Archbold, which led for most of the game, took a nine-point lead into the final quarter and then watched senior Cade Brenner score all of its nine points to hold on and defeat Swanton 43-37 for a critical NWOAL boys basketball victory on the road Friday night. The Bulldogs had rallied and pulled within three with just over three minutes remaining in the contest, but Brenner, who leads the NWOAL in scoring, was money at the foul line, sinking seven of eight free throws to keep Swanton at bay.
Brenner led the Streaks with 17 points and was backed up by fellow senior Jayden Seiler with 12. Swanton junior Charlie Wood topped all scorers with 20 points and the Bulldogs got 10 from sophomore Brady O’Shea.
The Archbold win places their record at 4-1 in the league, one game behind 5-0 Wauseon, and sets up a decisive matchup with the Indians at home in the Thunderdome next Friday evening. Their overall record, after a Saturday night loss to Napoleon, is now at 18-2. Swanton drops to 1-4 in the NWOAL and, following a loss to Northwood on Saturday, falls to 6-13 on the season. They will next travel to Toledo Christian on Tuesday night to face the Eagles.
Swanton Bulldogs: 5-9-11-12 = 37 Charlie Wood (20), Brady O’Shea (10), Jalen Carrizales (3), Evan Reinhard (3), Giovanni Ruiz (1)
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Photo: Archbold’s Cade Brenner about to slam one down on a breakaway
On Friday, February 9th, Colonel (Retired) Thomas Hansbarger and Christopher Baumgartner were inducted into the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame during a luncheon in the high school’s Media Center. During the ceremony, Mr. Austin Serna, a Congressional Assistant to Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, who appointed Colonel Hansbarger to West Point, presented the Colonel with an American flag that had previously flown over the U.S. Capitol Building. Both Colonel Hansbarger and Mr. Baumgartner were later recognized at halftime of the boys’ varsity basketball game against the Archbold Blue Streaks. Below are short bios listing just some of their very impressive credentials.
Tom Hansbarger, a distinguished individual, graduated from Swanton High School in 1988 before embarking on an exemplary academic journey at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. During his four-year tenure at West Point, Tom demonstrated commitment and excellence as a football player for the Army, culminating in his graduation in 1992 as a Second Lieutenant in the Field Artillery.
Throughout his illustrious 30-year career in the U.S. Army, Tom held various staff and command positions at all levels, showcasing exceptional leadership skills. His operational and combat deployments underscore his dedication to duty, including significant contributions in Bosnia-Herzegovina (1995), Iraq (2003 and 2006-07), and Afghanistan (2016-17).
Tom’s remarkable service has been recognized with a myriad of prestigious awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, three Bronze Star Medals, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, five Army Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, three Army Superior Unit Awards, the Combat Action Badge, U.S. Army Ranger Tab, Airborne Badge, and Air Assault Badge.
In August 2023, Colonel Tom Hansbarger retired from active duty, marking the culmination of three decades of unwavering commitment to the U.S. Army. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom shares a fulfilling family life with his wife, Leigh Robison of Swanton, Ohio, and their two wonderful children, Molly and David Hansbarger. His dedication to both duty and family embodies the highest standards of service and character.
Christopher Baumgartner, the Valedictorian of Swanton High School’s class of 1999, has cultivated a distinguished career in music education and administration. Following his graduation, he pursued higher education at BGSU, earning both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Education. In 2009, his academic prowess was acknowledged with the Distinguished Thesis Award.
From 2003 to 2007, Christopher dedicated himself to teaching middle and high school band in the Kenton City Schools. His academic journey continued at the University of Missouri, where he obtained his Ph.D. in music education in 2012. Post-graduation, Chris served on the faculty at both Mizzou and Middle Tennessee State University, imparting his knowledge in athletic bands and music education. In 2014, he joined the University of Oklahoma, where he presently holds the esteemed positions of Associate Professor of Instrumental Music Education and Director of the New Horizons Community Band.
