The Defiance Area Foundation is pleased to recognize ServiceMaster by McCann as a returning Silver Sponsor of the 2026 Gala, Bow Ties & Boas, with a generous $3,500 sponsorship.

Their continued support helps make the Foundation’s signature fundraising event possible while benefiting the Defiance Area Foundation Community Fund, which provides flexible grant dollars to support local nonprofits, community projects, and emerging needs throughout Defiance County.

“We are grateful for ServiceMaster by McCann’s continued partnership and commitment to our community,” said Chris Yoder, Executive Director of the Defiance Area Foundation.

The 2026 Gala will be held on Saturday, October 3, at the Knights of Columbus.

By: Ron Burt

We are currently in the middle of the two biggest and exciting weeks of racing of the summer. The 2026 DIRTcar Late Model Summer Nationals just ended at Wayne County Speedway, last Sunday. Tyler Carpenter added to his growing resume Sunday night with the Feature win, but Tanner English claimed the biggest prize of the summer as that Tour Champion. The Modified Champion will be crowned next week.

The USAC Midwest Thunder Midgets were in action on Friday, July 10th at Bloomington IN Speedway. Feature Top 3, 1st Ian Creager, 2nd Bryce Massingill and 3rd Kole Kirkman. Just down the road at Circle City Speedway outside Indianapolis, on Friday, The Great Lakes Sprints headlined the racing program. Feature Top 3, 1st Parker Price Miller, 2nd Zane DeVault and 3rd Graham Huffman.

On Saturday, July 11th, Oakshade Raceway held the annual Birthday Race which is part of the DIRTcar Summer Nationals. Top 3 Feature Winners: Late Models 1st Frank Heckenast Jr., 2nd Ryan Unzicker, and 3rd Sam Seawright. Summit Modifieds: 1st Zeke McKenzie, 2nd Matthew Baker and 3rd Dillon Nusbaum. Dominator Stocks: 1st Mason Luttrell, 2nd Jeff Foks Jr., and 3rd Brad Eitniear. 

Saturday, July 11th Angola Motorsport Speedway Feature winners only: Late Models Tommy Cook, Modifieds Johnathon Gatton, Street Stocks Brandon Bledsoe, Front Wheel Drive Outlaws Travis Barcus, and Front Wheel Drives Corbin Henderson.

Sunday, July 12th Wayne County Speedway. DIRTcar Late Models Summer Nationals wrapped up the 33 event series. Feature Top 3, 1st Tyler Carpenter, 2nd Eric Wilson and 3rd J.R. Gentry. Summit Modifieds 1st Dalton Lane, 2nd Nathan Loney, and 3rd Dusty Swecker.

Monday the High Limit Sprint Series was at Fremont Speedway. Top 3 at Fremont: 1st Brent Marks $12,000., 2nd Justin Peck and 3rd Aaron Reutzel. 

Tuesday, Attica Raceway Park hosted the World of Outlaw Winged Sprints, at the 38th Annual Brad Doty Classic. NASCAR fans held their breath when 3 time Classic Champion, and race leader at the time, Kyle Larson took a violent flip. He was bruised, totaled the car, but the safety equipment did its job. 38th Annual Brad Doty Classic, Feature Top 3, 1st Bryce Lucius and $20,000.00, 2nd Logan Schuchart, and 3rd Michael Kofoid. 

Wednesday, July 15th the World of Outlaws and High Limit race teams headed to Eldora Speedway in Rossburg Ohio for the 43rd Annual Kings Royal. The winner on Saturday, July 18th of the prestigious race will get the robe, crown, scepter and $200,000.00 for the win. 

High Limit Racing ran the Wednesday and Thursday nights races, the Annual Double Down Duel$ on Wednesday. Double Down Duel$ A-Feature Top 3: 1st Brent Marks $12,000.00, 2nd Tyler Courtney and 3rd Kyle Larson. Double Down Duel$ B-Feature Top 3, 1st Corey Day $12,000.00, 2nd Gio Scelzi and 3rd Justin Peck. 

On Thursday, July 16th, it was the $100.000.00 to win Jokers Jackpot. At Eldora. The night before Kyle Larson and Rico Abreu battled each other and that continued Thursday. Rico led the first 24 laps of the 35 lap feature, and then Kyle Larson found the opening he need to take the lead and put his car in Victory Lane, for the second straight year, and pick up another $100,000.00. Feature Top 3: 1st Kyle Larson $100,000.00, 2nd Rico Abreu $25,000. and 3rd Logan Schuchart $15,000. Until next week, keep your wheels down. Ron Out!

