, a number of who have graduated from Vantage in those disciplines. Perhaps the career of the four with the least opportunities for young women at the present time is the carpentry program, because of the downturn in housing starts nationwide that has drastically cut jobs for both men and women. Hopefully, that will change, though, by the time the junior high girls who participated in Saturday’s Step Into Your Future workshop are ready to graduate. The girls came from Vantage’s participating school districts.
Photo captions: Top -- Van Wert Middle School eighth-grader Heather Nofer (right) gets some tips on the proper sanding techniques from Vantage Carpentry student Tyler Miller. Bottom -- This junior high school-age girl tries her hand at welding under the tutelage of a female Vantage welding student. Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/28

VW grad gets boost to comedy career

Van Wert High School graduate Kyle Lane, a promising comedian who is currently a member of Chicago’s famed Second City Comedy Troupe, got some positive press recently on his foray as master of ceremonies for a newly-opened Chicago comedy room. Lane, a 2002 VWHS grad, was interviewed by Chicago Sun-Times entertainment reporter Mike Thomas prior to his stint as emcee at The Comedy Zone, a new comedy room in Dan & Buster’s, a club on North Clark Street in Chicago. Lane has been living in Chicago for several years and has been involved in a number of Second City projects, as well as acting in a couple of movie comedies, one of which, Riff Raff, which also feature’s Jim Belushi’s son, Rob, is expected to be released soon. Lane will be returning to Van Wert this summer to produce and film a horror movie in his hometown.
1/28

Lake Campus hosts FAFSA workshop
Wright State University-Lake Campus will host the statewide college financial aid event “College Goal Sunday” (CGS) on Sunday, February 10, at 2 p.m. The free event, presented by the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (OASFAA) and endorsed by the Ohio Board of Regents, assists students and parents with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the federal application that is required to receive federal financial aid, including the Federal Pell Grant and student loans. “The FAFSA is key to funding a college education and helping families overcome financial barriers that typically prevent students from attending”, says Sandy Gilbert, site coordinator at the Lake Campus. Studies show that a student is 50 percent more likely to attend college when they complete the FAFSA. Families are encouraged to register for the free event at www.ohiocollegegoalsunday.org due to the great demand for assistance in completing the FASFA. While walk-ins are welcome, registration is encouraged.  Record numbers are expected to be in attendance. OASFAA is a non-profit, professional organization for individuals actively engaged in the administration of financial aid within the State of Ohio for higher education.  As an educational organization, OASFAA strives to offer resources to students, families and high school advisors to promote higher education and increase awareness of financial aid opportunities.
1/28

Police probe weekend tire slashings
There was a spate of tire slashings overnight Saturday on the north side of Van Wert, according to city police reports taken on Sunday. David W. Baker of 225 W. First St. reported that two tires on his company vehicle were damaged while the vehicle was parked on the street sometime over the weekend. Two other vehicles parked in the 100 block of East First Street and belonging to Deborah K. Stewart, 135 E. First St., and Holly M. Bloom of Delphos, had street-facing tires flattened, as did a vehicle belonging to Keith A. Spangler of 605 Center St., which was also parked on the street. Police are investigating the incidents.
1/28

