April 7 Antwerp Police Department was contacted by a local resident who had received papers from the municipal court and requested assistance in interpreting what the court order meant.

April 8 A resident reported that there was a door standing open at a residence on Main St. An officer responded, found the building unoccupied, and shut the door.

April 10 It was reported that the stop sign at the corner of Monroe and Daggett was no longer there. An officer responded and contacted utilities; Also on the 10th, A resident brought a handgun to the police department that had been found along the roadway. The handgun was secured and kept at the police department.

April 11 Antwerp Police Department was contacted in reference to a low hanging wire at Sunoco. An officer responded, recognized it as a telecommunication wire, and contacted the company.

April 12 Antwerp Police assisted Antwerp EMS.

April 13 An officer was called to a residence on Stone St. in reference to adults arguing. The officer responded, spoke to all individuals, prepared a report, and forwarded it to the prosecutor; A resident of N. Main St. reported seeing tire tracks through his yard and wanted to document the incident; Antwerp Police Department received a report of a manhole cover off on Main St. near Wilcox. An officer responded and put the cover back on.

April 14 An officer stopped a vehicle on W. Canal for failing to stop at a stop sign. The driver was cited for failure to stop and driving under suspension.

April 15 Antwerp Police Department assisted Antwerp EMS; Antwerp Police Department received a request to unlock a vehicle.

April 16 Antwerp Police Department received a request for a golf cart inspection. The inspection was performed; Antwerp Police Department received a call from a family member regarding an elderly individual who no longer has a driver’s license.

April 17 A resident of Woodcox St. reported juveniles ringing her doorbell and running. An officer responded, located the juveniles, and requested they stop; An officer was requested to conduct a welfare check on a juvenile at Park Avenue Villas. The officer responded and located the juvenile.

April 18 A resident of Washington St. complained about juveniles playing loud music in the bank parking lot. An officer responded, spoke to the juveniles, and the music was turned down.

April 19 Antwerp Police were called to the cell tower on Canal St. where an equipment trailer had been broken into and several items were taken. The case is under investigation.

April 20 Antwerp Police Department received a report of an alleged assault that had occurred two days prior. An officer prepared a report and forwarded it to the prosecutor; An officer was requested to stand by while an individual removed belongings from a residence on Canal St; Antwerp Police Department received a report of a large black spring in the roadway on Canal St. near Erie. An officer responded and removed the spring.

April 21 Antwerp Police Department was notified about a counterfeit $50 bill spent at Family Dollar. An officer responded and located the individual who had passed the bill.

April 22 Antwerp Police Department received a warrant for an individual residing on W. Woodcox St.

April 23 Antwerp Police were contacted in reference to a motor vehicle accident in the school parking lot. An officer responded and prepared a report.

April 24 Antwerp Police Department was contacted regarding a male juvenile who had been sending inappropriate photos to someone he believed to be a female juvenile but was actually a male in Nigeria; Antwerp Police Department was called in reference to a child custody issue; Antwerp Police conducted a welfare check on an elderly male and determined all was fine Antwerp Police Department performed a golf cart inspection.

April 25 Antwerp Police were contacted by the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office regarding a 911 hang-up call from the Antwerp ballpark. An officer responded and located the individual, who had called accidentally.

April 26 An officer assisted Antwerp EMS; Antwerp Police Department was called in reference to a child custody issue.

April 28 An officer responded to a motor vehicle accident on S. Main St. near Daggett involving a vehicle and a bicycle.

April 29 An officer was called to the Antwerp Post Office regarding an individual sleeping inside. The officer spoke with the individual, who left without incident; An officer was called to a residence on S. Main St. regarding juveniles being threatened by an adult.

If you would like to report any suspicious activity or if you have any questions, please contact the Antwerp Police Department, 419-258-2627. They are always ready to serve the residents of the Village of Antwerp!

The Paulding County Republican Party hosted a meet and greet event on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Paulding, drawing a crowd of local residents and candidates seeking office at the national, state and local levels. 

The event, which ran from 5 to 8 p.m. and included a soup and sandwich supper prepared by the Paulding County Republican Women, provided an opportunity for voters to meet candidates ahead of the upcoming primary and general elections. 

Among those in attendance was Ohio Auditor Keith Faber, who is running for attorney general. Faber told attendees there will be no primary race for the position and encouraged voters to participate in the November general election. He emphasized the role of the attorney general in holding individuals accountable, stating the office is responsible for addressing those who “lie, cheat and steal” across the state while supporting law enforcement and maintaining affordability for residents.

Congressional candidates for Ohio’s 9th District also addressed the crowd. Alea Nadeem spoke about her background as an intelligence officer and her concern over the national debt, calling it “a math problem” and pledging not to support increases to the deficit. Madison Sheehan outlined priorities including protecting women’s sports, expanding economic opportunity in northwest Ohio and restoring the rule of law. Josh Williams shared his personal story and highlighted his experience as majority whip in the Ohio House, while Derek Merrin emphasized border security, constitutional principles and preserving the American dream.

Candidates for statewide office also presented their platforms. Jay Edwards discussed rising property and energy costs and proposed increasing investment of state funds in community banks. Kristina Roegner highlighted her financial background and experience in state government, describing the treasurer as the state’s chief fiscal watchdog. Marcell Strbich focused on election integrity, advocating for stronger verification processes and limiting third-party involvement in ballot handling.

State legislative candidates also spoke, including Craig Riedel and Jim Hoops, both of whom emphasized limited government, fiscal responsibility, and issues such as energy and workforce development. Roy Klopfenstein discussed energy policy and property taxes, noting the long-term challenges of reducing costs while maintaining services.

Additional remarks were made by Tony Schroeder, who encouraged voter engagement, and local candidates including Angie Stoller, who is running unopposed.

At the county level, Mark Holtsberry spoke about his experience on various committees and the importance of maintaining representation at the decision-making table. Mike Iler highlighted his connection to the community and pride in Paulding County, while Matt Miller addressed his candidacy following his appointment to the position.

The event also featured participation from younger attendees, including local volunteer Timothy Coy, who spoke briefly about the importance of listening and civic involvement.

Organizers noted that the meet and greet was intended to give voters a chance to ask questions, learn about candidates and engage directly with those seeking public office ahead of the election season.

Commissioner Mark Holtsberry, a resident of Jackson Township, is seeking re-election as your County Commissioner in the May primary.

Over eleven years ago, he became a person who did not say why, but a person who said why not. Holtsberry’s goal was, and always has been, to help improve the quality of life for over the 18,000 citizens of this county. Not all his decision making is done in the office two days a week, but out of the office in after hour meetings with the boards he serves on. This reflects the commitment to the success of our citizens of all ages. Every year the Commissioner’s office has invested monies into the safety and welfare through the Sheriff’s Department, Prosecutors Office, Emergency Management, Health Department and Soil and Water, just to name a few. Holtsberry has personally donated money several times to the Parks Board. Even defending them in court from being abolished. He is not afraid to stand alone even if the odds are not in his favor. He feels by standing alone, showing conviction, people will see what the right thing to do is. The Commissioner’s office has invested monies into Economic Development and the Land Bank. 

The success that the Land Bank has had in our County is very noticeable. The Commissioner’s office has the right people in the right places to get creative and make bold moves towards progress. With the use of American Relief Act monies, Holtsberry takes pride in knowing that our Court House has new energy efficient windows Broadband installed in numerous sections of the county. When other counties spend $100,000.00 dollars for studies for broadband, Holtsberry picked up a landline phone and reached out to educators for advice. Our County has seen growth through partnerships. Investing into job creation, retention and various infrastructure projects as well as projects dealing with the growth of our own various park projects.

Holtsberry’s goal of reaching out for state and federal monies to further assist in the current county programs is still in place. Our Senior Center, Parks Board, Senior Citizen Home Repair Program, Help Me Grow infant and youth program, just to name a few, have benefited from extra funding that Holtsberry has secured. His time spent with various community service programs has been very rewarding to him. He will never say no if some group wants him to speak. He is honored to be invited to speak, help out where he can, providing words of comfort or motivate others. With is conservative Christian values, which he was taught at an early age, he will continue to stand up for our citizens of our county. He is reminded what his mother told him a month before she passed away, “I taught you to be a leader, not a leaner.” It has been a wonderful pleasure to serve the citizens of this county for the past eleven years. God Bless you, our county and our country!

The Paulding County Republican Central Committee met Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in Paulding with Chair Laurie Lucas presiding. Members present included Cheryl Stromski, Laurie Lucas, Paul Ludwig, Jan Commers, David Burtch, Michael Strable, Matt McDougall, Mark Bennett, Shannon Ruschel, Matt Miller, Caleb Miller, and Harry Wiebe, along with several guests. Sympathy was extended to Caleb Miller and his family following the passing of his sister.

Following the pledge of allegiance and roll call, the committee moved into business with the treasurer’s report presented in Treasurer Barry Rupp’s absence. The committee approved payment of several bills, including $130 for an ad in the Paulding County Township Association Trustees Handbook, $157.75 for ad design work, and $55 for a fair trophy.

The primary action item of the evening was the appointment of a new Paulding County Prosecuting Attorney. Due to the retirement of Joseph R. Burkhardt effective February 28, 2026, the committee, as authorized under Ohio law, voted to appoint Matthew A. Miller to fill the vacancy. After the resolution was read and discussed, a motion was made and unanimously approved to appoint Miller, effective immediately. Miller will serve until a successor is elected and qualified.