The Paulding County Carnegie Library will host a special meet-and-greet with teen author Jenna Kipfer on Thursday, July 30, from 3:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at the library, 205 S. Main St., Paulding.

Community members will have the opportunity to meet Kipfer, author of the fantasy novel The Tale of the Corns: The Becoming, learn about her writing journey, and have books signed during the event.

Kipfer’s accomplishment as a published young author highlights the creativity and talent of local youth, and the library invites readers of all ages to stop by, visit with the author, and celebrate her literary achievement.

For more information, contact the Paulding County Carnegie Library at 419-399-2032 or visit www.mypccl.org.

ANTWERP, OH:

Thomas Frederick Trauterman, 88, of Antwerp, passed away July 23, 2026 at Defiance Inpatient Hospice. 

Tom was born October 26, 1937 in Butler County, PA to Helen (Watt) & Carl Trauterman I. 

He joined the Navy in 1954 and served on an air craft carrier. He married Lelia Bair and had 3 children, Robin (Denise) Trauterman, Kathy (Kevin) Smith, & the late Tammy. He enjoyed the outdoors, watching birds, and gardening. He also enjoyed collecting Indian artifacts, antiques, and bottles. He was a member of the Paulding Church of Christ. 

Tom has one brother, Jay Trauterman; 4 grandchildren, Valarie (Dave) Penland, Brad (Sarah) Brown, Sara (Sam) Swanson, & Kylee (Ian) Farinacci; & 13 grandchildren. 

Tom was also preceded in death by his wife, Lelia; daughter, Tammy; & siblings, Carl II, Nancy, & half siblings, Leroy and Fred. 

Viewing is Monday, July 27th from 4-7 PM at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp. 

Service is Tuesday, July 28th at 11 AM with viewing one hour prior at the funeral home. 

Tom will be laid to rest privately in Zion Country Church Cemetery in Huntington, IN. 

Memories are to Kathy Smith. 

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com. 

After decades of unwavering commitment to education and service, the East Allen County School Board is bidding a heartfelt farewell to Mr. Steve Screeton, whose career has left an enduring legacy on generations of students, educators, and the entire community.

As both a respected educator and a dedicated member of the Board of School Trustees, Screeton has devoted over 40 years to ensuring every student had the opportunity to succeed. Throughout a distinguished career marked by compassion, integrity, and visionary leadership, he championed academic excellence, supported educators, and consistently placed the needs of students at the forefront of every decision.

“Mr. Screeton has been a remarkable advocate for children and public education,” said Board President Tim Hines. “Whether serving in the classroom or helping guide district policy as a board member, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our schools and community are stronger because of his leadership.”

During his tenure and beyond his work in the classroom, he was a legendary basketball coach at New Haven High School. His contributions to athletics were recognized with his induction into the New Haven Athletic Hall of Fame.

County Commissioner Ron Turpin presented Mr. Screeton with a Proclamation from the Allen County Board of Commissioners proclaiming July 14, 2026, Steve Screeton Day!

Reflecting on his years of service, Screeton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to work alongside dedicated educators, families, and community members in support of our students. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships built over the years and remain confident that the district’s brightest days are still ahead. I will always be an advocate for public education.”

Although his official role is coming to an end, the impact of Screeton’s leadership will continue to befelt for years to come through the lives of the students, staff, and families he inspired.

The Board of School Trustees and district administration extend their deepest appreciation for his extraordinary service, and we wish him the best in his next chapter and hope it’s filled with good health, happiness, and continued opportunities to make a difference.

Congratulations to Tinora High School Football for receiving a $1,000 grant from the Defiance Moose Lodge #2094. This grant will be used to purchase new football training equipment. The Defiance Moose Lodge holds a donor advised fund under the umbrella of the Defiance Area Foundation. Pictured with the grant are (l-r) Mark White – Lodge Trustee and Jamie Ort – Tinora Football Mom’s Treasurer.

PAULDING — Downtown Paulding was filled with patriotic spirit and hometown pride as residents and visitors gathered for the John Paulding Summer Blast, a two-day celebration featuring a parade, family activities, historical tributes, and entertainment.

