FOCUS

ON BUSINESS

A SPECIAL SECTION TO THE PAULDING PROGRESS

November 18, 2015

2 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Al-Co Products Inc.

485 Second Street
Latty, Ohio 45855
419-399-3867
www.alcomarble.com
Al-Co Products has been manufacturing
Marbelustra products in Latty since
1968 and specializes in custom
projects. Marbelustra, a cast polymer or
cultured marble product, gives you the look
of marble and granite at a fraction of the
cost. Al-Co Products has expanded to offer
Mosaic Marble cultured marble patterns, a
new line called Tyvarian cultured marble
products and for the kitchen is the Travina
engineered stone. Even after years of use,
these products can look like new again with
only a little buffing, adding to their value.
How

has the company changed

over the years?

is a computerized system that can be

programmed with almost endless color and
veining recipes.This helped to improve
our quality and consistency, lower resin
usage and save time allowing us to be more
competitive. We do offer an economy line
with standard sizes for clients, but custom
is our forte. We now supply cabinet shops
and contractors across Ohio, Indiana and
Michigan. We built a second building in
1991 as our business expanded, then a third
building in 2004 to make more room for the
auto caster and other lines of production.
We have a showroom which showcases our
full line of products.

How has the company handled

tough times?

During the recession in 2008, we were

forced to lay off some employees, but we
We started with several lines of bathroom did everything we could to adjust hours and
cut other expenses before finally making
countertops and have since moved into
every area of the home. We decided early on the decision to lay people off. People just
that our focus would be on unique, custom, werent building houses or remodeling, so
production slowed way down. We truly
and quality products. We produce a large
value our employees; they are like family
selection of designs in sink bowls, shower
to us. We live by the golden rule; to treat
bases/surrounds, fireplace surrounds,
others the way we want to be treated.
kitchen projects, and windowsills. In
Once business started picking back up in
2001, we invested in an auto caster, which

2012, we started hiring and

have seen a steady stream
of business over the last
few years. We feel a major
part of our success has been
because of how we treat
people (employees and
customers alike); we dont
micro-manage, we hire good
people who work together to
solve problems quickly and
permanently and who put
customers first. Thats how
weve not just survived tough
times, but have thrived for 47
years.

What are your plans

for the future?

Bret Busch, Manager.

We are always working on research

and development so we can add new
lines, change and diversify to stay
competitive. Our employees are a huge
asset in this area. Most of our employees
have many years of experience with us and
were always open to try ideas they have to
improve production or test out new product
ideas. We also plan to expand our sales
force to continue to grow our dealer base

as well as educate dealers about products

and provide excellent customer service. To
help our sales force and dealers market
our products, we are working to improve
communication through social media, like
Facebook and YouTube, our website, trade
shows and more.

5 G E N E R AT I O N S O F FA M I LY
OVER 132 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
in the Drainage Industry

8516 Road 137 Paulding, OH 45879 800.837.3160 www.baughmantile.com

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Paulding County Progress Focus On Business - 3

Alex Products, Inc.

810 W Gasser Road
Paulding, OH 45879
419-399-4500
www.alexproducts.cc

the company was hit hard by the recession

from 2008 into 2011. We dropped to below
200 employees company-wide and the
Paulding location was just barely surviving.
We knew we needed to make some changAlex Products Paulding location emes to start winning back contracts, so in
ployeesapproximately170 employees and
2012 we invested in flexible manufacturing
manufactures car seat frames for many cars, equipment which helped us lower our inputs
like the Camry, Avalon, Malibu as well as
and become more competitive. These new
some trucks and SUVs. They do mostly
robotic machines can be programmed to
rear seat frames, but they also create parts
create endless different parts and pieces,
for arm rests, consoles, and other parts as
which has helped the company save time
they win contracts with other manufacturing and money. We began winning contracts
businesses. The Paulding plant manufacand have continued to invest in flexible
tures about 7,000 seat frames a day that are manufacturing equipment as weve grown.
shipped to customers around the US, Cana- A large part of our success is attributed to
da, and Mexico to finish building the seats
employee longevity and valuable experibefore being installed in vehicles.
ence as weve shifted our manufacturing
processes. Weve sought employee input
How has your business grown over and recommendations to problem solve and
improve processes. We also provide a clean,
the years?
quiet work environment for employees and
we try to maintain a family-like environ Alex Products started in Ridgeville
ment, which we know is important for
Corners, Ohio, in 1987. In 2000, A-Stamp
comfort and therefore longevity.
Industries was founded. A-Stamp is commonly r eferred to as the Bryan facility,
Not only have our employees and manand houses most of the stamping presses
agement
worked together and provided
for manufacturing.In 2002, we expanded
invaluable
input to better our processes,
to the Paulding location a nd Autocoat w
as
founded in Bryan, Ohio and is housed with but we also take great pride in our products and quality assurance. Alex Products
A-Stamp in the Bryan facility. Today, the
company has over 700 employees across its has received 19 straight supplier awards
from Johnson Controls, our main customer.
three locations and is looking to hire 250
There are strict requirements that have to
to 300 more employees over the next three
be met to receive such an award and they
years due to winning new contracts.
continue to demand more. To receive the
Alex Products has to have less than
What do you attribute the compa- award,
20 out of 1 million parts fail. We have
nys success to?
improved manufacturing so much that we
have had less than 5 out of 1 millions parts
Even though the company is experiencing fail, which is an enormous feat and one we
success today, that hasnt always been the
are very proud of. Weve set the bar high
case. Being a supplier of automotive parts,
and take pride in continuing to achieve the

highest standards.

