PAULDING – The Paulding County Fairgrounds was filled with excitement Monday evening, June 8, as a new group of Junior Fair royalty was recognized during the annual Paulding County Junior Fair King and Queen contest.

The evening began with recognition of the 2026 Junior Fair Prince and Princess. Emily McClure was introduced as the 2026 Junior Fair Princess. She is the daughter of Brian and Nikki McClure. Garrett Wilhelm was named the 2026 Junior Fair Prince and is the son of Troy and Ashley Wilhelm.

The 2026 Junior Fair Queen finalists were then introduced to the audience. The contestants included Kendall Kohart, Myleigh Sheets, and Victoria “Tori” Schlatter.

Kendall Kohart, daughter of Andrew and Jessica Kohart, is a freshman at Paulding High School. She is a member of the Black Swamp Junior Farmers 4-H Club and is active in FFA and Junior Fair Board. Kohart plans to attend college and become an agricultural education teacher, saying her involvement in youth organizations has strengthened her passion for both agriculture and teaching.

Myleigh Sheets, daughter of Jason and Carrie Sheets, is a recent graduate of Wayne Trace High School and the Vantage Career Center. A member of the Live Wires 4-H Club, Wayne Trace FFA, and Junior Fair Board, Sheets will attend The Ohio State University to study livestock production and management. She shared that her experiences in youth organizations have helped prepare her with valuable life skills for the future.

Victoria “Tori” Schlatter, daughter of Doug and Katie Schlatter, is a junior at Paulding High School. She is active in Paulding FFA and Junior Fair Board and plans to pursue a college degree in business. Slaughter said her involvement in youth organizations has helped develop public speaking and leadership skills that will benefit her throughout her education and career.

Also introduced was King finalist Owen Workman. Workman is the son of Mike and Jennifer Workman and is a sophomore at Paulding High School. He participates in Paulding FFA, Boy Scout Troop 19, and Junior Fair Board. He plans to pursue a career in automotive technology, sharing that his involvement in youth organizations has fostered his interest in working on engines.

During the interview portion of the competition, contestants answered questions drawn at random. When asked what she had learned through her fair experiences, Slaughter responded that hard work goes a long way and that “whatever you put into it is what you get out of it.” Workman shared that the Paulding County Fair is special because of the opportunities it provides to help others and bring people together.

Before the announcement of the results, the 2025 Junior Fair King and Queen reflected on their year of service.

Outgoing King Seth Rosswurm thanked the community for its support and encouraged the contestants. He spoke about the lessons he learned through 4-H and Junior Fair, including responsibility, leadership, and perseverance.

“One of the biggest lessons that 4-H taught me is responsibility,” Ross said. “Through that, I learned that losing can teach you more than winning. The winner gets congratulations, but the loser can find ways to improve and come back stronger next time.”

Outgoing Queen Brooklyn Schlatter reflected on the friendships and experiences she gained while representing Paulding County throughout the year.

“Wearing the crown and sash during events in Paulding County is something I will never forget,” Schlatter said. “This experience helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve become more confident meeting new people and forming meaningful connections.”

Schlatter encouraged the newly selected royalty to enjoy every moment of the experience.

“This year will go by faster than you think, so make the most of it,” she said. “Build connections and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Following the remarks, the 2026 Paulding County Junior Fair royalty court was announced.

Kendall Kohart was named Second Runner-Up Queen, while Myleigh Sheets was selected as First Runner-Up Queen.

Owen Workman was crowned the 2026 Paulding County Junior Fair King.

The title of 2026 Paulding County Junior Fair Queen was awarded to Victoria “Tori” Schlatter.

The newly crowned royalty will spend the coming year representing the Paulding County Junior Fair and serving as ambassadors for the many opportunities available through 4-H, FFA, and other youth organizations throughout the county.

PAULDING – Youth exhibitors from across Paulding County were recognized for their accomplishments during the 2026 Paulding County Junior Fair, held June 6-13 at the Paulding County Fairgrounds. Throughout the week, 4-H and FFA members showcased their hard work and dedication through livestock exhibitions, project judging, skillathons, and contests.

The fair schedule featured Dog Show and FFA Still Projects on June 7; Goat Show and Rabbit Show on June 8; Horse Show, Poultry Show, 4-H Clothing Show and Swine Show on June 9; Rabbit Show, Sheep Show, Beef and Dairy Show, and Swine Show on June 10; 4-H Family and Consumer Science judging and Horse Show on June 11; 4-H Natural Resources and STEM projects, the Showman of Showmen competition, Companion Animal and Veterinary Science judging, and Horse Contesting on June 12; culminating with the annual Livestock Auction on June 13.

Sarah McCabe was named the 2026 Paulding County Junior Fair Parade Grand Marshall! Sarah is currently the Senior Fairboard Secretary and Director of the Rabbit Barn. She is involved in numerous projects and events for the fair including publications and marketing.