In her report, Chair Laurie Lucas shared updates on recent political events, including attendance at a fundraiser for Jim Hoops. She also highlighted the upcoming Republican Women’s meeting scheduled for April 8 at Fiesta Habanero, noting that plans for the upcoming Meet the Candidate Soup and Sandwich Supper would be finalized.  The April 14th “Meet the Candidate Night” will be at St. John’s Lutheran Fellowship Hall with approximately 19 candidates scheduled to attend, including multiple candidates for Secretary of State, Ohio Supreme Court, and the 9th Congressional District.

This event is just ahead of the May primary election. Members were encouraged to attend and participate in event preparations.

Under old business, the committee discussed plans for the Paulding County Fair, including tent rental, trophies, and booth setup scheduled for early June. Members agreed to pursue improvements to the party’s parade float, including potential repairs, repainting, and updated signage following the primary election.

New business included discussion of participating in the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration. Ideas included selling themed merchandise such as flags and t-shirts at the fair and creating a Republican Party banner for use at community events.

The committee also discussed increasing public visibility by submitting regular meeting summaries to local media and posting updates on social media platforms. It was agreed that summaries would be prepared monthly to keep the public informed.

During elected officials’ reports, Board of Elections representatives provided updates on the May primary election. Early voting will begin April 7, with extended hours closer to Election Day. Due to a scheduling conflict at Wayne Trace, voting in certain precincts will be relocated to the Grover Hill VFW, with notifications being mailed to affected voters.

Commissioner Mike Weible highlighted ongoing efforts to separate Paulding County Job and Family Services from Defiance County, with a new director hired and a transition planned for completion by July 1. He also noted continued progress on a solar energy project expected to reduce county energy costs.

State Representative Roy Klopfenstein addressed ongoing discussions regarding property taxes and unfunded state mandates. He noted that while some legislative changes have been made to limit tax increases, broader reforms remain complex due to the structure of local funding and state requirements. Committee members engaged in extended discussion on property taxes, school funding, and government efficiency.

The meeting concluded with appreciation expressed for local emergency responders following recent severe weather, and members were reminded that the next Central Committee meeting will be held Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 p.m.

Mike Iler, a lifelong resident of Paulding County and former owner of the beloved Past Time Café, has officially announced his candidacy for County Commissioner on the Republican ticket. With a platform built on deep community roots and a passion for the county’s future, Iler aims to bring a business- minded approach to local government.

A Foundation of Service and Faith

A 1987 graduate of Paulding High School with a background in Business Administration and Management, Iler is a familiar face to many. His commitment to the community is reflected in his extensive involvement:

• Member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish and the Knights of Columbus (St. Joseph Council).

• 35-year Associate Member of the Paulding VFW

Post 587.

• Lifetime Member of the Paulding County History Museum.

“I feel I have been truly blessed to be from Paulding County,” Iler said. “This community has given so much to me and my family, and I am ready to give back by ensuring our county remains a place where families can thrive for generations.”

Family Values and Local Dedication

Married to Marcy (Reinhart) since 1998, Mike is the proud father of four daughters who embody the spirit of service: Macy, a four-year Navy veteran; Morgan and Miranda, members of the Ohio Air National Guard 180th Fighter Wing; and Molly, a senior at Paulding High School.

Preservation and Presentation

Iler’s vision for the county centers on a “gem” that he believes sits right within the county lines: its history and natural resources. He is a staunch advocate for the work of the Park Foundation and Friends of the Park.

“Preservation and presentation are vital,” Iler noted.

“We have beautiful rivers and natural resources that offer our residents a place to relax and connect. We must protect these assets while presenting Paulding County as the premier place to raise a family.”

Recognizing the need for a forward-thinking economy, Iler’s campaign focuses on two main goals: keeping residents in the county and creating more jobs. “To grow, we need to show people why Paulding County is a hidden gem. That means bringing in more opportunities and jobs so our children and grandchildren choose to stay here and build their lives.”

*Lifelong Resident. Business Experience. Proven Dedication.

Christopher Elder declared his candidacy for State Representative in Ohio’s 82nd District, representing Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert Counties, and a portion of Defiance County. Elder is running as a Libertarian and will appear on the Primary ballot in May.

“All your freedoms, all the time. Government overreach into your personal liberties has grown rampant and unchecked; I am running to drastically scale back the role big government plays in your life.”

Why Libertarian? A main tenet of Libertarian philosophy is this: If what you do doesn’t result in a victim or the imminent threat of harming someone else, then there is no crime or reason for punishment. Therefore, it should not be subject to government regulation. 

Elder is running to promote ranked choice voting, the eventual abolition of property taxes, and a return to more localized control of the government.

For the last three years, Elder has worked as a Family Teacher at the Marsh Foundation in Van Wert. He has seen the impacts government has had on families and children. A key part of the Marsh Foundation’s program is growing self-advocacy skills. As Representative, Elder hopes to passionately support the needs expressed by constituents in the district. Elder also has experience in hardware retail, information technology, and other social service organizations.

