bizjrnljune2013b

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B I N S I D E

THE

Business JournalOF WEST CENTRAL OHIOJune 2013

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In my predictions of major collaborationtrends for 2012 (part one and part two), Ihighlighted big data, social and mobile, andcloud and mobile. Clearly, these trends will

continue to evolve through 2013 and be-yond. In my outlook for the coming year,I’d like to offer a perspective on five newdirections that these trends are likely to take.

1) Increasing Technology AdoptionThere’s no question that adoption of on-

line collaboration technology will continueincreasing across all geographic regions. Inregions with healthy economies, the uptakewill be driven by opportunities to acceler-ate revenue growth. In regions with troubledeconomies, it will be driven by the need toreduce costs. In either case, online collabo-

ration will enable organizations to save timeand money, while managing risk and ensur-ing accountability.

2) From Software to SaaS

In the last couple of years, we’ve seenproviders of on-premise collaborationsoftware 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. Theexpansion from behind the firewall to thecloud responds to the compelling economicand practical advantages of SaaS – includ-ing no hardware or software to install andmaintain, fast release cycles and ‘pay-as-you-go’ usage. These advantages will drive

more collaboration software companies tolaunch cloud-based solutions in 2013.

3) Vertical SpecializationLook for growing penetration of collabo-

ration solutions that are specialized for ver-tical segments. These solutions will moreclosely match user needs and take mar-ket share from generic tools. For instance,certain verticals have special requirementsfor document management and file shar-ing which often exceed the capabilities of email, FTP sites and plain vanilla collabo-ration software. These requirements will bemet increasingly with purpose-built toolsthat support processes and informationunique 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 respondedto user behavior – and how viral mobileapps in the workplace have become. Real-time communication is vital to collabora-tion. Anytime, anywhere access to informa-tion has improved efficiency across teamsand accelerated delivery schedules. In 2013,we’ll see mobility grow rapidly as a criticalattribute of collaboration tools – and vendorswithout it will be left behind. This trend willcontinue 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 Boardof Directors, as well as her appointmentto the Executive Committee of the CentralCompanies and promotion to Senior VicePresident.

As Senior Vice President of Human Re-sources, White holds the overall account-ability for the Human Resources, Trainingand Education, and Facilities departments.This includes responsibilities of employ-ment, employee benefits, the performanceappraisal program, salary administration

program, company policies, training anddevelopment, and facilities, which includesmaintenance, grounds, custodial and leasesfor the regional offices. White also chairsthe Pension and Savings and Profit Partici-pation (SPP) Advisory and AdministrativeCommittees, 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 bachelor’s degreein Business Administration,White began her career at Cen-tral in February 1979 in thecommercial lines underwritingdepartment as a technician. Shewas later promoted to commer-cial lines underwriter and thento senior underwriter. In Feb-ruary 1992, she transferred to

Human Resources as Employ-ment Manager. She was promoted to VicePresident of Human Resources in 2004. Shehas earned the Chartered Property CasualtyUnderwriter (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 andVan Wert County Hospital,a member of the Commu-nity Health ProfessionalsAdvisory Board, and a boardmember, campaign chairper-son, and board president of the United Way of Van WertCounty. She resides in VanWert with her husband, John.

Central Insurance Com-panies was founded in VanWert, Ohio in 1876, and

writes more than 328,000auto, home, and business policies in 18states. 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. Central’s A.M. Bestrating 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

“Today’s employment report reinforces thenotion that sustained recovery remains elu-sive.” —ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu.

SummaryThe 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 13.2percent, down from 14.7 percent in March and14.5 percent in April 2012. Year over year, theconstruction industry has added 154,000 jobs,or 1.7 percent. The decline in unemploymentis likely due to seasonality rather than mean-ingful improvement in underlying construc-tion labor market conditions.

The nonresidential building sector lost4,800 jobs for the month, but has added

17,700, or 2.7 percent, over the last year. Theresidential building sector added 6,200 jobsin April and has added 14,400 jobs, or 2.5percent, year over year.