From Saturday
Lake Campus biz center gets grant

The Business Enterprise Center (BEC) at Wright State University-Lake Campus will continue its mission of providing customized business training in a newly remodeled home, thanks to a recent grant award totaling $484,000. The Capital Improvement Grant, jointly awarded to Edison Community College and the Lake Campus by the Ohio Board of Regents (OBR), supports the improvements of facilities at EnterpriseOhio network campuses. These improvements are seen as critical to the success of on-going, long-term regional economic development projects. “EnterpriseOhio campuses are committed to doing what we can to keep jobs in our areas,” says BEC Director Julie Miller, who came to the Lake Campus in 1997 and has been promoted to lead the Center she’s watched grow exponentially during her WSU tenure. “We need to increase the number of skilled workers in the area surrounding our Campus, and projects such as SkillsTrac will do that. Now, with the OBR grant, we can provide better facilities that will be flexible for all types of training needs.” SkillsTrac refers to the key initiative of the Western Ohio Training Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing. Established in March of 2007, the consortium received a $2.03-millon federal grant to aid in the delivery of advanced manufacturing training to current and displaced workers. Three other education partners – Edison Community College, Sinclair Community College, and Upper Valley JVS in Piqua – collaborate with the Lake Campus to offer the training. The Job Center Network is also an original member. The western Ohio project targets employers in Auglaize, Darke, Greene, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, Shelby, Van Wert and Warren counties. To best promote the mission of the consortium, the Lake Campus joined 21 EnterpriseOhio Campuses requesting over $9 million from the OBR in funding to help improve their facilities. Since only $2.3 million was appropriated for this purpose, the competition was tough, Miller adds. However, the BEC was fortunate and received $484,000, which allows the center to move forward with plans to renovate the south side of Trenary Labs at the Lake Campus. The renovation will give the BEC a permanent facility for job training activities. With modifications, the space will be able to provide customized training on larger equipment as well as individualized training that companies identify as necessary. “The requests we receive for training vary tremendously,” states Miller. “In the past few months, we’ve had HVAC personnel studying the latest technology in direct digital control systems … a local architectural firm spent a day learning about Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certification. In an economy where green practices are becoming incredibly important, we definitely anticipate a need in this area. These training sessions are in addition to our traditional classes for business start-ups, accounting and tax law updates, and so on… “ With such a complex list of offerings, the need for flexible and adaptable space became a top priority. Now, with the grant funding in place, and with the Lake Campus also ready to undergo a construction phase of its own, the time is right to build the BEC. Construction is expected to start this spring; however, the BEC plans to remain open during the renovations. For more information and an updated schedule of courses, please go to www.wright.edu/lake/beyond/bec.html or contact Carol Jones, BEC administrative support coordinator for the BEC, at Carol.Jones@wright.edu or 419.586.0355.
1/26

Catholic Schools Week events listed
This coming week, January 28-February 2, is Catholic Schools Week and St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School has a number of special activities planned for the week. The theme this year is “Catholic Schools Light the Way” and there are billboards along U.S. 127-South and U.S. 30 by Wal-Mart advertising the special week. The special week will begin with a pancake and sausage breakfast sponsored by the St. Mary’s School Council following the 8:30 a.m. Mass. The week will also end with food, as a carryout barbecue chicken dinner following a Mass for students on Saturday, February 2. Proceeds from the breakfast and chicken dinner will go toward the purchase of a second Elmo digital camera and projector. An anonymous donor purchased a similar camera for the school. On Monday, there will be a Quiz Bowl for third-, fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students, beginning at 9 a.m. The Quiz Bowl will continue every day, with the finals after Mass on Friday. On Tuesday, January 29, Van Wert Mayor Louis Ehmer will do a proclamation Catholic Schools Week proclamation at 9 a.m. Tuesday is also designated as Pajama Day, as students enjoy a movie, hot chocolate and popcorn with the principal in the afternoon. On Wednesday, January 30, parents and grandparents are invited to eat lunch with their students. Call the school office to make reservations. On Thursday, January 31, there will be an appreciation luncheon for all of the school’s volunteers. The next day, Friday, February 1, an appreciation luncheon will be held for the school’s faculty and staff.
Photo caption: Students line up in the hallway at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School in Van Wert. (St. Mary's photo)
1/26

Optimists donate to clinic
The Optimist Club of Van Wert recently donated funds to the Family Caring Clinic of Van Wert to stock items in its kiddie treasure chest for young patients. Tim Jurczyk, Optimist president, presented the donation to Jenny Smith and clinic staff members (from the left) Nancy Sink, Mary Coplin, Misty Lehmkuhle and Paula Bogle. Family Caring Clinic serves as a primary health care provider for many in Van Wert and surrounding counties. Members of the Optimist Club serve the youth of the community. To learn more about membership call Tim Jurczyk at 419.238.6866. (CHP photo)
1/26

