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From the Desk of the Director

Last week, The Paulding Progress announced its 2025 Man and Woman of the Year. I was truly surprised and honored to be named Woman of the Year. Any progress made during my time as Chamber Director is the result of strong groundwork laid by our Board of Directors—past and present—as well as the leadership of those who served before me. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and for the collaborative spirit that continues to move our Chamber forward.

I also want to extend congratulations to Dr. Martin Miller on being named Man of the Year. His dedication to education and the lasting impact he has made on students and families across our community is well deserving of this recognition.

Last Thursday, Jenna Benzing with The Kitty Hope Foundation was my guest speaker at Kiwanis Club. Jenna shared valuable information about the overpopulation of cat colonies in our county and addressed a common misconception that euthanasia is the most effective solution. She explained that it has been scientifically proven that spaying and neutering is far more effective. Because cats are territorial, spayed and neutered cats defend their space and prevent new cats from moving in—ultimately controlling population growth more effectively than euthanasia. The Kitty Hope Foundation has partnered with Haviland and Cecil villages to help with cat colonies and they are open to partnering with others, as well as private organizations and individuals that need help. If you need their help, would like to donate or volunteer, please reach out to them at thekittyhopefoundation@gmail.com.

This week, we are excited to celebrate a ribbon cutting for Kyzer Realty, which has officially opened an office location inside the Small Business Innovation Center. The ribbon cutting will take place Thursday, January 15 at Noon. Stop by the Chamber office next door at 101 E. Perry St. to welcome them. Kyzer Realty will be serving light refreshments and welcomes members of the business community and the public to join them in celebrating this new chapter.

Behind the scenes, the Chamber Board and I have been working on several upcoming initiatives. We’ve decided how to proceed with a Visit Paulding County Guide and will be partnering with Natural Design & Graphics to develop a digital version. This guide will serve as a helpful resource for newcomers, visitors, and residents looking to connect with local services and businesses. As some may have heard, First Quality paper company will be bringing in many temporary employees this spring during construction along the northern border of our county. We felt this was the best time to bring this project to life to make sure those workers are aware of what Paulding County has to offer them while they are here.

We’ve also been meeting with several local partners on other future projects, and this week we’ll be meeting with Western Buckeye ESC to discuss a project they’re developing in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary.

Finally, Leadership in Action will meet on Wednesday for site visits at Paulding Care Community, Community Health Professionals, and Paulding County Hospital. These visits continue to be an important part of helping participants better understand the organizations that support our community every day. We are also excited to share more details about the service project that this cohort has decided on. Stay tuned for the details!

Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber and the work being done throughout Paulding County.

All mail should be sent directly to our office at

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

A Plus Propane is a family-owned and operated business serving residential, agricultural, and commercial customers throughout the region. Known for dependable service and a customer-first approach, they provide propane for home heating, farming operations, and a variety of business needs. As temperatures drop, now is a great time to warm up with A Plus Propane.

Contact Information:

8622 US-127

Paulding, OH 45879

(419) 399-4445

WMYW 102.7 FM—My 102.7—is Paulding County’s only locally owned, licensed, and managed radio station, dedicated to highlighting the people, schools, events, and positive stories that make our community a great place to live and work. The station plays favorites ranging from The Beatles to Bon Jovi, blending familiar music with truly local programming.

Their sister business, MySports.Live, is in full swing during winter sports season, covering basketball and wrestling. Be sure to follow MySports.Live on Facebook for local sports coverage.

Join us as we welcome Kyzer Realty to downtown Paulding with a ribbon cutting celebration on Thursday, January 15 at noon.

• Located in the Small Business Innovation Center - Stop by 101 E. Perry St., Paulding, OH 45879
• Coffee, cookies, and light refreshments

Hope to see you there!

There’s still room to join the Chamber’s Shades of Ireland tour. We currently have four great couples signed up, and after hearing just how incredible this trip will be, it’s hard not to be a little jealous of those going.

This 9-night guided tour through Ireland takes place June 19–28, 2026. While the $200 per-person savings has ended, spots are still available for this unforgettable experience.

