Pixel Planet Studios Named Winner of "Invading Tusc" Video Series

A Quarter of Growth and Collaboration in Tuscarawas County

The Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) is pleased to present its quarterly newsletter, highlighting significant progress in economic growth and collaborative initiatives, particularly in workforce development and community infrastructure.

Major Announcement: Pixel Planet Studios Secures Invading Tuscarawas Video Series

Correction: The video project Invading Tusc, is funded through a collaboration by the Ohio Department of Development and the Governors Office of Workforce Transformation, for Industry Sector Partnerships, a program created by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association.

The TCEDC is thrilled to announce that Pixel Planet Studios, a Cleveland-based video production company, has been awarded the "Invading Tuscarawas Video Series." This project is reviewed and monitored through the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and funded by the Ohio Department of Development and Governors Office of Workforce Transformation. The campaign aims to illuminate career opportunities within local manufacturing sectors. The project attracted national interest, with numerous proposals received. Pixel Planet Studios is an industrial storyteller well-known for its dynamic live-action filming, eye-catching motion graphics, vibrant animation, and Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). Some of their former clients include Lincoln Electric, Sherwin-Williams, Lubrizol, and PB B’laster.

This new series aims to transform the "Invading Tusc" campaign, originally by OhioMeansJobs, into a lasting brand. The Tuscarawas Valley Industry Sector Partnership (TVISP) will use this brand to foster collaboration between private businesses and educational institutions, improving direct career pathways to manufacturing for Tuscarawas County citizens. TVISP, established in September 2023 and endorsed by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association in 2024, aims to "develop connected systems to promote local manufacturing and equip the upcoming workforce". This initiative addresses the critical need to align workforce development efforts and centralize industry voices.  

Recent Housing Data: Insights from Pete DiSalvo's Presentation

Pete DiSalvo, President/CEO of DiSalvo Development Advisors, presented a Housing Study for the Dover-New Philadelphia Market on June 9, 2025. Key findings revealed a "total shortfall of housing units, for rental and for-sale housing stock at all price ranges over a three- to five-year period". Identified "housing opportunities with example sites" have received "positive response from developers".  

Pete DiSalvo, DiSalvo Development Advisors, LLC

Addressing housing is a major concern for economic development organizations. A significant achievement is the reevaluation of USDA Rural Development Loan programs, now including Dover and New Philadelphia, previously excluded. This change, announced by USDA officials at a meeting organized by John Kelly, unlocks vital funding. This meeting led to the development of the New Philadelphia Housing Plan, which will unveil a model home to local Real Estate Brokers, that will be made available to citizens who qualify for USDA and non-USDA financing. The Economic Development & Finance Alliance (EDFA), managed by TCEDC, also issued an RFP for mixed-use development to address housing shortages and enhance downtown appeal for the Howden-Joy Site. The team is currently working through responses to create a development team.

Downtown Business Walks: Taking the Pulse of Our Local Economy

John Kelly, TCEDC's Director of Business Development, recently conducted Downtown Business Walks in Dover. These walks represent a direct, hands-on approach to engage with local businesses and gather real-time insights into the health and needs of the downtown economy. The Downtown Business Walks represent a proactive business retention and expansion (BRE) strategy. By directly engaging with local businesses, the TCEDC gains real-time insights into their operational health, challenges, and growth opportunities. This direct, on-the-ground approach allows for early identification of issues and tailored support, fostering a more resilient local economy and contributing to organic business growth, which is often more stable than relying solely on external business attraction.

Downtown Dover Business Walk, June 18th 2025

Upcoming Engagements: Mark Your Calendars!

The TCEDC and EDFA are committed to transparency, with EDFA board meetings "open to the public" and a calendar available on the TCEDC website.  

