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THE
BusinessJournal
OF WEST CENTRAL OHIO
June 2013
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In my predictions of major collaboration
trends for 2012 (part one and part two), I
highlighted big data, social and mobile, and
cloud and mobile. Clearly, these trends will
continue to evolve through 2013 and be-
yond. In my outlook for the coming year,
Id like to offer a perspective on five new
directions that these trends are likely to take.
1) Increasing Technology Adoption
Theres no question that adoption of on-
line collaboration technology will continue
increasing across all geographic regions. In
regions with healthy economies, the uptake
will be driven by opportunities to acceler-
ate revenue growth. In regions with troubled
economies, it will be driven by the need to
reduce costs. In either case, online collabo-
ration will enable organizations to save time
and money, while managing risk and ensur-
ing accountability.
2) From Software to SaaS
In the last couple of years, weve seen
providers of on-premise collaboration
software introduce Software-as-a-Service
(SaaS) solutions to complement their exist-
ing offerings. This has occurred across mul-
tiple segments, from enterprise IT to verti-
cals like construction and engineering. The
expansion from behind the firewall to the
cloud responds to the compelling economic
and practical advantages of SaaS includ-
ing no hardware or software to install and
maintain, fast release cycles and pay-as-
you-go usage. These advantages will drive
more collaboration software companies to
launch cloud-based solutions in 2013.
3) Vertical Specialization
Look for growing penetration of collabo-
ration solutions that are specialized for ver-
tical segments. These solutions will more
closely match user needs and take mar-
ket share from generic tools. For instance,
certain verticals have special requirements
for document management and file shar-
ing which often exceed the capabilities of
email, FTP sites and plain vanilla collabo-
ration software. These requirements will be
met increasingly with purpose-built tools
that support processes and information
unique to specific verticals. Prime example:
collaboration around Building Information
Modeling (BIM) in construction and engi-
neering.
4) Mobility Follows the User
The Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD)
trend shows how IT strategy has responded
to user behavior and how viral mobile
apps in the workplace have become. Real-
time communication is vital to collabora-
tion. Anytime, anywhere access to informa-
tion has improved efficiency across teams
and accelerated delivery schedules. In 2013,
well see mobility grow rapidly as a critical
attribute of collaboration tools and vendors
without it will be left behind. This trend will
continue to be driven by users with mobile
5 key collaboration trends for 2013
See COLLABORATION, page 12B
2B TheBusinessJournal June 2013







