PAULDING, OHIO — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Annual Awards and Golden Shovel Awards. Honorees will be recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Banquet on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Grant’s Catering in Antwerp.
This year’s banquet theme, “Planted in Paulding,” celebrates the people, businesses, and organizations that are deeply rooted in Paulding County and helping cultivate a stronger future for the community.
Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals and organizations in the following categories:
Recognizes an emerging leader under the age of 40 who is making a meaningful difference through their work, leadership, and community involvement.
Honors an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership, vision, innovation, and a positive impact on business and the community.
Recognizes an individual whose lifelong service, leadership, and dedication have helped build a stronger Paulding County.
Nominations for the Young Professional of the Year, Business Leader of the Year, and Legacy Award may be submitted at:
https://bit.ly/2026PACCAwards
The Golden Shovel Award recognizes businesses, organizations, municipalities, and community groups making a significant impact through growth, revitalization, investment, service, and community commitment.
Golden Shovel Award nominations may be submitted at:
https://bit.ly/2026PACCGoldShovelAward
Nominations are due Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
The Chamber encourages residents to take a few minutes to recognize someone whose work deserves to be celebrated. Community members should not assume someone else will submit a nomination. Every nomination helps bring attention to the people and organizations making a difference throughout Paulding County.
The 2026 Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Grant’s Catering in Antwerp.
The evening will include:
Social hour beginning at 5:00 p.m.
Dinner beginning at 6:00 p.m.
Dessert Dash
Annual awards
Networking and community celebration
Tickets are $40 per person, and reserved tables of eight are available for $300.
Banquet registration is available at:
https://www.pauldingchamber.com/Annual-Banquet
Registration is due Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
The Chamber invites businesses, organizations, community leaders, and residents to attend this special evening as Paulding County comes together to recognize the people and organizations helping the community grow.
For questions, contact the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-399-5215 or info@pauldingchamber.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PAULDING, Ohio — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce has announced that Executive Director Jill Strahley will be stepping down from her role. As the Chamber prepares for this transition, the Board of Directors has begun the search for the organization’s next Executive Director.
During her time with the Chamber, Strahley has focused on strengthening communication, building community partnerships, supporting local businesses, and creating new opportunities to connect people and organizations throughout Paulding County.
“Serving the Chamber and getting to know so many of the people who care deeply about this community has meant a great deal to me,” Strahley said. “I am incredibly thankful for the businesses, organizations, board members, volunteers, and community partners who have supported the Chamber’s work. There is so much good happening across Paulding County, and I am proud of the momentum we have built together.”
The Chamber’s Board of Directors expressed its appreciation for Strahley’s leadership, creativity, and commitment to the organization and the community.
The Chamber is now accepting applications for an organized, collaborative, and forward-thinking Executive Director. This person will oversee the Chamber’s day-to-day operations, member engagement, community partnerships, communications, events, financial management, fundraising, and program development.
The Board is looking for someone who can continue building relationships, support local businesses, and help the Chamber move forward with energy and purpose. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who can provide leadership while also managing the hands-on responsibilities of a small nonprofit organization.
Applications are due Friday, July 10, 2026.
The complete job description and online application are available at:
https://bit.ly/PauldingChamberDirector
Applications will be reviewed by the Chamber’s Hiring Committee, and selected candidates will be contacted regarding the interview process.
The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce will continue its work of supporting local businesses, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities throughout Paulding County during the transition.
About the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce
The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce works to connect businesses, organizations, and community leaders, promote local growth, and create opportunities that strengthen Paulding County’s businesses and communities.
Media Contact: Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce pauldingchamber@gmail.com www.pauldingchamber.com
Paulding, Ohio – Spring in Northwest Ohio brings color, pollinators, and the promise of homegrown vegetables—things the Paulding County Master Gardener Volunteers (MGVs) look forward to each year.
The group is excited to announce that the 25th Annual Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, or until sold out. The event will take place at the Block Building on the Paulding County Fairgrounds, located at 503 Fairground Drive, Paulding, OH 45879.
This one-day-only sale offers something for every gardener. A wide variety of perennials, annuals, herbs, vegetables, native plants, trees, shrubs, and container gardens will be available. Most items are priced between $1 and $15. A highlight of the sale is the opportunity to purchase single plants—especially useful for those looking for specific varieties of tomatoes or peppers, including many heirloom types.
