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From the Desk of the Director

We’re just a few days out from Valentine’s and just wrapped up Presidents’ Day. I hope your weekend was restful and meaningful.

Last week, our Leadership in Action group had a full day. We kicked off at Paulding Putnam Electric, learning about co-ops, safety, and fiber expansions. I’ll link the full post here for more details. A huge thank you to Paulding Putnam—your commitment to this community is clear, and we’re grateful for the time you invested in us.

At lunch, we were hosted by the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2405 —thank you for your hospitality and for giving us space to push forward on our service project. We’re working to raise $26,500 for the Senior Center’s wheelchair-accessible van, and stay tuned for the Pistols & Purses Raffle flyer—the LIA team is working on finishing up the flyer with details. If you would like to sponsor this cause, please click here for details.

In the afternoon, we were welcomed by Western Buckeye Educational Service Center. Missy McClurg led us through CliftonStrengths, helping us see how focusing on our strengths can make us better leaders. Western Buckeye ESC, we appreciate your guidance and your work in strengthening individuals across our county.

On another note, I’ve been working on our upcoming Gather + Grow series for 2026. One session is all about AI—how it can help with social media, analytics, and making sense of your data so you can be more productive. But I want to hear what topics matter most to you. I’ll add a survey link here (and yes, email is fine if you prefer, but the survey keeps things organized).

Thank you for being part of this journey, and thank you to all of our partners for investing in leadership and community!

Paulding Putnam Electric lineman demonstration for LIA.

Session 6 of Leadership in Action at Western Buckeye ESC.

Address Update: 101 E. Perry St., Paulding, OH 45879.

This week, we’re highlighting Paulding Exempted Village Schools.

Congratulations to both the Boys and Girls High School Basketball teams for winning the GMC Championships — what an accomplishment for our student-athletes, coaches, and families. And a special shoutout to Blake Rhonehouse for reaching 1,000 career points this season. That milestone reflects years of dedication, consistency, and hard work.

While championships are exciting, the everyday wins happening inside our schools matter just as much. Strong academics, leadership opportunities, and student involvement are shaping the next generation of our workforce and community leaders. Whether through band performances, FFA involvement, theatre productions, National Honor Society, athletics, or the steady work happening in the classroom, Paulding students are building confidence, discipline, and character in meaningful ways.



Paulding Schools are shaping future business owners, skilled professionals, and engaged citizens. The discipline, teamwork, and perseverance students develop now will strengthen our community for years to come.

Congratulations to the players, coaches, staff, and families — and thank you to Paulding Exempted Village Schools for the continued investment in our youth and in the future of Paulding County.



Learn more at: https://www.pauldingschools.org/

With deep roots in agriculture and a strong presence in our region, Milan Center Feed & Grain continues to serve farmers, livestock owners, and rural households with quality feed, seed, grain services, and trusted expertise. In a county where agriculture plays such an important role in our local economy, businesses like MC Feeds are essential.

And with National Love Your Pet Day coming up on February 20, it’s the perfect reminder that they’re not just supporting farms — they’re helping care for the animals that are part of our families, too. Whether it’s livestock feed, pet food, or supplies, Milan Center Feed & Grain plays an important role in keeping animals healthy and well cared for across Paulding County.

From supporting local producers to serving 4-H and FFA families — and even the everyday pet owner — they help keep our rural community thriving.

We’re grateful to have Milan Center Feed & Grain as part of our Chamber and part of what keeps Paulding County growing.

Welcome New Chamber Member

A legacy built in 1920… and still going strong.

Gorrell Bros. Auctioneers & Real Estate began with Jesse Gorrell’s first horse auction and has grown into a name generations of families across Paulding County know and trust. From farm sales to real estate to estate auctions, they’ve helped families and businesses navigate some of life’s biggest decisions with experience and integrity.

After more than 100 years of family leadership, Gorrell Bros is entering its next era. Zach Gorrell — soon to graduate from the University of Toledo — is stepping forward with fresh vision while carrying forward a legacy built over generations. If you’ve noticed the new billboards, updated signage, or their new logo, you’re seeing that next chapter unfold. They’ve also launched a brand-new website that makes it even easier to connect.

Same trusted name. A new era. A legacy that continues.