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Van Wert, OHIO - Central Insurance
Companies has announced the election of
Janet L. White, CPCU, AINS, to its Board
of Directors, as well as her appointment
to the Executive Committee of the Central
Companies and promotion to Senior Vice
President.
As Senior Vice President of Human Re-
sources, White holds the overall account-
ability for the Human Resources, Training
and Education, and Facilities departments.
This includes responsibilities of employ-
ment, employee benefits, the performance
appraisal program, salary administration
program, company policies, training and
development, and facilities, which includes
maintenance, grounds, custodial and leases
for the regional offices. White also chairs
the Pension and Savings and Profit Partici-
pation (SPP) Advisory and Administrative
Committees, and is a member of the Man-
agement and Risk Manage-
ment Committees for the com-
pany.
A graduate of Ohio Univer-
sity with a bachelors degree
in Business Administration,
White began her career at Cen-
tral in February 1979 in the
commercial lines underwriting
department as a technician. She
was later promoted to commer-
cial lines underwriter and then
to senior underwriter. In Feb-
ruary 1992, she transferred to
Human Resources as Employ-
ment Manager. She was promoted to Vice
President of Human Resources in 2004. She
has earned the Chartered Property Casualty
Underwriter (CPCU) and Associate in Gen-
eral Insurance (AINS) designations.
In the Van Wert community, Jan has
served as a board member
for both the Red Cross and
Van Wert County Hospital,
a member of the Commu-
nity Health Professionals
Advisory Board, and a board
member, campaign chairper-
son, and board president of
the United Way of Van Wert
County. She resides in Van
Wert with her husband, John.
Central Insurance Com-
panies was founded in Van
Wert, Ohio in 1876, and
writes more than 328,000
auto, home, and business policies in 18
states. Regional offices are located in Bos-
ton, Atlanta, Dallas, and Van Wert. The Cen-
tral group of companies has combined as-
sets of over $1 billion. Centrals A.M. Best
rating is A (Excellent).
White Elected to Central Insurance Board of Directors
Construction loses 6,000 jobs in April
Construction materials prices down 0.1 pecent in April
JANET L. WHITE
Todays employment report reinforces the
notion that sustained recovery remains elu-
sive. ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu.
Summary
The U.S. construction industry lost 6,000
jobs in April, according to the May 3 employ-
ment report by the U.S. Department of Labor,
but the unemployment rate decreased to 13.2
percent, down from 14.7 percent in March and
14.5 percent in April 2012. Year over year, the
construction industry has added 154,000 jobs,
or 1.7 percent. The decline in unemployment
is likely due to seasonality rather than mean-
ingful improvement in underlying construc-
tion labor market conditions.
The nonresidential building sector lost
4,800 jobs for the month, but has added
17,700, or 2.7 percent, over the last year. The
residential building sector added 6,200 jobs
in April and has added 14,400 jobs, or 2.5
percent, year over year.
Nonresidential specialty trade contrac-
tor employment fell by 11,100 jobs in April
compared to March, but is still up by 39,000
jobs, or 1.9 percent, compared to the same
time last year. Residential specialty trade
contractors added 7,100 jobs for the month
and have added 69,300 jobs, or 4.7 percent,
since April 2012. Heavy and civil engineer-
ing construction employment slipped by
3,800 jobs in April, but is up by 13,400 jobs,
or 1.5 percent, over the last twelve months.
Across all industries, the nation added
165,000 jobs, with the private sector expand-
ing by 176,000 jobs and the public sector
shrinking by 11,000 jobs. According to the
Bureau of Labor Statistics household sur-
vey, the national unemployment rate fell to
7.5 percent in April, down from 7.6 percent
in March.
Analysis
Todays report highlights the fact that
different forms of economic activity require
different levels of confidence, said ABC
Chief Economist Anirban Basu. Leading
the way in job creation in April were seg-
ments such as leisure/hospitality and retail
trade. It doesnt take that much confidence
to take a short cruise or eat at a restaurant;
however, it takes a considerable level of con-
fidence to move forward with a significant
construction project, and that level of confi-
dence is still lacking.
The recent construction spending report
issued by the U.S. Census Bureau showed
that both public and private nonresidential
construction were down for the month, in-
dicating that sustained momentum continues
to elude the industry, Basu said. Todays
employment report reinforces the notion that
sustained recovery remains elusive. While
nonresidential construction employment is
up by nearly 56,700 jobs on a year-over-year
basis, the segment shed 15,900 positions in
April. Further declines are possible in the
near-term given weak construction spending
dynamics and the anticipated impacts of se-
questration on construction starts.
Contractors should not be surprised if
nonresidential construction materials prices
bounce back significantly over the next sev-
eral months. ABC Chief Economist Anir-
ban Basu.
Summary
National construction materials prices
slipped 0.1 percent in April, according to the
May 15 producer price report by the U.S. De-
partment of Labor. Year over year, construc-
tion materials prices are up just 0.4 percent.
Nonresidential construction materials prices
decreased 0.1 percent for the month and are
down 0.4 percent over the last 12 months.
Nonferrous wire and cable prices dropped
3.5 percent for the month and are down 4.2
percent on a year-over-year basis. Prices for
plumbing fixtures and fittings slipped 0.5 per-
cent compared to March, but are 0.8 percent
higher than April 2012 prices. Prices for fabri-
cated structural metal products decreased 0.4
percent for the month and are down 0.9 per-
cent compared to one year ago. Iron and steel
prices slipped 0.3 percent in April and are 9.3
percent lower from the same time last year.
Steel mill product prices are an exception to
the trend for metal prices, as they increased
0.4 percent for the month but remain 8.9 per-
cent lower than the same time last year.
In contrast, crude energy prices increased
3.7 percent as natural gas prices jumped 15.5
percent. Year over year, crude energy prices
are up 8.4 percent. Softwood lumber prices
continue to climb and are up 2.5 percent for
the month and 33.1 percent during the past 12
months. Prices for prepared asphalt, tar roof-
ing, and siding increased 2.1 percent in April
and are 6 percent higher compared to the same
time last year. Prices for concrete products in-
creased 1.1 percent compared to last month
and are 3.2 percent higher from one year ago.
Overall, the nations wholesale goods pric-
es decreased 0.7 percent in Aprilthe larg-
est drop in three yearsbut are 0.7 percent
higher compared to April 2012.
Analysis
Once again, the headline number for
nonresidential construction materials prices
remains benign, stated Associated Builders
and Contractors Chief Economist Anirban
Basu. Over the past six months, the monthly
percentage changes in nonresidential materi-
als prices have shown little movement.
However, beneath the headline numbers
is some emerging volatility that should con-
cern contractors, said Basu. This volatil-
ity is not necessarily associated with rising
prices, but rather with expanding monthly
fluctuation that may render bidding projects
more difficult.
In the most recent month, materials prices
would have actually fallen significantly ex-
cept for an increase in energy prices, Basu
remarked. In recent weeks, commodity prices
have generally been weaker, a reflection of a soft
global economy still prone to bouts of weakness.
Economic growth in China now appears
to be firming and Japanese economic activity
is accelerating, which would tend to be con-
sistent with future materials price increases,
added Basu. In addition to a shifting global
outlook is the impact of central bank policy
around the world. Many central banks are
now following the lead of Americas Federal
Reserve by lowering interest rates and in-
creasing money suppliesa policy environ-
ment that is more likely to be associated with
both volatile and rising materials prices.
Only time will tell if materials prices
generally remain lower, said Basu. How-
ever, contractors should not be surprised if
nonresidential construction materials prices
bounce back significantly over the next sev-
eral months.
June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 3B
4. Guidance through planning and red
tape
Building is highly regulated by laws
from all three levels of government. Typi-
cally this starts with local government plan-
ning schemes, in order to achieve a planning
permit. Occasionally this process can take
a detour through to the Victorian Civil and
Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). This tri-
bunal is essentially a branch of the Supreme
Court set up to hear various types of cases
including building and planning disputes.
Upon achieving a planning permit the
next stage is to coordinate a building per-
mit. This level of regulation is to ensure
that the building when constructed is safe
to use, structurally sound and complies with
the Building Code and relevant Australian
Standards.
The complexities of the various regula-
tions makes it somewhat of a minefield for
those inexperienced in the local setting.
Again architects have the experience and
knowledge to navigate this path and keep
the project on track.
5. Coordinating the team
The architect cannot work in isolation.
All projects will require a team of profes-
sionals all doing their specific role. As a
minimum, a building surveyor and a struc-
tural engineer will be required. Depending
on the project this can include many more
consultants such as, town planning consul-
tants, land surveyors, hydraulic / mechani-
cal / services engineers, acoustic engineers,
geotechnical engineers, landscape architects
and urban designers. Needless to say this
team effort can require significant coordina-
tion to ensure that everyone is on the same
page.
An experienced architect will have work-
ing relationships with the full range of con-
sultants. Furthermore they will brief the
consultants and lead the project team on
your behalf to ensure that there is no unnec-
essary work done and that it is all coordi-
nated into a cohesive final design.
6. Tendering
Another aspect of the architects role is
organising the project tender. This process
enables reputable builders to bid on their
price to construct the project. This tender
process often enables the client to get bet-
ter value for money by making the builders
compete for the project in terms of price
and construction time frame. The architect
will ensure that the process is a level play-
ing field for all of the builders, controlling
the timing and dispersal of information and
responding to any builder queries.
7. Building on your terms (contract se-
lection)
When signing up for an off the plan
house from a builder or even a new car from
a dealership you are required to sign the
sellers contract. If you want that house or
that car you have no choice but to sign their
contract. This might mean that they have 18
months to deliver their end of the bargain
whilst you must provide your end immedi-
ately. This is not necessarily fair for you as
the purchaser, but your only alternative may
be not to proceed with the purchase.
However, when using an architect, you
are able to have your choice of building con-
tract. This can be used to protect your inter-
ests and make it more likely that the project
is completed within your time and budget.
With all building contracts the architect may
make suggestions as to which would be ap-
propriate for the specific project, however
legal advice should be taken to ensure the
selected one best suits your needs.
8. Being your representative
Through the entire process with the ex-
