THREE QUESTION THURSDAY
SPOTLIGHT ON: KIM FLEMING
If you are looking for something to do in the area, don’t just look at Fort Wayne, Toledo, and Lima. Van Wert is a hidden gem, and Kim Fleming, the Director for Visit Van Wert, shares with Rob Patz and The Community some of the many reasons why Van Wert is such a great place to visit.
ROB PATZ: Tell us why we should visit Van Wert?
KIM FLEMING: Last year we had 167 events! The interesting part of that number is it represents ALL of Van Wert County, and even the people in Van Wert are shocked at that number. We are a small community that thrives on some large events, but more importantly, many fantastic smaller events that are specific to live music, history, arts, food, along with outdoor activities. Our Niswonger Performing Arts Center is a highlight of Ohio, a multi-million-dollar venue that brings musicals, theater, bands, and much more for our enjoyment. Every individual or group that performs there is amazed at the sound, beauty, architecture, and performances we can bring to our area. Being a safe and easily accessible community is a very rewarding sentiment for our visitors to know while attending their chosen events. With the 100-million-dollar downtown renovation being done in phases, the hope and promise of more positive events in Van Wert will be on the calendar!
RP: Who is the one person that you would credit as an influence on your life and why?
KF: My professional life and my personal life are one in the same, my father. Professionally, he started working in a factory, and that specific company gave him the opportunity to gain further education and finish college while working full-time and going to school part-time for eight (8) years, while having a family. He was always a hard worker, initiated work ethic in all that he did, went above and beyond to gain the skills needed and made sure he communicated that hard work takes grit. Personally, as his mini-me, I felt the positive pressure of making sure I worked hard as well. He made time for his children even when he was in far away places and technology was not available as we have today. His ability to show and tell me his mistakes were great lessons when most parents want to shut those mistakes out of their conversations. I applaud him for that. Last and certainly most important, being a faith-based person is a lifelong journey, and my faith has always been a constant influence on my life for my moral compass. Sometimes off course, sometimes on point, but always praying to stay on course.
RP: What event do you have coming up in 2024 that you are excited about?
KF: I really can’t squeeze only one event into THE ONE for our county. Honestly, we are collecting events weekly and gaining details on 2024. One of the most prominent is always our Peony Festival, which is held on the first weekend of June traditionally. Historically, Van Wert was well known for the peony fields around the area, hence, the Peony Festival was born. There are many activities planned during the three-day weekend and we are proud to give those who attend a variety of activities for ranges of ages. Our downtown Fountain Park has free Friday Night LIVE music featuring bands of all genres, these Friday nights are well attended. The Van Wert County Fairgrounds are always a space for continuous action and has visitors from all everywhere take advantage of those opportunities. I would tell everyone to visit www.visitvanwert.com for all the details on our website, and LIKE our Visit Van Wert Facebook and Instagram to stay current!
Thanks, Kim, for participating in Three Question Thursday!
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