Website: gorrellbros-paulding.com

Location: 1201 N. Williams St., Paulding

Phone: 419-399-4066

Email: bgorrell@bright.net

We’re excited to have Gorrell Bros partnering with the Chamber and continuing to invest in Paulding County. Help us give them a warm welcome!

February

Feb 18–Mar 25 • Lenten Community Lunches | Wed 12–1 PM | First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, Paulding | Freewill donation

Feb 19 • Free Monthly Community Breakfast | 8–10 AM | Antwerp Manor Assisted Living, Antwerp

Feb 20 & 27 • K of C Fish Fry | 11 AM–1 PM Lunch; 4–7 PM Dinner | Knights of Columbus Hall, 9907 US 127, Paulding

Feb 21 • Relay for Life Kickoff | 5 PM | Paulding Eagles Aerie 2405, Paulding

Feb 21 • Divine Mercy Bunco Night | 6 PM | Divine Mercy Catholic School, Payne

Feb 21 • Little Loves & Big Hugs Valentine’s Dance | 5–9 PM | Antwerp VFW Post 5087, Antwerp

Feb 21 • Marriage Seminar | 10 AM–1 PM | Branch Christian Fellowship, 109 N Main St, Paulding | Free lunch included

Feb 23 • Artisan Bread Making | 11 AM | Paulding County Carnegie Library, Paulding

Feb 23 • Adult Cookbook Club “Something Red” | 5:30 PM | Paulding County Carnegie Library, Paulding

Feb 24 • 3rd Annual Farmer Appreciation Breakfast | 8–9:30 AM | Paulding High School Auditeria | Hosted by Paulding FFA (RSVP by Feb 17)

Feb 25 • Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck | 11:30 AM–6 PM | Chief Supermarket, 1069 N Williams St, Paulding

Feb 26 • Family Night | 5 PM | Country Inn Enhanced Living Center, Paulding

Feb 28 • Cub Scout Pack 1317 Pinewood Derby | 1 PM | Commissioners Building, Paulding County Fairgrounds

March

Mar 3 • Living Water Natural Healing Open House | 10 AM–5 PM | 101 W Perry St, Paulding

Mar 3–Apr 7 • Small Business Academy | Tue 5:30–7:30 PM | Borra Center for Health Sciences, Northwest State Community College

Mar 6 • K of C Fish Fry | 11–1 & 4–7 | Knights of Columbus Hall, Paulding

Mar 10 • Oakwood Library Chocolate Extravaganza | 7 PM | Oakwood Library, Oakwood

Mar 12 • 4-H Project Book Work Night | 5:30–6:30 PM | Youth Leadership Building, Paulding

Mar 12 • Oakwood Library Chocolate Extravaganza | 7 PM | Oakwood Library, Oakwood

Mar 13 • K of C Fish Fry | 11–1 & 4–7 | Knights of Columbus Hall, Paulding

Mar 14 • Antwerp Rotary Steak Fry | 5–7 PM | Paulding Eagles, Paulding

Mar 17 • BEL;EVE Support Group | 7–8 PM | Paulding Church of the Nazarene, Paulding

Mar 18 • Senior Center Health, Business & Industry Fair | 11 AM–2 PM | Paulding County Extension Building

Mar 20 • K of C Fish Fry | 11–1 & 4–7 | Knights of Columbus Hall, Paulding

Mar 21 • Kiwanis Purse Bingo | Doors open 10 AM | Paulding (Location per Kiwanis event flyer)

Mar 26 • SBA Ohio Rural Business Initiative | 10 AM–Noon | Northwest State Community College, Archbold

Mar 27 • Laughter That Saves Lives Spring Banquet | 5:30 PM | Grant’s Reception Hall, Antwerp

Mar 27 • K of C Fish Fry | 11–1 & 4–7 | Knights of Columbus Hall, Paulding

Mar 28 • Region 1 Regional Meeting | 9 AM–4 PM | Paulding County History Museum

Mar 28 • Chinquapin District Pinewood Derby | 1 PM | Commissioners Building, Paulding County Fairgrounds