Nonresidential specialty trade contrac-tor employment fell by 11,100 jobs in Aprilcompared to March, but is still up by 39,000 jobs, or 1.9 percent, compared to the sametime last year. Residential specialty tradecontractors added 7,100 jobs for the monthand have added 69,300 jobs, or 4.7 percent,since April 2012. Heavy and civil engineer-ing construction employment slipped by3,800 jobs in April, but is up by 13,400 jobs,or 1.5 percent, over the last twelve months.

Across all industries, the nation added165,000 jobs, with the private sector expand-

ing by 176,000 jobs and the public sectorshrinking by 11,000 jobs. According to theBureau of Labor Statistics’ household sur-vey, the national unemployment rate fell to7.5 percent in April, down from 7.6 percentin March.

Analysis“Today’s report highlights the fact that

different forms of economic activity requiredifferent levels of confidence,” said ABCChief Economist Anirban Basu. “Leadingthe way in job creation in April were seg-ments such as leisure/hospitality and retailtrade. It doesn’t take that much confidenceto 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 reportissued by the U.S. Census Bureau showedthat both public and private nonresidentialconstruction were down for the month, in-dicating that sustained momentum continuesto elude the industry,” Basu said. “Today’semployment report reinforces the notion thatsustained recovery remains elusive. Whilenonresidential construction employment isup by nearly 56,700 jobs on a year-over-yearbasis, the segment shed 15,900 positions inApril. Further declines are possible in thenear-term given weak construction spendingdynamics and the anticipated impacts of se-questration on construction starts.

“Contractors should not be surprised if nonresidential construction materials pricesbounce back significantly over the next sev-eral months.” —ABC Chief Economist Anir-ban Basu.

SummaryNational construction materials prices

slipped 0.1 percent in April, according to theMay 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 pricesdecreased 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 4.2percent on a year-over-year basis. Prices forplumbing fixtures and fittings slipped 0.5 per-cent compared to March, but are 0.8 percenthigher 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 steelprices slipped 0.3 percent in April and are 9.3percent lower from the same time last year.Steel mill product prices are an exception tothe trend for metal prices, as they increased0.4 percent for the month but remain 8.9 per-cent lower than the same time last year.

In contrast, crude energy prices increased3.7 percent as natural gas prices jumped 15.5percent. Year over year, crude energy pricesare up 8.4 percent. Softwood lumber pricescontinue to climb and are up 2.5 percent for

the month and 33.1 percent during the past 12months. Prices for prepared asphalt, tar roof-ing, and siding increased 2.1 percent in Apriland are 6 percent higher compared to the sametime last year. Prices for concrete products in-creased 1.1 percent compared to last monthand are 3.2 percent higher from one year ago.

Overall, the nation’s wholesale goods pric-

es decreased 0.7 percent in April—the larg-est drop in three years—but are 0.7 percenthigher compared to April 2012.

Analysis“Once again, the headline number for

nonresidential construction materials pricesremains benign,” stated Associated Buildersand Contractors Chief Economist AnirbanBasu. “Over the past six months, the monthlypercentage changes in nonresidential materi-als prices have shown little movement.

“However, beneath the headline numbersis some emerging volatility that should con-

cern contractors,” said Basu. “This volatil-ity is not necessarily associated with risingprices, but rather with expanding monthlyfluctuation that may render bidding projectsmore difficult.

“In the most recent month, materials priceswould have actually fallen significantly ex-cept for an increase in energy prices,” Basu

remarked. “In recent weeks, commodity priceshave generally been weaker, a reflection of a softglobal economy still prone to bouts of weakness.

“Economic growth in China now appearsto be firming and Japanese economic activityis accelerating, which would tend to be con-sistent with future materials price increases,”added Basu. “In addition to a shifting globaloutlook is the impact of central bank policyaround the world. Many central banks arenow following the lead of America’s FederalReserve by lowering interest rates and in-creasing money supplies—a policy environ-

ment that is more likely to be associated withboth volatile and rising materials prices.

“Only time will tell if materials pricesgenerally remain lower,” said Basu. “How-ever, contractors should not be surprised if nonresidential construction materials pricesbounce back significantly over the next sev-eral months.”



June 2013 TheBusinessJournal 3B

4. Guidance through planning and redtape

Building is highly regulated by lawsfrom 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 takea detour through to the Victorian Civil andAdministrative Tribunal (VCAT). This tri-bunal is essentially a branch of the SupremeCourt set up to hear various types of casesincluding building and planning disputes.

