Chamber Insights with Jill


It wouldn’t be right to start this newsletter without a heartfelt thank you to all those who labor to make our community a better place. Yesterday’s Labor Day honored your hard work and dedication, and I hope everyone enjoyed a safe and happy holiday.


Oakwood Homecoming wrapped up the weekend with a wonderful parade — thank you to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make that event another great success.


As we turn the page into September, the Chamber is moving full steam ahead. Leadership in Action launches this week, our NextGen Youth Artisan Workshop is set for September 13, and we’re just a few short weeks away from our Annual Banquet on September 25.


This coming weekend, Paulding County can also look forward to two great agricultural events: The AGrow Expo by Mercer Landmark and Corn Plot Day by Pond Seed Company. Both showcase the strength and innovation of our farming community, and details are included below.


I also want to mention a quick reminder about something that affects us all: online security. Since experiencing a hack myself, I’ve been reminded how important it is to stay vigilant. Odd emails, unexpected account activity, or unfamiliar links are worth a second look. A few simple habits can make a big difference:

  • Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
  • Turn on two-factor authentication.
  • Think before you click — avoid unknown links or attachments.
  • Keep software up to date.
  • Check your accounts regularly for unusual activity.


As always, thank you for your support and commitment to making Paulding County a thriving place to live, work, and do business. I’m excited for everything this September holds!


Warmly,

Jill Strahley

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” — Pablo Picasso

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FEATURED BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

Western Buckeye Educational Service Center


We’re excited to welcome Western Buckeye Educational Service Center (WBESC) as one of our newest Chamber members!


If you have kids or grandkids in Paulding or Van Wert County, you’ve probably seen WBESC’s impact already. They support our schools with specialized programs, help teachers through professional development, and provide services that meet the needs of students of all abilities.



Their work makes a real difference for families and schools, and we’re glad to have them as part of the Chamber. Please join us in giving Western Buckeye ESC a warm welcome!

INFORMATION FROM THE CHAMBER

NextGen Youth Artists – Apply by Saturday, September 6


Do you know a student in grades K–12 who loves to create? Encourage them to join the NextGen Youth Artists Workshop & Marketplace—a program designed to help young people grow their artistic skills and entrepreneurial spirit.


On Saturday, September 13, participants will attend a free, one-day workshop led by local artists. Then, on Saturday, November 22, they’ll showcase and sell their work at the NextGen Youth Artisan Marketplace during Shop the Village in downtown Paulding.


This is a wonderful opportunity for your child, grandchild, or a young person you know to share their creativity with the community. Space is limited—applications are due by September 6.


📌 View full event details and curriculum on our website: Paulding Area Chamber – NextGen Youth Artists

CHAMBER MEMBER & BUSINESS NEWS

We Want to Share Your News!


Have an event, announcement, or business update?


Chamber members are invited to submit information to be featured in our weekly newsletter and social media. Help us highlight the great things happening in our community!


Email your news to pauldingchamber@gmail.com.

Countywide Snapshot: What’s Coming Up

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up across Paulding County! Click the links for more details or scroll down in the newsletter to see the full event highlights.

Wednesdays & Saturdays

— Caring & Sharing Food Pantry is open every Wednesday & Saturday 9AM - 12PM

September 5

— Pond Seed Co. Corn Plot Day

September 5–6

— Mercer Landmark AGROW Expo

September 6

— Pickleball Tournament

— Auglaize Canoe & Kayak – Moonlight Paddle, 8–10 p.m., $50/person, register online

— Payne Church of the Nazarene – Pie Auction, 10:00 a.m.

September 10

— Business Advisory Council (all businesses welcome) 1pm at OSU Extension

September 12

— Mastodon Internship and Career Fair (see details below)

September 12–13

— Paulding County Fall Festival

September 13

— NextGen Youth Workshop (must register)

— Sam Smith Benefit

September 13–14

— Payne Rock the Block

September 15

— Child & Family Resource Fair

September 20–21

— Paulding County History Museum Craft Show (9/20 10am-5pm, 9/21 10am-3pm)

September 21

— First Presbyterian Church of Paulding 150th Birthday Celebration (Worship 10:15am, catered meal to follow—reservations due 9/15, outdoor special music in early afternoon)

— Paulding County Firefighters Association Pancake & Sausage Breakfast (7am-11am)

— 24th Annual ATHS Vintage Truck Show

— Paulding County Senior Center's Annual Car & Truck Show (2pm-5pm) on the Square

September 26

— The Five Browns – Niswonger PAC

September 26–27

— Krazy Krafters & Friends Annual Sale · 108 W. Canal St., Antwerp

September 27

— Live Oak Cemetary Walk (1pm-4pm)

October 5

— Home Free & The Longest Johns Concert – Niswonger PAC

October 8

— Paulding County No Wrong Doors Community Resource Event (see details below)

October 11

— Payne Fire and EMS Chicken Dinner Drive Thru

October 25

— Journey to Italy: Fundraiser for Paulding Students

November 13

— 50th Anniversary CHP Home Care & Hospice Beacon of Hope Dinner & Charity Auction

November 14

— Paulding County Hospital Foundation BBQ Chicken Luncheon

November 18

— Paulding County Economic Development Annual Business Appreciation Banquet

November 22

— NextGen Youth Artisan Market | Shop the Village – 9 AM–3 PM in downtown Paulding

— Youth Business Showcase – Register by Oct. 31

Ohio Small Business Development

Up to $7,500 in Wage Reimbursement

Available for Businesses Hiring Tech Interns

Deadline to Apply EXTENDED: September 26, 2025

The Ohio Department of Development is offering a unique opportunity for any business with a technology need—not just tech companies.