Overall FFA Project Winners:

Best SAE Poster: Darcy Taylor

Best Misc Project: Miguel Martinez

Best Metal Working Project: Nolan Schlatter

Best Carpentry Project: Anabel Martinez 

Best Electricity Project: Jacob Harris

Best Masonry Project: Remington Boroff 

FFA Project Best of Class:

Carpentry 1: Nathanial Peters, Wayne Trace FFA

Carpentry 2: Annabel Martinez, Paulding FFA

Advanced Carpentry: Mariah Klopfenstein, Paulding FFA

Shop Project that does not fit in any other category: Miguel Martinez, Paulding FFA

Ag Electrification 1: Salvatore Biliti, Paulding FFA

Adv Ag Electrification 2: Jacob Harris, Paulding FFA

Arc Welding 1: Brayden Kauser, Paulding FFA

Grange Best of Shows:

 Photography – Emilee Hadsty

Flowers – Kenley Miller

Artwork – Kenley Miller

Machine Sewing – Preston Johnson

Needlework – Bonnie Etchison

Antiques – Jordan Hayes

Garden & Crops – Darrel Behrmann

Baked Goods – Kylee Miller

Kids Zone – Ruby Hayes

Crafts – Debra Howell

Canned Goods – Kylee Miller

Demo Derby Winners:

FWD Stock: 1 Preston Averesch; 2 Jason Stanfield Jr; 3 Kylee Roberts

FWD Pro Stock: 1 Clay Bowman; 2 Logan Walker; 3 Caleb Botchlett

Youth Compact: 1 Teagan Wheeler; 2 Bryon Upp; 3 Landon Highly

Minivan/Mini Truck: 1 Jeffery Christan; 2 Logan Warrell; 3 Jason Mcgurm

Semi Stock: 1 Dustin Joey; 2 Saige Moyer; 3 Gary Geahlen

Pro Stock: 1 Preston Cristt; 2 Scott Drevenok; 3 Chase Leininge

4-H Clothing Project Awards:

Sew Fun (Beginner) – 1st Ilah Zimmerman

Sew for Others (Intermediate) – 1st Anabelle Saylor

Ready, Set, Sew Active! (Intermediate) – 1st Brianna McClure

Loungewear (Intermediate) – 1st Elliana Burtnett

Shopping Savvy (Intermediate) – 1st Emerson Maibach

Beginner Clothing – 1st Ilah Zimmerman

Intermediate Clothing – 1st Anabelle Saylor; 2nd Brianna McClure

John & Bernadyne Rogers Memorial Award – Joanna Zuber

State Fair Qualifiers:

Ilah Zimmerman, Brianna McClure, Anabelle Saylor, Elliana Burtnett, Emerson Maibach

Dog Project Results:

Dog Obedience:

Beginner Novice A – 1st Emma Wilcox; Pre-Novice – 1st Miley Jacobs; Novice A – 1st Chloe Trausch; Novice B – 1st Brianna McClure, 2nd Faith Jacobs

Dog Skillathon:

Intermediate – Emma Wilcox

Dog Rally – Novice A: 1st Emma Wilcox; Novice B – 1st Faith Jacobs; Intermediate A – 1st Brianna McClure

Dog Showmanship:

Intermediate A – 1st Emma Wilcox; Intermediate B – 1st Brianna McClure; Senior B – 1st Faith Jacobs

Equine Division Results:

Equine Showmanship:

Open Longe Line – 1st Raeley Franklin – Dakota; 2nd Brynlee Stoller – Bougie; 3rd Luciana Martinez – Ollie; 4th Kenley Miller – Opie; 5th Brynlee Stoller – Groot

Senior Ground Roping – 1st Gracelyn Elkins – Goose; 2nd Levi Ankney – Daisy

Junior Ground Roping – 1st Hudson Miller – Callie; 2nd Makenzie Muir – Ranger; 3rd Kenley Miller – Opie

Junior Ranch – 1st Sofi Martinez – My Chocolate Valentine; 2nd Brynlee Stoller – Bougie; 3rd Haven Wagner – Cinco; 4th Henley Wagner – Tinsley; 5th Kenley Miller – Opie

Senior Ranch – 1st Delaney Johanns – Gunner;  2nd Raeley Franklin – Dakota; 3rd Raeley Franklin – Whisper;  4th Ben Gurney – Ozzie; 5th Gabby Gurney – Dexter

Senior Hunter Horse – 1st Delaney Johanns – Gunner; 2nd Raeley Franklin – Dakota

Pony Western – 1st Janae Parrett – Sunny; 2nd Logan Holbrook – Shadow

Junior Western – 1st Hudson Miller – Callie; 2nd Brynlee Stoller – Groot;  3rd Adelynne Slattman – Mac; 4th Makenzie Muir – Ranger; 5th Nevayah Cler – Thor

Senior Western – 1st Luciana Martinez – Ollie; 2nd Karlee Kohart – Rosie; 3rd Savannah Barnes – Star; 4th Kendall Kohart – Diva