Buehrer, Wachtmann chair committees
Van Wert County’s state representative and senator were both named to committee chair positions this week. State Representative Lynn Wachtmann (R- Napoleon) Friday was appointed as chairman of the House Health Committee. Wachtmann has served on the Health Committee since the beginning of the 127^th General Assembly. Ohio House Speaker Jon Husted (R-Kettering) announced changes to committee assignments earlier Friday. “It is an honor to have been chosen as chairman of the Health Committee,” Wachtmann said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on legislation that will have a positive impact on those working in the health care fields and improve the health and well-being of all our citizens.” Wachtmann will continue to serve as a member of the Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee, the Infrastructure, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs Committee and the Insurance Committee. Ohio Senate President Bill Harris appointed State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-Delta) to serve as chair of the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee. “I would like to thank President Harris for giving me the opportunity to help shape transportation policy in this state,” said Buehrer. “Throughout my career in public service, I have stressed the importance of a well-maintained, easily-accessible transportation system to foster Ohio’s economic success.  I look forward to taking an even stronger leadership role on these issues as head of the Transportation Committee.” As a member of the Ohio House during the 124^th and 125^th General Assemblies, Senator Buehrer authored and successfully passed Ohio’s two-year transportation budget, which provides funding for highway projects across the state. Then, after coming over to the Senate early last year, Buehrer was assigned to the Senate Transportation Committee, where he played an integral role in crafting the state’s most recent highway budget, House Bill 67. Buehrer also sponsored a key amendment to HB 67 that worked to protect the U.S. 24 project and other priority highway projects across Ohio from being delayed or cancelled. “By making strategic investments to improve and expand Ohio’s transportation infrastructure, we not only improve safety and travel for Ohio motorists, but help build a foundation to attract business development and bring jobs to our local communities,” said Buehrer. “From the beginning of his service in the Ohio House, Steve has demonstrated a passion and commitment for transportation issues in this state,” said Harris. “This enthusiasm, coupled with the extensive knowledge and experience he has gained working on the last several transportation budgets, makes him the perfect candidate to take on this leadership role.”
Photo captions: Top -- Lynn Wachtmann. Bottom -- Steve Buehrer.
1/26

Snowflakes are back
Wassenberg Art Center in Van Wert is now showing an exhibit of cut-paper art by snowflake expert "Dr. Snowflake."  Wassenberg Executive Director Michele Hiegel and Mike Cross, representing show sponsor First Federal Savings & Loan Association, are shown discussing one of the snowflakes in the "Of Gifts and Days" snowflake series, which tells the story, in silhouetted snowflakes, of the traditional Christmas carol "The 12 Days of Christmas."  The exhibit runs through February 24, and exhibit hours are 1-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays).  Admission is free.  Time Warner Cable also sponsors the display. (Wassenberg photo)
1/26

CORS seeks local representatives
Are you interested in early childhood education issues? Do you want an opportunity to share your knowledge and skills in a way that helps shape the future of our young children? The Council on Rural Services…programs for innovative learning, the local early childhood education provider, needs interested community representatives to join its advisory council. The early childhood advisory council has the task of reviewing program design for quality standards that result in improved outcomes for young children, from birth through age 5. Made up of program parents, as well as members of the community, the advisory council reviews grants, participates in program evaluations, provides insight into local needs, and serves as a liaison to the community in sharing the value and necessity of early education services. Members of the early childhood advisory council will not only support early education, but also influence continued services of health, nutrition and parent involvement, all of which increase a child’s readiness for school. Anyone who lives or works in any of the following counties – Auglaize, Champaign, Darke, Greene, Logan, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, Shelby, and Van Wert – which are served by the Council on Rural Services, should call 1.866.627.4557 for an application. Monthly meetings are held the second Tuesday at 5 p.m. at A Learning Place in Piqua. For more information about early childhood services or other programs within Council on Rural Services…programs for innovative learning, access its website at www.corsp.org.
1/26