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Wednesday, June 25, 2025

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

EDFA Full Board Meeting

Tuscarawas EDC, 339 Oxford Street, Dover, Ohio 44622  

Conclusion: Building a Stronger Tuscarawas Together

This quarter highlights TCEDC's commitment to economic growth. The Spark Grant for "Invading Tuscarawas Video Series" advances workforce development, transforming a campaign into a brand for manufacturing careers. Housing efforts, including USDA loan program inclusion, and Downtown Business Walks demonstrate proactive community engagement. These successes reflect strong collaboration, building a vibrant Tuscarawas County.

1st Quarter Updates: What's Going on Economically?

TCEDC Newsletter

As we embark on another year of advancing economic development in Tuscarawas County, we are excited to share the latest progress under the four pillars of our strategic plan: Business Development, Workforce Development, Growing a Diverse Industry Base, and Enhancing Leadership and Engagement.

Strategic Plan Updates

In Business Development, the Matrix scoring process for the Joy Development Project's RFPs has been completed. This critical step brings us closer to shaping the future of this transformative project. TCEDC and the City of New Philadelphia are now collaborating to assemble a team that will chart the project's next steps, ensuring alignment with our community's goals. In other Business Development news, Schaeffler recently hosted a meeting at First Federal Community Bank's Financial Education and Operations Center, providing local businesses with an update on their plans for their new facility in Dover. This event highlighted Schaeffler’s commitment to fostering growth and collaboration in our region. We are excited to announce that the Newcomerstown Industrial Park hosted the region's first site visit of the year by a company exploring expansion into the United States.

Under the Workforce Development pillar, efforts to align education with industry needs are moving forward steadily. Our Civic Lab team is meeting regularly as part of a multi-year initiative to create meaningful connections between local schools and businesses. The Tuscarawas Valley Industry Sector Partnership (TVISP) has also received a significant boost as a sub-recipient of the Charged Up grant. This funding will enhance TVISP’s capacity to address workforce challenges and support the development of a skilled labor pool for local employers.

Our mission to Grow a Diverse Industry Base has also seen remarkable progress. During our December annual meeting, we celebrated a year filled with impactful projects and strong partnerships. Our Business Retention and Expansion efforts resulted in 48 visits to local companies, reflecting our dedication to fostering connections and understanding industry needs. Over the past five years, businesses in the county have received nearly $1 million through the Tech Cred program, with $232,833 awarded in 2024 alone. Key retention projects were announced for Altor Solutions (Plymouth Foam) and the Muskingum Watershed Conservation District’s Tech Park. Additionally, significant expansions were unveiled by major companies, including $3.4 million by Battle Motors, $3.5 million by Gradall, $8.5 million by ProVia, and an impressive $31 million investment by Novelis. These projects underscore the strength and resilience of our local economy.

Finally, our Leadership and Engagement efforts remain a cornerstone of our strategy. Over the past year, we have focused on tracking and reporting progress on our strategic plan, developing policies and procedures to enhance our operations, and launching a marketing calendar to better connect with our community. By staying ahead of economic development trends and best practices, TCEDC continues to build the leadership capacity needed to drive our mission forward.

Board Updates

We are thrilled to announce new leadership changes within our organization. Michael Lauber, President of Tusco MFG, has been appointed as Chairman of the Board, bringing his expertise and vision to this key role. Additionally, we welcome Marc Nolen, President of Dover Chemical, and John Fondriest, Trustee of Dover Township, to our Executive Committee.

Michael Lauber - Chairman of the Board

President of Tusco MFG

Marc Nolen - Director

President of the Dover Chemical Corporation

John Fondriest

Trustee of Dover Township

We are proud to recognize the exceptional leadership and expertise of the full board of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation. This dedicated group brings a wealth of experience and passion to our mission of fostering economic growth and prosperity.

Chase Hostetler of American Electric Power provides valuable insight into the energy sector, ensuring our initiatives are powered by innovation and sustainability. Christopher Lane, a franchisee of Wendy's, offers a unique perspective on the importance of small business growth and community-focused enterprises. John Maxwell, an attorney with Fitzpatrick, Zimmerman & Rose Co., L.P.A., brings a wealth of legal expertise to our strategic efforts, ensuring sound decision-making and compliance. Finally, Ethan Zucal of the Muskingum Valley Watershed District provides leadership rooted in environmental stewardship, helping us balance economic development with the preservation of our natural resources.