Upon achieving a planning permit thenext stage is to coordinate a building per-mit. This level of regulation is to ensurethat the building when constructed is safeto use, structurally sound and complies withthe Building Code and relevant AustralianStandards.

The complexities of the various regula-tions makes it somewhat of a minefield forthose inexperienced in the local setting.Again architects have the experience andknowledge to navigate this path and keepthe project on track.

5. Coordinating the teamThe architect cannot work in isolation.

All projects will require a team of profes-sionals all doing their specific role. As aminimum, a building surveyor and a struc-tural engineer will be required. Depending

on the project this can include many moreconsultants such as, town planning consul-tants, land surveyors, hydraulic / mechani-cal / services engineers, acoustic engineers,geotechnical engineers, landscape architectsand urban designers. Needless to say thisteam effort can require significant coordina-tion to ensure that everyone is on the samepage.

An experienced architect will have work-ing relationships with the full range of con-sultants. Furthermore they will brief theconsultants 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 architect’s role isorganising the project tender. This processenables reputable builders to bid on theirprice to construct the project. This tenderprocess often enables the client to get bet-ter value for money by making the builders

compete for the project in terms of priceand construction time frame. The architectwill ensure that the process is a level play-ing field for all of the builders, controllingthe timing and dispersal of information andresponding 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 froma dealership you are required to sign theseller’s contract. If you want that house orthat car you have no choice but to sign their

contract. This might mean that they have 18months to deliver their end of the bargainwhilst you must provide your end immedi-ately. This is not necessarily fair for you asthe purchaser, but your only alternative maybe not to proceed with the purchase.

However, when using an architect, youare 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 projectis completed within your time and budget.

With all building contracts the architect maymake suggestions as to which would be ap-propriate for the specific project, howeverlegal advice should be taken to ensure theselected 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 actingas your representative and agent. If the lo-cal council has an issue, the engineer hasa question, or the builder needs clarifica-tion, the architect is their point of call. Thismeans that you don’t have to be the expertto get an expert result.

9. Getting the most out of the projectTo get the most out of your project, the

design process is critical. Architects havethe experience to work through this process

with their clients and to push the boundariesof client expectations. Often in a first meet-ing, a client will have a fixed idea of whatthey want in their project. The architect willlisten to the client and work with them to es-tablish alternative options as well as identifylimitations which the client was originallyunaware of. This dialogue of ideas betweenclient and architect continues throughoutthe project, providing an end result which isoften far beyond the clients initial expecta-

tions.10. Value for moneyBuilding is an expensive and complex

activity to undertake. To do it well requiressubstantial time and skill in design. Somecritics of architects say that they charge too

much. However what the client is paying foris the architect’s time to think, design anddraw their project. Architects are with theproject for its entirety and the greater thetime, thinking, designing and drawing, thebetter the result. Some clients go into theproject restricting the architect’s scope of services and negotiating the minimum feespossible. Unfortunately these clients oftenmiss out on most of the value to be had.

As you have seen the Architect providesexperience and professionalism across abroad range of tasks over the life of the proj-

ect. They will push the bounds of the brief tocreate a building uniquely suited to the cli-ent’s needs. They will engage their substan-tial design skills to achieve the most out of the site and wider context. Most importantlythey will be with the project and the clientfrom start to finish, providing them withvalue and advantage along the way.

Architecture is for everyone.

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Architect (Continued from page 7A)


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Community Banking

1. Get the Same Services at Lower CostMost locally owned banks and credit unions offer

the same array of services, from online bill paying todebit and credit cards, at much lower cost than bigbanks. Average fees at small banks and credit unionsare substantially lower than at big banks, according tonational 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 LocalEconomy

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 lessthan one-quarter of all bank assets, they account formore than half of all small business lending. Big banks,meanwhile, allocate relatively little of their resourcesto small businesses. The largest 20 banks, which nowcontrol 57 percent of all bank assets, devote only 18percent of their commercial loan portfolios to small business.

3. Keep Decision-Making LocalAt 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 thispersonal knowledge, local financial institutions are of-

ten able to approve small business and other loans thatbig banks would reject. In the case of credit unions,control ultimately rests with the customers, who arealso member- owners.