Festivities kicked off Friday evening with the John Paulding Summer Blast Parade, which wound through downtown as spectators lined the streets to cheer on floats, community organizations, local businesses, first responders, and classic vehicles. Prior to the parade, children took part in the popular Bike Decorating Contest, proudly riding their creatively decorated bicycles as part of the procession.

Following the parade, families enjoyed a variety of activities, including the Kiwanis Kid Zone, inflatables provided by Everlite Collective, children’s games, food trucks, and the Boy Scouts pizza tent. Music by DJ Larry kept the celebration going into the evening before the day concluded with a fireworks display that lit up the Paulding sky.

Saturday’s activities began early with the America 250 Revolutionary Run, featuring both a 5K race and a one-mile fun run/walk. Proceeds from the event benefited the Paulding Exempted Village Schools Pay-to-Play Program.

Throughout the day, visitors browsed shopping vendors and food trucks while enjoying numerous family-friendly attractions on the courthouse lawn. The Paulding County Carnegie Library sponsored games and activities, while the Boy Scouts offered archery and BB gun demonstrations. Self-guided historic tours also gave guests an opportunity to explore Paulding’s rich heritage.

One of the day’s highlights came during the lunch hour when Abraham Lincoln made a special appearance in downtown Paulding. Portrayed by professional Lincoln presenter Kevin Wood, the nation’s 16th president greeted visitors, posed for photographs, and delivered a stirring recitation of the Gettysburg Address. The presentation drew an attentive audience, many of whom paused to reflect on the historic words that continue to inspire Americans more than 160 years after they were first spoken.

A community picnic also brought residents together over lunch while patriotic music performed by the Paulding High School Band added to the festive atmosphere.

Saturday also featured two significant community milestones with the dedication of the new Paulding Veterans Memorial and the unveiling of the official Downtown Historic District sign. Both projects represented years of planning, fundraising, and volunteer dedication, celebrating the community’s commitment to honoring its veterans while preserving its historic downtown.

The John Paulding Summer Blast once again showcased the strong community spirit that defines Paulding, providing two days of entertainment, education, and patriotic celebration for residents and visitors of all ages.

Congratulations to the Delaware Twp Fire Department receiving a $4,000 grant from the Defiance Moose Lodge #2094. This grant will be put towards updates to their Brush Truck. The Moose Lodge holds a fund under the umbrella of the Defiance Area Foundation. Pictured with the grant are (L to R): Issac Ankney – Chief, Kolten Myers – Asst Chief, Rick Speiser – Lodge Trustee, Lynn Speiser – Lodge Vice President, and Ashley Shaw.

It’s time to hit the trail…for an adventure!! Join us at the end of July for Vacation Bible School. This year we will travel north seeking God’s Truth. At True North, kids will discover that they can trust Jesus in a wild world! True North is filled with awesome Bible-learning experiences kids see, here, and touch. Team building games, unforgettable Bible songs, fun crafts and tasty treats are just a few of the standout activities that help faith flow into real life. We hope to see you all there!!

Date: July 27th – July 31st

Time: 6pm – 8:30pm

Ages: 3yrs – 6th grade

Place: Antwerp Global Methodist Church

Community Revitalizing Paulding (CoRP) celebrated the unveiling of the official Downtown Historic District sign on Saturday, July 11, marking the culmination of a project that has been years in the making.

The effort was led by a dedicated committee of local historians and community members, including Dave Burtch, Melinda Krick, Kim Sutton, Ann Walker and Jane Nice. Planning for the project began before the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily delayed progress. Once activities resumed, the group renewed its research and completed an application to the National Register of Historic Places in 2023.

In 2024, CoRP received official notification that Paulding’s downtown district had been added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the area’s historical significance and helping preserve its heritage for future generations.

Following the designation, CoRP launched a fundraising campaign to purchase and install two historic district signs at the entrances to downtown along State Route 127, which passes through the historic district. The signs were designed to be durable and long-lasting, serving as a permanent reminder of the community’s commitment to preserving its history.

The new sign’s stately appearance reflects the importance of protecting Paulding’s historic character while celebrating the people, buildings and stories that have shaped the community. CoRP members said they hope the signs will stand as lasting symbols of the community’s pride in its past and its investment in the future.