From Friday
County Foundation gives out grants
The Van Wert County Foundation handed out a number of checks to local organizations this year, some of which were at the Foundation office Thursday for photos. The grants included funds for local schools’ music programs, the YMCA and YWCA, the Van Wert Area Boychoir, First Presbyterian Church, Wee Care Learning Center, Van Wert Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Buckeye Youth, Crisis Care Line/House of Transition. The largest grants went to the Ys, with $50,000 given to the YWCA for the operation of its housing program from the Oscar J. Scaer Fund. The YMCA received $37,000 to assist with equipment upgrades and renovations. The grant money came from the Russell and Dorothy Gilliland and Scaer funds. First Presbyterian Church received $30,000 from the Jim Johnson Trust for general use by the church. Crestview and Lincolnview schools each received $1,500 to be use by their respective music departments. The money comes from the Oscar and Norma Feigert Fund (Crestview) and Hazel Gleason Fund (Lincolnview). The Van Wert Area Boychoir received $4,000 to help pay its director and accompanist. That money comes from the Gaylord and Eliza Saltzgaber Fund, which also helps fund the Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio. Wee Care Learning Center received $5,000 to replace gym equipment, while Crisis Care Line/House of Transition was given $2,000 for two new computers. The Van Wert SWCD received $5,000 to help fund its educational programs. Since it first began making grants in 1938, the Foundation has disbursed more than $16 million, including approximately $4 million in scholarships since 1993.
Photo caption: Van Wert County Foundation Trustee Mike Zedaker (left) presents a check for $30,000 to Rev. Ed Jillson of First United Presbyterian Church (click here for more photos). Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/25

Dog license penalty deadline nearing
Van Wert County Auditor Nancy Dixon announces that Thursday, January 31, is the last day to purchase dog licenses without a penalty. After that date, there will be a $16 penalty. Dog licenses can be purchased in the Auditor’s Office, Room 203, in the Courthouse, or at the following locations countywide:

• Hall Lumber Company, 122 S. Main St., Convoy

• J&J Butler Sales, 200 Walcott St., Willshire

• The Ramblers Roost Truck Stop, East Lincoln Highway, Middle Point

• Animal Clinic (Dr. Wilkin), East Lincoln Highway, Van Wert

• Van Wert Veterinary Clinic (Dr. Kleman), Van Wert-Decatur Road, Van Wert

• Chuffers Express Mart, 511 W. Carmean St., Ohio City

• Vonderwell Kennel & Brenda’s Cuddles’ and Cuts, 1333 N. Main St., Delphos

A self-addressed, stamped envelope or a 41-cent postage stamp, along with the proper fee, must accompany the return of the application by mail. Those who received a dog license application, should take it with them if they purchase dog tags at one of the above locations.
1/25

BBBS prepares for Bowl for Kids Sake
Big Brothers Big Sister Bowl For Kids Sake committee held a kick off meeting for the upcoming 2008 Bowl For Kids Sake.  The dates and theme were finalized and presented at the kick-off.  The dates this year are Sunday, March 2, at Plaza Lanes in Celina and Olympic Lanes in Van Wert, and Saturday, March 8th at Varsity Lanes in St. Marys. The theme for Bowl For Kids Sake 2008 is “Wild, Wild West” and will include a grand prize of a “Go West” Package and select prize drawings for those who raise $100 or more.  Participants will be treated to bowling, western themed décor, games, and loads of door prizes.  In addition, anyone who raises $60 gets a western style BBBS t-shirt. Everyone in the community is invited; teams of family members, your card club, company employees, or church groups.  Get five team members, call the BBBS office for a Bowl For Kids Sake packet, get sponsors, raise money, and then join everyone the day of the event for a game of bowling and lots of fun.  It is not about bowling, but helping the children in the community. To sign up a team call the BBBS offices at 419.394.2990 or 1.866.670.2227 or e-mail bbbs123@earthlink.net. Also, check out the group’s web site with information at www.BBSMA.com.
1/25