ception of assessing, valuing and certify-
ing builders claims, the architect is acting
as your representative and agent. If the lo-
cal council has an issue, the engineer has
a question, or the builder needs clarifica-
tion, the architect is their point of call. This
means that you dont have to be the expert
to get an expert result.
9. Getting the most out of the project
To get the most out of your project, the
design process is critical. Architects have
the experience to work through this process
with their clients and to push the boundaries
of client expectations. Often in a first meet-
ing, a client will have a fixed idea of what
they want in their project. The architect will
listen to the client and work with them to es-
tablish alternative options as well as identify
limitations which the client was originally
unaware of. This dialogue of ideas between
client and architect continues throughout
the project, providing an end result which is
often far beyond the clients initial expecta-
tions.
10. Value for money
Building is an expensive and complex
activity to undertake. To do it well requires
substantial time and skill in design. Some
critics of architects say that they charge too
much. However what the client is paying for
is the architects time to think, design and
draw their project. Architects are with the
project for its entirety and the greater the
time, thinking, designing and drawing, the
better the result. Some clients go into the
project restricting the architects scope of
services and negotiating the minimum fees
possible. Unfortunately these clients often
miss out on most of the value to be had.
As you have seen the Architect provides
experience and professionalism across a
broad range of tasks over the life of the proj-
ect. They will push the bounds of the brief to
create a building uniquely suited to the cli-
ents needs. They will engage their substan-
tial design skills to achieve the most out of
the site and wider context. Most importantly
they will be with the project and the client
from start to finish, providing them with
value and advantage along the way.
Architecture is for everyone.
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Executive Vice President
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Insurance Since 1838
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Serving the Corporate
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Living the Rotary motto:
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4B TheBusinessJournal June 2013
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Community Banking
1. Get the Same Services at Lower Cost
Most locally owned banks and credit unions offer
the same array of services, from online bill paying to
debit and credit cards, at much lower cost than big
banks. Average fees at small banks and credit unions
are substantially lower than at big banks, according to
national data. Studies show that small financial institu-
tions also offer, on average, better interest rates on sav-
ings and better terms on credit cards and other loans.
2. Put Your Money to Work Growing Your Local
Economy
Small businesses, which create the majority of new
jobs, depend heavily on small, local banks for financ-
ing. Although small and mid-sized banks control less
than one-quarter of all bank assets, they account for
more than half of all small business lending. Big banks,
meanwhile, allocate relatively little of their resources
to small businesses. The largest 20 banks, which now
control 57 percent of all bank assets, devote only 18
percent of their commercial loan portfolios to small business.
3. Keep Decision-Making Local
At local banks and credit unions, loan approvals and other key decisions are made lo-
cally by people who live in the community, have face-to-face relationships with their cus-
tomers, and understand local needs. Because of this
personal knowledge, local financial institutions are of-
ten able to approve small business and other loans that
big banks would reject. In the case of credit unions,
control ultimately rests with the customers, who are
also member- owners.
4. Back Institutions that Share a Commitment to
Your Community
The fortunes of local banks and credit unions are in-
timately tied to the fortunes of their local communities.
The more the community prospers, the more the local
bank benefits. This is why many local banks and credit
unions are involved in their communities. Big banks,
in contrast, are not tethered to the places where they
operate. Indeed, they often use a communitys deposits
to make investments in other regions or on Wall Street.
5. Support Productive Investment, Not Gam-
bling
The primary activity of almost all small banks and credit unions is to turn deposits into
loans and other productive investments. Meanwhile, big banks devote a sizeable share of
their resources to speculative trading and other Wall Street bets that may generate big prof-
its for the bank, but provide little economic or social value for the rest of us and can put the
entire financial system at risk if they go bad.
Top 5 reasons to choose a community bank or credit union
June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 5B
The Fort Jennings State Bank
the Bank of choice www.fjsb.com
Ottoville 419-453-2527
Columbus Grove 419-659-2527
Ft. Jennings 419-286-2527
Ottawa 419-523-3013
Leipsic 419-943-2528
The Ottoville Bank Co.
www.ottovillebank.com
MAIN OFFICE
161 W. Third St.
Ottoville, Ohio 45876
419-453-3313
LENDING CENTER
940 E. Fifth St.
Delphos, OH 45833
419-695-3313
Community bank
advantages
Community banks focus attention on the needs of local families, businesses
and farmers. Conversely, many of the nations megabanks are structured to place a
priority on serving large corporations.
Unlike many larger banks that may take deposits in one state and lend in oth-
ers, community banks channel most of their loans to the neighborhoods where their
depositors live and work, helping to keep local communities vibrant and growing.
Community bank officers are generally accessible to their customers on-site.
CEOs at megabanks are often headquartered in office suites, away from daily cus-
tomer dealings.
Community bank officers are typically deeply involved in local community
affairs, while large-bank officers are likely to be detached physically and emotion-
ally from the communities where their branches are located.
Many community banks are willing to consider character, family history and
discretionary spending in making loans. Megabanks, on the other hand, often ap-
ply impersonal qualification criteria, such as credit scoring, to all loan decisions
without regard to individual circumstances.
Community banks offer nimble decision-making on business loans because
decisions are made locally. Megabanks must often convene loan-approval com-
mittees in another state.
Because community banks are themselves small businesses, they understand
the needs of small-business owners. Their core concern is lending to small busi-
nesses and farms. The core concern of the mega banks is corporate America.
The Business Journal
Distributed in 13 counties...
ALLEN, AUGLAIZE, DEFIANCE,
HANCOCK, HARDIN, HENRY. LOGAN,
MERCER, PAULDING, PUTNAM,
SHELBY, VAN WERT, WOOD
6B TheBusinessJournal June 2013
Home Health
Skilled Nursing
IV Therapy
Wound Therapy
Home Health Aides
Physical Therapy
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Home Monitoring System
Hospice
Skilled Nursing Care
Physician Services
Personal Care Aides
& Homemakers
Volunteer Services
Counseling Services
Spiritual Care Services
Bereavement Services
Request Your County Agency by Name
If you are in need of in-home care, remember, its your right to
choose the agency of your choice! Ask specifcally for Putnam County
HomeCare & Hospice by name when being discharged from the
hospital/nursing home, or request our agency to your physician.
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Caring for you all the seasons of your life!
You Have a Choice
Home Health
Skilled Nursing
IV Therapy
Wound Therapy
Home Health Aides
Physical Therapy
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Home Monitoring System
Hospice
Skilled Nursing Care
Physician Services
Personal Care Aides
& Homemakers
Volunteer Services
Counseling Services
Spiritual Care Services
Bereavement Services
Request Your County Agency by Name
If you are in need of in-home care, remember, its your right to
choose the agency of your choice! Ask specifcally for Putnam County
HomeCare & Hospice by name when being discharged from the
hospital/nursing home, or request our agency to your physician.
Established Since 1966 Providing hometown services
in the privacy of your own home
139 Court St., Ottawa 419-523-4449 www.pchh.net
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Elder Care
Entrepreneurs and non-
profit organizations alike
are jumping on the op-
portunity to develop se-
nior services and products.
Over 1.4 million seniors
are currently receive in-
home care, and those num-
bers will double by 2030.
This growing population is
a prime target for business
opportunities.
Here are our picks for
the ten hottest trends that
will improve the quality of
life for elders and caregiv-
ers alike.
For Profit Social Work-
ers Typically costing
$80 to $100 per hour, they
provide senior assistance
for doctor appointments,
supervise medication and
research various care op-
tions for you. The National
Association of Professional Geriatric Care
Managers offers referrals for senior help.
Peer Care - Seniors volunteer and are
matched to provide elderly assistance
through a nonprofit organization. Senior
care services include everything from com-
panionship to overnight stays, housekeeping
to transportation. Seniors Helping Seniors,
is one of the fastest growing services of this
type.
Luxury Care Products From gold-plat-
ed canes to leather lift chairs, in-home care
products are getting a makeover. Check out
the line of indulgent necessities for parent
care by Elderluxe .
Senior Fitness Programs the burgeon-
ing senior population has opened new av-
enues for gyms and personal trainers. Ac-
cording to the American College of Sports
Medicines (ACSMs) worldwide fitness
trend survey published in 2008, Senior Fit-
ness ranks #6 in the top 10 trends.
ElderGadgets - Finding the right gift for
your aging parent can be a difficult task in-
deed. Well, fear gift giving no more! From
infrared blood circulation food massagers to
disposable hearing aids and bionic gloves,
you can find a gadget sure to occupy (or be-
fuddle) your elderly parent. http://www.ac-
tiveforever.com/t-Gifts_For_Seniors_Ten_
Best_Holiday_Elderly_Gift_Ideas.aspx
Parent Sitters In-home care providers
are on the boom thanks to a weak economy.
Nurses by day frequently take jobs by night
to provide in home care for elderly patients.
Elderlaw With an aging population that
is expected to double over the next 20 years,
you can bet that the legal world is prepar-
ing. According to SimpyHired.com elderlaw
jobs have increased by 121% since July of
2007.
Electronic Alert Devices were no lon-
ger limited to the infamous provider who
helps those that fall and cant get back up
from GPS-enabled devices to necklaces that
can be pressed in case of emergency, senior
assistance is getting a big boost in remote
applications that allow you to regain free-
dom in home care for the elderly.
Senior Transportation The National
Center on Senior Transportation was formed
for the express purpose of increasing senior
assistance with transportation, enhancing
their ability to live more independently
within their communities.
Big Brother - Granny cams, monitors and
motion detectors that first entered the mar-
ket for childcare are being revamped and
repackaged for elderly in home care. And
why not? Checking on mom on a screen in
the kitchen is a time saver, providing longer
breaks for you and greater independence
for her.
10 hot trends in senior
care services
June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 7B
2012 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing

is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.

You might be surprised to discover the virtually unlimited design
possibilities of a Butler

building system. As your local Butler Builder

,
we can build a fexible and attractive Butler building that incorporates
wood, brick, stone, or glass. You can also choose from a wide variety
of metal roof and wall systemsall in a building that meets both your
needs and your budget.
More design
f lexibility for
your building.
Contact us at 419-238-9567
or visit us on the web
www.AlexanderBebout.com
2012 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing

is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.

You might be surprised to discover the virtually unlimited design
possibilities of a Butler

building system. As your local Butler Builder

,
we can build a fexible and attractive Butler building that incorporates
wood, brick, stone, or glass. You can also choose from a wide variety
of metal roof and wall systemsall in a building that meets both your
needs and your budget.
More design
f lexibility for
your building.
Contact us at 419-238-9567
or visit us on the web
www.AlexanderBebout.com
2012 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing

is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.

You might be surprised to discover the virtually unlimited design
possibilities of a Butler

building system. As your local Butler Builder

,
we can build a fexible and attractive Butler building that incorporates
wood, brick, stone, or glass. You can also choose from a wide variety
of metal roof and wall systemsall in a building that meets both your
needs and your budget.
More design
f lexibility for
your building.
Contact us at 419-238-9567
or visit us on the web
www.AlexanderBebout.com
2012 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.
You might be surprised to discover the virtually unlimited design
possibilities of a Butler

building system. As your local Butler Builder

,
we can build a fexible and attractive Butler building that incorporates
wood, brick, stone, or glass. You can also choose from a wide variety
of metal roof and wall systemsall in a building that meets both your
needs and your budget.
More design
f lexibility for
your building.
Contact us at 419-238-9567
or visit us on the web
www.AlexanderBebout.com
2012 BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Butler Manufacturing

is a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.

You might be surprised to discover the virtually unlimited design
possibilities of a Butler

