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)
Paulding, OH — November 21, 2025
The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce was delighted to celebrate the relocation of Hidn Treasures with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 21, 2025. Now located at 100 E Jackson Street, the shop has found a welcoming new home in the heart of downtown Paulding.
After opening in early 2024, Hidn Treasures made a thoughtful move downtown to enjoy better foot traffic on the courthouse square. Their new location maintains everything customers already love—an inviting space filled with creations from local makers including TK Prints, Michele’s Handmade Gifts, Kelley’s Creative Side, and many others.
Business Hours:
• Tuesdays: 11 AM – 2 PM
• Wednesdays: 11 AM – 6 PM
• Thursdays: 11 AM – 6 PM
• Fridays: 11 AM – 2 PM
• Saturdays: 9 AM – 2 PM
The Chamber congratulates owners Heather and Michael Sherburn on this exciting transition and encourages the community to stop in, browse, and support this hardworking small business as it settles into its new space.
Pictured left to right: Michele Bennett, Michael Sherburn, Heather Sherburn, Jill Strahley (back), Kelley Armstrong, Tera Domina, and Zaddick Sherburn.
Paulding, Ohio — November 2025— The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to share the success of this year’s Shop the Village, a day that brought small businesses, makers, and families together to celebrate local shopping and community spirit throughout downtown Paulding.
From the moment doors opened, the support was clear. Megan Sierra, Director of PC Workshop/Limitless, reported 450 transactions—triple their usual Saturday sales. Vendors and business owners across all locations shared the same message: shoppers showed up, and they showed up big.
Pictured: Shoppers at Limitless during Shop the Village. Photo Credit: Maumee Valley Network
“The energy throughout Paulding was great,” said Chamber Director Jill Strahley. “Every conversation we had reflected positivity and gratitude. Our businesses felt seen, supported, and encouraged by the community. That’s what Shop the Village is all about.”
Shoppers visited vendor hubs throughout town, including Studio 38, Grounded Coffee and Crumbs, the Paulding Eagles, Ace Hardware, Branch Christian Fellowship, and others. The day also highlighted local youth—both the Youth Business Showcase, and the NextGen Youth Artisan Market were buzzing with activity as young entrepreneurs shared their crafts and creativity with the community.
The first 150 shoppers picked up free Shop the Village tote bags at Grounded Coffee, which were gone before noon.
Pictured: Shoppers grab drinks at Deja Brew by Cassy while at Paulding’s Shop the Village event. Photo credit: Maumee Valley Network
As planning begins for Shop the Village 2026, the Chamber welcomes local businesses and vendors who would like to participate. “We’re already working on next year’s details,” Strahley said. “If you’d like to be included, reach out to the Chamber. We’d love to have you join us.”
PAULDING – Learn more about the Paulding Downtown Historic District by touring three business buildings at a free Progressive After-Hours on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
Community Revitalizing Paulding (CoRP) is organizing the event, set to begin at 4:30 p.m. at the Paulding County Area Foundation building on the south side of the square. The foundation will host the visit. The public is welcome to attend.
Following a brief presentation and refreshments, the After-Hours will proceed next door to the Small Business Innovation Center for a similar program. Paulding County Economic Development office will be the host.
The event will conclude at the retail store Limitless on the northwest the corner of the square. The Limitless staff will welcome guests.
Each stop will offer the opportunity to hear about the building’s fascinating history and past businesses, how CoRP secured historic district designation and about the building’s present occupants.
The first two After-Hours, in February and June, were big successes, each drawing more than 50 people to renovated buildings.
Members of CoRP’s Wednesday History Group, which researched all the district’s buildings as part of the historic district application process, is helping to coordinate this series of After-Hours. They are developing brochures for each of the three locations, containing vintage and new photographs with interesting information.
CoRP is raising funds to install two unique signs marking the Downtown Historic District, in spring 2024 by the National Register of Historic Places. The signs will make passersby aware they are entering the Historic District as they approach the downtown on U.S. 127 from the north and south.
CoRP is working with Ohio’s Sewah Studios, which creates the state historical markers, to design the two signs. Each metal plaque will measure 18 inches wide by 24 inches tall and be mounted on an aluminum post.The Village of Paulding has agreed to install both signs. The total cost for manufacturing and delivery is approximately $5,000. Donations will be accepted at the After-Hours. CoRP must have the funds before ordering the signs.
CoRP anticipates the signs will increase awareness of the new historic district, draw visitors to the community, attract new businesses and encourage interest in renovation and preservation. CoRP will host additional public events in the near future.
CoRP is a 501c3 nonprofit group. To contribute to the sign fund, donations may be sent to them at 101 E. Main St., Paulding OH 45879. For more information, contact CoRP at corpinohio@gmail.com.
