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From the Desk of the Director

Thank you for your patience as this newsletter comes together a bit later than planned. Like many families, we navigated unexpected school closures at home while also preparing for an important Chamber board meeting.

This newsletter is a packed issue with lots of timely information for small business owners—covering trainings, funding options, and community updates—so grab a cup of coffee and dive in.

Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve had the opportunity to see some meaningful work happening across our community. Leadership in Action (LIA) participants have been actively engaged in their service project, focused on supporting senior citizens and improving access to care right here in Paulding County. You’ll find more details on that project below.

We also had a behind-the-scenes look at new wound-care technology now available locally at Paulding Care Community (formerly The Gardens at Paulding). This advanced, non-invasive therapy uses oxygen and water vapor to support healing for chronic wounds and is available for both residents and outpatients. Additional information about this technology, including how it works and who may benefit, is included later in this newsletter.

That same week also included a great example of hands-on learning right here in our community. Christian Home Educators of Paulding County (CHEPC) hosted a Cookie Bake-Off at the OSU Extension’s commercial kitchen. Kids learned food safety and baking basics alongside Family & Consumer Sciences and 4-H, then worked in teams to create their own cookie recipes using mystery ingredients—including zucchini. It was a fun, collaborative experience made possible by local families and businesses who generously donated ingredients, tools, and prizes. See photos below of the kids learning and the teams they worked on.

We’re also proud to roll out our new 2026 Member Guide and to welcome Maumee Valley Network and Bigham Creative Communications as new Chamber members.

Finally, following our recent board meeting, we’re pleased to welcome Jessica Stechschuelte with Paulding County Economic Development and Owen Newman with State Bank to the Chamber Board.



As always, if you have a story or important information you’d like shared with the community, please feel free to send it our way—we’re always happy to help share your news.

All mail should be sent directly to our office at

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

This award-winning photo, taken by Tawnya English, owner of Memories by Tawnya Photography, helped Cross Zeedyk, a senior at Hicksville High School, earn top honors from Inspiring Teens International Magazine—including a $1,000 cash scholarship and the front cover of an international magazine.

Powered by family, friends, and strong community support, Cross’s image rose to the top among submissions from across the country. The recognition highlights not only Cross’s achievement, but also the level of talent found right here in our local creative community.

Memories by Tawnya Photography is a full-service boutique studio based in Antwerp, Ohio, serving Northwest Ohio and Northeast Indiana. Specializing in high school senior and teen photography, the studio also offers family portraits, business headshots, glamour, and boudoir sessions.

Tawnya’s work has been nationally recognized and published in Senior Year Magazine, Senior Muse Magazine, and Inspiring Teens International Magazine, and she is a proud member of Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Her approach focuses on helping clients feel confident, seen, and celebrated—capturing images that reflect both personality and purpose.



A big win for Cross, a well-earned spotlight for Memories by Tawnya Photography, and a great example of what happens when local talent meets community support.

Memories by Tawnya Contact Info

419-786-0266

13635 Township Road 51

Antwerp, Ohio

Founded in 1893, Antwerp Exchange Bank has served as a trusted financial partner for generations across our region. Built on a foundation of integrity, resilience, and community commitment, the bank continues to support individuals, families, and businesses with reliable and innovative financial solutions.

Deeply rooted in the community, the bank is known for its customer-focused approach, blending modern banking technology with the kind of personal service only a local institution can offer. Through initiatives like Bankers for a Cause, launched in 2016, Antwerp Exchange Bank goes beyond banking by actively investing time, resources, and leadership into causes that strengthen the community.

From historic beginnings to continued growth through decades of change—including rebuilding during the Blizzard of ’78—Antwerp Exchange Bank remains a pillar of stability, standing strong and ready to serve.

Locations & Contact Information

Main Office

305 S. Main Street | PO Box 727

Antwerp, OH 45813

419-258-5351

Payne Office

102 N. Main Street | PO Box 589

Payne, OH 45880

419-263-2705

Harlan Office

10726 Thimlar Road | PO Box 256

Harlan, IN 46743

260-657-1000

Welcome New Chamber Members

Please join us in welcoming Bigham Creative Communications and Maumee Valley Network as new members of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce.

Owned by Scott L. Bigham, Bigham Creative Communications provides marketing and digital support services to help organizations strengthen their online presence. As a member-to-member benefit, Chamber members can take advantage of a free Facebook page setup, Google Business listing, or a simple two-page website, with additional services available at a discounted rate. See the 2026 Membership Guide for details.

Maumee Valley Network focuses on building connections, collaboration, and community engagement across the region, aligning closely with the Chamber’s mission to support growth and strong local relationships.

Contact Information

bighamcreativecommunications@gmail.com

419-953-9511

Facebook: Maumee Valley Network

We’re excited to welcome both organizations to the Chamber and look forward to the collaboration ahead.

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 9, 2026

• Vantage Career Center 50th Anniversary Open House & Taste of Vantage | 5:00–7:30 PM | 818 N. Franklin St., Van Wert

February 12, 2026

• 4-H Project Book Work Night | 5:30–6:30 PM | Youth Leadership Building

February 14, 2026

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

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)

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

March 10 & March 12, 2026

• Oakwood Library Chocolate Extravaganza XVIII | 7:00 PM | Oakwood Library

March 12, 2026

• 4-H Project Book Work Night | 5:30–6:30 PM | Youth Leadership Building

March 18, 2026

• Paulding County Senior Center Health, Business & Industry Fair | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | Paulding County Extension Building

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 Office, 503 Fairground Drive, Paulding

April 11, 2026

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

April 16–17, 2026

• Paulding SWCD Tree Sale | 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (Apr 16) / 8:00 AM–4:30 PM (Apr 17) | 451C McDonald Pike, Paulding

April 30, 2026

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

May 14, 2026

• 4-H Project Book Work Night | 5:30–6:30 PM | Youth Leadership Building

June 20–29, 2026

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

Deadlines & Opportunities

• 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 6 – Paulding SWCD Tree Sale | Seed & Plug Pre-Order Deadline
• April 10 – Paulding County Area Foundation Scholarships | Deadline

Paulding FFA has been awarded a $12,600 Mission Fund grant from AgCredit, supporting repairs to the chapter’s commercial-grade greenhouse.

Built in 2007 and operated by Paulding Exempted Village Schools and Ag Education students, the greenhouse provides hands-on learning opportunities in managing and operating a commercial agricultural facility. The grant will help ensure this valuable educational resource continues to serve students for years to come.

Paulding FFA was one of 14 organizations selected across AgCredit’s 18-county service area, with grants awarded based on impact in education, environment, technology, and quality of rural life.

Pictured above from left to right is Paulding FFA Officer team and Ag Credit Members. FFA Officers: Jacob Harris, Ava Leatherman, Delaney Johanns, Vivienne Myers, FFA Advisor Ms. Baylee March, Matt Adams and Katie Miller representing Ag Credit, FFA Advisor Mrs. Staci Miller, officers Mariah Klopfenstein, Darcy Taylor, Myrriah Manz, Addy Hunt and Tori Schlatter. 

Good to know: Organizations may apply for Mission Fund grants of up to $15,000 annually. The 2026 application period opens in March.

Learn more about the Mission Fund at AgCredit.net

Behind the Scenes: New Wound-Care Technology Now Available Locally

A recent behind-the-scenes visit to Paulding Care Community (formerly The Gardens at Paulding) offered a look at innovative wound-care technology now available right here in our community.

Paulding Care Community has introduced an all-natural oxygen and water vapor therapy designed to support healing for hard-to-heal and chronic wounds. Often compared to hyperbaric therapy, this treatment is different in that it delivers concentrated oxygen and hydrating vapor directly to the wound, supporting the body’s natural healing process.

The therapy is non-invasive, drug-free, and painless, and has shown strong results for chronic wounds—particularly benefiting seniors and individuals with diabetes. Importantly, this treatment is not limited to current residents. Paulding Care Community also offers this therapy on an outpatient basis, providing a local option for advanced wound care that may otherwise require travel outside the county.

The technology used is FDA-cleared and known as Vaporox, which uses oxygen and water vapor to help create an environment that supports faster and more effective healing.

If you or someone you care for could benefit from this type of treatment, the team at Paulding Care Community encourages you to reach out directly to learn more.

419-399-4940

gardensatpaulding.com

Additional details about the technology itself are available through Vaporox or this brochure.

SBA Disaster Loans Available for Local Businesses Impacted by Drought

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to help small businesses and nonprofits in Paulding County and surrounding areas that lost income due to the drought that began in fall 2025.

These loans are meant to help cover everyday business expenses during tough periods—even if your building or equipment wasn’t damaged. If the drought affected customer traffic, sales, or cash flow, this program may be worth looking into.

This program may be a good fit for businesses such as:

• Retail shops and boutiques
• Restaurants, cafés, and food trucks
• Service-based businesses (salons, auto repair, professional services, etc.)
• Small manufacturers or contractors
• Childcare centers and private nonprofits

Funds can be used for payroll, rent, utilities, inventory, vendor bills, and other operating expenses that became difficult to cover due to reduced income.

While traditional farmers and ranchers are not eligible (except aquaculture businesses), many businesses that support or rely on agriculture may still qualify.



If your business experienced financial strain tied to the drought and you need help staying on track, this is a resource worth exploring.

Lower-Interest Loans Available for Ohio Small Businesses

Ohio small businesses now have access to lower-interest business loans through Buckeye Business Advantage, a program from the Ohio Treasurer’s Office.