building system. As your local Butler Builder

,
we can build a fexible and attractive Butler building that incorporates
wood, brick, stone, or glass. You can also choose from a wide variety
of metal roof and wall systemsall in a building that meets both your
needs and your budget.
More design
f lexibility for
your building.
Contact us at 419-238-9567
or visit us on the web
www.AlexanderBebout.com
More design flexibility for your building.
Alexander & Bebout, Inc.
Engineering Design Construction
10098 Lincoln Highway
Van Wert, Ohio
419-238-9567
www.AlexanderBebout.com
Report on Van Wert
Set in the heart of West Central
Ohios rich agricultural lands, Van
Wert is in a prime geographic loca-
tion. Sixty-five percent of the United
States and Canadian population
resides within a 600 mile radius of
Van Wert. Van Wert is located half-
way between Lima, Ohio and Fort
Wayne, Indiana along US Hwy 30 (a
four-lane, divided highway).
Van Wert is at the center of sev-
eral major highways that con-
nect you with many metropoli-
tan areas in the region. Included
are three US highways 30, 127,
and 224 and two state routes
116 and 118. Interstates I-69
and I-75 are both accessible via
US Hwy 30 (a four-lane, divid-
ed highway) and can be reached
within 30 minutes. Metropolitan
markets such as Chicago, Detroit,
Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus
and Indianapolis are within easy
driving distance.
Van Wert rail service is provided
by Conrail, and several trucking lines
and freight terminals service the
area. The Van Wert County Airport
is equipped with a 4,000 ft. runway,
which features pilot controlled light-
ing and a GPS approach system.
The airport offers flight instruction,
aircraft rental and maintenance.
Commercial airline flights are avail-
able at the Fort Wayne International
Airport, located just 30 miles away,
or the Dayton International Airport,
about an hour away. The Port of
Toledo is located about 100 miles
north of Van Wert giving you access
to international shipping routes.For
a detailed map of the area, please
call the Chamber at 419-238-4390.
Located on the northwest edge of
Van Wert, Ohio, Vision Industrial Park
offers four-lane highway access to both
I-75 (35 miles east) and I-69 via I-469
(35 miles west). Vision Industrial Park
is an enterprise zone owned by the
City of Van Wert and currently has
over 100 acres available for develop-
ment. The park was developed as a
place where growing busi-nesses could
locate and ex-pand without disturbing
much of the rich, fertile farmland in
the area.
Vision Industrial Park is current-
ly home to seven industries includ-
ing Braun Am-bulance, KAM Man-
ufacturing, Life Star Rescue, Na-tional
Door & Trim and Elmco Engineering.
Today it is a thriv-ing part of the
industrial base for the area. For more
information on this or other industrial
properties available, visit the economic
development website at
www.vanwertcounty-edg.com.
Van Wert County is home to hundreds
of local business-es who consistently rank
it as an excellent location to do business in
the annual Economic Development retention
and expansion survey. A strong, diversified
manufacturing base has been developed with
our largest em-ployer being the international
Eaton Corporation. Van Wert is also home to
the headquarters of Central Mutual Insurance
Com-pany, currently involved in an expan-
sion process.
The area is served by a strong and healthy
financial community of banks, a savings and
loan and credit unions.
The area has many eco-nomic develop-
ment tools available to help the business
commu-nity grow. The county and city
have established Enterprise Zones, making
tax abate-ments available to growth-oriented
businesses, both new and existing. The
Economic Development Office runs the local
Revolving Loan and Microenterprise Funds
that make low-interest loans available to busi-
nesses that are creating jobs in the area. A
single economic development office operates for
both the city and the county in conjunction with
the Ohio State University Extension office.
The manufacturing base in Van Wert rang-
es from very large corporations (Eaton Corp.
employs over 1,300) to smaller, locally owned
companies (National Door & Trim employs
around 80). The variety of products made by
our outstanding workforce include handbags,
ambulances, automotive parts, hoses and fittings,
processed turkey products, plastic products, tool
boxes, fiber drums, FFA & 4H jackets, wooden
doors and trim, sealing systems and much more.
The business community is served by several
commu-nity development organizations includ-
ing the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce,
Van Wert County Economic Development Office,
Community Improvement Corporation, Main
Street Van Wert and the Van Wert Convention
& Visitors Bureau. More specific information
on economic development opportunities, demo-
graphics, industrial or workforce information
may be gained by calling the Chamber (419/238-
4390) or ED Offices (419/238-2999).
13
area. For more information
on this or other industrial
properties available, visit the
economic development web-
site at www.vanwertcounty-
edg.com. L
ocated on the northwest
edge of Van Wert, Ohio,
Vision Industrial Park offers
four-lane highway access
to both I-75 (35 miles east)
and I-69 via I-469 (35 miles
west). Vision Industrial Park
is an enterprise zone owned
by the City of Van Wert and
currently has over 100 acres
available for development.
The park was developed as
a place where growing busi-
nesses could locate and ex-
pand without disturbing much
of the rich, fertile farmland in
the area.
V
ision Industrial Park
is currently home to
seven industries including
Braun Am-
b u l a n c e ,
KAM Man-
ufacturing,
Life Star
Rescue, Na-
tional Door
& Trim and
Elmco En-
gineering.
Today it
is a thriv-
ing part of
the industrial
base for the
V
ision industrial park
Designing and manufacturing
high quality, custom ambulances
since 1972
1170 Production Drive
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
1-(800) 222-7286
www.braunambulances.com
12
V
an Wert County is home to
hundreds of local business-
es who consistently rank it as an
excellent location to do business
in the annual Economic Devel-
opment retention and expansion
survey. A strong, diversied
manufacturing base has been
developed with our largest em-
ployer being the international
Eaton Corporation. Van Wert is
also home to the headquarters of
Central Mutual Insurance Com-
pany, currently involved in an
expansion process. The area is
served by a strong and healthy
nancial community of banks,
a savings and loan and credit
unions.
T
he area has
many eco-
nomic develop-
ment tools avail-
able to help the
business commu-
nity grow. The
county and city
have established
Enterprise Zones,
making tax abate-
ments available to
growth-oriented
businesses, both
new and existing.
The Economic
Development Of-
ce runs the lo-
cal Revolving Loan and Mi-
croenterprise Funds that make
low-interest loans available to
businesses that are creating jobs
in the area. A single economic
development ofce operates for
both the city and the county in
conjunction with the Ohio State
University Extension ofce.
T
he manufacturing base in
Van Wert ranges from very
large corporations (Eaton Corp.
employs over 1,300) to smaller,
locally owned companies (Na-
tional Door & Trim employs
around 80). The variety of prod-
ucts made by our outstanding
workforce include handbags,
ambulances, automotive parts,
hoses and ttings, processed tur-
key products, plastic products,
tool boxes, ber drums, FFA &
4H jackets, wooden doors and
trim, sealing systems and much
more.
T
he business community is
served by several commu-
nity development organizations
including the Van Wert Area
Chamber of Commerce, Van
Wert County Economic Devel-
opment Ofce, Community Im-
provement Corporation, Main
Street Van Wert and the Van
Wert Convention & Visitors Bu-
reau. More specic information
on economic development op-
portunities, demographics, in-
dustrial or workforce informa-
tion may be gained by calling
the Chamber (419/238-4390) or
ED Ofces (419/238-2999).
B
usiness & industry
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL
10098 Lincoln Highway
Van Wert, Ohio 45891-9351
Phone: (419) 238-9567
Fax: (419) 238-0075
www.alexanderbebout.com
Design/Build Contractor
13
area. For more information
on this or other industrial
properties available, visit the
economic development web-
site at www.vanwertcounty-
edg.com. L
ocated on the northwest
edge of Van Wert, Ohio,
Vision Industrial Park offers
four-lane highway access
to both I-75 (35 miles east)
and I-69 via I-469 (35 miles
west). Vision Industrial Park
is an enterprise zone owned
by the City of Van Wert and
currently has over 100 acres
available for development.
The park was developed as
a place where growing busi-
nesses could locate and ex-
pand without disturbing much
of the rich, fertile farmland in
the area.
V
ision Industrial Park
is currently home to
seven industries including
Braun Am-
b u l a n c e ,
KAM Man-
ufacturing,
Life Star
Rescue, Na-
tional Door
& Trim and
Elmco En-
gineering.
Today it
is a thriv-
ing part of
the industrial
base for the
V
ision industrial park
Designing and manufacturing
high quality, custom ambulances
since 1972
1170 Production Drive
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
1-(800) 222-7286
www.braunambulances.com
8B TheBusinessJournal June 2013
CNC Precision Machining
Small & Large Production Runs
Fixtures Special Machinery & Tooling
Secondary Machine Operations
Miller Precision Industries, Inc.
131 Progressive Dr.
P.O. Box 489
Ottoville, Ohio 45876
Phone 419-453-3251
FAX 419-453-3030
www.millerprecision.com
We Mak e Ban n er s
COLOR COPIES .30
SELF SERVE COPIES .07
Brochures Menu's Programs Flyers NCR Forms
PHONE: 419-238-6990 FAX: 419-238-9584
e-mail: burchamprinting@gmail.com
The cultural heritage of Van Wert County stretches back to its early history. In 1901
the Brumback Library, the first county library in the United States, opened in Van Wert.
The ornate stone and marble structure houses over 146,000 books and is a wealth of local
genealogical information. In 1954, wealthy peony farmer Charles Wassenberg passed away