Together, this dynamic board embodies a shared commitment to advancing Tuscarawas County's economic future, and we are grateful for their dedication to our community.

Chase Hostetler

Chris Lane

John Maxwell

Ethan Zucal

Their collective experience and leadership will play an integral role in driving our mission forward and ensuring continued economic growth in Tuscarawas County. Please stay tuned to our social media pages for bios on these new additions!

Upcoming Events

The 18th Annual Groundhog Day Breakfast is just around the corner! Join us on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 AM at Founders Hall at Kent State University at Tuscarawas. This beloved tradition provides an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate our community's progress. Be sure to register by January 27th by visiting our website at Groundhog Day Registration.

Looking ahead, we are also excited to announce the 3rd Annual Shark Tub competition on Thursday, April 24, 2025. This event will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Zane State College’s Campus Center in Zanesville, Ohio. Mark your calendars for an evening of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship! Stay tuned, we will be publishing more information on this event very soon!

The next Economic Development Finance Alliance meeting, open to the public, will take place on January 29th at 11:30 AM at the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation office, located at 339 Oxford St., Dover, OH 44622.

As we move forward in 2025, TCEDC remains committed to driving meaningful progress across all four pillars of our strategic plan. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in building a thriving and resilient community.

James C. Shively - Director of Business Development
Stay connected: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook

Dr. Thomas Rogers, Michele Specht Added, Dr. Sarah Andreas Moves to President, Invading Tuscarawas and Groundhogs Day!

Dear Supporters,

Happy New Year! We hope this newsletter finds you well as we start an exciting year of growth and progress in Tuscarawas County. We are thrilled to announce some significant additions to our board that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of our community.

Adding New Board Members:

We are honored to welcome two distinguished individuals to our board, Dr. Thomas Rogers and Michele Specht.

Dr. Thomas Rogers joins the board of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation. He is the president of Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital in Dover, Ohio. With his extensive military background and healthcare leadership, he will bring valuable insights and expertise to our organization as we explore ways to enhance the local economy and add opportunities in Tuscarawas County. Dr. Thomas Rogers and his wife, Christy, live in Massillon, OH. They share six children and three grandchildren. He is the youngest of 10 children, and his family has 130 years of total military service.  A native of North Canton, OH, he served 29 years in the US Army after earning a medical degree from Wright State University and a bachelor's degree in biology from John Carroll University.

Michele Specht, representing the Ohio Farm Bureau, is a dedicated advocate for rural communities and agriculture. Her passion for sustainable development aligns seamlessly with our mission, and we look forward to her contributions to promoting economic growth in the agricultural sector. Michele was raised on a family dairy farm in Springfield, Ohio, and moved to Tuscarawas County with her husband, Steve – a Tuscarawas County native – in 1978. Since then, they have owned and operated Trealayne Holsteins in Dover Township. Michele graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science. She and Steve are the proud parents of three adult children: Allison (Matt) Jaynes, Annie Specht (John Duym), and Adam Specht. In their spare time, Michele and Steve are passionate fans of Ohio State and Cleveland sports, and eagerly anticipating their first grandchild's arrival this winter.

Sarah Andreas, ph.d., moves to President of the Board:

We are pleased to announce that Sarah Andreas, Ph.D., has been promoted to a more prominent role within our organization's board. Dr. Andreas, a professor at Kent State Tuscarawas and owner of WiseWood, LLC, has been a valuable member and contributor to our organization. Her commitment to education and entrepreneurship has been instrumental, and we are confident that her creativity in this expanded role will bring continued success to our endeavors.