4. Back Institutions that Share a Commitment toYour 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 localbank benefits. This is why many local banks and creditunions are involved in their communities. Big banks,in contrast, are not tethered to the places where theyoperate. Indeed, they often use a community’s depositsto 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 intoloans 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 theentire financial system at risk if they go bad.

Top 5 reasons to choose a community bank or credit union


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The Fort Jennings State Bank“the Bank of choice” • www.fjsb.com

Ottoville • 419-453-2527

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Ft. Jennings • 419-286-2527 Ottawa • 419-523-3013

Leipsic • 419-943-2528

The Ottoville Bank Co.

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MAIN OFFICE

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LENDING CENTER

940 E. Fifth St.

Delphos, OH 45833419-695-3313

Community bank advantages

• Community banks focus attention on the needs of local families, businessesand farmers. Conversely, many of the nation’s megabanks are structured to place apriority 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 theirdepositors 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 communityaffairs, 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 anddiscretionary spending in making loans. Megabanks, on the other hand, often ap-

ply impersonal qualification criteria, such as credit scoring, to all loan decisionswithout regard to individual circumstances.

• Community banks offer nimble decision-making on business loans becausedecisions are made locally. Megabanks must often convene loan-approval com-mittees in another state.

• Because community banks are themselves small businesses, they understandthe 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




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Elder Care

Entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations alikeare jumping on the op-portunity to develop se-nior services and products.Over 1.4 million seniorsare currently receive in-home care, and those num-bers will double by 2030.This growing population is

a prime target for businessopportunities.Here are our picks for

the ten hottest trends thatwill improve the quality of life for elders and caregiv-ers alike.

For Profit Social Work-ers – Typically costing$80 to $100 per hour, theyprovide senior assistancefor doctor appointments,supervise medication and

research various care op-tions for you. The NationalAssociation of Professional Geriatric CareManagers offers referrals for senior help.

Peer Care - Seniors volunteer and arematched to provide elderly assistancethrough a nonprofit organization. Seniorcare services include everything from com-panionship to overnight stays, housekeepingto transportation. Seniors Helping Seniors,is one of the fastest growing services of thistype.

Luxury Care Products – From gold-plat-

ed canes to leather lift chairs, in-home careproducts are getting a makeover. Check outthe line of indulgent necessities for parentcare 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 SportsMedicine’s (ACSM’s) worldwide fitnesstrend survey published in 2008, Senior Fit-ness ranks #6 in the top 10 trends.

ElderGadgets - Finding the right gift foryour aging parent can be a difficult task in-

deed. Well, fear gift giving no more! Frominfrared blood circulation food massagers todisposable 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 providersare on the boom thanks to a weak economy.Nurses by day frequently take jobs by nightto provide in home care for elderly patients.

Elderlaw – With an aging population thatis 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 – we’re no lon-ger limited to the infamous provider who

helps those that fall and can’t get back up…from GPS-enabled devices to necklaces thatcan be pressed in case of emergency, seniorassistance is getting a big boost in remoteapplications that allow you to regain free-dom in home care for the elderly.

Senior Transportation – The NationalCenter on Senior Transportation was formedfor the express purpose of increasing seniorassistance with transportation, enhancingtheir ability to live more independentlywithin their communities.

Big Brother - Granny cams, monitors and

motion detectors that first entered the mar-ket for childcare are being revamped andrepackaged for elderly in home care. Andwhy not? Checking on mom on a screen inthe kitchen is a time saver, providing longer“breaks” for you and greater independencefor her.

10 hot trends in senior

care services




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Van Wert, Ohio

419-238-9567www.AlexanderBebout.com

Report on Van WertSet in the heart of West Central

Ohio’s 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-69and 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 thearea. 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 hundredsof local business-es who consistently rankit as an excellent location to do business inthe annual Economic Development retentionand expansion survey. A strong, diversifiedmanufacturing base has been developed withour largest em-ployer being the internationalEaton Corporation. Van Wert is also home tothe headquarters of Central Mutual InsuranceCom-pany, currently involved in an expan-sion process.

