Our office will occasionally be closed for meetings. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and we will return as soon as possible.

For urgent matters, please call and leave a message.

We will get back you to promptly. 937-548-2102

CHAMBER HIGHLIGHT

Welcome to our recent new members!



Tropical Smoothie Cafe

May Financial Group

Dr. Fields and Associates Therapy & Consultation

The Annex by Rustic Roots Antiques LLC

Heirloom Bridal House, ltd.

Miami Valley Janitorial

CHAMBER NEWS

We’re looking for Chamber Members to sponsor upcoming Chamber on Tap events!

Held on the second Wednesday of every month, Chamber on Tap is our casual, after-work networking event — no program, no speeches, just good conversations and a chance to connect with other local professionals.

For $250, your business can sponsor a month of Chamber on Tap and help us keep these events free and easy for our members to attend.

It’s a great, affordable way to support Chamber programming, get your name in front of fellow members, and be part of one of our favorite monthly get-togethers.

Interested in claiming a month?

Reach out to the Chamber office at 937-548-2102 or email Rachel!

Join us on October 14 for Chamber on Tap!

No program, no speeches, just good conversations and a chance to connect with other local professionals.

Click graphic to RSVP

2026 Legislative Luncheon

State of the State with

Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson

November 6, 2026 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM

Romer's Catering | Greenville, Ohio

$25 Chamber Members • $35 Non-Members

Click graphic to register!

Future Leader of Darke County Scholarship

The Future Leader of Darke County is a $500 scholarship that is open to seniors enrolled in a Darke County school who have demonstrated a track record of leadership in and/or out of the classroom.

Strong leaders are a guiding light to those around them and provide their organizations with the momentum to achieve greatness.

To ensure that the next generation of leaders can continue focusing on impacting their communities and organizations, the Darke County Chamber of Commerce has created a scholarship for ambitious students eager to make a difference in the world.

Application deadline: October 16, 2026

Eligibility Requirements

• A track record of leadership in one’s school, community, or personal life
• Darke County High School Senior
• Darke County resident
• Plans to attend a two-year, four-year, technical school or college or university
• Nominated by teacher/advisor

All nominees will be invited to attend our State of the Nation Luncheon on November 6th. Scholarship recipient will be announced at the event.

Thank you to our Legislative Luncheon Sponsors!

Host a 2027 Business After Hours!

Looking for a great way to showcase your business and connect with fellow Chamber members?

Our 2027 Business After Hours sponsorship opportunities are now available.

Only 6 sponsorships are available for 2027.

Email Rachel to reserve your spot!

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Agriculture Committee is to be involved in the promotion and support of agriculture by informing the community through public events.

Interested in joining our Ag Committee? Email Rachel!

You Don't Need “HR” in Your Title to

Join HR Council

Who handles the people side of your business?

If you're the person interviewing applicants, onboarding new employees, answering benefit questions, dealing with workplace issues, writing policies, managing performance or trying to keep good employees – you're doing HR, whether it's in your job title or not.

The Darke County Chamber's HR Council is designed for HR professionals and the managers, supervisors, office managers, business owners and other team members who find themselves responsible for people.

Our new quarterly, in-person roundtable format is focused on real conversations about the issues local employers are actually facing. Recent discussions have included employee financial stress and second jobs, participation in workplace wellness programs, and when AI does – and doesn't – belong in HR.

You don't have to be an HR expert. You just need to be someone who deals with people.

Learn more, join HR Council and tell us what topics you'd like to discuss at darkecountyohio.com/hr.

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

Purpose

The Legislative Committee of the Darke County Chamber of Commerce (DCCC) is committed to reviewing, developing, and supporting issues that promote a positive, pro-active economic environment and enhanced quality of life. The Chamber believes that laws and regulations should serve the public without acting as a detriment to business development and growth.

Here's the newest weekly Ohio update of Duane Morris Government Strategies by Katie DeLand, Ohio Director

Interested in joining a committee or council to get more involved?

Contact the Chamber to let us know.

Does your business or organization have a press release or event you'd like to share with our 260+ members? Email your press release to kimm@darkecountyohio.com to see it in the next Chamber Connection!

Click each graphic or links below for more information and tickets!

Evening on the Prairie is right around the corner! This romantic date night, hosted at Shawnee Prairie Preserve, will be held on October 17th from 5:00pm-10:00pm. Get your tickets today on our website, darkecountyparks.org/eveningontheprairie.