leaving money he had set aside to create a community art center in his house. The house
was remodeled to house what is now known as the Wassenberg Art Center. In addition to
exhibits, the Center provides art classes and training for area residents.
Van Wert Civic Theatre (VWCT) regularly receives regional and state recognition for
their outstanding level of performances. They entertain the community with 6 productions
per year, featuring local and regional talent.
The Van Wert County Historical Society helps to preserve local heritage by overseeing
a varied collection of local artifacts. The museum grounds include a Victorian home, annex
building, 1875 band stand, one room school house, log house, and red barn.
An extensive collection of firefighting equipment is on display at the Central Mutual In-
surance Company headquarters in Van Wert. This is always a popular exhibit with children.
The museum has been temporarily closed for the expansion project.
Those who have an ear for live music will be pleased with Van Wert Countys Commu-
nity
Concert Association and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC). Set to open
in Spring 2007, NPAC will be a shining example of Van Wert Countys commitment to the
arts. Concerts will draw crowds from the regional and tri-state area to see the outstanding
performances they will host.
In addition to those special events, the area has a Fountain Park Summer Music Series.
Popular musical acts such as Phil Dirt and the Dozers, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and
The Glenn Miller Orchestra have entertained thousands in an outdoor ampitheater setting
in the heart of downtown. During the fall and winter months the Sanctuary Music Series
presents light classical and sacred concerts in many of Van Werts finest church settings.
The Community Concert Series has also attracted many top acts throughout the years.
The concerts are all made possible by the Gaylord and Eliza Saltzgaber Music Fund at the
Van Wert County Foundation.
18
T
he cultural heritage of Van
Wert County stretches back
to its early history. In 1901 the
Brumback Library, the rst
county library in the United
States, opened in Van Wert. The
ornate stone and marble struc-
ture houses over 146,000 books
and is a wealth of local genea-
logical information. In
1954, wealthy peony
farmer Charles Was-
senberg passed away
leaving money he had
set aside to create a community
art center in his house. The
house was remodeled to house
what is now known as the Was-
senberg Art Center. In addition
to exhibits, the Center provides
art classes and training for area
residents.
V
an Wert Civic Theatre
(VWCT) regularly re-
ceives regional and state rec-
ognition for their outstanding
level of performances. They
entertain the community with
6 productions per year, featur-
ing local and regional talent.
T
he Van Wert County His-
torical Society helps to
preserve local heritage by
overseeing a varied collection
of local artifacts. The museum
grounds include a Victorian
home, annex building, 1875
band stand, one room school
house, log house, and red barn.
A
rts and culture
Internet Service
Provided by North West Net Inc.
Call 1-800-899-3447
or visit our ofce at
365 N. Water Street, Fort Jennings
June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 9B
RUNSER
& PUTMAN
Serving the Van Wert area for more than 40 years
111 East Main St. Suite 105 Van Wert
419-238-2200
www.runserandputman.com
C. Allan Runser
Shaun A. Putman
Probate
Estates
Guardianships
Estate Planning
Wills
Trusts
Trust Alterna-
tives
Criminal
Juvenile
DUI
Misdemeanor
Felony
Corporations/
Partnerships/
LLCs
Family Law
Adoption
Divorce
Dissolution
Child Custody
Child Support
Personal Injury
Wrongful Death
Real Estate
Attorneys
At Law
Over 40 Years
Experience!
Visit us on the web: www.picknsavefoods.com
EVERYDAY LOW PRICE LEADER
719 Fox Rd.
Van Wert, Ohio
419-238-5304
Fast Friendly Service
Certified Angus Beef
Full Service Meat Department
In House Deli/Bakery
Largest Selection of Beer & Wine In Town
Van Werts Best Deep Fried Chicken
Lottery Tickets/Money Orders/Stamps
Open 6am-Midnight 7 Days a Week
SENIORS SAVE 10%
Mon.-Fri. 8am-12 and
all day Wed. open-close
Early Foundations
The County of Van Wert is named after a Revolutionary War hero, Isaac Van Wart. A mis-
take by those preparing the act of legislation to name the County made the spelling appear
erroneously as Van Wert, and the new spelling has endured.
Van Wert County was fi rst settled in 1821 by former sea captain James Riley. Riley
moved his family to a plot of land he purchased along the St. Marys river and laid out the
balance of his land in lots for a town he named Willshire, the first county seat. In 1834,
James Watson Riley, Captain Rileys son, and two other men bought 240 acres of land for
the location of a town in the center of Van Wert County. In 1838, the General Assembly of
Ohio transferred the county seat from Willshire in the southwest corner of the county to this
new location under the name of Van Wert.
During the early years, dense forests covered Van Wert County, and the northern portion
was a bog known as the Great Black Swamp. In spite of these handicaps, people did move to
the area. These brave pioneers were mostly of German descent with some Welsh and Irish.
Since the land was a wilderness, early settlers had to turn to hunting and trapping to gain the
necessities of life. Even when they were to clear a little land to produce crops, the drainage
was too poor to make farming profi table.
Agriculture & Industry Life began to change in 1845 with the opening of the Miami
Canal Extension, which offered transportation facilities to the great markets. This opened a
new era marked by industry and enterprise as the dense forests became a source of revenue.
As the timber was cleared away, the land was drained and farming increased dramatically
on the fertile black soil.
Historic Buildings & Happenings The Pennsylvania Railroad was built to Van Wert in
1853, and the Cincinnati-Northern line was added in 1880. The present Courthouse was
begun in 1874 and on January 1, 1901 the first county library in the United States was
dedicated.
The first newspaper, the Van Wert Patriot, was founded in 1844. The Van Wert Agricul-
tural Society was organized in 1838 and held their fi rst county fair in 1855.
Van Wert sits on the historic Lincoln Highway, a 3,000 mile highway across the United
States from Times Square in New York to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. During the con-
struction of this highway control stations were set up to measure mileage and to serve as a
depot for travelers. The Hotel Marsh located in the heart of downtown is the original con-
trol station for Van Wert. The 26 mile section of Lincoln Highway that stretches through
the county once formed the southern shore of Lake Erie.
Throughout the 20th Century Van Wert was known as the Peony Capital of the world
thanks to its large number of commercial peony farms. The Peony Festival originated in
1902 when the fi rst Sunday in June was designated as Peony Sunday. During the 1930s,
the Festival became a major event with crowds estimated at over 100,000 people. Two pa-
rades were held at the time, one in the afternoon and an illuminated parade in the evening.
Each parade had over 40 bands and 45 floats. A 1938 newspaper article stated that the
Peony Festival had more quality fl oats than the Mardi Gras! Between the afternoon and
evening parades, the visiting bands performed a mass concert at the football fi eld, with as
many as 3,000 musicians performing. Corporate floats from all over the country were pres-
ent.
Today the population of Van Wert County is roughly 29,700 and the City is 10,700.
The area still remains a strong, vital part of west central Ohio. For more information on
the history of Van Wert County, visit the Van Wert County Historical Society.
6
Early Foundations
T
he County of Van Wert is named after a Revo-
lutionary War hero, Isaac Van Wart. A mistake
by those preparing the act of legislation to name the
County made the spelling appear erroneously as
Van Wert, and the new spelling has endured.
V
an Wert County was rst settled in 1821 by
former sea captain James Riley. Riley moved
his family to a plot of land he purchased along the
St. Marys river and laid out the balance of his land
in lots for a town he named Willshire, the rst
county seat. In 1834, James Watson Riley, Captain
Rileys son, and two other men bought 240 acres of
land for the location of a town in the center of Van
Wert County. In 1838, the General Assembly of
Ohio transferred the county seat from
Willshire in the southwest corner of the
county to this new location under the
name of Van Wert.
D
uring the early years, dense forests
covered Van Wert County, and the
northern portion was a bog known as
the Great Black Swamp. In spite of
these handicaps, people did move to the
area. These brave pioneers were mostly
of German descent with some Welsh
and Irish. Since the land was a wilder-
ness, early settlers had to turn to hunt-
ing and trapping to gain the necessities
of life. Even when they were to clear a
little land to produce crops, the drain-
age was too poor to make farming protable.
Agriculture & Industry
L
ife began to change in 1845 with the opening of
the Miami Canal Extension, which offered
transportation facilities to the great markets. This
opened a new era marked by industry and enter-
prise as the dense forests became a source of reve-
nue. As the timber was cleared away, the land was
drained and farming increased dramatically on the
fertile black soil.
Historic Buildings & Happenings
T
he Pennsylvania Railroad was built to Van
Wert in 1853, and the Cincinnati-Northern line
was added in 1880. The present Courthouse was
begun in 1874 and on January 1, 1901 the rst
county library in the United States was dedicated.
H
istory
Owners
Paul G. and Connie Boley Swander
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL ROOFING
BEBOUT & HOUG
ROOFING & SIDING INC.
116 N. WALNUT VAN WERT, OHIO 419-238-4100
ROOFING
TOM BEBOUT
GARY HOUG
TREVOR
BEBOUT
SERVING
AREA - OVER
38 YEARS
FREE ESTIMATES
Rubber PVC TPO Roofs
Standing Seam Roofs
Modified Bitumen Roofs
Asphalt Built-Up Roofs
Single Roofs
10B TheBusinessJournal June 2013

