Fulton County Ohio Media

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Down by six runs to the Swanton Lady Bulldogs entering the bottom of the sixth, Wauseon’s Danica Pack led off the inning with a home run to deep right field, triggering a hit parade that powered the Lady Indians to five more scores and a 10-10 tie.  After holding Swanton scoreless in the top of the seventh, Pack singled to begin the bottom of the inning and eventually came around to cross home plate in an 11-10 walk-off NWOAL victory last Friday.

Wauseon followed up the win over Swanton with another league victory, 11-4 over Patrick Henry on Monday, to remain unbeaten in the NWOAL at 4-0 and 10-5 overall.  The Lady Bulldogs rebounded on Monday afternoon at home with an 8-7 win over the Evergreen Lady Vikings to move their league record to 3-2 and 10-5 on the season.

Both teams resume NWOAL action on Thursday when Wauseon travels to Archbold to take on the Lady Blue Streaks and Swanton heads to Delta to face off against the Lady Panthers.  First pitch for both games is 5:00 PM.

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: Danica Pack trots home to welcoming Wauseon teammates after hitting a home run

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Swanton junior Adam Lemon pitched six innings, allowing no earned runs on six hits with eight strikeouts and four walks as the Swanton Bulldogs picked up a big NWOAL road victory, beating the Wauseon Indian 10-3 last Friday.  As big of an impact his pitching had on the game, Lemon was also a force at the plate, going 4 for4 with two doubles, two singles, two runs scored and two RBI with a walk for good measure.

As a team, Swanton banged out 10 hits and scored at least one run in every inning.  Helping the offensive attack, Zack Smith had two hits and three RBI while Carson Lemons went hitless but was hit by a pitch three times and scored three runs.  Brady O’Shea pitched a scoreless bottom of the seventh inning to close out the game.

Back home this afternoon, Isaiah Bolyard’s second hit of the game triggered a four-run rally in the bottom of the sixth inning to break open a close contest as the Bulldogs defeated the Evergreen Vikings 7-2. Bolyard and Carson Lemons combined for four hits and three RBI. On the mound, Brady O’Shea picked up his first varsity pitching victory throwing 3.1 innings allowing one hit and no earned runs while Lemons pitched the rest of the game for the save.

Click on the link above to access photos from the Wauseon 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: Adam Lemon delivers to the plate

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In an incredibly close contest, Gracelyn Peebles was named the winner of Swanton Middle School’s 6^th Annual Amazing Shake competition, barely edging out the other two finalists, Raegan Rominski and Lukas Mendenhall, for the top spot.  As part of the Swanton Seven Initiative Program at Swanton Middle School (SMS), the Amazing Shake is a four-round competition for seventh graders who have been focusing on building soft skills, placing strong emphasis on manners, discipline, respect, and professional behavior.  The first round includes the entire seventh-grade class with the top 20 students moving on to the second round, 10 students move to the third round and the top three enter the final round competition, which is held in front of the entire SMS student body.

Six judges, business professionals and community leaders, were tasked with evaluating the performance of the students.  They were Brandon Johnson (Owner of Team Johnson Limo and Charter Bus Services), Jason Kos (Executive Manager at McNeill Chevrolet), Matt Gilroy (Executive Director Fulton County Economic Development Corporation), Shannon Shulters (Village of Swanton Administrator), Holden Benfield (Village of Swanton Fiscal Officer) and Jessica Double (Worthington Steel Senior Human Resource Officer).

In this final round, the students were interviewed using a talk show format by Chase Bachman, a sports anchor for Toledo’s WTOL Channel 11.  Mr. Bachman did a great job asking each finalist a list of questions then asking follow-up questions based on their responses.  All three finalists were incredibly impressive during their time on stage.  They were professional, poised, articulate, personable and were able to think on their feet in an obvious high-pressure situation.  The performances of Gracelyn, Lukas and Raegan were all so good, the judges had a very difficult time choosing a winner.

By winning this highly intense and competitive competition, Gracelyn will now represent SMS at the National Amazing Shake Competition which will take place in March of 2025 at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia.  The Ron Clark Academy is a highly-acclaimed, non-profit middle school that has received both national and international recognition for its success in creating a loving, dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence and leadership. 

However, because the final scores were so close, the judges recommended that all three competitors should be given the opportunity to enjoy the same experience as Gracelyn.  Several very generous sponsors have come together to help finance the trip to Atlanta.  Come next March, the Swanton Middle School and the Swanton Local School District will have three amazing representatives competing in Atlanta with students from around the nation.