Proceeds from the sale directly support community beautification and educational projects led by the Master Gardener Volunteers. Past contributions have funded:
“Volunteering is a great way to give back to our Paulding County community,” shared the MGVs. “This sale funds the projects that allow us to do just that. There is joy in gardening—but even more joy in giving back.”
During the event, Master Gardener Volunteers will be available to answer gardening and plant care questions. Again in 2026 is the 2nd Annual Youth Flyer Design Contest, with winners recognized at 11:00 AM during the sale. Families can also receive a free packet of Victory Garden seeds—including cucumbers, lettuce, carrots, and sunflowers, thanks to a partnership between OSU Extension and the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Victory Garden Project. Free fact sheets and gardening brochures will also be available.
Plan to arrive early for the best plant selection and bring a friend or young gardener to share in this vibrant community event!
For more information about the Master Gardener Volunteer program or the plant sale, contact Sarah Noggle at noggle.17@osu.edu, stop by the OSU Extension Office at 503 Fairground Drive, or call 419-399-8225.
PAULDING — The Paulding County Carnegie Library (PCCL) Board of Directors and administrative team have officially advanced to the next phase of a major development initiative: the construction of a new Community Center on the site of the former library annex. This project marks a historic step forward for the 110‑year‑old institution, which has long lacked adequate space to host public programs and events larger than 20 attendees.
The new Community Center will be built on adjacent property formerly occupied by the office of Dr. Kirkwood Pritchard and, more recently, the Caring & Sharing Food Pantry and the Buy the Book store. The new facility is designed to serve as a flexible, modern hub for educational programming, community forums, scholastic instruction, bilingual training, emergency shelter needs, and expanded library and community events.
The project began to take shape in July 2023 when PCCL received an anonymous matching‑fund donation specifically designated for the development of a community center. This transformative gift enabled the library to begin working with the Paulding County Land Bank, Paulding County Economic Development, and the Maumee Valley Planning Organization to remove the aging existing structure and explore options for a replacement facility.
The previous annex, originally constructed as a physician’s office, has served many community functions over the decades—including OhioMeansJobs, ACE Academy, Caring & Sharing Food Pantry, Buy the Book, and library storage. In recent years, the building required significant repairs, prompting the need for a long‑term solution. Buy the Book has since been relocated to 108 N. Williams Street, where it now shares space at The Fuel Bar.
In September 2024, PCCL issued a Request for Qualifications for architectural services and selected Beilharz Architects of Defiance, Ohio. Over the following months, the library and design team collaborated to create a plan that incorporates advanced technology, flexible event space, and a layout that strengthens the library’s role as an anchor in downtown Paulding. The proposed design includes seating for approximately 100 people, kitchen facilities, office and meeting room space, and a dedicated retail area for the return of the Buy the Book store.
With the demolition of the former annex now complete, the project has moved into its construction phase. At the March 31 board meeting, Rupp Rosebrock was awarded the contract and will lead the build‑out of the new Community Center.
The new Community Center represents a once‑in‑a‑generation investment in downtown Paulding and in the future of the Paulding County Carnegie Library. Construction is expected to begin soon, with updates to be shared as the project progresses.
Paulding, Ohio — The Paulding County Fall Festival Board will host a Mother’s Day Brunch on Saturday, May 9 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the OSU Extension Building in Paulding, inviting the community to celebrate local moms while supporting the continued growth of the Paulding County Fall Festival.
The brunch will feature a variety of offerings, including a waffle bar, fresh fruit, and parfaits, creating a welcoming and family-friendly environment for attendees.
This event serves as a fundraiser to support the Paulding County Fall Festival, scheduled for September 11–12, 2026, at the Paulding County Fairgrounds.
Following a successful inaugural year, planning is already underway for an expanded festival experience. This year’s event is expected to include several featured attractions, such as the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall, a Bluegrass Jam & Scramble, expanded vendor participation, and additional family-friendly activities designed to bring the community together.
Funds raised through the Mother’s Day Brunch will directly support these efforts, helping ensure the continued growth and success of the festival and its offerings.