Paulding, Ohio – October 7, 2025 — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting local residents to join a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience while giving back to the community. In partnership with Collette Travel and Orange Grover Travel Company, the Chamber will host a 10-day “Shades of Ireland” group tour, June 19–28, 2026, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the best of Ireland in comfort and style—all while supporting the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
The tour includes visits to Dublin, Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher, and an overnight stay in a real castle. Optional three-night extensions in London or Edinburgh are also available.
This is a premium, worry-free group travel experience designed for convenience and value. Travelers will enjoy 4-star hotels, quality dining, expert local guides, and Collette’s renowned door-to-door service—including round-trip transportation from Paulding to the airport and private transfers from the Dublin airport to the hotel upon arrival.
“Collette truly takes care of everything,” said Jill Strahley, Executive Director of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce. “You can simply relax and enjoy the adventure—no long-term parking, no complicated logistics, and a wonderful group of fellow travelers from our own community.”
Proceeds from the trip will benefit the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Chamber’s 501(c)(3) charitable arm established in 2023. The Foundation supports scholarships for Paulding County students and community initiatives that encourage young people to build their careers and futures locally. The Foundation will award its first scholarships in Spring 2026.
An informational meeting about the trip will be held on Monday, November 3 at 6:00 PM at the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce, 101 E. Perry St., Paulding, Ohio. During this meeting, attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with Matthew O’Shaughnessey of Orange Grove Travel Company, Collette’s travel partner, who will review the itinerary, pricing, and travel details. Those planning to attend the informational meeting are asked to RSVP by Thursday, October 30 by emailing pauldingchamber@gmail.com or calling 419-399-5215 so the Chamber can plan seating and refreshments.
Travelers who book the trip by December 20, 2025, will receive $200 off per person.
For those who can’t attend the in-person meeting and would like additional trip details, please contact Matthew O’Shaughnessey at 260-418-8422 or matt.oshaughnessey@orangegrovetravel.com.
Paulding, OH – October 2, 2025 — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Banquet on September 25 with an ’80s-inspired Neon Nights celebration, honoring outstanding leaders, businesses, and community organizations whose impact continues to strengthen Paulding County.
"This was my very first banquet as Chamber Director, and it was incredible to celebrate alongside so many people who care deeply about our community,” said Jill Strahley, Executive Director of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce. “We honored legacies, celebrated milestones, and also laughed and had fun together. Nights like this remind me why I love Paulding County.”
Pictured above: Kaila Green-Uys, Chamber Board of Directors Member and Jill Strahley, Executive Director of Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber’s highest honor, the Legacy Award, was presented to two recipients. Samuel Hatcher was recognized for his 27 years of teaching at Paulding High School, where his classroom was known for respect, encouragement, and common sense. He invested countless hours preparing students for life after graduation, connecting them to local resources and leaving a lasting influence felt across generations. Judge Tiffany Reighter-Beckman was honored for her leadership as Common Pleas Court Judge and for founding the Paulding County Drug Court in 2014. With more than 70 graduates to date, the program has restored families and futures, setting a powerful example of how justice and compassion can work hand in hand.
Left Picture: Jill Strahley, Executive Director of Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce with Samuel Hatcher, Legacy Award Recipient. Right Picture: Jill Strahley, Executive Director of Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce with Judge Tiffany Reighter-Beckman, Legacy Award Recipient.
The Business Leaders of the Year Award went to Kieu and Travis Okuley of Okuley’s Pharmacy. When Paulding County was left without a pharmacy after Rite Aid’s closure, the Okuleys stepped in to meet a critical need. They renovated a building to create a modern walk-in pharmacy with a drive-through and began serving residents even before the storefront officially opened. Their quick action and dedication to professional, personal care have already made a lasting difference.
Pictured above: Kieu and Travis Okuley, Owners of Okuley's Pharmacy, Business Leaders of the Year Award Recipients.
The Young Professional of the Year Award was presented to Lindsey Manz of the Paulding County Health Department. She was recognized for her professionalism, compassion, and determination to grow as a leader. Manz has taken on leadership responsibilities in public health programs while pursuing further education and training, earning recognition for her work ethic, humility, and ability to elevate those around her.
Left Picture: Ashley Suter and Lindsey Manz embracing as the Young Professional of the Year Award Winner was announced. Right Picture: Lindsey Manz, Young Professional of the Tear Award Recipient.
The Golden Shovel Awards recognized significant investments that build a stronger future for Paulding County. Honorees included Hybrid Performance, for expanding from a barn on a family farm into a new fitness facility; Okuley’s Pharmacy, for restoring essential healthcare access; the Paulding County Land Bank, for transforming blighted properties into community assets; and Grant’s Catering & Wedding Venue, for creating a modern event space that keeps celebrations—and their economic impact—local.