Equine Skillathon:

Beginner – Brynlee Stoller; Intermediate – Katelynn Hurd

Equine Showmanship Champions:

Champion of Champions – Raeley Franklin – Dakota

Reserve Champion – Delaney Johanns – Gunner

Goat Competition Results:

Breeding Boer Doe – 3–6 Months: 1st Janae Parrett

Breeding Boer Doe – 6–9 Months: 1st Janae Parrett

Grand Champion: Janae Parrett

Reserve Champion: Janae Parrett

Pet Goat – Grand Champion: Adelynne Slattman; Reserve Champion: Makenzie Muir

Dairy Market Goat:

Class 1 – 1st Brynlee Stoller; 2nd Olivia McCrory

Class 2 – 1st Kinley Sunday; 2nd Lienna Stoller

Class 3 – 1st Allison Donaldson; 2nd Brynlee Stoller

Class 4 – 1st Sophie Donaldson; 2nd Allison Donaldson

Class 5 – 1st Makinzee Williamson; 2nd Anna Meraz

Dairy Market Goat Champions – Grand Champion: Allison Donaldson; Reserve Champion: Sophie Donaldson; Rate of Gain: Olivia McCrory

Market Wether Goat:

Class 1 – 1st Easton Stork; 2nd Madison Muir

Class 2 – 1st Reese Franklin; 2nd Betsie Manz

Class 3 – 1st Janae Parrett; 2nd Mariah Klopfenstein

Class 4 – 1st Myleigh Sheets; 2nd Dodger Boyd

Class 5 – 1st Aubree Feehan; 2nd Raeley Franklin

Market Goat Champions – Grand Champion: Janae Parrett; Reserve Champion: Myleigh Sheets; Rate of Gain: Gannon Parrett

Pygmy Goat:

Grand Champion: Karlee Kohart

Reserve Champion: Kendall Kohart

Goat Showmanship:

Beginner – Makenzie Muir

Junior – Allison Donaldson

Senior –  Makinzee Williamson

Champion of Champions – Makinzee Williamson

Goat Skillathon:

Beginner – Brynlee Stoller

Advanced – Makinzee Williamson

Poultry Division Results:

Exhibition Poultry:

Standard Breed Chicken – Grand Champion: Easton Mapes; Reserve Champion: Easton Mapes

Bantam Breed Chicken – Grand Champion: Morgan Snyder; Reserve Champion: Mollie Matz

Egg Production Chickens – Grand Champion: Edison Manz

Exhibition Duck – Grand Champion: Wyatt Leatherman

Overall Exhibition Poultry – Grand Champion: Wyatt Leatherman; Reserve Champion: Edison Manz

Market Chicken Meat Pen – Grand Champion: Allie Wilcox; Reserve Champion: Seth Rosswurm

Market Duck Meat Pen – Grand Champion: Natalie Mericle; Reserve Champion: Lilly Holbrook

Duck Skillathon:

Beginner – Natalie Mericle; Intermediate – Ulrik Zijlstra

Market Tom Turkey – Grand Champion: Avery Cooper; Reserve Champion: Axel Goyings

Market Turkey Meat Pen – Grand Champion: Avery Cooper; Reserve Champion: Avery Cooper

Poultry Showmanship:

Beginner – Ashtyn Lanz

Junior Showmanship – Kaylee Miller

Senior Showmanship – Damon Rosswurm

Champion of Champions – Damon Rosswurm

Chicken Skillathon:

Beginner – Edison Manz; Intermediate – Kaylee Miller; Advanced – Damon Rosswurm

Rabbit Division Results:

4-Class Breeding Rabbit – Grand Champion: Lydia Miller-White; Best Opposite: Lydia Miller-White

6-Class Breeding Rabbit – Grand Champion: Harley Troyer; Best Opposite: Owen Dangler

Overall Breeding Rabbit – Best of Show: Harley Troyer; Best Opposite: Lydia Miller-White

Market Doe:

Class 1 – 1st Adelynne Slattman; 2nd Adelynne Slattman

Class 2 – 1st Myleigh Sheets; 2nd Gavin Parrett

Class 3 – 1st Janae Parrett; 2nd Aubree Feehan

Meat Pen of Rabbits:

Class 1 – 1st Harley Troyer;  2nd Kiersten Thomas

Class 2 – 1st Luciana Martinez; 2nd Delana Noggle

Grand Champion: Luciana Martinez

Reserve Champion: Harley Troyer

Roaster Rabbits

Class 1 – 1st Julia Floss;  2nd Alia Floss

Class 2 – 1st Elizabeth Cortes-Becerra; 2nd Wyatt Wilhelm

Class 3 – 1st Piper Pease; 2nd Wyatt Wilhelm

Class 4 – 1st Sophie Kessler; 2nd Sofi Martinez

Class 5 – 1st Lailah Smith; 2nd Lee Bradford

Class 6 – 1st Carter Baumle; 2nd Quinton Burns

Class 7 – 1st Brylee Thompson; 2nd Calla Manz

Class 8 – 1st Wyatt Batt; 2nd Demi Boyd

Class 9 – 1st Emma Wilcox; 2nd Owen Workman

Class 10 – 1st Sophia Smith; 2nd Dodger Boyd

Class 11 – 1st Deacon Boyd; 2nd Hudson Spangler

Grand Champion: Carter Baumle

Reserve Champion: Quinton Burns

Rabbit Breed Classes:

6-Class Senior Doe – Harley Troyer

6-Class Junior Doe – Harley Troyer

6-Class Senior Buck – Owen Dangler

6-Class Junior Buck – Harley Troyer

4-Class Senior Doe – Lydia Miller-White

4-Class Senior Buck – Lydia Miller-White

4 and 6-Class Mixed Breed – Scott Elder

4 and 6-Class Doe & Litter – Edwin Miller-White

Rabbit Showmanship:

Beginner – Darcy Taylor

Junior – Alia Floss

Senior – Cole Manz

Champion of Champions – Cole Manz

Single Fryer Rabbits:

Class 1 – 1st Brynlee Mangette; 2nd Leon Steele

Class 2 – 1st Luke Lane; 2nd Chase Dobbelaere

Class 3 – 1st Gradyn Stairhime; 2nd Brynley Manz

Class 4 – 1st Aubrey Manz; 2nd Jacob Harris

Class 5 – 1st Lute Gross; 2nd Barrett Rau

Class 6 – 1st Quinne Bradbury; 2nd Benson Slattman

Class 7 – 1^st Mariano Reyes; 2^nd Benson Slattman

Class 8 – 1^st Alexandria Manz; 2^nd Cole Manz

Class 9 – 1^st Cora Baumle; 2^nd Gabriella Stork

Class 10 – 1^st Greysyn Hermiller; 2^nd Renee McCabe

Class 11 – 1^st Maddock Wolfle; 2^nd Baylor Kilgore

Class 12 – 1^st Kallen Walters; 2^nd Aubree Feehan

Class 13 – 1^st Raegan McGarvey; 2^nd Kiptyn Mills

Class 14 – 1^st Michael Corwin; 2^nd Rya Wirts

Class 15 – 1^st Raegan McGarvey; 2^nd Kendyl Sunday

Class 16 – 1^st Kiptyn Mills; 2^nd Piper Mills

Class 17 – 1^st Skyler Pierce; 2^nd Mallory Barker

Class 18 – 1^st Duke Dangler; 2^nd Jameson Reeb

Class 19 – 1^st Ellie Roughton; 2^nd Addison Clemens

Grand Champion: Quinne Bradbury

Reserve Champion: Duke Dangler

Sheep Division Results:

Beginner Showmanship – Alayna White

Junior Showmanship – Wyatt Leatherman

Senior Showmanship – Anna Meraz

Champion of Champions – Avery Cooper

Sheep Skillathon:

Beginner – Ilah Zimmerman

Intermediate – Ella Zimmerman

Market Lamb Classes:

Class 1 – 1st Leo Krabill; 2nd Tekota Putnam

Class 2 – 1st Kaylee Stoller; 2nd Wyatt Batt

Class 3 – 1st Alayna White; 2nd Brandon Krabill

Class 4 – 1st Avery Cooper; 2nd Kaylee Stoller

Class 5 – 1st Alayna White; 2nd Tekota Putnam

Grand Champion Market Lamb: Kaylee Stoller

Reserve Champion Market Lamb: Alayna White

Rate of Gain: Alayna White

Swine Division Results:

Swine Showmanship:

Beginner – Kaylee Combs

Junior – Rachel Webb

Senior – Sophia Antoine

Champion of Champions – Hannah Griffiths

Swine Skillathon:

Advanced – Zaine McMichael

Market Swine Classes:

Class 1 – 1st Briggs Stoller; 2nd Joanna Zuber

Class 2 – 1st Anneliese Zijlstra; 2nd Jordan Steel

Class 3 – 1st Kaylee Combs; 2nd Tucker Stoller

Class 4 – 1st Jordan Steel; 2nd Sylvie Zartman

Class 5 – 1st Garrett Goyings; 2nd Kaylee Combs

Class 6 – 1st Maggie Webb; 2nd Hannah Griffiths

Class 7 – 1st Kalan Burns; 2nd Michael Griffiths

Class 8 – 1st Mara Phlipot; 2nd Hannah Griffiths

Class 9 – 1st Ronan Phlipot; 2nd Briggs Stoller

Class 10 – 1st Rachel Webb; 2nd Maggie Webb

Grand Champion Market Swine: Mara Phlipot

Reserve Champion Market Swine: Garrett Goyings

Cattle Division Results:

Beef Breeding:

Senior Heifer Calf – 1st Avery Mosier; 2nd Landyn Miller

Grand Champion Beef Breeding: Avery Mosier

Reserve Champion Beef Breeding: Landyn Miller

Beef Cattle Skillathon:

Beginner – Landyn Miller

Beef Feeder Classes:

Class 1 – 1st Nolan Schlatter; 2nd Katelyn Plummer

Class 2 – 1s tAvery Mosier; 2nd Kyra Adams

Class 3 – 1st Leo Krabill; 2nd Landyn Miller

Class 4 – 1st Avery Mosier; 2nd Alivia Mosier

Grand Champion Beef Feeder: Avery Mosier

Reserve Champion Beef Feeder: Avery Mosier

Beef Cattle Showmanship:

Beginner – Parker Maibach

Junior – Kyra Adams

Senior – Alivia Mosier

Champion of Champions – Alvia Mosier

Dairy Beef Cross Feeder Classes:

Class 1 – 1st Jonah Sinn; 2nd Hopeful Rose

Class 2 – 1st Noah Schlatter; 2nd Caleb McClure

Class 3 – 1st Seth Rosswurm; 2nd Damon Rosswurm

Class 4 – 1st Joshua Schlatter; 2nd Boston McGarvey

Grand Champion Dairy Beef Cross Feeder: Joshua Schlatter

Reserve Champion Dairy Beef Cross Feeder: Seth Rosswurm

Dairy Beef Cattle Skillathon:

Beginner – Joshua Schlatter

Intermediate – Olivia Schlatter

Advanced – Noah Schlatter

Dairy Beef Cross Cattle Showmanship:

Beginner – Kollin Reichert

Junior – Boston McGarvey

Senior – Hopeful Rose

Champion of Champions – Hopeful Rose

Dairy Cattle Showmanship:

Champion of Champions – Anneliese Zijlstra

Dairy Feeder Classes:

Class 1 – 1st Kenley Miller; 2nd Kollin Reichert

Class 2 – 1st Kenley Miller; 2nd Matias Rivera

Class 3 – 1st Kolby Reichert; 2nd Brielle Schlatter

Class 4 – 1st Ross Carter; 2nd Alex Doster

Class 5 – 1st Allison Donaldson; 2nd Ross Carter

Class 6 – 1st Elena Schlatter; 2nd Tori Schlatter

Class 7 – 1st Ryleigh McGarvey; 2nd Caleb McClure

Grand Champion Dairy Feeder: Elena Schlatter

Reserve Champion Dairy Feeder: Tori Schlatter

Market Beef Steer:

Grand Champion Market Beef Steer: Alivia Mosier

Reserve Champion Market Beef Steer: Addalynne Halter

Dairy Cattle:

Senior Yearling Heifer – Anneliese Zijlstra

Grand Champion Dairy Cattle: Anneliese Zijlstra

Market Dairy Beef Cross Steer:

Grand Champion Market Dairy Beef Cross Steer: Mackenzie Leatherman

Reserve Champion Market Dairy Beef Cross Steer: Mackenzie Leatherman

Market Dairy Steer:

Grand Champion Market Dairy Steer: Mackenzie Leatherman

Reserve Champion Market Dairy Steer: Jordan Hale

PAULDING – The Paulding County Fair will return to the Paulding County Fairgrounds June 6-13, offering a week packed with 4-H and Junior Fair competitions, livestock shows, grandstand events, family entertainment and community activities. Admission to the fair is free, and free rides will be available daily from 1:00-10:00 p.m. throughout the fair.

The fair officially gets underway on Saturday, June 6, with livestock move-in and weigh-ins, a Junior Fair barn meeting and the annual Demo Derby at 7:00 p.m. in the grandstand.

Activities continue Sunday with church services, the Junior Fair Dog Show, horse events, a kiddie tractor pull, Tucker Rodkey performing gospel music, an open goat and sheep show, KOI drag racing, the 10 Talents showcase and a family movie night featuring Charlotte’s Web.

Monday’s schedule features the Junior Fair Goat Show, rabbit showmanship and breeding events, harness racing, the annual parade and coronation activities, a cornhole tournament and appearances by Mike Bishop, Hypnotist, and The WonderDog Show.

Tuesday includes Senior Citizen Day activities, the 4-H Cloverbud Show and Tell, poultry judging, Veteran’s Day Bean Supper, Junior Fair Swine Show, line dancing lessons and entertainment from Magic of Eli and The Wonder Dog Show.

Livestock competition remains a major focus throughout the week. Wednesday features the Junior Fair Market Rabbit Show, Junior Fair Sheep Show, Junior Fair Beef and Dairy Show and the feeder calf auction. The evening concludes with professional wrestling and music from the Seventy80 Band.

Thursday’s schedule highlights 4-H Family and Consumer Science judging and awards, horse competitions, Animal & Me activities, an obstacle course challenge, an open swine show, the Mini Cheer Exhibition, Mini Horse Pulling and performances by The Cup Guy. The Northwest Ohio Women in Agriculture Meet and Greet and Singo Bingo will also be held during the evening.