Throughout his tenure in higher education, Dr. Baumgartner has demonstrated excellence in teaching, with routine guest conducting appearances nationwide. He has collaborated with distinguished composers such as Pulitzer Prize winner Steven Stucky and Grammy-nominated composer Anna Clyne. Chris has also commissioned contemporary composers to create new music for school and community bands.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Chris has assumed two new administrative roles this year, serving as both the Associate Director and Graduate Coordinator for the OU School of Music. His dedication extends to music teacher education and research, as evidenced by his presentations at state, national, and international conferences. Chris has contributed to various peer-reviewed journals in music education, authored a chapter on student teaching in an Oxford University Press book, and published his solo text, “Bridging the Gap: Stories for Music Student Teaching Seminar,” in 2023.
Dr. Baumgartner’s leadership extends to national executive boards, where he actively participates in the National Association for Music Education and the Society for Music Teacher Education. Locally, he is involved with the Oklahoma Music Educators Association, having founded and administered a mentoring program for new music teachers. Chris is happily married to Dr. Melissa Baughman, a vocal music education teacher at OU, and together they raise two children, along with their two dogs and two cats.
Click on the link above to access a few photos from the ceremony.
Photo (L to R): Colonel (Retired) Thomas Hansbarger and Christopher Baumgartner
The Wauseon Lady Indians took a slim one-point lead into the fourth quarter and outscored the Delta Lady Panthers 14-11 to come away with a tight 40-36 NWOAL victory in Delta on Thursday night. Both teams struggled with their shooting in the first half which ended in a 12-12 tie. The Indians and the Panthers were able to generate a lot more offense in the second half with Wauseon finding a little more firepower than the hosts to grab the four-point win. Mackenzie Stasa, Johanna Tester and Sophia Rupp each scored nine points to lead the Lady Indians while Grace Munger also scored nine points for the Lady Panthers.
Wauseon improves their record to 3-2 in the NWOAL and 11-9 overall. Their next league game is Tuesday, February 13th, away against Liberty Center. Delta drops to 2-4 in the league and 11-9 on the season. They play next at Patrick Henry on Thursday, February 15th. State Tournament play for the girls begins the week of February 19th.
Wauseon Lady Indians: 11-1-14-14 = 40 Mackenzie Stasa (9), Johanna Tester (9), Sophia Rupp (9), Marin Leatherman (6), Aizlynn Coronado (5), Ella Tule (2)
Delta Lady Panthers: 7-5-13-11 = 36 Grace Munger (9), Keagyn Gillen, Kendall Sprow (6), Olivia Smith (5), Kate Friess (4), Ashlyn Lamb (2)
Click on the link above to access photos from the game. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Photo: Wauseon’s Aizlynn Coronado draws a foul as she dives to the basket
Six senior Lady Panthers were introduced and recognized last evening before the varsity game against Wauseon as the Delta Girls Basketball Team celebrated Senior Night, Class of 2024. The players were introduced in the following order:
Ella Demaline escorted by Jodi and Adam Demaline. Ella was a four-year member of the varsity soccer team, a two-year member of the varsity basketball team, and a one-year member of the varsity softball and track teams. She was also a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club and Student Council. After graduation, Ella plans to attend Owens Community College to play soccer while she pursuing her career in Early Child Education.
Kate Friess escorted by Derek and Jana Friess. Kate was a four-year member of the volleyball, soccer and basketball teams. She was also Class Vice-President and President of the Student Council, a member of Sources of Strength, Quiz Bowl, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, FCCLA and SADD and has performed in the musical the past four years. After graduation, Kate plans to attend either the University of Kentucky or The Ohio State University to major in pre-med.
Alani Haas escorted by Angel and Bryan Hollingsworth. Alani was a four-year member of the volleyball and basketball teams. She was also a member of the Kindness Club, the Spanish Club and SADD and is an active member at the True North Church. After graduation, Alani plans to attend Owens Community College while pursuing a degree in Psychology while continuing to play basketball.
Ashlyn Lamb escorted by Ryan and Abby Lamb. Ashlyn was a four-year member of the volleyball, basketball and track teams. She was also a member of the band while being an officer for two years, a member of the musical, FCCLA, Kindness Club, Huddle Leader for FCA, National Honor Society, Sources of Strength, Student Council and is an active member of True North Church. After graduation, Ashlyn plans to attend a four-year college while pursuing her career in social work.