This program helps for-profit Ohio businesses with 150 employees or fewer secure financing at reduced interest rates by working through participating local banks. Funds can be used to start, grow, or reinvest in your business—such as purchasing equipment, expanding operations, or improving cash flow.

If you’re a small business owner looking for more affordable financing, this program may be worth exploring.

Learn more and see full eligibility details:

www.ohiotreasurer.gov/buckeyebusinessadvantage

• February 2, 2026 - First Level Academy-4-Weeks

• February 3, 2026 - Small Business Orientation

• February 4, 2026 - Podcasting Power: Grow Your Small Business with Your Voice

• February 6, 2026 - Legal Series: Contract Review

• February 13, 2026 - Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

• March 5, 2026 - Small Business - Orientation

• March 13, 2026 - Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

• March 25, 2026 - Basic Overview of SBA Programs and Services

Small Business Academy

VIP: Very Important Planning

Tuesdays, March 3 - April 7

5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Location: The Borra Center for Health Sciences, Room 103

Simulcast options available

Thinking about starting or growing a business? Join our six-session Small Business Academy designed to guide entrepreneurs from idea to profitability. This series covers essential topics including entrepreneurial readiness, business planning, launching and legally establishing your business, marketing and social media strategies, financial basics, profitability analysis, and acquiring capital while managing risk.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to strengthen your business foundation, this Academy provides practical tools and guidance to help you plan, launch, and grow with confidence.

Boost Your Business with Tech Talent

Looking to strengthen your business through technology? The College Technology Internship Program connects employers with college interns who can assist with mobile app development, website creation, software implementation, and cybersecurity enhancements.

Businesses may hire up to 10 interns, with the Ohio Department of Development covering two-thirds of each intern’s wages, up to $7,500 per intern.

Applications are due by February 27.

Learn more and apply: https://development.ohio.gov/.../college-technology

Paulding Scouts Compete in Klondike Derby

Paulding Troop 315, sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 587, competed in the Klondike Derby at Camp Lakota near Defiance on Saturday, January 24.

With only 15 sleds entered in this year’s event, Troop 315 finished in 7th place, showcasing teamwork, determination, and strong outdoor skills in challenging winter conditions. Following the competition, the scouts also took part in Polar Bear camping, spending Saturday night outdoors and putting their cold-weather preparedness to the test.

The Klondike Derby emphasizes leadership, problem-solving, and resilience—skills that Troop 315 continues to demonstrate while proudly representing the Paulding community.

Interested in getting involved?

For more information about Paulding Troop 315, contact Verl Dasher at verldasher@gmail.com or 419-769-8000.

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

NORTHWEST STATE VAN WERT CAMPUS TO HOST “VISIT DAY” ON FEBRUARY 11TH

Van Wert, OH -- The Northwest State Community College Van Wert Campus will be hosting a new student

“Visit Day,” to be held on the new campus site at 520 E. Sycamore St. on Wednesday, February 11 from 10:00

a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Visit Day is a student-focused event hosted by NSCC Learner Services offices (admissions, advising, financial

aid, etc.). The main focus is to welcome prospective learners to campus and assist them in completing important steps. On February 11, prospective learners can visit campus and apply, as well as complete important steps like orientation, start their FASFA, tour the building and more! Academic advisors will also be on hand to help answer questions about courses.

Stay tuned to NSCC Van Wert social media (“Northwest State Community College- Van Wert Campus” on

Facebook, and “NSCCVanWertCampus” on Instagram) for up to date information about this event, as well as all

other campus activity. NSCC Van Wert is also available any time online at NorthwestState.edu/VanWert or by calling 419-267-1399.

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.

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.

Leadership in Action (LIA), originally founded by OSU Extension’s Nancy Stehulak in 1993, has evolved into a Chamber-led program that develops local leaders through tours, leadership readings, and community service.

The 2025-2026 LIA cohort consists of 14 individuals pursuing a deeper connection, growth and understanding of themselves, each other and our county. After consulting with multiple county organizations, this year’s team partnered with United Way of Paulding County, led by Lora Lyons, to identify community needs. They chose to support the Paulding County Senior Center’s mission.

The Paulding County Senior Center, led by Kari Morhart, serves residents age 60 and over—roughly 4,700 people, about a quarter of Paulding County’s population. In our small rural community, seniors often need specialized care—such as cancer treatment—in Fort Wayne or Toledo. The Senior Center’s wheelchair-accessible van makes these trips possible, along with trips to meals and activities. We hope you’ll consider donating to this important cause.

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

Community Business Update

A recent Facebook post from Kelly Fessel Kirkland shared that Fessel Jewelers will now be open every other Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.



The post also noted that Dan Fessela will be taking over the business from Bob in the near future. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

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

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.