Left Picture above: Garrett Stoller, Owner of Hybrid Performance, Golden Shovel Award Recipient. Right Picture above: Brandon Grant, Owner of Grant's Catering, Golden Shovel Award Recipient.
Left Picture above: Lou Ann Wannemacher, .Michael Weible and Greg White, of the Paulding County Land Bank, Golden Shovel of the Year Award Recipients Right Picture above: Travis, Kieu and Konnor Okuley, of Okuley's Pharmacy, Golden Shovel of the Year Award Recipients.
The Chamber also recognized members celebrating milestone anniversaries. Celebrating one year were Smother It Food Truck and Flat Rock Firearms. Reaching five years was Mighty Cube, LLC, and at ten years was C.C. Seamless Roofing & Exteriors. Marking 15 years were Paulding Ace Hardware and the Friends of the Paulding County Carnegie Library. At the 20-year mark were Logisticize and West Bend Printing. Celebrating 30 years was Tri-County Roofing & Home Improvement, while Village Apothecary marked 40 years, and Williamson Crop Insurance celebrated 45 years. Three organizations celebrated 50 years: Foundations Behavioral Health Services, James M. Sponseller, Attorney at Law, and CHP Home Care & Hospice. At 60 years were Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission and Financial Partners FCU. Celebrating 65 years were the Payne Chamber of Commerce and Dilly Door Co. At 70 years was Bashore Reineck Stoller & Waterman. Marking 90 years was the Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, and at 100 years the Paulding Knights of Columbus. Celebrating 120 years was Arthur Mutual Telephone Company, while First Presbyterian Church of Paulding marked an extraordinary 150 years of service to the community.
Pictured above: Paulding Chamber Banquet attendees.
The banquet also raised funds for future projects. The Dessert Dash featured locally made desserts and raised nearly $2,000 for Chamber Foundation scholarships, while the Maker Mix Basket Raffle, filled with artisan goods and local business products, will support the Leadership in Action class service project. Past projects have included improvements to Herb Monroe Park, the Marshall Building mural, and reservoir renovations. Earlier this year, the Paulding Area Chamber Foundation achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, enabling tax-deductible gifts to support scholarships and community projects.
Pictured above (L-R): Kaila Green-Uys, Board Member; Lora Lyons, Board Member; Bill Lyons, Cheryl Eddy, Board Member; Jason Kinder, Denise Kinder, Board Member; Jaco Uys, as well as other banquet attendees in the background.
Looking ahead, the Chamber continues to invest in the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. NextGen Artisan Workshop participants will showcase and sell their art during Shop the Village on November 22, 2025, in downtown Paulding. The Chamber is also offering a Shades of Ireland group trip, June 19–28, 2026. The premium experience includes 4-star hotels, roundtrip airfare, and a stay in an authentic Irish castle. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Chamber Foundation. More information is available at www.pauldingchamber.com
A Comeback Rooted in Passion, Purpose, and the Love of Dogs
Pictured from left to right: Jill Strahley, Chamber Executive Director, Valerie Everard, Stylish Pets Owner, and Mayor Greg White, Village of Paulding.
Paulding, OH — Some comebacks are bigger than business—they’re about calling. After a year-long pause to recover from a shoulder injury, Valerie Everard is back behind the grooming table at Stylish Pets, doing what she was born to do—with the same heart, skill, and deep care that has made her a trusted name for decades.
To celebrate her return, the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce joined Valerie and community members for a ribbon cutting ceremony, alongside Mayor Greg White, to recognize and uplift the expertise and personal care she brings to Paulding County’s pet community.
Located at 512 East Perry Street, Stylish Pets offers full-service grooming for small dogs under 20 pounds in a calm, one-on-one setting. Valerie creates a peaceful environment where even anxious or sensitive dogs feel safe. She works at each dog’s pace—giving breaks, potty time, and plenty of reassurance along the way.
With over 30 years of professional grooming experience, Valerie has developed a reputation for excellence. She specializes in hand scissoring, a highly skilled technique that gives each pup a clean, tailored finish. Her attention to detail is unmatched—from precise grooming around ears and paws to handling glands and nails with care.
What sets Valerie apart is not just her technique, but her deep understanding of pet wellness. She uses Nature’s Specialties all-natural grooming products, including aloe-based conditioners and neem oil for natural flea control. Valerie also provides guidance on nutrition to help pet owners maintain shiny, healthy coats between visits.
“Valerie has a gift for working with dogs,” said Jill Strahley, Executive Director of the Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce. “Her knowledge, her heart, and her hands-on care are what make her so respected by clients and valued by our local community.”