What is your vision for future

success?
One of Alex Products biggest challenges
for the future is work force development.
Theres a dire need for industrial electricians and people with technical problem
solving abilities. We have set up training
programs and offer education opportunities
so that our employees can advance within
the company. Our success will depend on
our ability to acquire the right kind of talent
and help them grow while on the job. We
want our employees to know that they are
valued and we want to see them succeed,
because our success as a whole depends on
the success of each individual.

Alex Products ABB robotic work cell that manufactures the rear seat custhion for the
Kia Optima (Jfa)..

R&B Fabrications, Inc.

20128 Road 138
Oakwood, Ohio 45873
800-553-1911
www.rbfab.com

With a 44 year history of producing the

finest gear and equipment bags available,
R&B has the experience to help keep first
responders focused on their mission not
worrying about their supplies.

R&B Fabrications, Inc. is a local

manufacturer that specializes in contract
What has been R&Bs Secret to
sewing and custom soft goods fabrication. Success?
With a complete production facility, R&B
can help our customers go from drawing to
We think our people are what make
design to final product in days rather than
us
successful. We have a well-trained
months. Fire, EMS & Safety equipment are
dedicated
and caring staff. We are a family
the cornerstone components in the spectrum
business
and
we are proud to say our
of products offered by R&B Fabrications.

Pictured left to right: Clint Reagle and

Ashley Wilhelm.

employees are part of

that family. We believe
that when people truly
care about what they are
doing their work will
reflect that belief.

4 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Fiesta Habaneros

209 N. Williams Street

business in June of 2014.
Paulding, Ohio 45879
419-399-2068
What does the name
Find us on Facebook . Open 7 Days A Week ness represent?

What was the thought

or idea behind your
business?
Fiesta Habaneros is a family-owned business. Our family has years of experience
in the restaurant business
and we know what it takes
to succeed. We saw a need
in Paulding for a restaurant
with friendly, prompt service,
pleasant atmosphere and top notch Mexican
food, so we purchased the building, made
some enhancements and opened up for

of your busi-

Our vision is to bring local

people a place to have a great
time. We want the community
to have a place where they can
go meet with friends, family and
enjoy a great meal. We want
the community to always have
a party (Fiesta) to go to with a
little bit of a kick (Habaneros) to
savor a little bit of Mexico.

Pictured left to right: Candi Elrod, Jesus Martinez, Darrel Paul, Maure Hernandez.

What do customers love

about your business?

with our wait staff. For example, when cus- all, the focus our waiters give them. And
tomers come in to celebrate their birthday,
its not just birthday parties, its really every
Our customers really enjoy the interaction they love the singing, desserts, but most of
time customers come in for any occasion.

First Financial Bank

201 North Main Street
Paulding, Ohio 45879
419-399-1817
www.bankatfirst.com
For 150 years, First Financial Bank has
been dedicated to a single goal: building
client success. No matter what success
looks like for you, no matter what it takes
to get you there, First Financial Bank is the
one financial partner who will do whatever
it takes to help you achieve it. With more
than 100 banking centers in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, First Financial combines world-class financial expertise with
personal community service that builds
lifelong relationships.

What does your business provide

to set it apart from the others in
the area?
Our focus is on building relationships
with clients, providing a small-town experience while also providing cutting edge
banking services and giving back to the
community. In Paulding, our staff members are involved with United Way, Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, Economic
Development and we host our own food

drives. Company wide, payroll deductions

have exceeded $100,000 in donations to
local United Ways.
We love that we are a small bank with
personal service with the infrastructure of
a large, experienced financial institution to
allow us to offer unique services. We offer
Snap Deposit that allows you to deposit
checks anytime, anywhere with our mobile
app by simply taking a picture of the check.
We also have smart ATMs, and Panorama,
where you can manage all of your accounts
in one place with our personal finance
management platform.
Another awesome benefit is WorkLife
from First Financial. This program allows
businesses the opportunity to add to their
employee benefits package. WorkLife
helps employees balance work and life by
providing financial solutions to improve
their quality of life. Employees get a free
checking account, free health savings
account, a free box of checks, no annual fee
HELOC, $250 off mortgage closing costs,
and more. There are also benefits to the
employer as well. Businesses get 1% rebate
on corporate cards, free 401(k) review for
the company (up to a $1,500 value), custom
tailored benefits for the business and the

employees, direct deposit, success seminars

on topics such as budgeting, homeownership, investing, identity theft/fraud prevention and more.