Grace Munger escorted by Kelly and Joe Munger. Grace was a four-year starter on the soccer team, a four-year member of the varsity basketball team, a one-year member of the softball team and a three-year member of the track team. After graduation, Grace plans to attend Owens Community College to major in pre-rad and continue playing soccer.
Olivia Smith escorted by Carrie Smith and Jake Perry. Olivia was a four-year member of the volleyball, basketball and track teams. She was also a member of the Student Council, a Sources of Strength Peer Leader, a member of the Kindness Club, Spanish Club, FCA, SAAD, National Honor Society and is an active member of Hope church in Delta. After graduation, Olivia plans to attend a two-year or four-year university to pursue a degree in either Psychology of Exercise Science before transferring to The Ohio State University to obtain a doctorate of Physical Therapy.
Click on the link above to access photos from the ceremony. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
Photo: Senior Kate Friess with Derek and Jana Friess
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, The Swanton Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Anything Grows and for its newest location at 137 E Airport Hwy in Swanton this past Thursday afternoon. To be more precise, the store is found on the North side of Airport Highway, between Family dollar and Wing Station.
Anything Grows Swanton is dedicated to providing a stress-free flower buying experience for its customers. With a commitment to quality and service, the florist offers a variety of everyday floral arrangements, including those for birthdays, anniversaries, and new babies.
For those difficult moments, Anything Grows Swanton offers funeral and sympathy flowers designed to honor the memory of loved ones. The staff is available to assist in selecting arrangements that reflect the spirit of the departed while accommodating various budgets. Daily delivery to funeral homes in the Swanton area is available for added convenience.
Brides-to-be can also find their dream wedding flowers at Anything Grows Swanton. The florist works closely with couples to create personalized floral arrangements that match their vision and budget. Free consultations are available to discuss wedding flower needs and preferences.
In addition to flowers, Anything Grows Swanton offers a wide selection of house and blooming plants, as well as gift items including candles and more. Whether looking for the perfect floral arrangement, houseplant, or gift, Anything Grows Swanton aims to provide exceptional service and selection to its customers.
In addition to local flower delivery in Swanton, Anything Grows Swanton provides floral delivery services to the following nearby areas: Berkey, Holland, Maumee, Monclova, Perrysburg, Sylvania, Waterville, Whitehouse, and Ottawa Hills. In addition to local flower delivery in zip code 43558, Anything Grows Swanton provides floral delivery services to the following nearby zip codes: 43504, 43528, 43537, 43542, 43551, 43554, 43558, 43560, 43566, 43571, 43604, 43615.
About Anything Grows Swanton: Anything Grows Swanton is a local florist committed to providing exceptional floral arrangements, plants, and gifts for all occasions. With a focus on quality and customer service, Anything Grows Swanton aims to make the flower buying experience as beautiful as the flowers themselves. Stop in and see Sales Associate Megan Ruiz or Store Manager and Lead Floral Designer Lynn Sobzcak. Anything Grows also has two other locations in addition to Swanton, Wauseon and Napoleon.
Click on the link above to take a peek inside the new Swanton business.
Photo: Owner Mike Brandt cuts the ribbon to officially open Swanton Anything Grows along with (L to R), Delray Bush (Swanton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director), Doodle Bean Coffee Owners, Megan Ruiz (Sales Associate), Lynn Sobzcak (Store Manager), Jennifer Yochem (General Manager), Mike Brandt, Shannon Shulters (Swanton Village Administrator), John Schmidt (Swanton Village Councilman), Neil Toeppe (Mayor, Village of Swanton)
Swanton High School Presents: A Night of Inspiration and Music for a Worthy Cause
In celebration of Black History Month, Swanton High School is thrilled to announce a spectacular evening of music and inspiration at the Mark Butler Performing Arts Scholarship Fundraiser, taking place on February 17th from 4:00-6:00 PM. The event will be held at Swanton High School, located at 601 N Main St, Swanton, OH, doors open at 3:30.
About the Event: The Mark Butler Performing Arts Scholarship Fundraiser aims to support the next generation of artists by raising funds for a scholarship to be awarded to a deserving SHS graduate. This event promises an unforgettable night filled with incredible performances and heartfelt stories, all in the spirit of community and support for the arts.