Elks donate to Girl Scouts

Van Wert Elks Lodge 1197, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks recently donated $50 to Girl Scout Troop 585 from Rockford.  The monies are contributed to the troop as part of the lodge’s goal to assist scouting troops and youth activities within the lodge jurisdiction. Girl Scout Troop 585 is currently working on a project to provide Girl Scout Cookies to the Ronald McDonald House in Cincinnati, Ohio. In April 2007, Girl Scout Troop 585 was able to deliver 18 cases of cookies to the Ronald McDonald House through their project. Shown is Elks Exalted Ruler Allen D. Zimmerman presenting the check to Kaylee Gehle, a member of Girl Scout Troop 585. (Elks photo)
1/25

From Thursday
County jobless rate balloons in Dec.
Whether the United States is heading toward a recession or not, unemployment figures showed a significant increase in Van Wert County last month. In figures released by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Van Wert County’s jobless rate jumped a full percentage point, from 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent. The increase resulted in the county having one of the highest jobless rates in northwest Ohio. Only one county in northwest Ohio, Fulton, had a higher unemployment percentage (6.6 percent). Van Wert was tied with Allen and Henry counties for the second highest rate. On the other end of the spectrum, neighboring Mercer County tied with Delaware County for the state’s lowest unemployment rate (4.2 percent), although Mercer County’s rate was up a half-percent over November 2007’s rate of 3.7 percent. The state’s jobless rate on average was 6.0 percent, up four-tenths of a percent from 5.6 percent in November. “Ohio’s labor market showed weakness in December, mirroring that of the U.S.,” said ODJFS Director Helen Jones-Kelley. “Total unemployment decreased slightly in both goods-producing and service-providing industries.” The number of workers unemployed in Ohio in December was 361,000, up from 334,000 the month before. In Van Wert County, 1,000 of the county’s 14,700-member workforce was unemployed. The county with the lowest jobless rate in the state was Morgan County at 10.2 percent. A year ago, the county was below the state unemployment average, with a rate of 4.9 percent, seven points below the state jobless rate of 5.6 percent. Both the county and the state were above the national unemployment average of 5.0 percent in December, up from 4.7 percent in November 2007. Construction and manufacturing sectors both saw jobs decrease, as did service-providing industries and government. Notable increases occurred in professional and business services, which was up 1,800 jobs, while educational and health services added 1,300 jobs in December. During the past 12 months, goods-producing industries lost 14,500 jobs, mostly in manufacturing, while educational and health services added 10,700 jobs (click here for a map showing unemployment around the state).
1/24

Man pleads to burglary at mom's house
A Lima man accused of burglarizing his own mother’s house was one of two people arraigned on Wednesday in Van Wert County Common Pleas Court. Rex A. Keysor, 38, pleaded not guilty to a charge of burglary, a second-degree felony offense, before Judge Charles D. Steele. According to the county sheriff’s department, Keysor entered his mother’s house in Middle Point in October 2007 and took checks and money orders from the dwelling. Keysor was ordered held on a $5,000 cash bond, along with a $5,000 personal surety bond. A pretrial hearing was scheduled for Wednesday, January 30, starting at 8 a.m. Also arraigned was Nathaniel Thomas, 29, of Van Wert, who pleaded not guilty to a charge of tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony offense. Van Wert police charged that Thomas attempted to flush marijuana down a toilet while officers were executing a search warrant at the residence in October 2007. Thomas was released on a personal surety bond and a pretrial hearing was set for 8 a.m. January 30. Also Wednesday, Richard N. Griggs was found in violation of his community control program for not reporting to his supervisor as required. He was ordered to serve a year in prison, with credit given for 184 days spent awaiting sentencing. Griggs was placed on community control as a result of his conviction related to a break-in that occurred in 2005. A Lima woman, Janera Knuckles, was placed on a year of community control related to a charge of attempted identity fraud, a first-degree misdemeanor offense. Knuckles allegedly attempted to use a friend’s identification during a traffic stop made by troopers from the Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Knuckles will spend 30 days in jail as part of his sentence. Three people entered plea changes during hearings held Wednesday. Steven J. Diltz, 23, of Delphos, entered a guilty plea to one count of possession of drugs, a fifth-degree felony, after morphine was found in his vehicle during a traffic stop by Van Wert police on September 29, 2007. A presentence investigation was ordered in the case, with sentencing to be scheduled at a later date. Eric M. Seekings, 25, of Van Wert, pleaded guilty to a charge of assault, a first-degree misdemeanor. According to city police, Seekings allegedly assaulted Ryan Karhoff on November 29, 2007 at Karhoff’s residence. A presentence investigation was ordered. Rodney C. Pulfer, 26, of Convoy, pleaded guilty to a charge of domestic violence, a first-degree misdemeanor, related to an investigation by the Convoy Marshal’s Offfice. According to that agency’s investigation, Pulfer allegedly assaulted, or attempted to cause physical harm, to Lisa Langenkamp, a family or household member, on November 29. A presentence was slated and sentencing to be held at a later date.
1/24