This intimate date night is set up for you and your partner to relax and enjoy all the things the evening has to offer. Starting with dinner, served by Chef Lewis from D’s Birria and More. He offers delectable meals that are easy to enjoy while you listen to the entertainment for the evening. Follow up dinner at our self-serve s’more bar over an open campfire. If fire-roasted isn’t your style, Cathy’s Chimney Cakes will be serving her delicious Hungarian desserts. These sweet dough cakes are filled with ambrosia, or cream cheese fluff with various fall flavored fillings.

While you’re enjoying dinner, and dessert of course, catch our live music entertainment. Wildheart Country Band will kick off the evening from 5pm-8pm. This band from Indiana plays classics like Let Your Love Flow, Don’t Come Looking, as well as their own original music. Following them will be The Hamilton’s, a local favorite, from 8pm-10pm. If you haven’t heard them before, they’re a must see. They specialize in older country classics. We’re excited to hear what these bands have to play!

Live music isn’t the only entertainment we have to offer for the evening. Head over to the axe throwing trailer to enjoy some healthy competition with your partner. Granted, if you tried hard enough, I bet you could turn s’mores making into a competition as well. If competition isn’t your style, the Stillwater Stargazers will be present on top of the hill by 7pm with their telescopes. Take turns enjoying the night sky and a closer look at the beauty we see every day. Don’t worry if you don’t know much about astronomy, they’ll be happy to help you learn. Finish off your evening with a romantic illuminated walk on our new boardwalk trail lined with familiar luminaries.

Make sure you’re not doing any of this empty handed! The log house will transform into a tavern for the evening. Cold beer is always an option, but not the only one we have. Seltzers will also be available. The Winery at Versailles will be on site offering a wine tasting of all of their classics. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, Downings Fruit Farm’s apple cider will be turned into cold, refreshing slushies throughout the evening.

Make sure you snag tickets before it is too late! This date night happens only once a year, so don’t miss the opportunity. Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers, and staff who make this event possible. We will see you on October 17th!

Thank you to our sponsors!

- Bolyard Heating & Cooling

- VFW

- Brown & Sons Nursery

- Leis Realty

- Greenville Care Center

- Brumbaugh Construction

The Miami Valley Career Technology Center is now accepting nominations for its 2027 Hall of Fame induction.

Established in 1991, the MVCTC Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding graduates of MVCTC and the former Montgomery County Joint Vocational School who have made significant contributions to their professions and communities.

Eligible nominees must have completed an MVCTC or MCJVS program, have at least five years of professional experience following graduation, and demonstrate continued education, specialized training, or professional development.

Nominations will be accepted through Friday, October 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Complete nominations must include a current résumé and supporting recommendation letters.

Additional information, eligibility requirements, and the nomination form are available at:

https://district.mvctc.com/community-workforce/hall-of-fame

We would appreciate your help sharing this opportunity with alumni and community members throughout the Miami Valley.

Please contact me if you need additional information.

Kelly Younk

Public Information Coordinator

Miami Valley Career Technology Center

6800 Hoke Road

Englewood, OH 45315

937-837-7781

www.mvctc.com

Did you know? Hiring people with disabilities can strengthen your organization in countless ways.

🌱 Expands your talent pool

🤝 Creates a more inclusive workplace culture

💡 Sparks innovation through diverse perspectives

❤️ Strengthens connections with employees, customers, and communities

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, let's recognize the value that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces every day. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ohio State University Extension, Darke County

CONTACT: Caden Buschur

937-548-5215

buschur.46@osu.edu

Western Ohio Ag Outlook Meeting to Provide Updates on Agriculture, Markets and Farm Policy, Scheduled for Nov 6^th Hosted by Ohio State University Extension Offices in Darke, Shelby, Miami, and Mercer counties

On Friday, Nov 6th, Darke, Shelby, Miami and Mercer County Ohio State University Extensions will host the Western Ohio Ag Outlook Meeting from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 8840 State Route 47, Versailles, Ohio.

The meeting will provide agricultural producers, landowners, agribusiness professionals, students, and others interested in agriculture with timely information on issues affecting agriculture in western Ohio. Participants will have an opportunity to hear from industry professionals, visit sponsor booths, enjoy free lunch, and participate in question-and-answer sessions. The event will begin with lunch and an opportunity to visit sponsor booths from 11 a.m. to noon. The Ag Outlook Update and panel presentations will follow from noon to 1 p.m., featuring: Don Jones, Director, USDA Farm Service Agency, Update on FSA, farm programs and the Farm Bill, Justin Rismiller, Cargill, Update and outlook on soybean crush and biodiesel, Garth Ruff, Ohio State University Extension Field Specialist, Beef Cattle ,Update and outlook on the beef industry, Barry Ward, Director, Ohio State University Extension Income Tax School Program, Information on crop input costs and margins, cropland values and cash rents. A panel question-and-answer session will follow from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Afternoon presentations will take place from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Speakers and topics include: Dr Gabriel Lade, Associate Professor, The Ohio State University, Update on taxes, land use and data centers, Dr Ian Sheldon, Professor, The Ohio State University, Update on trade and trade policies and Caden Buschur, Ohio State University Extension Educator, Information on Ohio farm custom rates. The program will conclude with an additional question-and-answer session from 3:30 to 4 p.m.

