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From the Desk of the Director

As December settles in, I’ve been shifting my focus toward 2026 planning—and I’ll be honest, I’m a little behind where I wanted to be. This fall has been full and busy in the best ways. Between hosting events, supporting our members, and making sure everything runs smoothly in my first full year as director, the days have moved quickly.

Even so, I’m excited to be digging into next year. I’m putting together the 2026 Membership Packet now so our businesses have everything they need to plan ahead. Our Chamber Board meets tomorrow, and we’ll be finalizing much of our 2026 event planning there. Once that’s wrapped up, I’ll be sending out more details and updates for the year ahead.

Last night was a welcome reminder of why all of this matters. My family and I bundled up and went to CoRP's Merry & Bright Parade, and despite the cold, it was such a beautiful evening. Snow was drifting down as the floats came through downtown, and the whole scene felt a little magical. Watching the kids run up to Santa—wide-eyed, shivering, excited—was one of those small-town moments that fills your heart right up.

These are the moments that make Paulding feel like home, and I’m grateful to be part of the work that helps bring our community together. Shoutout to CoRP for putting on a great event!

Thank you for your continued support. I’m looking forward to sharing more about 2026 soon.

The Shisler Insurance Agency has been a trusted name in Paulding County for more than four decades. Founded in 1982 by Nolan “Tucker” Shisler, the agency built its reputation on personal service and a deep commitment to local families and businesses. In August 2008, Tucker sold the agency to his first cousin, Randy Myers, owner of Leland Smith Insurance Services. Understanding the significance of the Shisler name in the community, Randy chose to keep the Shisler legacy proudly intact.

Today, Shisler Insurance is part of the Leland Smith Insurance family, which includes six locations across northwest Ohio: Van Wert, Antwerp, Convoy, Delphos, Paulding, and Columbus. As an independent insurance agency representing multiple carriers, they are able to compare options and provide clients with the best combination of coverage, rates, and personal service.

Paulding Office Location:

112 W. Jackson St.

Paulding, OH 45879

Phone: (419) 399-5121



From home and auto to business and farm coverage, their team continues to carry forward the values the agency was built on—local service, strong relationships, and dependable protection for the people of Paulding County.

Holiday Shipping Costs Are Rising — NOACC Can Help

Holiday shipping surcharges are increasing across major carriers this year. FedEx and UPS began applying tiered demand surcharges at the end of September 2025, with the highest fees hitting in November and December before ending in mid-January. These peak charges will have the biggest impact on oversized, special-handling, and high-volume residential shipments.

To help offset these costs, Chamber members have access to exclusive discounts through the NOACC FedEx Advantage Program. Members can receive 45% off expedited shipments and 25% off standard shipments—a valuable way to reduce expenses during the busiest shipping season.

This benefit is completely free with no minimums. Existing FedEx users can enroll and continue shipping as usual; discounts are added automatically to your account. If you don’t have a FedEx account yet, you can open one easily during enrollment.

Start saving on your holiday shipping and enroll today in the FedEx Advantage Program.

In this giving season PCAF is matching donations up to $20,000! Double your giving and double your impact!

Last year they raised $29,000 for Giving Tuesday!

The Baughman Christmasland display lit up the season beginning Wednesday, November 13 at 17417 State Route 613, Paulding. This beloved local tradition features many new displays this year — and admission is free for all to enjoy.



Bundle up, bring the family, and take in the magic of the holidays right here in Paulding!

Ongoing

• Paulding Putnam Electric – New Shoe Drive (Now–Dec 5)

• State Bank – Toy & Food Drive (Now–Dec 5)

• First Financial Bank – Giving Tree Angels Available (Gifts due Dec 8)

• Baughman Christmasland Lights Display – Nightly, 5:30–10:30 PM, 17417 SR 613, Paulding

• Santa’s Workshop – Paulding Library Children’s Room (Ages 5–18, during library hours):

• Dates: Dec 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23

December 5

• Final Day: Shoe Drive & Toy/Food Drive

• Final Day: Wreath Contest Voting – Online

• Holiday Wine & Canvas – 5 PM cocktails, 6 PM dinner, 7 PM painting @ Paulding Eagles