Friday will feature 4-H Natural Resources and STEM judging, Companion Animal and Veterinary Science judging, horse contesting, the Black Swamp Beef Showdown and an inflatable costume obstacle course. The evening grandstand attraction will be the National Tractor Pullers Association Tractor Pull, followed by music and dancing.

The fair wraps up Saturday, June 13, with the Farm Bureau Farmer Share Breakfast, the annual Livestock Auction, a Junior Fair Horse Fun Show and the popular Rodeo at 7:00 p.m., followed by fireworks.

Throughout the week, visitors can also enjoy Acres of Fun educational programming, livestock exhibitions, horse shows, harness racing, family entertainment acts, live music and numerous 4-H and Junior Fair events showcasing the accomplishments of Paulding County youth. Fair officials note that the schedule is subject to change.

The Village of Payne will honor the late Michael M. Brigner as the 2025 Rock the Block recipient during the community celebration on Saturday, September 13. Brigner, who passed away on November 13, 2024, at age 64, was remembered as a man devoted to “family, trucking, and community,” according to Payne Chamber of Commerce President Chad Benschneider.

A lifelong resident, Brigner co-owned Brigner Trucking and shared 45 years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Deb. Together they raised their family and built countless memories. He served two terms as Payne’s mayor, from 1992–1995 and 2000–2003, and was active with the Payne American Legion and Friends of the Payne Legion .

Known for his humor, generosity, and dedication, Brigner was also a passionate fan of Ohio State, the Cleveland Browns, and the Cincinnati Reds. He enjoyed golf, softball, and vacations with family. The Rock the Block Committee described him as a friend, servant, teammate, and loyal community member whose smile and presence touched many lives .

“Mike unselfishly served the Village of Payne as its Mayor for a total of eight years,” current Mayor Lora Lyons said. “He will always be remembered as a true friend of Payne and the American Legion” 

By: Angel Steiner

Last Saturday, August 9, 2025, Antwerp’s Annual Day in the Park took place — a day full of food, fun … and SWEAT! It was indeed a scorcher, but that did not stop families from venturing to Main Street and River Street to start the morning with the parade. MC’d by Rotarian Barry DeLong, more than 20 parade entries made their way downtown to kick off the festivities at Riverside Veterans Memorial Park in Antwerp.

The Antwerp Rotary Club sponsored the event and pulled out all the stops to make it a thriving day for both the Antwerp community and out-of-towners looking to wrap up the summer with a local festival.

The Antwerp Community Band and Island Vibe entertained festival-goers throughout the afternoon at the main pavilion. Food vendors from various area organizations served hundreds of meals during the lunch hour and into the afternoon. From fried bologna and chili cheese dogs to hand-dipped corn dogs and the ever-famous Archer Burger, appetites were more than satisfied.

Rotarians were hard at work throughout the day, checking in on vendors to ensure they had everything they needed, and manning both the main pavilion and the silent auction booth to keep things running smoothly.

The Antwerp Boy Scout troop honored the American flag with a traditional flag retirement ceremony narrated by Scoutmaster and Rotarian Mark Greenwood.

The Antwerp Spanish Club enjoyed their dunk tank booth, as youth and adults alike attempted to dunk High School Principal Jessie Arnold and Superintendent Marty Miller — and several successful dunks were made! It was certainly a perfect day to be in the water.

Even in the sweltering heat, many people enjoyed this end-of-summer tradition. You don’t have to go far for a good time or good food. To the Antwerp Rotary Club — job well done!

Latty Village was incorporated 145 years ago.  In 1981, the village celebrated its centennial anniversary with a variety of activities including a parade, games, and lunch. But there was also a legacy given to the village for future generations, a booklet, Latty Village 100 Years 1881-1981.

This year the Latty Community Festival is acknowledging that legacy by remembering Mildred and Alvin Phillips and their contributions to this small community.  While thinking about the many ways that we benefitted from them, Mildred’s contribution to the Latty Village History 1881-1981 became foremost in our thoughts.  Realizing that more than 2 generations have passed since that celebration, it was time to share it with the current generation.

No current copies were available, so a local printer was consulted.  With a few minor changes in the type of paper, print, and photo enhancing that is available today, copies have been made available!  

Did you know that if the village ever wanted to change its name, some of the land would go back to the Latty heirs?  Do you know about the two railroads and passenger trains that used to be part of Latty’s commerce?  Learn about this and more by getting the book.  You can get your copy at the Latty Community Festival on Saturday, July 26th from 10:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

By: Staci Miller, Ag Education Instructor/FFA Advisor

On June 12th, the Paulding FFA hosted the 3rd Annual Animal and Me program at the Paulding County Fair with 19 participants this year. This program has been  happening at County Fairs all across Ohio, from metro areas like Warren County to rural counties like our own Paulding County. 