What is your vision for the future?

Our main objective at the local level for
the future is to continue to create and build
relationships with the community. We recently had a couple of longtime employees
retire and our staff is fairly new, but energetic and enthusiastic; we know we need
to focus on getting to know our clients and
their families personally as well as continue
to reach out and meet new people. Were
very excited about what the future holds.

Pictured left to right: Steven Meyer,

Megan Meeks, Erika Lee, Cheryl Eddy and
Kaleigh Mapes.

Community Health
Professionals of Paulding:

Visiting Nurses & Hospice Care

250 Dooley Drive # A
Paulding, Ohio 45879
(419) 399-4708
www.comhealthpro.org
This year marks the 40th year that Community Health Professionals, Inc. (CHP)
has provided home health care services in
northwest and west central Ohio.

Hospice provides compassionate care and

support to individuals and families facing
a terminal illness. Hospice can begin when
curative treatment is no longer expected to
be effective and is provided by a team of
nurses, health aides, therapists, volunteers
and clergy.
Inpatient hospice facilities are available
in Defiance and Van Wert when illness and
symptoms cannot be effectively managed at
home.

It also marks the 36th year in operation

for CHPs Paulding office, located at 250
Dooley Dr. in Paulding. Community Health
Professionals of Paulding is a nonprofit
Private Duty Services provides personal
agency that delivers a complete range of
care and assistance in the home to elderly
home health and hospice services throughout and disabled. Personal care aides assist in
Paulding County.
the home with bathing, dressing, personal
hygiene, laundry, errands, meals, grocerSkilled visiting nurses services are appro- ies, and companionship. Passport or other
priate for individuals recovering after surassistance programs may pay for Private
gery, injury or illness. These services may
Duty Services.
include infusion (IV) therapy, wound care,
psychiatric mental health nursing, help with
Community Health Professionals of
medications, physical, occupational and
Paulding enables individuals of all ages to
speech therapy, durable medical equipment receive quality care in the place they most
(DME), telehealth monitoring, or medical
want to behome. Serving all of Paulding
social services.
County; call 419-399-4708 or visit www.
ComHealthPro.org for more information.

Does Your Business Need

a Website?
We Can Help!
Call us today at 419-399-4015
The Paulding County Progress is your
one-stop source for all your online marketing

PAULDING COUNTY

PROGRESS

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Paulding County Progress Focus On Business - 5

6 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

New American Reel

Company, LLC
5278 County Road 424, Unit A
Antwerp, Ohio 45813
419-258-2900
www.narco.us
New American Reel Company opened
for business in 2007, when co-owner Dave
Parisot purchased the business after seeing
an ad in an Indiana newspaper. Mark
Greenwood, co-owner, and Parisot moved
the company to its current location in 2008.
Theyre in business to provide wire reel
repair services for reels, bobbins and spools
used in the manufacturing or shipping of
wire products. Over the years their capabilities have expanded, and now include
welding, machining, and the design and fabrication of new wire reels or drums, along
with a range of other products.

What products do you offer?

Outside of the steel and wooden reel business, were a job shop; made to order products. We have a broad range of capabilities
in metal, wood and plastic fabricating as
well as industrial painting. Weve done sign
projects, restaurant furniture, gates, fences,
and specialized attachments for farm and
industrial machinery. Some of our more
visible work includes the Herb Monroe
Park sign, Puckerbrush Pizza wrought iron
fencing, sign and patio furniture, The Agora
Coffee House sign and Sarah Mowery DDS
sign. Our signs are designed and fabricated
in house and most are built with at least a 75
year life span.
As for the industrial painting services, we
work with other manufacturing shops that
just dont want to mess with the strict EPA
and OSHA regulations, so they ship the

products to us and we provide them with

professional painting and less headache.
Were also proud of our plastic manufacturing. For instance, we had a client, in the
food manufacturing industry, that came to
us with a problem. They needed specific
parts created for specialized machines, so
we worked with them on the design and
now supply them with parts that are shipped
throughout the US to various bacon manufacturing producers.

What is your vision for the future?

Were always looking for that million
dollar contract, but we also welcome opportunities to enhance local businesses. Were
interested in working with area contractors
on special projects like the custom awning
we did for Financial Partners Federal Credit
Union in Woodburn, Indiana. We currently
work with Chris Banks, owner of Creative
Landscapes in Antwerp and hope to grow
contractor relationships.

