View as Webpage

From the Desk of the Director

Last Thursday, we were thrilled to welcome Kyzer Realty to downtown Paulding. Rita Bowling, Alyssa Thome, and Tori Young are now serving clients from their Paulding location, upstairs at the Small Business Innovation Center at 103.5 E. Perry St. Be sure to stop by and give them a warm Paulding County welcome if you haven’t already.

I want to extend a sincere thank you to the more than 100 businesses and organizations that have already renewed their 2026 Chamber membership. Your continued investment and support make it possible for us to strengthen our local business community, develop leaders, and advance meaningful initiatives across Paulding County. We are truly grateful for your partnership and trust in the Chamber’s work. If you would like to partner with the Chamber, you can learn more here: Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce - Membership

Last Tuesday, I hit the pavement again inviting more local businesses and organizations to participate in the PHS Community Cleanup Day, where juniors and seniors have the opportunity to give back and take pride in their community through a countywide day of spring cleaning. Businesses are encouraged to sign up by January 30 to be included on the project list. Project details are due in March, and Cleanup Day will take place on April 30. Scroll down to find the signup.

Last Wednesday, our Leadership in Action (LIA) cohort also spent the day learning what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in service, healthcare, and community impact. Participants toured Paulding Care Community (formerly The Gardens of Paulding), learned about Adult Day services and more from Community Health Professionals, and visited Paulding County Hospital, gaining insight into rural healthcare operations, advanced lab testing, imaging services, and plans to expand the physical therapy gym in 2026. See some photos from the tours below. This LIA cohort is excited to announce that they have chosen a service project partnering with United Way of Paulding County to raise funds for a new handicap van for the Paulding County Senior Center. Stay tuned for more details.

Looking ahead, this week I’ll be meeting with Memories by Tawnya English to discuss a project and Paulding Care Community to learn more about their new Vaporox wound treatment, which helps wounds heal more efficiently. I’ll also continue conversations with partners, including Western Buckeye Educational Service Center, as their K–12 student art initiative honoring America’s 250th Anniversary continues to develop. More details will be shared soon.

All mail should be sent directly to our office at

101 E. Perry St., Paulding, OH 45879.

Advanced Rehabilitation Technology (ART) specializes in the repair and rehabilitation of municipal and industrial water and wastewater systems. Founded in 2007, ART provides cost-effective, long-lasting solutions that help communities address aging infrastructure challenges, including sewer lining, inflow and infiltration, and corrosion caused by hydrogen sulfide.

Serving clients across multiple states, ART plays a critical behind-the-scenes role in protecting public health and extending the life of essential infrastructure. Their work is guided by a strong commitment to safety, quality, and values-driven leadership.

Location: Bryan, Ohio

Phone: 419-636-2684

WMEA of Paulding County has been serving our County since 1988, helping residents, schools, and businesses divert waste from landfills as part of the Four County Solid Waste District. Through education, community partnerships, and accessible recycling options, WMEA plays a key role in protecting our environment and supporting sustainable practices across the county.

WMEA Recycling accepts cardboard, paper, steel and aluminum cans, and plastics #1–7 (no longer required to be sorted) and hosts drop-off recycling trailers throughout Paulding County on a rotating monthly schedule. Thanks to strong community participation, the program continues to grow—diverting more than 110 tons of material from landfills in 2023 alone.

Drop-Off Schedule Highlights:

• 1st weekend: Paulding (across from the Fairgrounds)

• 2nd weekend: Grover Hill (VFW)

• 3rd weekend: Payne (east of Homier’s / behind old grocery store)

• 4th weekend: Antwerp (Sewage Plant, CR 43)

• 3rd Wednesday monthly: Cecil, Junction, Haviland/Scott, and Latty (timed stops)

Contact:

• Office: 419-399-3630
• Email: shannon@pauldingcountywmea.com

Thank you to WMEA Recycling for helping keep Paulding County clean.

January 21, 2026

• Paulding County Park District Volunteer Meeting | 5:30 PM | 451 McDonald Pike, Paulding

January 22, 2026

• Books & Coffee | 1:00 PM | Payne Branch Library, Payne

January 23, 2026

• Paulding FFA Alumni Pancake & Sausage Supper | 4:30–7:00 PM | Paulding High School Auditorium

January 26, 2026

• Vantage Career Center 50th Anniversary Open House & Taste of Vantage | 5:00–7:30 PM | Vantage Career Center, Van Wert

February 2, 2026

• Paulding Early Intervention Community Playgroup | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM or 6:00–7:00 PM | Black Swamp Nature Center, Paulding

February 7, 2026

• Princess Day | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | More Than Boutique LLC, Antwerp

February 14, 2026

• Renegade Lemonade @ Paulding Eagles (Valentine’s Day Party) | 7:30–11:30 PM | Paulding Eagles