The program links individuals with developmental disabilities with FFA members to learn about animals. This program provides the individuals with an  opportunity to experience showing an animal project and practice their public speaking and communication skills. The Paulding FFA was so excited to help sponsor and run the program again at the Paulding Fair. 

The FFA members served as mentors to the participants as they showed their livestock at the fair. The members helped their buddies show rabbits, goats and feeder calves during the show. The Paulding FFA along with the Paulding FFA Alumni partnered with the Paulding County Board of Developmental Disabilities to put on this show. 

Each member and participant received a t-shirt they wore during the show. At the conclusion of the show each participant received a trophy and the winner of each class received a large rosette.  

The Paulding FFA is so excited to grow this program in the future and is already starting to plan for the 2025 show. 

The Paulding FFA wants to thank everyone who participated, attended the show, it was a wonderful day for all who were involved!  A special thanks to the Paulding FFA Alumni and  Paulding FFA Alumni  who provided awards and t-shirts to the participants and Howell’s Doodles for sponsoring a sausage sandwich to each participant.  

By: Vivienne Myers, Paulding FFA Reporter

This year’s Paulding County Fair was held from June 7th to June 14th and our members were more than happy to be active participants. The Paulding FFA Chapter always looks forward to our county fair. On Monday, several members participated in the annual Jr. Fair King and Queen contest. Brooklyn Schlatter was declared Fair Queen. First runner-up for Fair Queen was Jalyn Klopfenstein. Johnathan Lipps was named first runner-up Fair King and Matthew Bail second runner-up Fair King. 

Every Paulding FFA member had at least one project at the fair this year. This year there were over 50 animal projects and many won awards. The Grand Champions from Paulding FFA were: Kadence Thomas for Market Lamb, Owen Workman for Roaster Rabbits, Avery Cooper for Breeding Sheep, and Mackenzie Leatherman for Dairy/Beef Steer. The Reserve Champions for their respective categories were Kadence Thomas with Market Sheep, Scott Elder for Breeding Rabbits, Delaney Johanns-Beef Steer, and Mackenzie Leatherman with her Dairy/Beef Steer. 

There were over one-hundred still projects made by our members this year that included wooden shelves, an FFA flag, wooden steps, and metal boot scrapers. Best metal working project went to Jarrett Griffith, Best SAE poster went to Brooklyn Schlatter, and Best miscellaneous FFA project went to Johnathan Lipps.

Our members also received a large variety of other awards. Brooklyn Schlatter was awarded the Lonnie Miller Memorial Award for dedication to the Jr. Fair program. This award is a scholarship used to honor the memory of Lonnie Miller for his work ethic and determination to make the Paulding County Fair a better place for all youth. Jalyn Klopfenstein received the Nathan Plummer Award, which is a memorial award given to a Jr. Fair exhibitor who demonstrates the hard work similar to those of Nathan Plumber.  We had several members win their classes and showmanship with Brooke Kilgore, Delaney Johanns, Kadence Thomas competing in the showman of showmen contest. Brooke Kilgore was the 2025 Showman of Showman. Delaney Johanns was awarded the High Points Belt Buckle for pleasure with her horse project. 

Our members were also busy all week working in the Paulding FFA Alumni Sausage Stand, serving on the Jr. Fairboard and helping to run the 3rd Annual Animal and Me livestock show. The fair came to an end with the livestock sale on Saturday where several members sold their animals. 

The Paulding FFA had a very successful year at the Paulding County Fair, the chapter is excited for next year! Paulding FFA would like to thank everyone for their support of our members at the livestock sale and throughout the year. 

Flair on the Square is an art, food and music festival taking place in downtown Bryan, Ohio, on Saturday, July 26, 2025. This is the third year for the event, which is free and open to the public. The entire event runs from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., with different activities taking place throughout the day around the courthouse square.

“There are a lot of festivals going on during the summer, but we are really proud of the way Flair on the Square has grown into one of the largest festivals in the tri-state area that celebrates all three forms of the creative arts in the same place: art, music and dance,” said Pam Bard Steel, chair of the Flair on the Square committee. “It really is a unique way to spend a day filled with original juried artwork, art demonstrations, children’s make-and-take art projects, live music and dance.”

Thirty-two artists are part of the juried art fair, where works in various mediums will be on display and available for purchase. An emerging artists exhibit, located in Parlor 1861 on the east side of the square, will feature works from area high school students. Attendees can also view the “Artists Rising” exhibit at Gallery 317, located just off the square, which will feature work from 12 young creators ranging from college students to artists under 30.

Event attendees can watch live blacksmithing, glassblowing and pottery demonstrations, and children are invited to try make & take art projects. Face painting, chalk art and balloon art will be part of the event as well.

Several dance showcases and demo classes will take place on the north stage. The north stage will also host a must-see activity where dance and color collide on canvas, creating a unique piece of art live.