Community members are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance for the brunch. Vendors, sponsors, and organizations interested in participating in the upcoming Fall Festival can find additional information, register, or get involved by visiting:
https://www.pauldingcountyfestival.com/
For more information about the Mother’s Day Brunch, including event updates and ticket details, visit:
https://www.facebook.com/pauldingcountyfallfestival
Paulding, Ohio — Paulding County officially joined Ohio’s America 250 celebration this week with the planting of its Heritage Tree on the courthouse lawn, marking the beginning of local efforts to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
As part of the America 250-Ohio Heritage Trees: Planting History program, all 88 Ohio counties will receive a commemorative white oak tree to recognize Ohio’s role in the nation’s founding while preserving local history and investing in future generations.
Paulding County’s Heritage Tree was planted on the courthouse lawn, a location chosen for both its historical significance and its place at the center of the community. Built in 1888 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse serves as a fitting home for a tree meant to symbolize both legacy and growth.
Paulding FFA Chapter Officers, Paulding County Commissioners, Paulding Soil and Water Conservation District representatives, and community leaders gathered for the ceremony.
One of the most meaningful moments of the event was the symbolic soil ceremony. FFA students collected soil from important places throughout the county—including farms, schools, parks, and other locations that help tell the story of Paulding County. Those soils were poured together at the base of the tree, representing the shared roots of the community and the future generations that will continue to grow from them.
White oak trees were selected for the Heritage Trees program because they are native to Ohio, adaptable to many soil types, and resistant to most common tree diseases. The tree serves not only as a symbol of history, but also as a long-term investment in environmental sustainability and community pride.
“This Heritage Tree is more than something we plant today—it is an investment in the future of Paulding County,” said Commissioner Mike Weible. “It reflects our appreciation for where we’ve come from and our commitment to the generations that will follow.”
Special thanks go to Anna Gurney and the Paulding Soil and Water Conservation District for helping organize the ceremony and coordinate local participation.
This tree planting marks just the beginning of Paulding County’s America 250 efforts. Additional projects and celebrations are being planned throughout the coming year to honor local history, strengthen community connections, and celebrate the county’s role in America’s story.
For more information, please contact the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-399-5215 or pauldingchamber@gmail.com
Paulding, OH — The finish line is approaching, and the 2025–2026 Leadership in Action (LIA) class is calling on the community to help bring their project across it.
Leadership in Action (LIA) is the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce’s leadership development program designed to deepen participants’ understanding of themselves, each other, and Paulding County… while taking meaningful action in our community.
This year’s cohort includes 14 individuals committed not just to learning about local challenges, but to responding to them.
After meeting with several county organizations, the class partnered with the United Way of Paulding County and selected the Paulding County Senior Center as their service focus.
The Paulding County Senior Center serves approximately 4,700 residents age 60 and older—nearly one-quarter of the county’s population.
In a rural community like ours, reliable transportation is essential. Many seniors must travel to Fort Wayne or Toledo for specialized medical care. The Senior Center’s wheelchair-accessible van helps make those trips possible, along with transportation to meals, appointments, and daily activities.
To help meet increased demand, the LIA class is working with United Way to raise $26,500 toward the purchase of an additional wheelchair-accessible van.
As the project enters its final stretch, the community has several opportunities to support the effort:
Pistols & Purses Raffle Tickets are $20 each for a chance to win 1 of 4 great prizes. Available at: • Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce • Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) • McDougall Firearms • Paulding Ace Hardware • Paulding County Senior Center
The raffle drawing will take place on May 13, 2026.
Community Lunch (Drive-Thru) May 2, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Paulding County Senior Center Free will donation Meal includes pulled pork, mac & cheese, coleslaw, cookie, and bottled water
Dine & Donate Night April 29, 2026 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill, Van Wert Mention the fundraiser and 15% of your bill will be donated
Direct Donations & Sponsorships Individuals and businesses can contribute at multiple levels, with recognition opportunities available through the United Way of Paulding County.
Community leadership programs like LIA have been shown to strengthen civic engagement, collaboration, and long-term community impact —and this project is a direct reflection of that mission.
The group encourages residents to get involved in any way they can—by purchasing a raffle ticket, attending an event, or making a donation.
For more information, contact the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-399-5215 or pauldingchamber@gmail.com
PAULDING, OH — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce and Paulding High School are teaming up once again for Community Cleanup Day on Wednesday, April 30, 2026. The event brings student volunteers together with local Paulding businesses and organizations for a day of hands-on community improvement. In the event of rain, the backup date is May 1st.