The trip is already making a local impact. With eight travelers registered, the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation has secured $2,400 for scholarships, thanks to contributions from Collette Travel and an additional $100 per ticket donated by Orange Grove Travel agent Matt O'Shaughnessey. That total will continue to grow as more travelers join.

Special Note: If the group reaches 15 travelers, the Chamber will earn a free trip ticket, which will be raffled to raise even more money for scholarships. Plus someone gets to win this incredible trip!

One of the biggest benefits of traveling with Collette is the stress-free experience. Transportation, hotels, guided tours, and even luggage handling are taken care of—from pickup in Paulding to arrival in Ireland—so travelers can simply relax and enjoy one of Collette’s most popular trips.

Final payments aren’t due until March 21, 2026.

To view the full itinerary or reserve your spot, visit the Shades of Ireland trip website and select “Sign Up.”

January 15, 2026

• Kyzer Realty Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting | 12:00 PM | Small Business Innovation Center, Paulding
• January Craft Night | 6:00–8:00 PM | More Than Boutique LLC, 203 S. Main St., Suite A, Antwerp

January 16, 2026

• Pizza & Relay Partnership | Starts at 5:00 PM | Paulding VFW
• SINGO! with DJ Dev | 8:00–10:00 PM | The Landing Strip, 204 N. 1st St., Oakwood

January 20, 2026

• Microsoft Excel (Beginner) Training | 6:00–9:00 PM | Archbold

January 21, 2026

• Paulding County Park District Volunteer Meeting | 5:30 PM | Paulding County Park District

January 23, 2026

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

January 25, 2026

• Laughing Brush Painting Party | 5:00 PM | Hop’s Place, 518 Erie St., Antwerp

January 26, 2026

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

January 27, 2026

• Microsoft Excel (Intermediate) Training | 6:00–9:00 PM | 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, 753 Fairground Dr., Paulding

February 3, 2026

• Microsoft Excel (Advanced) Training | 6:00–9:00 PM | Van Wert

February 6, 2026

• Purses for a Purpose – Purse Bingo | Time TBD | Benefiting Northwest State Community College Scholarships

February 21, 2026

• 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

April 9, 2026

• Paulding County Career Day | Time TBD | Location TBD

April 30, 2026

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

June 19–28, 2026

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

Deadlines & Opportunities

January 16, 2026

• American Express Shop Small Grants Program | Application Deadline

January 18, 2026

• Northwest Ohio Mobility Transportation Needs Survey | Survey Closes

January 30, 2026

• PHS Community Cleanup Day | Registration Deadline

January 31, 2026

• 2026 Paulding County Dog Tags | Purchase Deadline

February 6, 2026

• Paulding Putnam Electric & Internet Scholarship Program | Application Deadline

March 30, 2026

• America’s Field Trip Student Contest (Grades 3–12) | Submission Deadline

April 10, 2026

• Paulding County Area Foundation Scholarship Opportunities | Application Deadline

FIND MORE DETAILS BELOW

$20,000 Small Business Grants Available

Main Street America and American Express® are teaming up to help small businesses grow, innovate, and support their local communities. Starting today, eligible small business owners across the U.S. can apply for $20,000 grants through the new Amex Shop Small Grants Program. 

Applications are open now and will close on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT. 

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.

Call the crew. Text the group chat. Tell the family dinner plans are officially handled for Friday night. 

Paulding County Relay for Life will be at the Paulding VFW on Friday, Jan 16th at 5pm serving slices and raising support for their mission.

Come hungry. Come ready for some fun. Come ready to make a little difference. 

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

Attention Paulding County Residents!!

Paulding County residents are encouraged to participate in the Transportation Needs Survey, which is currently open and will remain available through January 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. This survey provides an important opportunity for community members to share their transportation needs and concerns.

Your input is valuable and will help guide future transportation planning, funding, and services within the county. The survey may be completed online using the link below:

https://forms.gle/rmihWtCXSJStHSoy6

Individuals who prefer a paper copy may contact the Mobility Manager to request one:

Sierra Nathans Lightner, Mobility Manager

call/text (419) 956-2211 or email mobility@mvpo.org

Please consider sharing this survey with friends, family members, and others within the Paulding County community. Broad participation will ensure transportation needs across the county are accurately represented.

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.