Invading Tuscarawas:

Our team has been working on a new content marketing campaign, Invading Tuscarawas, funded by Ohio Means Jobs through the Stark Tuscarawas Workforce Board. This innovative initiative aims to showcase our diverse opportunities and vibrant community here in a modern and entertaining way. To be sure the campaign resonates with local youth, we have conducted five focus groups at local schools, gathering valuable feedback from teenagers. Production is set to begin in February and run through March. We encourage you to stay tuned to the internet for our teenagers, Invading Tuscarawas County employers.

Groundhog Day Presentation Success:

We are delighted to share the success of the recent Groundhog Day presentation by Michael Weidokal at the First Federal Community Banks Financial Education Center in Dover, OH. The event was well-received, and we are excited to announce that you can watch the video of this presentation right here in our newsletter. Michael's insights into economic trends and community development provide valuable perspectives for our region.

As we adventure through another year of progress, we are grateful for the continued support of our partners. Together, we will continue to build a prosperous future for Tuscarawas County.

Wishing you a year filled with growth and success!

Sincerely,

James C. Shively

Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation

TCEDC Newsletter - Giving Thanks for Growth and Prosperity in Tuscarawas County 🍁

🍂 Giving Thanks for Growth and Prosperity in Tuscarawas County 🍁

Dear Tuscarawas County Community,

As the holiday season approaches, we reflect on the incredible growth and prosperity that Tuscarawas County has experienced over the past year. It's a time to express gratitude for the accomplishments, collaborations, and opportunities that have shaped our community. We at the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corp. are thrilled to share the highlights and express our heartfelt thanks.

 🌟 Celebrating Success Stories - Housing:

 This year has seen remarkable achievements in our economy. One of the major concerns for economic development organizations, local governments, companies, and residents is housing availability for the workforce. The Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) has held multiple meetings this year to create a Community Action Team. These meetings have involved local investors, developers, non-profits, and local leaders.  

Looking at programs to promote housing development, we found USDA Rural Development Loan programs excluded residents and non-profits from the municipalities of Dover and New Philadelphia due to assumptions made regarding their census tracts.  Due to our meetings throughout the year and the feedback USDA gathered, they reevaluated this practice. They recently announced Dover and New Philadelphia would be included in these loan programs as we advance. On November 2nd, 2023, a Community Action Team meeting was held at the Senior Citizen Center in Dover. Organized by Director of Business Development and Administration John Kelly, over 50 people attended to hear this announcement from USDA Area Director John Miller and USDA Loan Technician Alexander Heap. TCEDC Business Development Director James C. Shively also gave a brief presentation on how the community might take full advantage of the news from the USDA.

 If you want to learn more about the housing programs offered by USDA Rural Development, click here.

🤝 Community Collaborations - Tuscarawas Valley Industry Sector Partnership:

One of the hallmarks of Tuscarawas County is the spirit of collaboration. We are immensely grateful for the partnerships between businesses, local government, educational institutions, and community organizations.  The Tuscarawas Valley Industry Sector Partnership (TVISP) was stood up this year with the following mission statement:

““Tuscarawas Valley Industry Sector Partnership will develop connected systems to promote local manufacturing and equip the upcoming workforce. We will effectively align education and workforce needs to recruit, train, and retain talent to drive growth. “
”

— TVISP Mission Statement

Local manufacturers have attended these meetings eager to aid education in the development of curriculum focused on the local economy. The TVISP and Buckeye Career Center are developing a Maintenance Program to train more maintenance technicians to serve local industry. This will be another opportunity for residents to gain credentials and meaningful employment in Tuscarawas County.

Another goal of the TVISP is to work with education to identify existing programs that cultivate engineers and engineer technicians for manufacturing and strategize ways to improve exposure and gain enrollment in those programs. These collaborations are crucial in fostering economic development, driving innovation, and enhancing our county's overall quality of life.

 🦃 Thanksgiving Spotlight - Mayors Breakfast:

 Newcomerstown Mayor Pat Cadle recently held a Mayor’s Breakfast at April’s Country Kitch’n. After a hard-fought battle and glorious win on the football field the night prior, local stakeholders and residents gathered on a Saturday morning to have a bite to eat and drink some coffee. After listening to an update and presentation from TCEDC Director James C. Shively, the group had a lively discussion about the possibilities of using economic development financing tools combined with local incentives for prosperity and job growth.