Keynote Speaker: We are honored to have Dianne (Pilliod) Westhoven, a distinguished 1976 graduate of Swanton High School, Swanton High School Marching Band Alumni, and a respected member of the council for the Village of Swanton, as our keynote speaker. Dianne’s journey and achievements will undoubtedly inspire and resonate with attendees.
Live Performances: Prepare to be dazzled by performances from a stellar lineup of artists: Tyler Irby, from Bowling Green State University Music Department, showcasing his percussion talents. Dr. Ellie Martin, from University of Toledo Music Department, with the Ellie Martin Quartet, promising an evening of musical excellence. The Swanton High School Jazz Band, known for their outstanding musical talents, will also grace the stage.
Event Details:
Date: February 17th, 2024 Time: 4-6 PM (Doors open at 3:30)
Location: Swanton High School, 601 N Main St, Swanton, OH
Founder’s Bio:
A 1976 graduate of Swanton High School, Mark H Butler has always had a passion for his alma mater, having been an active member of the SHS Marching Band during his time there. Mark served as a dedicated Swanton Police Officer while attending Owens College and Bowling Green State University, committing himself to serving and protecting his community. Later on, he transitioned into the education sector, taking on the role of the Swanton School District Home-School Coordinator, where he continued to make a positive impact on the lives of students and families.
In addition to his contributions in law enforcement and education, Mark is also a member of the Screen Actors Guild, a testament to his love for the performing arts. Mark’s expertise extends beyond acting as he has also delved into the realm of Performing Arts Administration. Through this role, he has brought his unique blend of skills and experiences to the forefront, making significant strides in the management and promotion of various artistic endeavors.
This Scholarship represents Mark’s driving passion to help the next generation of performing arts students thrive in their career choices to bring their unique voices to the entertainment industry.
How to Attend:
Tickets for this not-to-be-missed event are available for purchase at www.https://mhbshs.org or at the door the night of the event. Support the local arts community, celebrate Black History Month, and contribute to the Swanton High School Performing Arts Scholarship by attending this night of celebration.
Media Contact: Anne Gadd Director of Communications and Marketing Community Arts Network annemariegadd@gmail.com 740-816-3983
Join us on February 17th for a night of music, inspiration, and community support!
All information was taken from the OHSAA Website. There is a high probability that the estimated numbers for the next two academic school years will be adjusted. How it effects the divisions in which each school and team will play will be determined sometime in August.
OHSAA Member School Enrollment Process Explanation
The male and female enrollments of our member schools are used to determine OHSAA governance classifications (AAA, AA, A) and the OHSAA tournament divisions for each sport. The enrollment figures are based on the number of students in grades 9, 10 and 11 as of October 31, 2023. These numbers are provided by the Ohio Department of Education. After the enrollment numbers become final, the enrollment figures will be used to determine OHSAA tournament divisions for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. For the OHSAA tournament sports in which competitive balance will apply, the competitive balance roster will be added to the ODE base enrollment counts prior to the determination of tournament divisions for those sports.
OHSAA Member School principals will be notified of their school’s enrollment figures posted below for review on Monday, January 29. Schools that believe the ODE has miscalculated their enrollment can file an appeal with the OHSAA no later than Friday, February 16, 2024 using the required APPEAL FORM. Following the appeals, the OHSAA Board of Directors will approve the FINAL enrollment numbers and classifications. OHSAA tournament representation and division assignments will then be calculated and presented to the Board of Directors for their approval in the coming months.
PRELIMINARY 2024-25 and 2025-26 School Enrollment Figures
The below numbers represent preliminary enrollments counts and classifications for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. This data will be replaced with final enrollment counts in late spring 2024.
This Friday, February 9, 2024, the 2024 Swanton High School Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees will be presented during the Bulldogs Boys Varsity basketball home game against the Archbold Blue Streaks. Following the presentation, there will be a reception, sponsored by the Swanton Athletic Boosters, at the Hawks Nest at Valleywood Golf Club on Airport Highway. Below is information on the inductees provided by Swanton High School.