Whats your favorite aspect of the

company?
There are a couple. One is giving back to
the community. We take the Boy Scout approach, so community service and involvement are just part of our program. Another
is the diversity in our work. Our employees
love to problem solve and love the challenges that are brought to us week after week.
We are so thankful for our team. Their positive attitudes and dedication are one of the
reasons we are successful and were able to
handle the lumps we took during the recession.
Pictured left to right: Mark Greenwood and Dave Parisot.

Tri-State Transportation Consulting Inc.

101 S. Main Street
Grover Hill, Ohio 45849
419-789-0292
www.tstcinc.com
Tri-State Transportation Consulting
Inc. (TSTC) is a Safety and Compliance
Consulting Firm specializingin Risk
Management. We providetransportationconsulting services to companies ofall
sizes and in all transportation fields. Our
programs focus on simplistic compliance
systems that specialize on risk management.This provides value to our clients
and helpsthem improve theirbusinesson

adaily basis. Whether it be small private

carriers, trucking companies, or large transportation operations, TSTC is here to help
you in your safety and compliance needs.
We also specialize in Hazmat for fertilizer,
propane, and petroleum industries.

How did you get your start?

TSTC was started in 2008 by Steve
Plummer in his garage to keep himself
busy after a surgery mishap. With over
40 years of experience in transportation,
Steve has used his knowledge in helping
not only trucking companies and small

businesses, but people such as farmers who

do not realize their need for transportation
compliance.

Whats new with your company?

TSTC has recently purchased the old
bank in Grover Hill and completely renovated it to suit our needs. Come check out
our new facility at 101 S. Main St and let
us help you to become compliant. We also
offer CDL tutoring and training for people
to obtain their CDL license.

Stahl, Stoller, Meyer

Insurance Center
113 N. Main Street
Paulding, Ohio 45879
419-399-3777
111 N. Washington Street
Van Wert, Ohio 45891
419-232-4776
www.ssm-insurance.com
Longevity speaks volumes about Stahl,
Stoller, Meyer Insurance Center. Its their
experience, integrity, professionalism and
friendliness that has helped the company
thrive since 1936. Originally founded by
Charles Stahl in Payne, Ohio, the company
still holds fast to its core values and standards of excellence. In 1938, the growing
company moved to Paulding and opened a
branch in Van Wert, Ohio, in 2005.

What does the name of the business represent?

Well, other than the obvious names that
represent owners throughout the companys history, the one thing that we think is
important to point out is the word center.
Center is included in the name so we can
convey that we assist clients with almost
all types of insurance, such as commercial,
farm, home, auto, umbrella, health, disability and life. It also conveys that we are an
independent agency representing several
insurance companies who focus on pro-

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Paulding County Progress Focus On Business - 7

viding insurance policies through locally

owned agencies.

What do customers love most

about your business?
We have heard time and time again that
our client service is outstanding and we
really pride ourselves on exceeding client
expectations. Client service is the number
one priority and it may sound clich, but
its still the truth. It is part of why clients
entrust their coverage needs to our agency
for decades through multiple family generations. We help educate clients on how the
various coverages benefit them specifically,
so they can choose what they need and omit
what they dont need. We also get to know
our clients personally, which is the best way
for us to help ascertain what coverages our
clients need. Our knowledge and experience is also a benefit to our clients helping
them understand and navigate the process
of filing a claim. Clients receive scheduled
follow up coverage reviews so we can
adjust their coverage as their needs change
over time.

How has your industry changed

over the years?
There is an enormous amount of data now
available to insurance companies to help

Pictured left to right front: Travis Stoller, Brook Greear and Kevin Stahl. Back row left
to right Eric Hurless, Erin Bustos, Karen Saxton, Marge Yenser and Greg Stoller.
them customize a rate to a specific client. This includes localized neighborhood
weather patterns, payment history, vehicle
safety systems, building damage susceptibility, and the list goes on and on. This is
beginning to cause rate differences between
insurance companies, for the same client,
to be smaller than in previous times. We
are now able to spend more time evaluating
clients specific coverage needs and lessen
the possibility of coverage gaps. One thing
that has not changed is that people want
to obtain coverage from someone they
trust, specifically a referral from a friend or
family member. Referrals continue to be
our largest source of new clients and they also

have the highest client satisfaction. Another

thing that remains constant is that people really
value that we care about them personally and
we act accordingly.

Whats your favorite aspect of

your business?

Antwerp Exchange Bank

Main Office
305 S. Main Street
Antwerp, Ohio 45813
(419) 258-5351

ing the public with all your financial needs

since 1898. They have full service offices in
Antwerp and Payne and a Loan Production
Office in Harlan.

gest source of new business. We truly care

about our customers. If we dont care about
them, who will? A city bank isnt going to
work for our customers like we do.

Payne Office
102 N. Main Street
Payne, Ohio 45880
(419) 263-2705

What do customers love most

about your business?

How has the vision of your business changed over the years?