April

Apr 9 • Paulding County Career Day | OSU Extension Office, Paulding

Apr 11 • Payne PTO Mom 2 Mom Sale | 9 AM–1 PM | Payne Elementary School, Payne

Apr 11 • LifeWise Antwerp Evening of Impact | 6 PM | Grant’s Reception Hall, Antwerp

Apr 16 • Kiwanis Free Lunch & Learn | Noon | Branch Christian Fellowship, 109 N Main St, Paulding

Apr 16–17 • SWCD Tree Sale Pickup | 451C McDonald Pike, Paulding

Apr 30 • PHS Community Cleanup Day | All Day | Participating Businesses throughout Paulding County

May

May 2 • United Way Purse Bingo | 6–9 PM | Paulding Eagles, Paulding

May 14 • 4-H Project Book Work Night | 5:30–6:30 PM | Youth Leadership Building, Paulding

June

June 20–29 • Shades of Ireland – Travel with the Chamber | Departing from Paulding

DEADLINES & OPPORTUNITIES

Mar 30 • America’s Field Trip Contest | Student submission deadline

Mar 31 • T-Mobile Hometown Grants | Application deadline

Apr 6 • SWCD Tree Sale Pre-Order Deadline

Apr 10 • Paulding County Area Foundation Scholarships Deadline

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 17, 2026 - Legal Series - Human Resource Regulations

February 19, 2026 - The Art of Financing Your Business: A Panel Discussion

February 19, 2026 - Unlock Your Startup Funds: Mapping Your Access to Capital

February 25, 2026 - Legal Series: Intellectual Property

March 5, 2026 - Small Business Orientation

March 11, 2026 - 2026 Supplier Matchmaking Expo

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

March 19, 2026 - Your Money Story: Startup Finance Basics

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

April 1, 2026 - Small Business Orientation

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.

On February 18, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, Indiana Institute of Technology will host a career fair for employers seeking students interested in building careers in engineering and computer science.

Registration costs $65 for for-profit organizations. Registration is free for nonprofits and government agencies.

Contact person:

Shaquayla Robertson - Employer Relations & Program Coordinator

smrobertson@indianatech.edu

Memories by Tawnya Photography is offering a limited “Lucky 7” special just for the Class of 2027.

The first 7 seniors to book a 3-hour Signature Senior Experience will receive $27 off their session—just because it’s your year.

This experience includes:

✔️ More time

✔️ Multiple outfits

✔️ Multiple locations

✔️ A fully customized senior session designed around you

Once the 7 spots are booked, the offer is gone—no extensions.

To claim the Lucky 7 special, email memoriesbytawnya@gmail.com

Check out Tawnya's work here:

HOME - Memories by Tawnya Photography

Knights of Columbus Council 2250 Fish Frys are back!

February 20 & 27; March 6, 13, 20 & 27

Lunch 11am–1pm | Dinner 4pm–7pm

Knights of Columbus Hall, 9907 US 127, Paulding

Dine-in or carry-out available. Serving Alaskan Pollock with 2, 3, or 5-piece meals (choice of baked beans or corn, fries or baked potato, dinner roll & cole slaw). Also available: fish by the pound, fries by the boat, and cole slaw by the pint.

Call ahead for lunch only: 567-808-2800

A Paulding tradition — bring your coworkers for lunch or the family for dinner!

Paulding Cub Scout Pack 1317 is gearing up for one of their most exciting traditions of the year

— the Annual Pinewood Derby!

When: February 28 starting at 1:00 PM

Where: Commissioners Building, Paulding County Fairgrounds

In addition to the official races, there will be an Outlaw Race, so if you have a Pinewood Derby car sitting around, bring it and join the fun. The public is welcome, and there is no charge to attend.

The excitement continues with the Chinquapin District Pinewood Derby:

When: March 28 starting at 1:00 PM

Where: Commissioners Building, Paulding County Fairgrounds

Food and drinks will be available, and the public is welcome to come cheer on the racers.

Events like these are about more than just racing — they build creativity, sportsmanship, problem-solving skills, and confidence in our youth. We love seeing organizations invest in the next generation.

Mark your calendars and come out to support our local Scouts!

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.

Energy buying doesn’t have to be complicated.

We make energy supply straightforward, efficient, and easy to manage—so you can focus on running your business.

Start with a free, no-obligation energy bill review: https://chamberenergyprogram.com

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

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