Click on the link above to access photos from the competition. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.

Photo: Lukas Mendenhall, Gracelyn Peebles, Raegan Rominski and Chase Bachman

Rivendell Bridal & Beauty held a Grand Opening at its new location at 1 Turtle Creek Circle in Swanton, Ohio and marked the special occasion by hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 19th at 1:00 pm.

Rivendell Bridal & Beauty is on a mission to elevate every client’s experience, ensuring they feel radiant and unique. With a focus on emphasizing natural beauty, the team at Rivendell Bridal & Beauty aspires to empower clients to embrace the day with confidence and grace.

Rivendell Bridal & Beauty is excited to introduce new services, including makeup tutorials. These classes, led by knowledgeable makeup artists, offer step-by-step tutorials to help clients create the perfect look for any occasion.

In addition to makeup tutorials, Rivendell Bridal & Beauty offers services for special occasions such as prom, anniversaries, engagements, and family photoshoots. Clients can expect a unique and professional yet relaxed atmosphere when visiting Rivendell Bridal & Beauty.

Owner Tiffany Zongo brings two decades of experience to Rivendell Bridal & Beauty, ensuring that clients receive top-notch service and expertise. Along with bridal and beauty services, Rivendell Bridal & Beauty also offers facials and facial waxing spa services.

“We are thrilled to open our doors and welcome the Swanton community to Rivendell Bridal & Beauty,” said Tiffany Zongo, owner of Rivendell Bridal & Beauty. “Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and helping our clients feel confident and beautiful for any occasion.”

For more information about Rivendell Bridal & Beauty and their services, please visit their website at https://rivendell-bridal.com/ or contact them at 419-460-6262 or rivendell_bridal@yahoo.com.

About Rivendell Bridal & Beauty:

Rivendell Bridal & Beauty is a premier bridal and beauty salon located in Swanton, Ohio. With a focus on natural beauty and personalized service, Rivendell Bridal & Beauty offers a range of services including makeup tutorials, special occasion styling, and facial spa services. Led by owner Tiffany Zongo, Rivendell Bridal & Beauty is committed to helping clients look and feel their best for any occasion.

Contact:

Tiffany Zongo Rivendell Bridal & Beauty 1 Turtle Creek Circle Swanton, OH 43558

Phone: 419-460-6262 Email: rivendell_bridal@yahoo.com Website: https://rivendell-bridal.com/

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On Wednesday evening, at Swanton High School, the National Honor Society (NHS), held its 2024 Induction Ceremony to welcome in new members and recognize graduating senior members.  Membership in the NHS is based on Character, Leadership, Scholarship (GPA), and Service.  Following opening remarks by Principal Mr. Jason Longbrake, outgoing NHS Officers began the induction by announcing the students who will be taking over the NHS leadership.

Treasurer Makaila Levin introduced new Treasure Ben Heckert, Secretary Marlee Purdy introduced new Secretary Jessica Finfera, Vice-President Faith Butler introduced new Vice-President Makenna Mortimore, President Sydney Ruiz introduced and passed the gavel to new President Keagan Young.  Also introduced were 15 members from the Class of 2025 and 28 new members.

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: (L to R) Incoming NHS Officers – Ben Heckert (Treasurer), Jessica Finfera (Secretary), Makenna Mortimore (Vice-President), Keagan Young (President)

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The Wauseon High School track team traveled to Swanton to take on the Bulldogs. Here a some photos from the event.

Click on the link above to access photos from the meet. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.

Photo: Ben Tufts with the heave.

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The Swanton Lady Bulldogs traveled to Liberty Center and Monday and ran into a hard-hitting Lady Tiger softball team. The Tigers jumped out to a 7-0 lead after just two innings and Swanton was never able to recover, dropping a 13-3 NWOAL decision. The Lady Bulldogs take on the Archbold Lady Blue Streaks today, Thursday, at 5:00 PM at Swanton’s Memorial Park.

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: Alexa Faber beats the throw to first.

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The Swanton Bulldogs pulled off a perfectly executed suicide squeeze play in the top of the sixth inning to score what would prove to be the winning run in a thrilling come-from-behind 4-3 NWOAL victory over the Liberty Center Tigers.  With one out and pinch-runner Vinnie Fanelli streaking towards home from third base, Bulldog senior Brennon Mersing laid down a slow rolling bunt, leaving Tiger pitcher Landon Amstutz no other play but to throw to first as Fanelli dove across the plate, completing the three-run rally.