Harlan LPO
18218 State Route 37
Harlan, Indiana 46743
(260) 657-1000
The Antwerp Exchange Bank is the only
locally owned and managed community
bank in Paulding County, dedicated to serv-

People know us and we know them. Customers love the friendly, caring environment we provide. Many of our employees
have been here for decades and that has
helped with customer relationships. We
recently had two that retired after 30 years
of service and another is about to retire
after being here for 44 years. Many of our
customers have been with us for a long time
as well. Word-of-mouth has been our big-

Were community oriented. We love giving

back and taking care of our local people.

It hasnt changed much. We arent

interested in growing really big. We want
customers to speak to a person when they
call our office; we think thats really important. Our focus has always been to serve
our community the best we can. We have
plans to expand the services we provide in
Harlan. Right now, that location is a loan
production office and we want to build anPhoto of Antwerp Exchange Banks Payne
other office to provide full service banking
Location.
there.

8 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Susies Family Bakery

pastries since
2009. The
small-town
vibe, outstanding service
and delicious
flavors appeal to
everyone.

so well. Ill have their order ready, just as they

like it before they even walk in the door.

What is your favorite aspect of

your business?

Ive always loved baking, but besides getting to do what I love, I love that its a family-owned and operated business. Everyone
What do
pitches in and I love that we can spend time
customers working together. My mom, who recently
retired at 79, has helped me from the very
love most
about your beginning and still does from time to time.
My dad was instrumental when we were
business?
renovating and preparing the store for our
grand opening. Im so thankful for the time
The smallwith my grandkids too. My oldest grand
town, friendly daughter helps with the cash register and
and personal
Pictured left to right: Kynzi Knapp, Susie Knapp and Lily Knapp.
decorating cookies on the weekends. My
service is what youngest grand daughter helps with the
Ive heard cus- dishes. And my husband, bless his heart,
116 E. Jackson Street
tomers love most, other than their favorite
hes been right by me every step of the way.
Paulding, Ohio 45879
treats. Ive had people who were short on
He and my son handle most of my mainte419-399-2253
money, which is no big deal to me. I just
nance work. Then theres my daughter who
Follow us on Facebook
tell them to pay me when they can and they also pitches in when I get in a pinch with
always come back and pay. The same goes
Susies Family Bakery is a full service bakery for kids that stop in before and after school. orders. Im just so thankful and fortunate
to have such a wonderful family. This busioffering fresh donuts, cookies, cakes and other
My regular customers love that I know them

ness would not be successful without them.

How has Paulding brought your

business success?
Well, its not just Paulding that has
brought my business success. Word of
mouth has been tremendous and Ive had
people stop in from many different places
saying that theyve heard about my delicious treats. One of my favorite stories
is a couple that comes from Van Wert to
babysit their granddaughter every week.
They heard about the bakery from some
local folks and now they come in every
week. I also have several groups that come
in weekly for bible study, fellowship and so
forth. Its my customers sharing about their
experiences or spreading the word about
their favorite treats that has brought me
success.

Logisticize, LLC
861 E. Perry Street
Paulding, Ohio 45879
(419) 399-3900
www.logisticize.net
Find us on Facebook
Logisticize, which recently relocated
at 861 E. Perry St, in Paulding (old John
Deere building) has been hauling freight
since 2003. A large part of their business is
trucking farm machinery, building products
(such as i-beams and trusses) within the tristate area. Presently, the fleet is 36 trucks,
65 trailers (vans and flatbeds), they have
drivers as well as owner operators, along
with 11 office staff and mechanics.

Do you work with local companies?

work for local farmers and truck owners.

Just recently we have become a NAPA
certified truck center because we have ASE
certified mechanics and facilities.

ities and family events. Another perk is our

employee appreciation supper that everyone
looks forward to each year. We have a nice
meal, sell tickets for games, give out prizes
and any money raised during the event is
donated to a local non-profit. Last year, we
How has the vision of your busidonated roughly $2,300 to Fountain of Faith
ness changed?
in Hicksville and this year we are donating to the Supportive Services for Veteran
Over the past couple of years we have been Families Program
hauling more and more oversize loads (up
for families in
to 120 feet long), thus requiring experienced Paulding County.
drivers, permits, and trailers. Also, we are
Its a really fun
doing more van and specialized van freight time for everysuch as power-sports, dedicated routes, and one and we love
blanket wrap loads. Warehousing is also on giving back to the
the increase for helping companies handle
community.
their storage needs. Service is what counts

and with the staff and drivers we have,

Logisticize will change to meet the needs of What are
your plans for
our customers.

the future?

Absolutely! We haul for Haviland Drainage, Barkman Honey, and New American
What do your employees enjoy
Reel Company to name a few. Were always about working at Logisticize?
looking to build new relationships with local companies because this allows us to get
We think our employees enjoy the fact
drivers home more often, as well as provide that were family-oriented. Our drivers are
great personalized service. Also, we have
home for weekends, holidays, school activnow opened our truck shop to do service

First and foremost, we are

always looking to
expand our fleet
with experienced

drivers, but weve also recently started

another branch of the company called Blue
Creek Leasing. Blue Creek Leasing is a
freight brokering division handling all transportation requirements for clients which
includes warehousing, scheduling and other
logistic management needs. Our plans are
to develop this division of the company and
go from there.