February 21, 2026

• Relay for Life Kickoff Event | 5:00 PM | Paulding Eagles Aerie 2405
• Divine Mercy Catholic School Bunco Night Fundraiser | 6:00 PM | Divine Mercy Catholic School, Payne
• Little Loves & Big Hugs Valentine’s Dance | 5:00–9:00 PM | Antwerp VFW Post 5087

February 18 – March 25, 2026

• Lenten Community Lunches | Wednesdays | 12:00–1:00 PM | First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall (Meal + brief devotional | Freewill donation | Food pantry donations accepted)

March 21, 2026

• Kiwanis Club of Paulding Purse Bingo | Doors Open: 10:00 AM | Paulding

March 27, 2026

• Laughter That Saves Lives Spring Banquet | Hands of Hope | 5:30 PM | Grant’s Reception Hall, Antwerp

April 9, 2026

• Paulding County Career Day | Time TBD | OSU Extension, Paulding

April 11, 2026

• Payne Elementary PTO Mom 2 Mom Sale | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM | Payne Elementary School

April 30, 2026

• PHS Community Cleanup Day | All Day | Participating businesses (Rain date: May 1, 2026)

June 20–29, 2026

• Shades of Ireland – Travel with the Chamber | Departing from Paulding

Deadlines & Opportunities

• January 30 – PHS Community Cleanup Day | Business Registration Deadline
• January 31 – 2026 Dog Tags Deadline
• January 31 – RISE Leadership Series | Early Registration Discount Ends
• February 6 – Paulding Putnam Electric Scholarship | Application Deadline
• March 30 – America’s Field Trip Contest | Student Submission Deadline
• March 31 – American Express Shop Small Grants | Application Deadline
• March 31 – T-Mobile Hometown Grants (Spring Cycle) | Application Deadline
• April 10 – Paulding County Area Foundation Scholarships | Deadline

Grant Opportunity: T-Mobile Hometown Grants

The T-Mobile Hometown Grants program, in partnership with Main Street America, awards up to $50,000 to small towns and rural communities to support downtown revitalization and community improvement projects.

Eligible projects may include:

• Placemaking and public space improvements
• Outdoor gathering areas
• Beautification and downtown enhancements
• Community-focused infrastructure or technology upgrades

Grant Details:

• Award amount: Up to $50,000
• Project timeline: 12 months (June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027)

Key Submission Deadline:

• Spring 2026 application period: January 1 – March 31, 2026
• Applicants will be notified within 60 days after the application period closes.



Members and community partners are encouraged to review the program details using the link below. If you have a project idea or questions, please contact the Chamber so we can explore coordinated or partnered opportunities.

Leave a Lasting Legacy — Honor a Veteran

The Paulding Veterans Memorial Committee invites community members to honor the service and sacrifice of a veteran through a new Commemorative Granite Panel program at the Paulding Veterans Memorial.

Four large granite panels will be installed, creating a permanent and meaningful tribute to the veterans who have shaped our community. A personalized engraving is a special way to honor a loved one, preserve their legacy, and support the continued development of the Paulding Veterans Memorial.

How to Participate:

• Simply download the order form below
• Follow the instructions
• Submit your veteran’s name along with your donation

Together, we can create a lasting place of remembrance—one that honors service, tells our community’s story, and stands for generations to come.

Join Vantage Career Center as they celebrate 50 years at their Open House & Taste of Vantage on Monday, January 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. –7:30 p.m.

Whether you’re a community partner, sophomore exploring career paths, a junior or senior planning what’s next, Vantage alumni, or an adult ready to build new skills and advance your career—this event is for you.

Explore Opportunities:

• Tour our 18 high school programs and experience hands-on lab demonstrations. Meet current students and experience student life.
• Visit our Adult Post-Secondary Education Division to explore courses in health, business, IT, manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
• Meet Employers: Connect directly with companies offering apprenticeships, internships, and career opportunities—your future network starts here.
• Learn how Vantage students earn Industry-recognized credentials & licenses AND Valuable college credit through College Credit Plus

Taste of Vantage Is Back!

Enjoy bites from your favorite local restaurants at our Taste of Vantage.

Food tickets: $1 each or 6 for $5. All proceeds benefit the Vantage Student Activity Fund.

Diamond Sponsors:

Millie’s Cafe • Moose Landing • Black Angus Catering • R Place • Saisaki Van Wert • Vantage Culinary Arts

Don’t miss this chance! See You There!

--

Tessa Laing

Community Relations Coordinator

Vantage Career Center

818 North Franklin Street

Van Wert, Ohio 45891

(419) 238-5411 x2169

When energy questions come up, having a real person you trust to talk to makes all the difference.

The Chamber Energy Program’s team of local experts provide hands-on support to help health and wellness businesses understand their energy options and avoid costly surprises.

Request a free bill review today and see how much you could save.

The Paulding County Park District has cancelled its December meeting. Their next meeting will be held on January 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The Park District is currently seeking volunteers to assist with a variety of tasks—from simple projects like pulling weeds and mowing to more skilled work that may require the use of power tools. Community members are encouraged to attend the January meeting to learn how they can support the maintenance and beautification of our local parks.