 🌐 Looking Ahead at upcoming events:

 As we look to the future, the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corp. remains committed to fostering sustainable growth and creating an environment where businesses and residents can thrive. We are excited about the upcoming projects and initiatives that will continue to shape the economic landscape of our community.

• December 13th, 2023 - Full EDFA Board Meeting

• December 14th, 2023 - Annual Report & TCEDC Full Board Meeting

• January 12th, 2024 - Manufacturers Cyber Security Workshop

• January 26th, 2024 - 17th Annual Ground Hog Day - Economic Forecast

🙏 Thank You:

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has played a role in the success of Tuscarawas County. Your dedication, passion, and support are the driving forces behind our community's growth. Together, we are building a future we can all be proud of. As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, let's take a moment to express gratitude for the unique assets that make Tuscarawas County special. From the breathtaking landscapes to the strong sense of community, our county is a place we are proud to call home. Let's also appreciate the local farmers, artisans, and businesses contributing to the richness of our Thanksgiving celebrations.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous Thanksgiving filled with warmth, gratitude, and community spirit.

With gratitude,

Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corp.

TCEDC Newsletter - June - Fueling Progress

Dear Friends and Partners,

We hope this newsletter finds you well and full of excitement as we exit the month of June and enter the 4th of July weekend. The Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) is thrilled to update you on the latest developments and initiatives shaping our county's economic landscape. It has been an eventful period, with various projects and partnerships paving the way for growth and opportunity in our region.

Investment in Workforce: Fueling Progress

One of the key focuses for the TCEDC has been investing in workforce development to support the expansion of existing businesses. We are proud to tell you that we have several workforce development initiatives in the works. These include the development of an Ohio Manufacturers Association, Industry Sector Partnership, as well as lending our support to the upcoming Dale Lauren Foland Manufacturing Camp at Buckeye Career Center. It is our hope the Industry Sector Partnership will help us bring together our uniquely diverse group of manufacturers to develop one of the best workforce development think-tanks in the State of Ohio.

Preparing for the Future

A skilled and adaptable workforce is crucial for attracting new industries and supporting existing businesses. The TCEDC, in collaboration with local educational institutions and training providers, continues to focus on workforce development initiatives. We are working to help align training programs with the evolving needs of our target industries, ensuring that our workforce remains competitive and prepared for the jobs of the future.

Housing in Tuscarawas County

This month at the First Federal Community Banks Financial Education Center in Dover, we held a meeting with community stakeholders regarding our housing needs. Featuring John Miller from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, we learned of programs available to rural residents looking to have new homes built and older home’s rehabilitated. John Miller also discussed possible changes in policy that would promote more housing opportunities in Tuscarawas County.

Community Spotlight: Celebrating Success

We would like to celebrate the success of Tuscarawas County industry-based-businesses that have achieved remarkable milestones. We are immensely proud of the companies we have here and the positive impact they have on our local economy. If you know of any outstanding businesses or individuals who deserve recognition, please reach out to us, and we will gladly feature them in future newsletters.

Upcoming Event: Manufacturing Camp

The Dale Lauren Foland Manufacturing Camp is being held on July 17th to the 19th led by local business leaders and manufacturing companies. This event is held annually at the Buckeye Career Center, and gives kids an opportunity to tour some of our great local manufacturing facilities. It helps provide junior high school students valuable opportunities that expose them to a world of creativity, while allowing them to explore the wide variety of potential careers offered here in Tuscarawas County.

Stay Connected and Engaged

As always, we encourage you to stay connected with the TCEDC through our website and social media channels. We are dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest developments, events, and opportunities in Tuscarawas County. Feel free to reach out to our team if you have any questions, suggestions, or would like to learn more about how you can contribute to our county's economic growth.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are unlocking a brighter future for Tuscarawas County.

Sincerely,

Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation

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