Pictured left to right back row: Rick Plummer, Aaron Miller, Terry
Knepper, Kurt Plummer and Dale Young. Left to right front row:
Tracey Schroeder, Lisa Craig, Jolene Meade and Sue Riethman.

Delphos Granite Works

Susan Simpson, local authorized dealer
12147 Road 216
Cecil, Ohio 45821
419-399-4737 419-769-4221
sksimpson1988@gmail.com
www.delphosgraniteworks.com

Miami Erie canal in Delphos, Ohio. In

1991, Mike Birkmeier, great-grandson and
fourth generation memorialist, founded
Delphos Granite Works. Mike continues
the tradition of providing the same quality
and craftsmanship that his great-grandfather
started over 135 years ago. Delphos Granite
Delphos Granite Works is a full service
Works is a full service memorial company.
privately owned memorial company. We
We can manufacture for you traditional
have the craftsmen to do the sandblasting,
monuments, grass markers, slants, bevels,
laser and diamond etching, and final details columbariums, and mausoleums; and in
on all the memorials we create. Our goal is addition we offer bronze plaques, statues,
to educate our customers about the different vases, pet markers, memorial portraits, and
choices in granite and the various options in signs of granite or bronze.
the stone carving process to create a unique
lasting tribute, that when completed, avoids How has the vision of the business
any surprises or disappointments. The final changed?
result is an exceptional, eternal monument
to last for generations.
Technology has greatly changed design
and artwork used with monuments today.
How did the business get started? Whether you prefer a simple design or a
more elaborate memorial, it can be perIn 1880, J.G. Birkmeier began producing
sonalized to even the smallest of details.
quality memorials along the banks of the
Pre-planning and purchasing a memorial

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Paulding County Progress Focus On Business - 9

in advance has become more of a norm.

Pre-planning has many positives and more
and more people are taking advantage of
this type of memorial. Also, cremation
memorials are more available in many
different designs. These meaningful monuments allow for different design options to
securely hold the cremation canisters inside
the monument.

A favorite aspect of the business?

Obviously, the memorial business can be a
very emotional and sensitive business. My
goal is to treat our customers with dignity,
along with offering specialized assistance
in this very important process and decision.
No two individuals are the same; hence no
two memorials are the same. There are unlimited options when designing a memorial
and our professional staff can guide you
through the process and help you tell your
story. My commitment to my customers is
getting to know them so I can help them

create a personalized memorial. I strive to

offer quality craftsmanship, premier granite,
and professional service, all at the fairest
price. It is a business that in my opinion still
requires hands-on service. I have taken
several customers through the plant in Delphos to show them not only what we do but
how it is done. They can see for themselves
how we do all the design work in-house by
our own artist.

Susan Simpson, local authorized dealer.

Taylor Made Glass Systems

407 North Maple Street
Payne, Ohio 45880
419-263-2313
www.taylormadeglass.com
Working to be the Employer of choice
in Paulding County in a time when many
manufacturers ask their employees to work
lengthy ten and twelve hour shifts, Taylor
Made Glass Systems of Payne, Ohio, recently restructured their work week to give
their hourly associates the ability to work
traditional eight hour shifts.

Its been wonderful working 8 hour days.

I get home early to enjoy my grandkids
without being tired and grumpy, said Barb
Mattson, whos been working at Taylor
Mades Payne facility for 13 years now.

About Taylor Made Glass Systems

A member of Taylor Made Group, LLC,

based in Payne, Ohio, Taylor Made Glass Systems (www.taylormadeglass.com) is a leading
manufacturer of tempered and bent glass
products for the Marine and industrial industries. We are the worlds leading windshield
Here at Taylor Made, we know that peo- producer for powerboats and Yachts, and an
ple have families. They have children they
OEM supplier to Polaris, Bobcat, Caterpillar,
need to tend to and hobbies and interests be- and Bombardier.
yond their job. They need their paychecks,
but they also need time to live a full life,
said Dave Ashton, director of glass operations for the Taylor Made Group. Rotating
shifts or ten-plus hour shifts are hard on
people and their families. We really wanted
to get our associates back to a conventional
work schedule that they can count on.
This change has been enthusiastically received. Its positively affected moral, which,
in turn, has lead to increases in the facilitys rates of productivity and quality. The
facility is currently running three eight-hour
shifts, Monday thru Friday. They do have
open positions and are currently accepting
applications.

Taylor Made Glass Systems employees

include: front - Matt Reeb; second row
from left - Barb Mattson, April Hollinger,
and Ron Antoine; back - Eric Tigner, Scott
Brown, Clint Tribble, and Tim Scott.