Registration is required by November 2. There is no cost to attend and lunch will be provided.

Participants can register online at go.osu.edu/2026agoutlook or contact Caden Buschur at 937-548-5215 or buschur.46@osu.edu.

The Western Ohio Ag Outlook Meeting is hosted by Ohio State University Extension offices in Darke, Miami, Mercer, and Shelby counties. For additional information, contact: Shelby County, Rylee Kay Puthoff, 419-586-2179, Mercer County, Ryan McMichael

mcmichael.33@osu.edu, Miami County, Amanda Bennett, bennett.709@osu.edu, or Darke County, Caden Buschur, buschur.46@osu.edu.

The Western Ohio Ag Outlook is sponsored by Mercer Landmark, Farm Credit Mid America, Darke, Miami, Shelby and Mercer County Farm Bureaus, Cargill, and St Henry Bank

MEMBER NEWS & PRESS RELEASES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Brian K. Hathaway

President/CEO of Spirit EMS

Phone: 937-548-2800

bhathaway@spiritmedicaltransport.com

Hathaway Milk House to Bring Ice Cream, Family Recipes, and New Jobs to Greenville's South Side

GREENVILLE, Ohio – Spirit EMS and its ownership team are proud to announce plans for the Hathaway Milk House, a new drive-thru and walk-up destination slated to open by March 2027 on Greenville's south side.

Located at 5464 State Route 49 South, the Hathaway Milk House will offer ice cream, Dole Whip, specialty refreshers, hot and iced coffee, homemade sandwiches, fresh-cut French fries, cheese curds, fresh salads, and other made-to-order favorites inspired by generations of Hathaway and Guthrie family traditions.

Owned by Spirit EMS and led by co-owners Brian K. Hathaway and Aaron Guthrie, the Hathaway Milk House is envisioned as a year-round gathering place where families, friends, and visitors can enjoy great food, frozen treats, and a welcoming hometown atmosphere.

The name pays tribute to the Hathaway family's deep agricultural and dairy farming roots in Darke County, honoring generations who helped shape the area's farming heritage. Inspired by those traditions, the Hathaway and Guthrie families are developing a menu that combines family recipes with classic favorites and fresh offerings.

Under the leadership of Naomi Hathaway, who is helping develop the Hathaway Milk House's opening menu and customer experience, the business will offer both drive-thru and walk-up service designed to provide a convenient, family-friendly atmosphere.

"We want to create a place where people can slow down and enjoy time together," said Hathaway. "Whether it's lunch with coworkers, a stop after a ball game, a refreshing drink on a summer afternoon, or ice cream with family, our goal is to create an experience centered around hospitality, quality, and family traditions."

The project comes at a meaningful time for Greenville's south side following the recent closure of a longtime dairy and ice cream destination that served generations of local families.

"Like so many people in Darke County, our family has wonderful memories of gathering for ice cream on the south end of town," Hathaway said. "While no one can replace what that business meant to our community, we saw an opportunity to create a new destination where families can continue making memories for generations to come. The Hathaway Milk House isn't intended to be a replacement. It's intended to be a new chapter."

Work on the project is expected to begin in the coming months, with ownership, engineers, and designers developing a site plan focused on customer convenience, efficient traffic flow, and a welcoming appearance along State Route 49. Current plans call for year-round operation, with closures limited to major holidays.

The Hathaway Milk House will sit adjacent to the soon-to-open John & Iris Hathaway Education & Community Center, which is expected to welcome its first visitors in the coming weeks as interior finishes and landscaping are completed. While the center's primary purpose is to serve as a regional hub for EMS, healthcare, public safety, and workforce education, it was also designed with flexible space to accommodate community meetings, events, and gatherings.

Together, the two projects represent a continued investment in Greenville's southern gateway and are expected to create approximately 30 full-time and part-time jobs.