930 S Washington St., Van Wert
4620 sq ft one story building offering highly
visible location. Zoned B-2. Small loading dock
in rear, overhead doorIn front. Additional bldg.
in rear 70x334 ft Lot. $92,000.

FOX RD - Commercial 1.5 acre building lot
Zoned I-1 near inter-Section of Shannon St. and
Fox Rd located across from Shopping center.
Must sell, price reduced to $90,000.

Call Sharon T. Henkaline, Broker
419-203-1043

930 S Washington St., Van Wert
4620 sq ft one story building offering highly
visible location. Zoned B-2. Small loading dock
in rear, overhead doorIn front. Additional bldg.
in rear 70x334 ft Lot. $92,000.

FOX RD - Commercial 1.5 acre building lot
Zoned I-1 near inter-Section of Shannon St. and
Fox Rd located across from Shopping center.
Must sell, price reduced to $90,000.

Call Sharon T. Henkaline, Broker
419-203-1043
For the past 27 years, Ayers Mechanical Group has provided
N.W. Ohio with dependable plumbing and heating services.
Our Commercial Services include:
ServiceAgreements
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Monday - Friday
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Saturday 8:00aM-noon
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Van Wert, OH 45891
Tel: 419.238.1233
Fax: 419.238.1317
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STEREN -- Data & Voice Supplies