Profit selected for Soybean Board
Dale Profit, a soybean farmer from Van Wert, has recently been appointed by soybean check-off farmer-leaders to serve on the United Soybean Board’s (USB) New Uses Committee. USB is the governing body of the soybean check-off program and funds research projects and marketing efforts to help U.S. soybean farmers identify new markets, expand current markets and retain their competitive edge in the global marketplace. In 2008, USB’s New Uses Committee will continue to focus on increasing farmer profitability opportunities by opening new doors for soy-based products and technology. Both maintaining and establishing partnerships will remain essential to future success with soy technology. The check-off will continue to support major original equipment manufacturers like Ford Motor Company and John Deere and other Fortune 500 companies in expanding soy foam in product lines. Soybean check-off farmer-leaders will also continue to work with manufacturers, researchers and members of academia in the plastics, lubricants, coatings, adhesives and solvents markets to move soy technology through research, development and commercialization. USB is made up of 68 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean check-off on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Check-off funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean check-off. 
1/24

Elks choose Dec. 'students of month'
Van Wert Lodge 1197, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, has selected Brittany Bolenbaugh, a senior at Van Wert High School, and Nickole Lay, a senior at Wayne Trace High School, as the recipients of the “Students of the Month” award for December. Students are nominated by their high schools to receive this award.  Each Student of the Month receives a $50 savings bond along with a certificate from the local Elks lodge with the possibility to be named the Student of the Year.   Students are judged on the basis of multiple achievements in the following areas: Character, leadership, service, citizenship and scholastic. The program is designed to recognize outstanding young men and women for their achievements in school and community. The Elks want to recognize and praise those students for their accomplishments, their activities, and their contributions to society through this program.
1/24

VW students in District Choir
A number of Van Wert High School choir members participated in the Ohio Music Educators Association (OMEA) District III Honors Festival.  The concert was held at the Lima Civic Center on Sunday, January 20.  The following students auditioned and were selected to participate in this honors group: (front row, from the left) Victoria Barnhart, Alyssa Hartman, Breana Balliet and Melissa Bloomfield; (back row) Tobias Esche, Anthony McMichael, Ben Peltier, Nate Simson and Ryan Wells. (VWHS photo)
1/24