Through the College Technology Internship Program, employers can be reimbursed for up to two-thirds of an intern’s wages (up to $7,500). Interns must be paid at least $15/hour, and businesses can hire up to 10 interns per round.


Your business might qualify if you need help with:

  • Social media and marketing content creation
  • Website updates or e-commerce support
  • IT system setup or troubleshooting
  • Data management or digital recordkeeping
  • Cybersecurity improvements
  • Software implementation or upgrades


Company applications accepted: Aug. 4 – Sept. 26, 2025

Student applications accepted: Sept. 2 – 26, 2025

Internships effective: Nov. 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026


Even if you aren’t hiring, you can help by sharing this program with college students you know who have tech skills—they can connect with participating businesses and gain paid, career-building experience right here in Ohio.


Interested students and companies can join the mailing list to be notified.


📌 Learn more and apply: TechIntern.Development.Ohio.Gov


The Chamber understands some businesses may feel intimidated by the process required to apply. However, there are people available to help guide employers through the process, and support is only a call away. Contact the Chamber at 419-399-5215.

Purdue University Fort Wayne

Mastodon Internship and Career Fair

September 12

Purdue University Fort Wayne will host the Mastodon Internship and Career Fair on Friday, September 12th, from 12–3 p.m. at the PFW Lutheran Health Fieldhouse, Gates Sports Center.


This fair is a great opportunity to connect with students and graduates seeking internships and career opportunities.


Location: PFW Lutheran Health Fieldhouse, Gates Sports Center

Time: 12–3 p.m.

Date: Friday, September 12, 2025

First Presbyterian Church

Celebrating 150 Years of Faith + Service

Join the Celebration

First Presbyterian Church, Paulding, marks its 150th birthday on Sunday, September 21.


Worship begins at 10:15 a.m., followed by a catered meal (reservations required by September 15).


Outdoor special music will take place in the early afternoon.

This September, First Presbyterian Church of Paulding celebrates 150 years of ministry and service in our community. To mark this milestone, the Anniversary Committee is presenting fourteen $150 Legacy Gifts to organizations that serve Paulding County—one for each of the fourteen members who have been part of the church family for 50+ years.


Each week through September, we’ll be spotlighting two of these recipients. In earlier weeks, we featured the Paulding County Dog Kennel, the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce, the Paulding Carnegie Library, and the Bargain Bin.

This week’s highlights:


  • Paulding VFW Post 587 – Veterans’ Memorial – $150 Legacy Gift presented in honor of 50-year members Kenny Robinson and Paul Punches, pictured with Dan Wilder, VFW Treasurer, and John Daeger, Veterans’ Memorial.
  • Paulding County Senior Center – $150 Legacy Gift presented in honor of 50-year member Susan Paulus, pictured with Kari Morhart, Director, and Dianna Karlstadt, Employee.


The Chamber joins in congratulating these organizations for their service and thanks First Presbyterian Church for honoring their contributions with this generous 150th Legacy Gift Celebration.


Stay tuned each week this month as we continue to feature more Legacy Gift recipients and the church members they honor.

Paulding County Early Intervention

Child & Family Resource Fair

September 15, 2025

Paulding Veterans Memorial

Fundraiser Gun Raffle

Tickets available NOW - Drawing September 21, 2025

Support the Paulding Veterans Memorial


A gun raffle is being held to raise funds for the Paulding Veterans Memorial. Thanks to the generous donation of a brand-new Henry Repeating Arms Golden Boy .22LR, every dollar raised from ticket sales will go directly toward supporting the memorial.


  • Drawing Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025 · 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: During the 24th American Truck Historical Society Vintage Truck Show at the Paulding County History Museum
  • Tickets: $20 each or 4 for $70
  • Purchase From: John Paulding VFW Post #587, Matt Reighter (419-786-0538), or by email at sales@blackswampoutfitters.com


For more information, contact John Daeger at 419-989-0548.



You do not need to be present to win, but winners must be 18+ and pass a federal background check before taking possession.

Flat Rock Creek Fall Truck Show

September 21, 2025

24th Annual Vintage Truck Show


The 24th Annual ATHS Vintage Truck Show rolls into Paulding on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at the John Paulding Historical Society Museum (600 Fairground Dr, across from the Fairgrounds).


Enjoy a display of antique and special interest vehicles — fun for the whole family!