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LITHONIA& RAB -- Lighting

MARKEL & ELECTROMODE -- Electric Heat

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Scattered along the many roads and highways that
crisscross Van Wert County are nestled several attractive,
friendly little communities.
Delphos
The City of Delphos is uniquely situated in three coun-
ties Van Wert, Putnam and Allen. Delphos was founded
on the Miami-Erie Canal that runs through the heart of
downtown and hosts a popular local festival each year
called
Canal Days.
Convoy
The Village of Convoy has over 50 retailers, mer-
chants and service providers in their area and is home to
the Crestview Local Schools. Convoy displays its strong
civic pride with their annual celebration of Convoy
Community Days.
Middle Point
Middle Point, located in Washington Township is so-named because it is the middle
point between the cities of Van Wert and Delphos. It is home for two manufacturing
plants, a grain elevator and the annual Founders Day celebration.
Ohio City
Ohio City is known as the birthplace of the nations fi rst gas-powered automobile,
built in 1891 by John W. Lambert. In addition to their attractive park and manufac-
turing plant, Ohio City holds an annual Lambert Days Celebration that includes a
parade.
Scott
Just north of Van Wert lies the Village of
Scott, whose Main Street is the dividing line
between Van Wert and Paulding Counties.
They are most proud of their beautiful park,
where youll find a ball diamond, fi shing
pond, shelter and picnic facilities.
Venedocia
A popular, annual Welsh songfest, the Gy-
manfa Ganu, is held in the Village of Vened-
ocia. Founded in 1848, Venedocia is proud to
be surrounded by some of the countys
most fertile farmland.
Willshire
Willshire, founded in 1821 and along
Ohio-Indiana border on the banks of the St.
Marys River was the original county seat. A replica of the first county courthouse
stands in their park. Dozens of local businesses and their Willshire Days festival
make this a thriving community.
Wren & Elgin
There is also much to discover in the nearby villages of Elgin and Wren. Wren
hosts its annual Wren Homecoming festival. Elgin is located in the beautiful, south-
eastern portion of the county.
11
plants, a grain elevator and the
annual Founders Day celebra-
tion.
Ohio City
O
hio City is known as the
birthplace of the nations
rst gas-powered automobile,
built in 1891 by John W. Lam-
bert. In addition to their attrac-
tive park and manufacturing
plant, Ohio City holds an annual
Lambert Days Celebration
that includes a parade.
Scott
J
ust north of
Van Wert
lies the Village
of Scott, whose
Main Street is
the dividing
line between
Van Wert and
Paulding Coun-
ties. They are
most proud of
their beautiful
SALES AND SERVICE TO WARM YOUR HOME
CORN COAL PELLETS GAS WOOD
9296 Van Wert - Willshire Rd.
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
Marilyn Brandt
1-800-546-3319
Cell: 1-419-203 3622
Fax: 1-419-232-4200
email: staywarm@earthlink.net
www. ruralenergyproducts.com
STOVES - INSERTS - FIREPLACES - FURNACES - BOILERS
S
cattered along the many
roads and highways that
crisscross Van Wert County are
nestled several attractive, friend-
ly little communities.
Delphos
T
he City of Delphos is
uniquely situated in three
counties Van
Wert, Putnam
and Allen. Del-
phos was found-
ed on the Mi-
ami-Erie Canal
that runs through
the heart of
downtown and
hosts a popular
local festival
each year called
Canal Days.
Convoy
T
he Village of Convoy has
over 50 retailers, merchants
and service providers in their
area and is home to the Crest-
view Local Schools. Convoy
displays its strong civic pride
with their annual celebration of
Convoy Community Days.
Middle Point
M
iddle Point, located in
Washington Township is
so-named because it is the mid-
dle point between the cities of
Van Wert and Delphos. It is
home for two manufacturing
C
ities and villages
park, where youll nd a ball
diamond, shing pond, shelter
and picnic facilities.
Venedocia
A
popular, annual Welsh
songfest, the Gymanfa
Ganu, is held in the Village of
Venedocia. Founded in 1848,
Venedocia is proud to be sur-
rounded by some of the countys
most fertile farmland.
Willshire
W
illshire, founded in
1821 and along Ohio-
Indiana border on the banks
of the St. Marys River was
the original county seat. A
replica of the rst county
courthouse stands in their
park. Dozens of local busi-
nesses and their Willshire
Days festival make this a
thriving community.
Wren & Elgin
T
here is also much to dis-
cover in the nearby vil-
lages of Elgin and Wren. Wren
hosts its annual Wren Home-
coming festival. Elgin is lo-
cated in the beautiful, southeast-
ern portion of the county.
11
plants, a grain elevator and the
annual Founders Day celebra-
tion.
Ohio City
O
hio City is known as the
birthplace of the nations
rst gas-powered automobile,
built in 1891 by John W. Lam-
bert. In addition to their attrac-
tive park and manufacturing
plant, Ohio City holds an annual
Lambert Days Celebration
that includes a parade.
Scott
J
ust north of
Van Wert
lies the Village
of Scott, whose
Main Street is
the dividing
line between
Van Wert and
Paulding Coun-
ties. They are
most proud of
their beautiful
SALES AND SERVICE TO WARM YOUR HOME
CORN COAL PELLETS GAS WOOD
9296 Van Wert - Willshire Rd.
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
Marilyn Brandt
1-800-546-3319
Cell: 1-419-203 3622
Fax: 1-419-232-4200
email: staywarm@earthlink.net
www. ruralenergyproducts.com
STOVES - INSERTS - FIREPLACES - FURNACES - BOILERS
S
cattered along the many
roads and highways that
crisscross Van Wert County are
nestled several attractive, friend-
ly little communities.
Delphos
T
he City of Delphos is
uniquely situated in three
counties Van
Wert, Putnam
and Allen. Del-
phos was found-
ed on the Mi-
ami-Erie Canal
that runs through
the heart of
downtown and
hosts a popular
local festival
each year called
Canal Days.
Convoy
T
he Village of Convoy has
over 50 retailers, merchants
and service providers in their
area and is home to the Crest-
view Local Schools. Convoy
displays its strong civic pride
with their annual celebration of
Convoy Community Days.
Middle Point
M
iddle Point, located in
Washington Township is
so-named because it is the mid-
dle point between the cities of
Van Wert and Delphos. It is
home for two manufacturing
C
ities and villages
park, where youll nd a ball
diamond, shing pond, shelter
and picnic facilities.
Venedocia
A
popular, annual Welsh
songfest, the Gymanfa
Ganu, is held in the Village of
Venedocia. Founded in 1848,
Venedocia is proud to be sur-
rounded by some of the countys
most fertile farmland.
Willshire
W
illshire, founded in
1821 and along Ohio-
Indiana border on the banks
of the St. Marys River was
the original county seat. A
replica of the rst county
courthouse stands in their
park. Dozens of local busi-
nesses and their Willshire
Days festival make this a
thriving community.
Wren & Elgin
T
here is also much to dis-
cover in the nearby vil-
lages of Elgin and Wren. Wren
hosts its annual Wren Home-
coming festival. Elgin is lo-
cated in the beautiful, southeast-
ern portion of the county.
June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 11B
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Robert D. Gamble
Broker & Auctioneer, CAI
Business: 419-238-5555
Mobile: 419-605-8300
122 N. Washington St.
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
www.BeeGeeRealty.com
City of Van Wert
The City of Van Wert is governed by an elected Mayor and
an eight member city council.
Council serves as the local legislative body responsible for
creating local laws and approving major city expenditures.
They are elected to two-year terms and meet on the second
and fourth Monday of each month (committee meetings gen-
erally held on the first and third Mondays).
The Mayor is elected to a four-year term and works closely
with the Safety Service Director who is responsible for the op-
erations of ten city departments. Other elected City offi cials
include the Municipal Judge, Auditor, Law Director, Police
Chief and Fire Chief.
The City provides a full array of municipal services through
its water, streets, parks, engineering, income tax, waste water
treatment, municipal court, police and fi re departments.
Safety & Law Enforcement
Law enforcement, fire and paramedic services are dis-
patched through the 911 emergency system. All dispatch op-
erators are Emergency Medical Dispatch certified.
Within city limits, the City Fire & EMS respond to calls
while in the surrounding areas, calls are dispatched to local
volunteer EMS and fire departments, or Brickner EMS. The
City Fire Department, which carries a Class 4 insurance rat-
ing, is equipped with a 75-foot and 100-foot aerial ladder
truck and four pumpers. The City Police Department has over
20 full-time employees, while the Sherriffs office has 20 full-
time officers and 31 auxiliary members.
The Court of Common Pleas and Probate Court serve the
county while the Municipal Court handles the cases within the
citys jurisdiction. The State Highway Patrol also operates a
post out of the City of Van Wert.
Van Wert County
Van Wert County government serves approximately 29,700
residents and has eleven elected offi cials consisting of three
county commissioners, an auditor, treasurer, prosecuting at-
torney, clerk of courts of common pleas, engineer, coroner,
recorder and sheriff. There is no chief executive officer; each
elected official possesses some executive authority. Govern-
ment offices are housed in an ornate, 19th century brick court-
house and an annex building in the heart of Van Wert.
Towns/Villages
Van Wert Countys towns and villages are an integral part
of the countys appeal. Convoy, Delphos, Elgin, Middle Point,
Ohio City, Scott, Venedocia, Willshire and Wren all have may-
ors and city/village councils. Delphos is the only other city in
Van Wert County, but is split by the borders of neighboring
Allen and Putnam Counties.
10
City of Van Wert
T
he City of Van Wert is gov-
erned by an elected Mayor
and an eight member city coun-
cil. Council serves as
the local legislative
body responsible for
creating local laws and
approving major city
expenditures. They are
elected to two-year
terms and meet on the
second and fourth Mon-
day of each month
(committee meetings
generally held on the
rst and third Mon-
days). The Mayor is
elected to a four-year
term and works closely
with the Safety Service
Director who is responsible for
the operations of ten city de-
partments.
O
ther elected City ofcials
include the Municipal
Judge, Auditor, Law Director,
Police Chief and Fire Chief.
The City provides a full array of
municipal services through its
water, streets, parks, engineer-
ing, income tax, waste water
treatment, municipal court, po-
lice and re departments.
Safety & Law Enforce-
ment
L
aw enforcement, re and
paramedic services are dis-
patched through the 911 emer-
gency system. All dispatch op-
erators are Emergency Medical
Dispatch certied.
Within city limits, the
City Fire & EMS re-
spond to calls while in
the surrounding areas,
calls are dispatched to local vol-
unteer EMS and re depart-
ments, or Brickner EMS. The
City Fire Department, which
carries a Class 4 insurance rat-
ing, is equipped with a 75-foot
and 100-foot aerial ladder truck
and four pumpers. The City Po-
lice Department has over 20
full-time employees, while the
Sherriffs ofce has 20 full-time
ofcers and 31 auxiliary mem-
bers. The Court of Common
Pleas and Probate Court serve
the county while the Municipal
Court handles the cases within
the citys jurisdiction. The State
Highway Patrol also operates a
post out of the City of Van
Wert.
Van Wert County
V
an Wert County govern-
ment serves approximately
29,700 residents and has eleven
elected ofcials consisting of
three county commissioners,
an auditor, treasurer, prose-
cuting attorney, clerk of
courts of common pleas, en-
gineer, coroner, recorder and
sheriff. There is no chief ex-
ecutive ofcer; each elected
ofcial possesses some ex-
ecutive authority. Govern-
ment ofces are housed in an
ornate, 19th century brick
courthouse and an annex
building in the heart of Van
Wert.
Towns/Villages
V
an Wert Countys towns
and villages are an inte-
gral part of the countys appeal.
Convoy, Delphos, Elgin, Middle
Point, Ohio City, Scott, Venedo-
cia, Willshire and Wren all have
mayors and city/village coun-
cils. Delphos is the only other
city in Van Wert County, but is
split by the borders of neighbor-
ing Allen and Putnam Coun-
ties.
G
overnment
12B TheBusinessJournal June 2013
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5) Big Data Challenge or Opportu-
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Big data is only getting bigger it can
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How effectively teams are able to man-
age the growth of files and correspondence
throughout their collaborative processes
will be crucial in 2013. To be competitive,
online collaboration solutions will require
unlimited capacity for file sizes, numbers
of files, types of documents, system usage,
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consistency, flexibility and searchability
such that stakeholders have the information
they need when they need it.
Collaboration
(Continued from page 1B)
Set in the heart of West Central Ohios
rich agricultural lands, Van Wert is in a
prime geographic location.
Sixty-fi ve percent of the United States
and Canadian population resides within a
600 mile radius of Van Wert. Van Wert is
located halfway between Lima, Ohio and
Fort Wayne, Indiana along US Hwy 30 (a
fourlane, divided highway).
Van Wert is at the center of several ma-
jor highways that connect you with many
metropolitan areas in the region. Included
are three US highways 30, 127, and 224
and two state routes 116 and 118.
Interstates I-69 and I-75 are both ac-
cessible via US Hwy 30 (a four-lane, di-
vided highway) and can be reached within
30 minutes. Metropolitan markets such as
Chicago, Detroit, Cincinnati, Cleveland,
Columbus and Indianapolis are within
easy driving distance.
Van Wert rail service is provided by
Conrail, and several trucking lines and
freight terminals service the area. The Van
Wert County Airport is equipped with a
4,000 ft. runway, which features pilot con-
trolled lighting and a GPS approach sys-
tem. The airport offers fl ight instruction,
aircraft rental and maintenance.
Commercial airline fl ights are available
at the Fort Wayne International Airport,
located just 30 miles away, or the Dayton
International Airport, about an hour away.
The Port of Toledo is located about 100
miles north of Van Wert giving you access
to international shipping routes.
88
L
ocation
S
et in the heart of West Central Ohios rich agricultural lands, Van Wert is in a prime geographic location.
Sixty-ve percent of the United States and Canadian population resides within a 600 mile radius of Van
Wert. Van Wert is located halfway between Lima, Ohio and Fort Wayne, Indiana along US Hwy 30 (a four-
lane, divided highway).
V
an Wert is at the center of several major highways that connect you with many metropolitan areas in the
region. Included are three US highways 30, 127, and 224 and two state routes 116 and 118.
Interstates I-69 and I-75 are both accessible via US Hwy 30 (a four-lane, divided highway) and can be reached
within 30 minutes. Metropolitan markets such as Chicago, Detroit, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and
Indianapolis are within easy driving distance.
V
an Wert rail service is provided by Conrail, and several trucking lines and freight terminals service the
area. The Van Wert County Airport is equipped with a 4,000 ft. runway, which features pilot controlled
lighting and a GPS approach system. The airport offers ight instruction, aircraft rental and maintenance.
Commercial airline ights are available at the Fort Wayne International Airport, located just 30 miles away, or
the Dayton International Airport, about an hour away. The Port of Toledo is located about 100 miles north of
Van Wert giving you access to international shipping routes.
For a detailed map of the area, please call the Chamber at 419-238-4390.