The area is served by a strong and healthyfinancial community of banks, a savings andloan and credit unions.

The area has many eco-nomic develop-ment tools available to help the businesscommu-nity grow. The county and cityhave established Enterprise Zones, makingtax abate-ments available to growth-orientedbusinesses, both new and existing. TheEconomic Development Office runs the localRevolving Loan and Microenterprise Fundsthat make low-interest loans available to busi-

nesses that are creating jobs in the area. A

single economic development office operates forboth the city and the county in conjunction withthe 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 ownedcompanies (National Door & Trim employsaround 80). The variety of products made byour outstanding workforce include handbags,ambulances, automotive parts, hoses and f ittings,processed turkey products, plastic products, tool

boxes, fiber drums, FFA & 4H jackets, woodendoors and trim, sealing systems and much more.

The business community is served by severalcommu-nity development organizations includ-ing the Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce,Van Wert County Economic Development Office,Community Improvement Corporation, MainStreet Van Wert and the Van Wert Convention& Visitors Bureau. More specific informationon economic development opportunities, demo-graphics, industrial or workforce informationmay be gained by calling the Chamber (419/238-

4390) or ED Offices (419/238-2999).

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The cultural heritage of Van Wert County stretches back to its early history. In 1901the 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 localgenealogical information. In 1954, wealthy peony farmer Charles Wassenberg passed awayleaving money he had set aside to create a community art center in his house. The housewas remodeled to house what is now known as the Wassenberg Art Center. In addition toexhibits, the Center provides art classes and training for area residents.

Van Wert Civic Theatre (VWCT) regularly receives regional and state recognition fortheir outstanding level of performances. They entertain the community with 6 productionsper year, featuring local and regional talent.

The Van Wert County Historical Society helps to preserve local heritage by overseeinga varied collection of local artifacts. The museum grounds include a Victorian home, annexbuilding, 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 County’s Commu-nity

Concert Association and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC). Set to openin Spring 2007, NPAC will be a shining example of Van Wert County’s commitment to thearts. Concerts will draw crowds from the regional and tri-state area to see the outstandingperformances 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 andThe Glenn Miller Orchestra have entertained thousands in an outdoor ampitheater settingin the heart of downtown. During the fall and winter months the Sanctuary Music Seriespresents light classical and sacred concerts in many of Van Wert’s 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 theVan Wert County Foundation.

A rts and culture




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Early FoundationsThe 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 appearerroneously as Van Wert, and the new spelling has endured.

Van Wert County was fi rst settled in 1821 by former sea captain James Riley. Rileymoved his family to a plot of land he purchased along the St. Mary’s river and laid out thebalance of his land in lots for a town he named Willshire, the first county seat. In 1834,James Watson Riley, Captain Riley’s son, and two other men bought 240 acres of land forthe 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 thisnew location under the name of Van Wert.

During the early years, dense forests covered Van Wert County, and the northern portionwas a bog known as the Great Black Swamp. In spite of these handicaps, people did move tothe 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 thenecessities of life. Even when they were to clear a little land to produce crops, the drainagewas too poor to make farming profi table.

Agriculture & Industry Life began to change in 1845 with the opening of the MiamiCanal Extension, which offered transportation facilities to the great markets. This opened anew 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 dramaticallyon the fertile black soil.

Historic Buildings & Happenings The Pennsylvania Railroad was built to Van Wert in1853, and the Cincinnati-Northern line was added in 1880. The present Courthouse wasbegun in 1874 and on January 1, 1901 the first county library in the United States wasdedicated.

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 UnitedStates 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 adepot 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 throughthe 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 in1902 when the fi rst Sunday in June was designated as “Peony Sunday”. During the 1930’s,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 thePeony Festival had more quality fl oats than the Mardi Gras! Between the afternoon andevening parades, the visiting bands performed a mass concert at the football fi eld, with asmany 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 onthe history of Van Wert County, visit the Van Wert County Historical Society.

H istory

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Scattered along the many roads and highways thatcrisscross Van Wert County are nestled several attractive,friendly little communities.