From Wednesday
Central, Starr, Rhoades earn awards
Central Insurance, Starr Commonwealth and a man with links to both those organizations were all honored Tuesday night during the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet, held at JEHMMS Banquet Center. Central Insurance received the coveted Community Cornerstone Award, which is given to Chamber members that have a significant impact on the community in a number of different areas. Starr Commonwealth/Montcalm School for Girls was the recipient of the Crystal Image Award and Jon Rhoades was given the Ray Miller Award for his involvement in the community. Central Vice President Edd Buhl first thanked the company’s employees, agents and policyholders for their support and added: “We believe in this community and I appreciate the recognition on behalf of all of us.” He also congratulated Rhoades on his award, noting that the retired Central vice president was a big reason for the company’s success. Connie Boley Swander, chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, also provided some highlights from Central’s more than 130-year history in the community from its founding in 1876. The company also received a Golden Shovel Award, given to companies with building projects, for the $50 million dollar construction/renovation project it completed in 2007. Others honored for expansion projects include Kennedy Kuhn, Kennedy Manufacturing and Everyday Travel. Boley was also complimentary of the things the Van Wert Campus of Starr Commonwealth/Montcalm School for Girls has done in the local community, and noted that students and staff donate many volunteer hours to area organizations and projects. “Thank you, Starr Commonwealth and Montcalm School for Girls, for your community leadership,” she said as Director Hugh Kocab accepted the award. Rhoades, who retired from Central after more than four decades of service, also serves as chairman of the Starr Commonwealth Board of Trustees, as well as being chairman of the Community Improvement Corporation and being in a number of other leadership positions within the Van Wert community. “Jon, the community is stronger because of you,” said Chamber CEO Kate Gribble in presenting him with the Ray Miller Award. Rhoades, in his typically low-key manner, said he felt his the main beneficiary of his years in Van Wert. “I could never repay what you people have given to me … if I had 100 years, I couldn’t make it,” he said. “It’s never been work, it’s always been fun.” In addition to Chamber board recognition, the Chamber also showed a slide show and handed out awards to members celebrating milestones in the community or in business. Those included People Link (10 years), Steve Bailey State Farm Insurance Agency (25 years), Braun Industries (35 years), Van-Del Drive-In (50 years), Federal-Mogul (75 years) and Cowan & Son Funeral Home (100 years). Following presentations, Chamber members and their guests were able to listen and learn from Barbara Wold, whose “Catch the Energy … Release the Potential” speech provided a number of tips for businesses looking to improve their customer service and moneymaking potential (see story below).
Photo captions: Top -- Central Vice President Edd Buhl speaks after accepting the Community Cornerstone Award at Tuesday's Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet for the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce. Middle -- Hugh Kocab (left), director of Starr Commonwealth-Van Wert and Montcalm School for Girls, accepts the Crystal Image Award from Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Connie Boley Swander. Bottom -- Jon Rhoades accepts the Ray Miller Award. Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/23

Business expert talks to Chamber
Barbara Wold is acknowledged as an expert business motivation speaker and her topics include customer care, sales and service quality, leadership skills, trends, exceptional customer service, building business relationships and high-level performance. She’s also known for using innovative techniques and humor in her presentations and she certainly got the audience’s attention right off by talking about her arrest for speeding in “Andy Griffith North Carolina” awhile back. Her point in talking about how she convinced a judge to let her off easy by complimenting his grandchildren was that, to be successful, businesses need to know what their customers’ hot buttons are. “You need to know what it’s going to take to push your customers’ buttons,” she noted. Wold talked about the importance of “taglines” for companies and communities, but especially stressed the importance of finding out what customers want, and then find a way to give it to them. “How many of you take the time to converse with your customers and listen to them … really listen?” Wold asked those at the Chamber event. She talked about Walt Disney and his innovation, which she noted came after two bankruptcies and being fired by a newspaper for not being creative enough. An example of listening to the customer was Wold’s description of a Starbucks assistant manager’s invention of its frappucino recipe after listening to customers at his Santa Monica store who wanted a cold coffee drink in the warmer climate. Wold, who does a lot of business consulting in foreign countries, described how the Cincinnati airport got to be listed among the world’s best airports and how Westin Hotels developed its “Cloud 9” theme and white bedding. Among her helpful business tips, Wold noted that, to please customers, one needs to know what different age groups are interested in, and advocated using focus groups to find out what customers are thinking. She also used recent articles from a number of publications to demonstrate her points, and showed examples of a number of lengthy customer surveys as examples of how NOT to find out what customers want.
Photo caption: Business expert Barbara Wold points out an article she feels provides good business information. Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent
1/23