  • Free admission · No entry fee · Donations accepted
  • Free parking
  • Lunch available at the museum
  • Rain or shine event


Bring your truck, bring the family, and enjoy a great day celebrating vintage vehicles. All proceeds benefit the John Paulding Historical Society.


For more information, contact Mike Kauser at 419-399-4856 or register online at kausertrucking.com.

Paulding County Carnegie Library

FREE Udemy Courses

15,000+ Free Courses.

One Click Away.


Paulding County Carnegie Library cardholders now have free, unlimited access to more than 15,000 video-based courses through Gale Presents: Udemy—an on-demand learning platform trusted by professionals worldwide.


Whether you're building business skills, exploring tech, diving into personal development, or just picking up a new hobby, there’s a course waiting for you.


Available 24/7. Free with your library card.


Have questions?

Contact the Paulding County Carnegie Library at 419-399-2032.

Community Health Professionals

Beacon of Hope Dinner & Charity Auction

November 13, 2025

CHP Home Care & Hospice – Beacon of Hope Dinner & Charity Auction


For 50 years, CHP Home Care & Hospice of Paulding has been the trusted local hospice provider. Join us for our annual Beacon of Hope for Hospice Dinner & Charity Auction on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Paulding County Fairgrounds, 503 Fairground Dr., Paulding.


The evening includes a catered dinner (RSVP required), live and silent auctions, raffles, and more—all benefiting CHP’s patient care fund for Paulding County. Social hour begins at 5:30 PM, dinner at 6:15 PM, with a live auction to follow. Kenny Thomas, Auctioneer, and Joe Barker, Emcee. Catering by Streetlight.


How you can help:

  • Donate raffle baskets, merchandise, gift certificates, or services by Nov. 7.
  • Become a sponsor: $500+ donors receive logo recognition on banners, programs, and during the event. Sponsorships due Oct. 31.
  • Attend! Seats are complimentary, but RSVP is required. Reserve your spot by calling 419-399-4708 or online at www.comhealthpro.org/events by Nov. 7.


At CHP, no patient is ever turned away due to inability to pay. Your support ensures compassionate end-of-life care for every Paulding County neighbor in need.


Contact: Alycen Urban, Event Coordinator – 419-238-9223 ext. 1118 | alycen_urban@comhealthpro.org

Van Wert Performing Arts Foundation

Home Free and the Longest Johns

October 5, 2025

Home Free and the Longest Johns


Date: October 5, 2025

Time: 3:00pm

Location: Niswonger Performing Arts Center


In a landmark moment for vocal music fans across the globe, all-vocal country sensation Home Free and viral sea shanty powerhouse The Longest Johns are joining forces for a once-in-a-lifetime co-headline tour called Into The Deep. Blending heartland harmony with maritime melody, this dynamic collaboration brings together two globally beloved groups who have carved out their own unique spaces in the modern music landscape — and now, they’re ready to take the stage together.

Paulding County Economic Development

Youth Business Showcase

November 22, 2025

Youth Business Showcase


Date: November 22, 2025

Registration Deadline: October 31, 2025

Location: Paulding VFW Post #587


The Youth Business Showcase will now be a part of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce's Shop the Village event.


You'll have the opportunity to market your business, meet other young entrepreneurs, receive feedback from local professionals, sell your products or services.

Travel with the Chamber: Shades of Ireland

June 19–28, 2026

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Join us for a 10-day guided tour through the breathtaking landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant cities of Ireland, with optional extensions to London or Edinburgh.


🌿 Trip Highlights Include:

  • Dublin city tour, Irish dinner & entertainment
  • Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry & Cliffs of Moher
  • Brewery & distillery visits, sheepdog demo & castle stay
  • Optional Guinness Storehouse dinner experience
  • Professional guides, hotel transfers, airfare & more


💰 Early Bird Discount:

Book by Dec 20, 2025 and save $200 per person!


💼 Who’s It For?

Perfect for Chamber members, community members, couples, solo travelers, and anyone ready to explore the Emerald Isle in comfort and style. You don’t have to be a Chamber member to join the fun!

Presented by the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce & Collette Tours. Proceeds benefit Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Pickleball Tournament

September 6, 2025

Pond Seed Company

Corn Plot Day

September 5, 2025

Mercer Landmark

The AGrow EXPO

September 5-6, 2025

Sam Smith Benefit

September 13, 2025

Paulding County Fall Festival

September 12-13, 2025

Village of Payne

Rock The Block

September 13-14, 2025

Village of Payne

Rock The Block Cruise In

September 13, 2025

Krazy Krafters & Friends

Annual Sale

September 26-2, 2025

Paulding County No Wrong Door

Community Resource Event

October 8, 2025

Payne Fire and EMS

Chicken Dinner Drive Thru

October 11, 2025

Journey to Italy

Fundraiser for Local Students

October 25, 2025

Paulding County Hospital Foundation

BBQ Chicken Luncheon

November 14, 2025

 

Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce

419.399.5215

P.O. Box 237, Paulding, OH 45879

pauldingchamber@gmail.com

www.pauldingchamber.com

 
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