“A huge win,” said Swanton Head Coach Josh Seiwert.  “It was the kids.  We always preach to them timely hitting, good pitching and good defense.  We had all three today.  We got a big suicide squeeze to come back for the third run.”

A subplot to the game for Swanton was Bulldog ace, junior Adam Lemon, who entered the contest needing just three strikeouts to reach the 100 “K” milestone for his career.  For Lemon, however, getting the win was the only real priority.  “What was going through my mind was going out there and throwing strikes and let my defense play defense.  I wasn’t worried about the 100 strikeouts.  I was just worried about winning this game,” he said.  “They put it to us the last two years so, it was good to beat them.  It was really good to beat them.”

Lemon finished the game with seven strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings.  With two outs and the bases empty, he was removed from the game because he had reached the OHSAA mandated 125 maximum pitch count.  Brady O’Shea took over on the mound and delivered a two-pitch save, including a running catch of a sinking line drive by Mersing in centerfield.

“He was phenomenal,” said Coach Seiwert of Lemon’s performance on the mound.  “The only reason he came out was because of the pitch limit.  It was a big win.”

Liberty Center, leading Swanton 3-1 entering the top of the sixth inning, replaced starting pitcher Amstutz with Alan Atkinson.  Atkinson surrendered three hits to Carson Lemons, Adam Lemon and an RBI single to Evan Smigelski to make the score 3-2.  Amstutz returned to the mound but was unable to stop the momentum as the Bulldogs rallied for the win.

With respect to Lemon’s career strikeout total, now standing at 104, he thanked his parents and his teammates for their support, with a special thanks to his battery mate, catcher Drake Harris, for his work behind the plate.

With the win, Swanton moves its record to 5-3 on the season and 1-1 in the league. The Bulldogs face the Archbold Blue Streaks on Thursday at 5:00 PM at home.

Click on the lin k 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: The Bulldogs celebrate Adam Lemon’s 100th strikeout.

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Following several hours of dining and dancing at Swanton’s luxurious Birchwood Meadow Barn and Event Venue, the prom-goers of Swanton High School spent the rest of the evening at the after prom held at the Swanton Sports Center. The students enjoyed bowling, pool, and other games and were also treated to a waffle bar and other delicious offerings.

Click on the link above to access photos from the event. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.

Photo: Peighton Manning and Evan Smigelski

In an early season game against the Lady Knights of Otsego High School, Lady Bulldog senior pitcher, Taylor Forrest, broke the career strikeout record of 232, set a few years earlier by Brie Williams.  As a freshman, Taylor played first base but also started several games in the circle while most of the pitching duties were handled by Brie, who went on to sign with the highly regarded Owens Community Lady Express Softball program.  Since that record-breaking moment, Taylor has sent an additional 18 batters back to the dugout without putting the ball in play.  As of this writing, her career total stands at 250 with many more games to come.

“Hopefully, we can play deep into the tournament, but I would say another 15 or so games,” said Swanton head coach Lauren Yoder, estimating the number of additional opportunities Taylor will have to boost her total.  “She will set the bar high for anyone else coming through.  It’s very cool to leave your mark like that.  It couldn’t happen to a better person.  There is nobody else that outworks her, she’s just a great teammate and a great person overall.  I’m really happy for her.”

In her main pitching arsenal, Taylor throws a fastball, dropball, riseball and changeup, each beginning with a confident and intimidating glare towards the hitter.  “It’s an accomplishment I didn’t think I would ever get.  The fact that it came so soon in my senior year is kind of exciting,” she said.

With the bulk of the schedule remaining, Taylor, a 2023 First Team All-NWOAL player, has the 300 strikeout total dead in her sights.  “That’s my new goal.  If I can go above that I’ll be happy with myself for sure,” she remarked on that impressive milestone. 

Starting next fall, Taylor will have much larger goals to accomplish as she has officially committed to continue her softball career and her education at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio.  The Heidelberg coaching staff expects her to have an immediate impact on the program given her game is not just one dimensional.  Taylor is also a force with the bat in her hand and is a very good fielder as well.

The nickname for Heidelberg University’s athletic teams is the Student Princes and Taylor will proudly wear that on her next softball uniform.  Soon, she will soon be a former Lady Bulldog but for now, and quite possibly for many years to come, she will be Swanton High School’s Strikeout Queen.

Photo: Taylor Forrest