• Christmas in the Village Begins – 5–7:30 PM @ 211 S. Main, Antwerp

• Sip & Shop – Keepsake Beads by EAW, Antwerp

December 6

• Christmas in the Village – Continues, 5–7:30 PM

• Krazy Krafters Holiday Sale – 9 AM @ 210 S. Main, Antwerp

• Step & Shop – Downtown Paulding

• Santa at the Eagles – 11 AM lunch, 12 PM Santa @ Paulding Eagles

• Christmas in the Air – 7:30 PM @ Niswonger PAC

• Jolly Jamboree – Payne Ministerial Association

• A Christmas Story: The Play – CCBanks Productions

December 7

• Hometown Holiday Festival – 2 PM start @ Niswonger PAC

• Mrs. Claus Christmas Cottage – 3–5 PM @ Payne Nazarene Church

• Oakwood Christmas Open House – 12–4 PM @ Oakwood Elementary

• A Christmas Story: The Play – CCBanks Productions

December 9

• Paint & Sip – 6 PM @ Land Strip, Oakwood, OH

December 11

• Paulding Care Community Christmas Party – Paulding Co. Hospital

• Visit with Santa – 5–6 PM @ Library Children’s Room

December 12

• Cookies with Santa – 1:30–3 PM @ Vancrest of Payne

• Country Christmas Concert – 7 PM (Doors 6:30) @ Paulding Schools Auditorium

• Wayne Trace Christmas Walk – Evening

• A Christmas Story: The Play – CCBanks Productions

December 13

• Toy Drive @ PHS Basketball – 12 PM & 6 PM @ Paulding HS

• Pancakes & Pajamas – 9 AM–1 PM @ PC Workshop

• Christmas Concert – 7 PM (Doors 6:30) @ Paulding HS Auditorium

• Open House – 9 AM–1 PM @ Nuts & Bolts, Grover Hill

• Mr. & Mrs. Claus – 5–8 PM @ Doc’s Detailing, Payne

December 14

• VFW Who-ville Christmas Party – 2–6 PM @ VFW Post #5087, Antwerp

• Cookie Decorating – 5 PM @ Hop’s Place, Antwerp

• A Christmas Story: The Play – CCBanks Productions

December 18–20

• The Nutcracker – Ignite Dance Academy

• Cast A: Dec 18 (evening) & Dec 20 (matinee)

• Cast B: Dec 19 (evening) & Dec 20 (evening)

December 19

• Wayne Trace Christmas Walk – Evening

December 20

• Christmas Dinner On Us – 10:00 AM @ Den Herder Funeral Home, 1000 W Wayne St., Paulding

→ Free drive-thru Christmas dinner pickup for families in need. No registration required.

• Ireland Trip Booking Deadline – Chamber Travel (Last day to save $200)

• Santa @ Cecil Fire Department – 6 PM

January 30, 2026

• Lorrie Morgan with Jamie O’Neal – 7:30 PM @ Niswonger PAC

April 9, 2026

• Paulding County Career Day – Location TBA

It’s a festive week at the Niswonger as Van Wert Live hosts a full lineup of holiday events for families and community members. Activities include the final days of the Hometown Holiday Wreath Contest, the Christmas in the Air variety show on Saturday, and the First Annual Hometown Holiday celebration on Sunday.

The Hometown Holiday Wreath Contest closes Friday, December 5. Every dollar donated counts as a vote, with all proceeds supporting youth programming.

Voting is available at: gogophotocontest.com/hometownholidaywreath. The winning wreath will be announced Sunday, December 7.

On Saturday, December 6 at 7:30 PM, enjoy Christmas in the Air, a heartwarming holiday variety show featuring music, dance, and seasonal entertainment.

The week wraps up on Sunday, December 7 with the First Annual Hometown Holiday, a free event beginning at 2 PM. Highlights include performances by the Lincolnview Steel Drum Band, Van Wert County school choirs, and the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band at 5 PM, plus visits with Santa and children’s crafts.

For more details or to purchase tickets, visit the NPAC Box Office, call 419-238-6722, or go to vanwertlive.com.

Pancakes & Pajamas – Christmas Open House

Friday, December 13 | 9 AM–1 PM

210 Dooley Drive, Paulding, OH

Get cozy and join PC Workshop for a holly jolly morning at their Christmas Open House, Pancakes & Pajamas. Wear your favorite Christmas jammies and bring the whole family for a festive day full of fun.

Event Highlights:

• Pancake Breakfast – Free-will donation appreciated
• Pictures with Santa – Perfect photo opportunity for kids and families
• Kids Activities – Crafts, games, and holiday fun
• Hourly Giveaways – Win prizes throughout the event

$15 Activity Ticket (includes kids’ activities and Santa pictures) – Adults are free with admission.

Tickets available here: https://square.link/u/LaxdGpYp

All proceeds benefit Limitless by PC Workshop Programming.

Special thanks to Mighty Cube for sponsoring this community event.

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.

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/80s soft rock classics and Billboard Top 40 hits. Featuring favorites like “Baby Come Back,” “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” “Love Is the Answer,” and more. Presented by OhioHealth and supported by Gary Taylor.

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

Country artist Larry Fleet brings soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting, including songs like “Where I Find God” and “Things I Take for Granted.” Presented by Superior Credit Union

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: Tues–Fri • 10 AM–3 PM • 419-238-6722 • vanwertlive.com

Evangeline Street Boutique has announced a big move! They will be relocating to Antwerp, Ohio, closing their Fort Wayne location on December 28, and reopening with a Grand Opening on January 2. The boutique shared that they will be putting a strong focus on both their new storefront and their online presence as they begin this next chapter.

We’re excited to see this growth and to welcome them to Paulding County.

Website: evangelinestreetboutique.com

Tickets are on sale for Ignite Dance Academy’s The Nutcracker!

CAST A Dec. 18th & Dec. 20th matinee

CAST B Dec. 19th & Dec. 20th evening

Ticket link: The Nutcracker - Ignite Dance Academy | Eventbrite