Clients echo that sentiment in glowing reviews. Mary Oberlin shared:
“What I loved most is that Valerie treats my baby like he is one of her own. The time, attention, and love she puts forth is like no groomer I have ever used in the past… She really put me at ease and I knew my baby was in good gentle hands.”
Ann Walker wrote:
“I can always count on my two pups coming home looking so handsome after their grooming with Valerie. She always does an excellent and thorough job and treats my fur babies like they are her own!”
Business Details
Accepting dogs under 20 lbs 512 E Perry St, Paulding, OH 45879 419‑670‑1520 (call or text) By appointment only Proof of vaccination required
For more local business highlights and community news, visit www.pauldingchamber.com or follow the Chamber on Facebook.
Applications Now Open Through August 29
Ohio is making it easier for tech-based companies—or any business with a technological need—to bring in local talent through the College Technology Internship Program. This initiative, led by the Ohio Department of Development and the Ohio Third Frontier, reimburses companies for up to two-thirds of each intern’s salary—up to $7,500 per intern.
Companies can hire up to 10 interns per round, and internships must pay at least $15 per hour (though higher wages are encouraged).
“The College Technology Internship Program allows companies to recruit local talent while helping shape the next generation of innovators,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “We’re committed to providing Ohio’s most innovative companies with the resources they need to expand and thrive.”
Tech-based businesses
Businesses with a technological need, such as software, IT, engineering, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and more
Startups, small businesses, and established companies alike
Interns in past rounds have supported businesses with:
Software development
Web and app design
Data analysis and engineering
Math and research
Cybersecurity implementation
Social media and marketing tech
Whether you’re a company looking for help on a project or a student looking to build a career in tech, this program opens the door for valuable experience—and valuable support.
Company application deadline: August 29, 2025
Internship period: November 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026
Student application window: September 2–26, 2025
Visit TechIntern.Development.Ohio.Gov to:
Apply as a company
Join the mailing list
Get updates about the student application period
Questions? Contact Mason Waldvogel at Mason.Waldvogel@development.ohio.gov
PAULDING – Learn more about the Paulding Downtown Historic District by touring three business buildings at a free Progressive After-Hours on Tuesday, June 24.
Community Revitalizing Paulding (CoRP) is organizing the event, set to begin at 4:30 p.m. at Holly, Wood & Vine on the west side of the square. The hosts are owners Holly and Robert Davis. The public is welcome to attend.
Following a brief presentation and refreshments, the After-Hours will proceed to the nearby Fuel Good Energy for a similar program. The host is Keylei Young.
The event will conclude at the newly opened Buy the Book used bookstore around the corner on Perry Street. The hosts are members of the Friends of the Paulding County Carnegie Library.
The first After-Hours in February was a big success, drawing more than 50 people to three renovated buildings.
CoRP is raising funds to install two unique signs marking the Downtown Historic District, designated last spring by the National Register of Historic Places. The signs will make passersby aware that they are entering the Historic District as they approach the downtown on U.S. 127 from the north and south.
CoRP is working with Ohio’s Sewah Studios, which creates the state historical markers, to design the two signs. Each metal plaque will measure 18 inches wide by 24 inches tall and be mounted on an aluminum post. The total cost for manufacturing and delivery is approximately $5,000. CoRP must have the funds before ordering the signs.
The Village of Paulding has agreed to install both signs and will consult on the exact placement to comply with sign regulations.
CoRP is a 501c3 nonprofit group. To contribute to the sign fund, donations may be sent to them at 101 E. Main St., Paulding OH 45879.
Paulding, OH — The Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the appointment of Jill Strahley as its new Executive Director. With a strong background in community engagement, marketing, and nonprofit leadership, Strahley brings both passion and experience to this pivotal role.
A longtime resident of the Paulding area, Strahley has spent the past several years serving the community through a variety of leadership positions, including Payne Elementary PTO
President, board member of United Way of Paulding County, and advertising representative for The Paulding Progress. She has built trusted relationships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations, and has led successful initiatives in branding, fundraising, and public outreach.
“I’m honored to step into this role and serve the community that means so much to me,” said Strahley. “I’m excited to build on the Chamber’s work by supporting local businesses, encouraging economic growth, and creating new opportunities for collaboration.”
As Executive Director, Strahley will focus on strengthening business partnerships, promoting member services, planning community events, and fostering initiatives that reflect the unique character and potential of the region.
The Chamber Board expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Jill into this leadership role,” said Denise Kinder, President of the Chamber Board. “Her energy, vision, and dedication to the community made her the right choice to lead the Chamber forward.”
Strahley officially began her role on May 21, 2025.
P.O. Box 237, Paulding, OH 45879
Paulding Area Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization.