On Saturday afternoon, in front of family, friends, faculty and fellow students, Lady Bulldog Emma Crow signed a National Letter of Intent to continue her education and basketball career at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio. Explaining her reasons for choosing Otterbein, Emma said, “I think the biggest thing was their immediate support. It’s really hard for a coach that’s three hours away to come to a game and they had no problem coming out to my home opener and the traveling three hours home. In my first visit to meet the girls, they had nothing but nice things to say about our head coach (Diana Noles) and you could just really tell it’s a really good community and family.”
Anytime one of your players moves on to the next level, it speaks well of the player, of course, but also for the program. “It’s her growth and maturity over the years that has gotten her to this point,” remarked Swanton head coach Jared Walker. “It’s been very nice. She’s not afraid to go in and get rebounds. Being a 5’6” guard it’s sometimes tough but she’s very good at using her leverage to go in and get us rebounds. She’s aggressive on defense and she leads the team in points, assists and rebounds.” Coach Walker also mentioned Emma’s leadership qualities and how well that translates from her point guard position to keep the other players on task. “That’s what seniors do and she’s really good at it,” he said.
Obviously, the proudest two people in the room that day were Emma’s parents, Shannon and Mark. “She put in a lot of work starting from the fifth grade,” said Mr. Crow. That’s been one of her main goals is to get to the college level to play. I think when she gets there, she’s going to do the same as she always does, put the hard work in and see what happens”. Mrs. Crow continued in a similar vein. “Her confidence comes from working so hard. When you work so hard you achieve and that gives you confidence,” she said. “Ultimately, she made the choice of Otterbein with academics in mind first. So, I was really happy.”
The basketball season is winding down and graduation is just a few months away. Emma will be competing in track and field this spring before she finally turns the high school tassel and prepares for the big time. In the Otterbein classrooms she plans to major in Pre-Health Science with the long-term goal of becoming a Physician’s Assistant.
Click on the link above to access photos from the signing. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
These photos were taken on Friday night prior to the Swanton vs Archbold Blue Streaks boys varsity basketball game. 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.
The Liberty Center Tigers (14-0) and the Bryan Lady Golden Bears (10-0) finished undefeated during the regular season of the NWOAL and continued their winning ways in the league tournament on Saturday at River City Bowl-a-Way lanes in Napoleon. Both regular season and tournament results are factored into the league’s final standings.
The Tigers, with all five starters averaging 200+ on the season, bowled a score of 3692 in the three team games and five Baker games format. The Bryan Golden Bears were second at 3251 and the Evergreen Vikings came in third with a 3459 followed by Swanton at 3255, Patrick Henry at 3245, Wauseon at 2903 and Delta at 2846. Individually, the top five bowlers were: Jacob Sexton of Liberty Center (676), Landon Amstutz of Liberty Center (673), Henry Burton of Bryan (660), Scott Rafferty-Reside of Swanton (638) and Michael Laver of Evergreen (609).
The Lady Golden Bears, who led the Lady Tigers by only 24 pins after the team games, came on strong in the Baker Games to roll a 3292 to finish ahead of Liberty Center with a 3159. The Wauseon Lady Indians placed third with a 3040, the Patrick Henry Lady Patriots were fourth with a 2771 and the Delta Lady Panthers finished fifth at 2008. Individually, the top five bowlers were: AJ Seedorf (605), Zoey Gilett (557), Natalie Stevens (523), Kymberlee Yocom (521) and Ashley Grymonprez (517).
Click on the link above to access photos from the tournament. Photos are in the jpeg format to allow for editing and can be downloaded for NO CHARGE courtesy of the fultoncountymedia.com website.
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!
Fulton County Ohio Media 