DelphosThe City of Delphos is uniquely situated in three coun-

ties – Van Wert, Putnam and Allen. Delphos was foundedon the Miami-Erie Canal that runs through the heart of downtown and hosts a popular local festival each yearcalled

“Canal Days”.ConvoyThe Village of Convoy has over 50 retailers, mer-

chants and service providers in their area and is home tothe Crestview Local Schools. Convoy displays its strongcivic pride with their annual celebration of “Convoy

Community Days.”Middle PointMiddle 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 manufacturingplants, a grain elevator and the annual “Founders Day” celebration.

Ohio CityOhio City is known as the birthplace of the nation’s 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.ScottJust north of Van Wert lies the Village of

Scott, whose Main Street is the dividing linebetween Van Wert and Paulding Counties.They are most proud of their beautiful park,where you’ll find a ball diamond, fi shingpond, shelter and picnic facilities.

VenedociaA popular, annual Welsh songfest, the Gy-

manfa Ganu, is held in the Village of Vened-ocia. Founded in 1848, Venedocia is proud tobe surrounded by some of the county’s

most fertile farmland.Willshire

Willshire, founded in 1821 and alongOhio-Indiana border on the banks of the St.Mary’s River was the original county seat. A replica of the first county courthousestands in their park. Dozens of local businesses and their “Willshire Days” festivalmake this a thriving community.

Wren & ElginThere 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.

C ities and villages




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City of Van WertThe City of Van Wert is governed by an elected Mayor and

an eight member city council.

Council serves as the local legislative body responsible forcreating local laws and approving major city expenditures.They are elected to two-year terms and meet on the secondand fourth Monday of each month (committee meetings gen-erally held on the first and third Monday’s).

The Mayor is elected to a four-year term and works closelywith 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, PoliceChief and Fire Chief.

The City provides a full array of municipal services throughits water, streets, parks, engineering, income tax, waste watertreatment, municipal court, police and fi re departments.

Safety & Law EnforcementLaw 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 callswhile in the surrounding areas, calls are dispatched to localvolunteer EMS and fire departments, or Brickner EMS. TheCity Fire Department, which carries a Class 4 insurance rat-ing, is equipped with a 75-foot and 100-foot aerial laddertruck and four pumpers. The City Police Department has over20 full-time employees, while the Sherriff’s 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 thecity’s jurisdiction. The State Highway Patrol also operates apost out of the City of Van Wert.

Van Wert CountyVan Wert County government serves approximately 29,700

residents and has eleven elected offi cials consisting of threecounty commissioners, an auditor, treasurer, prosecuting at-torney, clerk of courts of common pleas, engineer, coroner,recorder and sheriff. There is no chief executive officer; eachelected 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 County’s towns and villages are an integral partof the county’s 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 inVan Wert County, but is split by the borders of neighboringAllen and Putnam Counties.

G overnment




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5) Big Data – Challenge or Opportu-nity?

Big data is only getting bigger – it canmake or break multiparty collaboration.How effectively teams are able to man-age the growth of files and correspondencethroughout their collaborative processeswill be crucial in 2013. To be competitive,online collaboration solutions will requireunlimited capacity – for file sizes, numbers

of files, types of documents, system usage,numbers of users, and numbers of user or-ganizations. Both internal and external datawill need to be managed with maximumconsistency, flexibility and searchability –such that stakeholders have the informationthey need when they need it.

Collaboration(Continued from page 1B)

Set in the heart of West Central Ohio’srich agricultural lands, Van Wert is in aprime geographic location.

Sixty-fi ve percent of the United Statesand Canadian population resides within a600 mile radius of Van Wert. Van Wert islocated halfway between Lima, Ohio andFort Wayne, Indiana along US Hwy 30 (afourlane, divided highway).

Van Wert is at the center of several major highways that connect you with manymetropolitan areas in the region. Includedare 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 within30 minutes. Metropolitan markets such asChicago, Detroit, Cincinnati, Cleveland,Columbus and Indianapolis are withineasy driving distance.

Van Wert rail service is provided byConrail, and several trucking lines andfreight terminals service the area. The VanWert County Airport is equipped with a4,000 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 availableat the Fort Wayne International Airport,located just 30 miles away, or the DaytonInternational Airport, about an hour away.The Port of Toledo is located about 100miles north of Van Wert giving you accessto international shipping routes.

L ocation

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