"These projects are about investing in people and investing in our community," said Guthrie. "The Education & Community Center is focused on learning and professional development, while the Hathaway Milk House is focused on bringing people together through food, family, and hospitality. Both are rooted in the belief that strong communities are built around connections."

Hathaway added that supporting local businesses and tradespeople remains an important part of both projects.

"From the beginning, we've wanted these projects to be built by local hands whenever possible," Hathaway said. "Darke County is filled with talented contractors, craftsmen, and business owners, and we're proud to support them while making an investment in the future of our community."

As planning and renovations move forward, ownership will continue to provide updates on the Hathaway Milk House and its anticipated March 2027 opening.

About Hathaway Milk House

The Hathaway Milk House is a family-inspired drive-thru and walk-up destination coming to Greenville, Ohio, with a planned March 2027 opening. Featuring ice cream, Dole Whip, refreshers, coffee, homemade sandwiches, fresh-cut fries, cheese curds, salads, and recipes inspired by generations of family traditions, the Hathaway Milk House honors local agricultural heritage while creating a welcoming place for families and friends to gather.

Hathaway Milk House

Honoring our agricultural heritage. Serving our community. Building for the future.

Best regards,

Brian K. Hathaway      

President/CEO

5484 Ohio Route 49 South

Greenville, Ohio 45331

Phone: 937-548-2800

Facsimile: 937-459-5272

CHAMBER MEMBER BENEFITS

Did you know that many alternative discounts are available to help reduce your annual Ohio workers’ compensation costs? Through the Sedgwick workers’ compensation program, your organization can significantly reduce your workers’ compensation costs through a variety of alternative rating programs. Sedgwick offers you quality service and stability through the complex workers’ compensation environment.

For over 50 years, Sedgwick has been helping employers navigate Ohio’s workers’ compensation system, providing services to help them control claim-related costs and reduce premiums. Sedgwick serves nearly 65,000 Ohio employers including organizations of all sizes operating in various industries across the state. Group rating programs administered by Sedgwick have produced over $4 billion in savings since group rating was introduced in 1991, and their group retrospective programs have returned over $1 billion in premium refunds since the program began in 2009.

If your organization is not yet participating in this member benefit, and you would like to receive a free, no-obligation analysis from Sedgwick, email Julia Bowling at julia.bowling@sedgwick.com or to apply online Click here. 

Contact Sedgwick:

Julia Bowling

Phone: 513-218-4062

Email: julia.bowling@sedgwick.com

Website: www.sedgwick.com/ohiotpa

Sedgwick Safety Resource Page

www.sedgwick.com/ohiotpa/resources

Useful Links

• BWC Division of Safety and Hygiene
• Sedgwick TPA
• Group-Rating Safety Accountability Letter

Click graphic to view SOCA programs!

Hello Members!

When competing with online retail, small businesses who own a brick-and-mortar store must factor in leasing and utility costs with their overall business forecast.  Operating “lean” can help a business owner to take control of their energy plan and reduce operating expenses. We’re sharing helpful tips on how to conduct a self-discovery audit of all energy uses in your space. The attached flyer highlights tips to generate significant savings opportunities by changing practices, or by making a minimal capital investment. Reduce your energy bills by 1) saving on your supply rate and 2) taking small steps to use less energy!

If you'd like to explore potential savings for your business, please review the flyer and contact the Chamber Energy Program team at billreview@ampica.com to request a utility bill audit (please attach a copy of your utility bill), and mention “store front tips”, or by calling 330-208-2082 to leave a message and receive a call back to speak to our customer account team personally with your questions.

No time to send out another email? Follow the Chamber Energy Program on Facebook, and share the Energy Tips Post, and share to your chamber page!

Stay tuned each month for information that is tailored to your chamber members!

Warm regards, 

Joyce Parton 

Senior Director, Affinity Programs

M: 330.730.2350

O: 330.409.7892

Take advantage of your free FedEx shipping discounts through SOCA

When it comes to ensuring prompt and dependable delivery of your business supplies, FedEx and SOCA offer solutions to meet your shipping needs. Chamber businesses can benefit from substantial cost savings on their shipping, thanks to discounts of 45% on FedEx Express and 25% on FedEx Ground. The program is simple to enroll in and easy to use, making it more convenient and affordable to ensure the prompt and reliable delivery of aviation parts and materials. Take advantage of these discounts by enrolling today. 

For more information on any Chamber events or meetings, please click the graphic to email Rachel!

Email kimm@darkecountyohio.com with any information you'd like shared in our weekly newsletter!

We thank our Diamond Circle and Executive Prestige level members

for their ongoing support of the Darke County Chamber of Commerce.