Jim Carpenter Jr, a 1989 graduate of Swanton High School, participated in track and cross country earning a total of seven varsity letters. While running at Swanton High School, Jim was a member of the 1986, 1987 and 1988 NWOAL Championship cross country teams. As well as a member of the 1987, 1988 and 1989 NWOAL Championship track and field teams. As a member of these teams Jim earned 2nd team all-league as a junior in cross country as well as first team all-league as a senior. The Bulldogs place 4th in the state in his junior year and 3rd in the state in his senior year at the OHSAA State cross country championships. In track, Jim was a member of the 4×800 meter relay team that broke both the school and the NWOAL records for the event. After high school Jim attended Defiance College where he ran both cross country and track. Jim also came back to Swanton as the head girls’ soccer coach from 2004 to 2009. During which time his teams won three sectional and two district titles. As well as coaching three players who earned All Ohio Honors.
Leslie Mugg, a 1993 graduate of Swanton High School, participated in cross country, basketball and track. As a student athlete Leslie earned 9 varsity letters including four in both basketball and track. Among her accomplishments she was a two-time state qualifier in track including taking first place in the long jump at the regional track meet in 1992. In basketball, Leslie was all league all four years including twice earning first team all-league honors. She also earned all-district honors three times including two times being named first team all-district. Her senior year Leslie averaged over 20 points a game while also leading the team in rebounds and being voted as the best defensive player by her teammates. During her senior year, Leslie broke the single game scoring record with 40 points in a single game. Leslie also scored 447 points her senior year and finished her career with a combined 1344 points. After high school, Leslie went on to further her education and basketball career at Ball State University where she earned first team all-league honors twice.
Tom Sampson, a 1977 graduate of Swanton High School was an assistant wrestling coach for 15 years between the years of 1978 and 1996. During his time at Swanton, the teams that he coached won nine NWOAL Championships, five sectional titles, one district championship and finished 2nd and 3rd at the state wrestling championships. This included a 30-match winning streak from 1979 to 1982. Tom coached two state champions and 36 state qualifiers. Tom also helped run the Swanton golf tournament which raised money for scholarships given to Swanton athletes and helped with the creation of the Swanton biddy wrestling program.
Steve Williams, a 1973 graduate of Swanton High School, participated in football, basketball and baseball. Steve earned 3 varsity letters in basketball and 4 letters in baseball. In baseball Steve pitched a total of 192 innings in his high school career and totaled 314 strike outs. Steve currently holds the school record for the most strikeouts in a game with 21 and most in a season with 111. Steve also holds the record for most wins and earned run average for a season and overall career. In one week, his senior year Steve threw 3 complete games. Two of which were no hitters while in the other game he allowed just a single hit. Steve earned first team All-State honors as a senior and was scouted by every major league baseball team. Steve was selected in the second round of the winter draft by the Expo’s but chose to attend college at St. Clair University while rehabbing an arm injury. After which time he played minor league baseball for the Storied Portland Mavericks in 1977.
The 1987 Boys Track Team: Bert Avila, Martin Avila, Nate Barratt, Jeff Bork, Darren Brown, Tom Bruno, Eric Butler, Jim Carpenter, Sean Gladieux, Chris Goodson, Steve Hallett, Walt Hallett, Tom Hansbarger, Chris Hayes, Scott Haselman, Andy Hesse, Kirk Jewell, Scott Kosier, Zak Martin, Matt McKay, Terry Miller, Gary Moore, Guzman Muela, Eric Sahloff, Greg Seigneur, Henry Serratos, Mike Serratos, Sean Snyder, Matt Studer, Todd Sturt, Jeff Ulrich, Marshal Wolf, Bill Zientek, Coaches: Bob Fisher and Robert Cintron. The 1987 Boys Track team finished the season by capturing the NWOAL Championship as well as the District Championship. During the season, the Bulldogs won every league meet that they participated in and were victorious in the Palmer Relays, Oak harbor Invitational and Defiance Invitational.
Click on the link above to access photos from the induction ceremony. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
This Saturday, February 10, 2024, the Northwest Ohio Athletic League will hold its annual boys and girls tournament at River City Bowl-a-Way, located at 380 Independence Drive in Napoleon. Shadow bowling begins at 11:45 and the tournament will start at noon. The results from the tournament will be factored into the final team standings and will determine All-NWOAL individual awards.
Ticket for adults will be $7.00 and $5.00 for students.
Fulton County Ohio Media 