For more information about Christopher’s election campaign for State Representative visit his campaign link tree at: https://linktr.ee/elderforoh82 

Elder for Ohio: Brian Sandwisch, Treasurer

Payton Amweg, Campaign Manager

Email: elderforoh82@gmail.com

ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. – The Indiana Department of Transportation announces traffic restrictions at the junction of I-469 and U.S. 24/Rose Avenue for construction.

Starting on or after March 23, crews will be working on U.S. 24 between Linden Road and Doyle Road. There will be alternating lane closures in both directions for patching work. Crews will also close the on-ramp from eastbound Rose Ave./U.S. 24 to southbound I-469 for reconstruction. Traffic needing to access southbound I-469 should utilize the loop ramps.

Work in the area is expected to be complete by the end of April. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

INDOT encourages drivers to consider safety for all by slowing down, using extra caution and driving distraction-free when traveling in and around all work zones.

LIMA, Ohio (Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026) – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 will convert eight intersections to all-way stops to improve safety.

The project, expected to begin in March, is part of a statewide initiative that will implement all-way stops at select intersections throughout Ohio.

The locations selected for conversion are where crash data found the most common type of crash was the result of a failure to stop or a failure to yield to cross-traffic that was not required to stop.

“These intersections have a higher rate of angle crashes, which often result in serious injuries or fatalities,” said Chris Hughes, ODOT District 1 deputy director. “Our goal is zero fatalities. When all approaches are expected to stop, crash severity is significantly reduced,” he said.

The work will take place over the next three months; the locations and expected timing of the closures are detailed below:

March 9

Defiance County – State Route 18 (Defiance Avenue)/U.S. 127 (Harrison Street), village of Sherwood

Wyandot County – U.S. 23/State Route 199, both interchange ramps, city of Upper Sandusky 

April 6

Hancock County – State Route 330/State Route 568/County Road 330, near the village of Vanlue

Hancock County – State Route 613/Township Road 142, near the village of Van Buren

May 4

Paulding County – State Route 613/State Route 637, near the village of Melrose

Putnam County – State Route 108/State Route 613, near the village of Miller City

Putnam County – State Route 109/State Route 613, near the village of West Leipsic

Message boards to alert drivers of the changes will be placed approximately two weeks prior and remain on site for approximately two weeks after the change to remind motorists of the new traffic pattern. All approaches of the intersections will be equipped with flashing stop-ahead signs. 

ODOT will continue to monitor the intersections to ensure the all-way stop is operating as intended.

Throughout Ohio, ODOT is reviewing intersections to determine where all-way stops could make travel safer. The solution has been found to improve intersection safety in other states. Since 2018, the state of North Carolina converted over 500 intersections from a typical two-way to all-way stop control. Their analysis of 348 of these locations showed a 100% reduction in fatal crashes and 95% reduction in serious injury crashes. Similar results were also seen in the state of Delaware.

On February 1 a theft was reported from a juvenile. The officer responded and investigated the situation.

On February 1 a gas drive-off was reported at one of the local stations. The officer located the individual, and the individual returned and paid for the gas.

On February 2 Antwerp Police Department responded to a 911 hang-up call on Buffalo St. An officer responded and determined everything was okay.

On February 4 an officer was called to a residence in reference to a child custody issue.

On February 4 a motor vehicle accident was reported on Oak St. The officer investigated and located the vehicle involved in the accident.

On February 4 a residence of Washington St. requested an officer to assist in getting people into her home. The officer responded.

On February 5 the Fulton County Sheriff contacted the police department in reference to an individual that lives in the village.

On February 8 Antwerp Police Department was called to Antwerp School to unlock a vehicle. The vehicle was unlocked.

On February 8 a residence of Washington reported being scammed on Facebook. They attempted to purchase an animal, then were contacted to pay more money to have the animal shipped. It was determined to be a scam.

On February 9 Antwerp Police Department assisted Antwerp EMS at the North Garden Apartments.

On February 9 Antwerp Police Department assisted Antwerp EMS at Antwerp Manor.

On February 9 Antwerp Police Department was called to Park Avenue Villas in reference to someone who had moved into an apartment without signing the lease agreement.

On February 9 an officer responded to an alarm at a business on Erie St. The officer determined everything was okay.

On February 10 an alarm was received from a business on Erie St. An officer responded and determined everything was ok.

On February 11 a residence of Woodcox St. had backed into and knocked over their mailbox. An officer responded, prepared a report, and is investigating the situation.

On February 11 an officer responded to a business on Main St. and recovered a knife lying outside.

If you would like to report any suspicious activity or if you have any questions, please contact the Antwerp Police Department, 419-258-2627. They are always ready to serve the residents of the Village of Antwerp!