Music kicks off at noon, with five acts scheduled throughout the day. SmithField, a Nashville-based duo who has appeared at the Grand Ole Opry and opened for well-known country music acts, will perform the headlining show starting at 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating.

The day will also feature a fresh market that includes cut flowers, locally-grown produce and baked goods. Four food trucks will offer a variety of cuisine ranging from BBQ to ice cream.

For more information and a detailed schedule of activities, visit FlairOnTheSquare.com.

Flair on the Square is made possible by Bard Manufacturing, Spangler Candy Company and other generous sponsors.

Flair on the Square is an event designed to cultivate, encourage and develop public appreciation and support of the arts in northwest Ohio.

Juried Artists

Painting – Jacqueline Meier, Bowling Green, OH; Abigail Fernihough, Bryan, OH; Susan Dhaenens, Sherwood, OH; Tammi Bok, Bryan, OH; Emily Ferguson, Grass Lake, MI; Daniel Driggs, Frankfort, IN; Nathaniel Miller, Pemberville, OH; Lorissa Schaefer, Lorain, OH; Megen Leigh, Westerville, OH; Rex Russell, Perrysburg, OH; Jill Bontrager, Laotta, IN;

Mixed Media – Andrew Paavola Huntsville, OH;       Mike Pike Wadsworth, OH; Carly Norris, Niles, MI; John Friermood, Bowling Green, OH; Greg Justus, Maumee, OH; Bill Watkins, Holland, OH; Camara Goodrich, North Ridgeville, OH

Jewelry – Ashlie Greiser, Edgerton, OH; Drew Kleinhen, Bryan, OH; Claudia Carreon, Dublin, OH; Deborah Swihart, Syracuse, IN;

Wood – Steve Lejeune, Columbus, OH

Glass – Laura Moser, Stryker, OH

Ceramics – Cody Moser, Stryker, OH; Corin Deinhart, Rocky River, OH; Kathleen Corcoran, Grabill, IN; Steve Smith, Angola, IN

Sculpture – James Spencer, Hudson, MI; Teresa Van Dyke, Alvordton, OH

Photography & Digital Art – Gary Tsun Tsin Leung, Bowling Green, OH; Kathy Rennels, Sylvania, OH

The Paulding County Junior Fairgrounds buzzed with anticipation on Sunday, June 9, as family, friends, and supporters gathered for the annual Junior Fair King and Queen coronation ceremony. A cherished tradition, the event highlights the leadership, dedication, and spirit of youth involved in 4-H, FFA, and the Junior Fair Board.

This year, the honor of representing the Paulding County Junior Fair as King and Queen was awarded to Seth Rosswurm and Brooklyn Schlatter. Seth is the son of Bruce and Amy Rosswurm and an 11th grader actively involved in the Leaders of Tomorrow 4-H Club and Junior Fair Board. Brooklyn, daughter of Doug and Heidi Schlatter, is a recent Paulding High School graduate and member of the Paulding FFA Chapter and Junior Fair.

First runner-up titles went to Johnathan Lipps, son of Katie Jackson and Nathan Lipps; and Jalyn Klopfenstein, daughter of Jay Klopfenstein, Jeff and Elaine Andrea Schad. Second runner-up King was Matthew Bail, son of Joanna Bail; and Hannah Griffiths, daughter of Denise Griffiths, received second runner-up Queen honors.

Before the announcement of the court, attendees also celebrated younger participants. This year’s Junior Prince and Princess were Barrett Damman and Whitney Miller, while Jeremiah Sajuan and Adalyn Miller were crowned Junior King and Queen.

The evening also featured the recognition of Miranda “Doug” Leatherman as the 2025 Parade Marshal. A lifelong supporter of 4-H and currently a member of the Senior Fair Board, Leatherman shared her gratitude and encouraged youth to “reach for the sky and make memories with those who matter most.”

Outgoing King Zach Wobler and Queen Hannah Molitor shared heartfelt reflections of their year of service, visiting fairs across Ohio, handing out awards, giving tours, and inspiring younger fairgoers. Holler recounted a touching moment when a little girl on the midway called her a princess, saying, “I want to be just like you when I grow up.”

As part of the final selection, each finalist answered an impromptu question on stage. Their responses reflected values of hard work, personal growth, and appreciation for the fair community. From favorite projects to advice for younger members, the contestants shared how the fair has helped shape their future goals.

The coronation concluded with cheers and applause as the new court stepped forward, ready to represent Paulding County through the 2025 fair season.

The full 2025 Paulding County Junior Fair Court includes:

• King: Seth Rosswurm

• Queen: Brooklyn Schlatter

• 1st Runner-Up King: Johnathan Lipps

• 1st Runner-Up Queen: Jalyn Klopfenstein

• 2nd Runner-Up King: Matthew Bail

• 2nd Runner-Up Queen: Hannah Griffiths

Congratulations to all participants and best wishes to the new court as they embark on a year of leadership and service at the Paulding County Fair.