Community Cleanup Day is a partnership between the Chamber and Paulding High School that has become an annual tradition. Local businesses and organizations sign up with a project — painting, landscaping, sweeping, pulling weeds, or whatever needs doing — and are paired with student volunteers who spend the day working alongside their staff and business representatives. The students gain real-world experience and give back to the community, the businesses get help with projects they’ve been putting off, and the whole community looks a little better by the end of the day.
This year, 20 sites have signed up to participate:
Students will be painting snow plows at the Paulding County Engineer’s Office, cleaning up gardens with OSU Extension and the Master Gardeners, freshening up Herb Monroe Park, helping the Fair Board, tackling landscaping at Divine Mercy Parish, deep cleaning at LifeWise Paulding, organizing at Limitless, and working at the VFW Post. Also on the list are the Paulding Recovery Clubhouse, First Financial Bank, Fuel Good Energy, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Keepsake Beads by EAW, the Village of Oakwood, Paulding Youth Ball Association, the Black Swamp Nature Center, First Presbyterian Church, and the Chamber itself.
Each site provides bottled water for volunteers, and most will be providing lunch for their student crews.
While the deadline to sign up as a participating site has closed for this year, businesses and organizations interested in future Community Cleanup Days are encouraged to contact the Chamber to be added to the list for next time.
“Community Cleanup Day is one of the things we’re most proud of at the Chamber,” said Jill Strahley, Executive Director of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a chance for students to get involved, for businesses to get a hand with projects they need, and for all of us to invest in making Paulding County a place we’re proud of. If you see students out working around town on April 30th, give them a wave — they’re doing good work.”
For questions about Community Cleanup Day, contact Jill Strahley at the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-399-5215 or pauldingchamber@gmail.com, or Shawn Brewer at Paulding High School at 419-399-4656 ext. 1145.
The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce exists to exemplify leadership by positively reinforcing and representing our members and businesses in the communities we proudly serve. The Chamber connects businesses to the community and to each other through events, programs, and advocacy. Learn more at www.pauldingchamber.com or follow the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook and Instagram.
More than 100 Paulding County bakers and makers are donating homemade goodies for the 2026 Sweet Shop, which will benefit the Caring & Sharing Food Pantry! The event will be at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, 601 Flat Rock Drive in Paulding from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Cash and checks will be accepted. Also, card payments can be made online at the event.
The Sweet Shop will feature an array of pies, yeast and sourdough breads, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, cakes, chocolates and other candy, 30 types of cookies, snack mixes and more.
The following cottage bakers and bakeries are supporting the fundraiser by donating this year: Bean Creek Farms, Ciara's Cookie Corner, Farmer's Wife Cupcakes, Flour Baking Co., Grounded Coffee & Crumbs, Humble Heck Bakery, K&H Sweets, Kuntry Kakers, Mama Moos, Mom & Son's Bakery, Paulding County Senior Center, Paulding Exempted Village High School Nutrition and Wellness class, Sandy's Cakes, Setser’s Sourdough, Simply from Scratch, Sweet A.S. Cakes, and The Pink Flamingo Bakery.
The money raised from the event will go to the general operating budget for the pantry which will help to pay ongoing expenses, including buying food.
The Caring & Sharing Food Pantry’s purpose is to support Paulding County residents who are experiencing food insecurity. They are run entirely on donations of food and financial support from the local communities.
For more information about the pantry, volunteering opportunities and fundraising activities, follow the Caring & Sharing Food Pantry on Facebook. If you have questions about the event, please call the pantry, at (419) 399-9562 or send an email to info@caresharepantry.org.
Paulding, OH — November 22, 2025
The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce was proud to welcome C & C Treasures into the downtown business community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 22, 2025. Located at 110 W Perry Street, the new storefront marks a meaningful milestone for owners Casey and Claude Partain, who have turned their long-time passion for antiques and unique décor into a full brick-and-mortar shop.
The grand opening drew steady foot traffic throughout the Shop the Village event, with shoppers excited to explore the store’s curated mix of antiques, collectible pieces, and one-of-a-kind finds. The warm community response made the opening weekend especially memorable.
Business Hours: • Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM • Holiday hours may vary
The Chamber congratulates C & C Treasures on their grand opening and invites the community to stop in, say hello, and discover what makes this new shop such a welcome addition to downtown Paulding.
Pictured are C & C Treasures’ owners Claude (left) and Casey (center) Partain and their son Scott (right)
101 E. Perry St.,
Paulding, OH 45879 (419) 399-5215 info@pauldingchamber.com