Looking ahead to college, trade school, or a tech program? Paulding Putnam is proud to offer multiple scholarship opportunities for students and members in our community!

Available scholarships include:

• Traditional Children of Members Scholarship — $5,700 total
• For children of Paulding Putnam members who are high school seniors with a 3.0+ GPA
• General Scholarship Drawing — $2,500 total
• Ten $250 scholarships for members of ANY AGE or their children currently in (or will be in the next year) college, trade, or tech programs
• Winners selected by random drawing during our annual meeting broadcast
• Community Champions Award — $1,800 total
• Open to high school seniors in the Paulding Putnam service territory
• No GPA requirement
• Parent or guardian does not have to be a PPEC member

Friday, January 30, 2026 – Lorrie Morgan with Jamie O’Neal

Country music legends Lorrie Morgan and Jamie O’Neal take the Niswonger stage together for the first time, performing their chart-topping hits and fan favorites.

Sunday, March 1, 2026 – Celtic Angels Ireland

A beautiful celebration of Irish culture featuring exceptional vocalists, musicians, and step dancers in a full-stage production of music, movement, and storytelling.

Sunday, March 15, 2026 – Mamma Mania: The American Tribute to ABBA

A high-energy tribute filled with ABBA’s biggest hits, iconic harmonies, and feel-good nostalgia. Perfect for fans who love to sing along.

Friday, March 20, 2026 – The Isaacs

Award-winning, Grand Ole Opry–favorite family band The Isaacs bring their signature blend of gospel, country, bluegrass, and Americana to Van Wert. Known for heartfelt songs and breathtaking harmonies, this long-awaited performance marks a special return to the Niswonger stage.

Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Yacht Rock the Dock

Ambrosia, John Ford Coley, and Peter Beckett (The Voice of Player) unite for a night of 70s and 80s soft-rock classics and Billboard Top 40 hits, including “Baby Come Back,” “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” and “Love Is the Answer.”

Saturday, April 25, 2026 – Larry Fleet: Another Year Older Tour

Country artist Larry Fleet brings soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting to the stage, featuring songs like “Where I Find God” and “Things I Take for Granted.”

Saturday, May 2, 2026 – To The Limit: The Ultimate Eagles Tribute

Experience the timeless harmonies and classic rock sound of The Eagles, featuring hits such as “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” and “Desperado.”

Tickets & Information

Niswonger Performing Arts Center Box Office: Tuesday–Friday, 10 AM–3 PM

Contact: 419-238-6722 • vanwertlive.com

Leadership & Nonprofit Opportunity

The RISE Northwest Ohio Leadership Series is a 10-month virtual learning experience designed for nonprofit and social sector leaders ready to move beyond survival mode and build financially strong, high-impact organizations.

This series is ideal for executive directors, CEOs, board chairs and members, senior nonprofit leaders, and professionals in development, finance, and operations, as well as funders and sector partners seeking a deeper understanding of nonprofit sustainability. Grounded in the national Five & Rising framework, the program challenges scarcity-driven thinking and equips leaders to rethink funding, budgeting, wages, governance, and long-term growth.

Sessions run March–December 2026, meeting monthly via Zoom, and are facilitated by Aileen Meyer, CEO of the Center for Community Impact.

Registration Cost:

• $200 early registration (through January 31)
• $250 standard registration

(Includes all 10 sessions, recordings, and supporting materials)

Program begins March 16, 2026

Holly, Wood & Vine is happily back open after a brief sabbatical while Holly recovered from a neck injury. Known for thoughtful designs, beautiful arrangements, and personal service, the shop helps celebrate life’s meaningful moments — from everyday gestures to once-in-a-lifetime occasions. Holly, Wood & Vine proudly serves Paulding County and the surrounding area, with nationally recognized floral training and a commitment to quality in every arrangement.

📍 112A North Williams St., Paulding

📞 419-399-9061

Hours:

• Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sat: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Sun: Closed

Student Opportunity: America’s Field Trip Contest (Grades 3–12)

America’s Field Trip is a nationwide student contest sponsored by America250, the official nonpartisan organization leading the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.

The contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspective on what America means to them for a chance to earn a once-in-a-lifetime field trip to one of 16 iconic U.S. landmarks or cultural sites, including Mount Rushmore, the National Archives Museum, Kennedy Space Center, and Yellowstone National Park.

Key Details:

• Deadline: Monday, March 30, 2026 (5:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. ET)
• Eligibility: Students in grades 3–12 who are legal residents of the U.S., D.C., or U.S. territories

Prizes:

• 125 first-place winners + a chaperone receive travel and lodging for a 3-day, 2-night educational trip in summer 2026
• 125 second-place winners receive $500 cash awards
• Three educators will each receive $1,000
• Award recipients will be notified in late April 2026.