Certified PubliC ACCountAnts

BASHORE
REINECK
STOLLER &
WATERMAN, INC.

www.brsw-cpa.com
117 N. Main St., Paulding 419-399-3686
685 Fox Rd., Van Wert 419-238-0658

Our professionals have an average

of over 20 year experience in
preparing individual, small business
and farm income tax returns.
We provide tax, accounting, payroll
and advisory services that help you
achieve your goals.

10 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Putman Law Offices, LLC

108 E. Jackson Street

Paulding, Ohio 45879
419-567-1561
www.putmanlawoffices.com
Attorneys Shaun A. Putman and Rachel L.
Franklin believe that hard work, professionalism, and good client relations are the
hallmark of successful law firms, and what
clients should expect in their attorneys.
Putman Law Offices prides itself on these
attributes. Whether you are in for estate
planning, personal injury, probate matters,
divorce/custody issues, or criminal defense,
Attorneys Putman and Franklin will work
tirelessly to uphold their reputation of greatness in representation of their clients.

Why did you choose to open an

office in Paulding?

Rachel Franklin

Shaun Putman

Our original office still remains in Van

Wert, however both attorneys had a heavy
caseload in Paulding. This community, our
fellow lawyers, and the local court system
are all tremendous to work with, making it

an easy decision to open a satellite office in

Paulding.

What does your office bring to the

Paulding community?
Clients have said many times that they
appreciate our expertise, integrity and
professionalism, which reduced the stress
level of handling their complex issues. We
know that every case and client we handle
is setting the stage for our reputation in this
community and the experience we provide
our clients impacts the success of our business. We work hard for each and every client so we can ensure longstanding success
in Paulding County. As for our expertise,
Attorney Putman has handled numerous
personal injury cases that approach or exceed a million dollars, and has also helped
clients (especially the farming community)
with estate planning and the probate practice. Attorney Franklin is a Paulding native,
and is excited to bring her passion and skills
back to her hometown.

Puckerbrush Pizzeria
117 E Merrin Street
Payne, Ohio
419-263-2626
Find us on Facebook
In high school, Brian Martin, owner of
Puckerbrush Pizzeria, worked for his dad
at the Getaway Bar and Grill in Woodburn,
Indiana. At age 19, he moved to Florida
and continued to work in the hospitality industry holding various jobs from server to
barkeeper and chef to brew master. Martin
spent 13 years in Florida honing his skills.
For three years, before he moved back
to the area, Brian was snow-birding. He
would come to Ohio in the summer to raise
a huge garden and sold his produce at area
farmers markets and then hed head back
to Tampa to work as a personal chef in the
winter. One summer, he saw that Zublees
Pizza was for sale and said to himself,
I can do pizza. He had been working
long hours in Florida and was ready for a
change of pace. He opened Puckerbrush
Pizzeria in 2011 and has been reaping more
success than he ever imagined.

across a National Geographic show about

the black swamp. As I watched, the show
described a small logging community in
the swamp called Pucker Brush. Puckerbrush can also mean in the boonies or off
the beaten path and thus the name of this
pizzeria was adopted.

What do customers love most

about your business?
People love the consistency most of all.
No matter how many times someone orders
something, we strive to make it just right
each time. They also love the variety and
off the wall menu items that you cant
get anywhere else.

ness changed?
The vision of my business has been molded
by the needs of this community. Originally, it was all about making great food.
Now, we still make great food, but I want
to give back by teaching others how to
manage a successful business. Not only
have I worked with my own staff so they
can thrive in whatever they do, but Ive
also been consulting other business owners.

Favorite aspects of your business?

What does the name of your business represent?

I love seeing the impact Im having on a

small community. Seeing happy, grateful
customers and staff is awesome. Teaching
young adults how to run a business and
watching them hustle and thrive in this
environment has been really rewarding.
Another aspect that I love is being able to
flex the creative muscle and encouraging
my staff to do the same.

One day as I was watching TV, I came

How has the vision of your busi-

Brian Martin, Owner

I welcome the opportunity to work with

area business people to help them grow
their restaurants, bars or the like. In Tampa, I was hired to help a bar that was only
open for dinner expand to offer a lunch
buffet and they have been experiencing
a robust lunch crowd ever since. I know
what it takes to succeed and I want to share
that knowledge and experience to strengthen this community.

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Paulding County Progress Focus On Business - 11

Stykeman, Chevrolet
1255 N. Williams Street
Paulding, Ohio 45879
800-399-2071
www.stykemainchevy.com

Jim Stykemain,
Owner
What do you love
most about your
business?

I cant say enough

about working with
people in Paulding. I
proud to be a dealer
here and Im glad I can serve Paulding. I
love coming to work everyday. My employees are fantastic; they are like family to
me. I love seeing people get enjoyment out
of their cars, whether its helping find the
right car for them or providing them with
quality service work.

Tasha Panico,
Administrative
Professional
How has the business grown over
the years?
With more sales and
services offered we
outgrew the building downtown. Both customers and employees love the new building. Everyone is more comfortable here.
Its bright, welcoming and customers have
a TV in the waiting area to enjoy while they
wait for their service work to be completed.

What do customers love most about

your business?
People know us. Customers keep coming
back because they trust us and know that
theyll be treated right.

Favorite aspect of the business?

I love that we work well together. It truly
is a family-type atmosphere. Most of us
have been here for many years. We joke
around with each other, but we also work
together to reach goals and were rewarded
for that hard work. General Motors (GM)
has a formula in place when calculating a
dealerships performance; they call it our
GM Score and this score determines bonuses throughout the company. They look
at customer surveys, sales, training service

reviews and other criteria. We all have to

work together and give our customers the
best to be rewarded in the long run.

Chris Martinez,
Customer Care
Manager
Most memorable
moment with a
customer?

I think its hometown loyalty and a sense of

community in the county that really brings
Most memorable moment?
customers back time and time again. We
give them the same services that any other
For me, its when Tasha was going through
dealer would, but I think people in this com- breast cancer treatments. We were all
munity like to keep their business local.
scared for her and so were our customers.
People would stop in asking about her daily.
Brock Stoller,
Everyone was praying for her. One day,
Service DepartTasha came in without her wig on and it hit
ment
me really hard. It just put things in perspective for me. Ill never be the same after
What do customexperiencing that, but thats a good thing.

ers love most

A customer called in
about your busifrantic that she had
ness?
locked her keys in her
car, while it was running and her grandchild
Prompt service,
was still in it. As she was on the phone, I
knowledgable staff
called On-Star for her and they were able
to unlock it for her within seconds. She was and competitive prices.
so happy to find out just how important
On-Star could be. I love helping people and Favorite aspect of the business?
that whats makes this job really rewarding.
Putting a smile on our customers faces. I
take pride in helping them solve problems
Con Shuherk,
in a way that are completely satisfied with.
Service Department

What do customers love most

about your business?
The friendly atmosphere, courteous service and vehicle
pickups are all reasons why customer love
our service department.

Most memorable moment with a

customer?
We had an older couple call in the middle
of winter because they couldnt get their
car to start. I drove out to their house and
replaced their battery for them, right in their
garage. Customers are so appreciative and
really surprised that we will go out to their
property to service their car when they cant
get it to the shop.

Whats your favorite aspect about

your business?
The family-type atmosphere and how well
we all work together. On top of that, our
boss will do anything for any of us.

Jay Dachenhaus,
Sales Representative
How has Paulding
changed since
you started your
business?

Its spread out more

and that has a little to do with our new location, I guess. Its mostly the internet and
Why has Paulding County brought
technology that have changed Paulding and
your business longstanding success? the way our business operates now. We sell
cars all over the globe now. Technology has
People who were born and raised here want changed our products too. It used to take
to see this community thrive. I think people 15 minutes to show a car and now it can
take up to an hour to show customers all the
shop local because they want to keep jobs
and tax money here and I do the same thing. bells and whistles.

Brad (Bubba)
Davis, Sales Representative
What do customers love most
about your business?
Ive found that customers who arent from
here are blown away at the small-town
friendliness. Theyll tell their friends
and family and the word-of-mouth keeps
spreading. Our customers are treated like
humans, not just numbers. We dont treat
them like they are one and done. We know
theyll be back for service or their next
purchase and its all about building a good
relationship. And it doesnt matter who
a customer works with, each salesperson
treats them as if that customer is their own.

Why has Paulding County brought your Favorite aspect of the business?
Family atmosphere! When one person is
business longstanding success?
struggling, whether its work related or life
related, we all pitch in to lift them up.

What do customers love most about

your business?
That new car smell!

Most memorable moment?

An older lady bought the most souped
up Bonneville we had, many years ago.
She wanted to check out all the bells and
whistleswhile we were driving down the
road! Shed say, Oh! What does this do,
as I clung to my seat. I literally could hear
every mailbox whoosh by as she drove way
too fast for my comfort. That was the most
memorable and scariest moment for me.

Favorite aspect?
Meeting people, helping them find the car
of their dreams and making friends at the
same time.

12 - Paulding County Progress Focus On Business Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Proudly Serving Paulding County...

we welcome the opportunity to work for you.

WHY CHOOSE
STYKEMAIN?

800-399-2071
1255 N. Williams St., Paulding

www.stykemainchevy.com
Hours: Mon. & Thurs. 8-7

Tues. & Wed. 8-6

Fri. 8-5

Sat. 8-2:30

GM Parts
Quality Service
One Stop Shop
Competitive Pricing
Certified Mechanics
Quick Turn Around
New Loaners Available
Local Pickup
(up to a 5 mile radius)