The Village Reporter - January 10th, 2024

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Reporter

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WEEKLY NORTHWEST OHIO - WILLIAMS COUNTY / FULTON COUNTY AREA NEWS (USPS 168-440) - VOLUME 15 EDITION 2

JANUARY 10TH, 2024 - (NEW EDITION EVERY WEDNESDAY)

Inside This Week's Edition 2024 Pride Of Williams County Pageant Set EDON RALLIES IN FOURTH QUARTER TO BEAT MONTPELIER 54-48

WAUSEON CITY COUNCIL

Mayor & Council Sworn In For The New Year

Parkview Bryan Hospital Welcomes First Baby Of 2024 BRYAN BEGINS CHASE FOR ANOTHER LEAGUE TITLE BY BEATING WAUSEON 60-24 Hilltop National Honor Society For 2023-2024 BAKER ECLIPSES 1,000 CAREER POINTS IN 66-8 TROUNCING OF NORTH CENTRAL

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

COUNCIL … Mayor Kathy Huner swears in council members Simon (left), Tijerina (middle), and Chamberlin (right).

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Wauseon City Council held their first meeting of the year on Tuesday, January 2nd. The meeting

began at 5:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence. Law Director Thomas McWatters III then administered the oath of office to Mayor Kathy Huner.

Following her taking of the oath,

Mayor Huner proceeded to administer the oath of office to councilor Shane Chamberlin, councilor Brandon Tijerina, and councilor Jeremy Simon.

CONTINUED ON PAGE A9

EDGERTON VILLAGE COUNCIL

Edgerton Fire Department In Need Of Support

January Birthdays & Anniversaries At Williams County Senior Centers SWANTON FALLS AT HOME TO PATRICK HENRY Winners Of Annual Newspaper Coloring Contest

PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

DEPARTMENT IN NEED … Councilor Wallace made sure to make the current needs of the Edgerton Fire Department known to council, and spoke passionately about the need to get younger locals involved.

By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Edgerton Village Council met for the first time in 2024 on January 3rd.

Present were Mayor Robert Day, Village Administrator Dawn Fitzcharles, Fiscal Officer Denise Knecht, Administrative Assistant Amanda Knecht, and Coun-

cilors Lance Bowsher, Sharon Blinzler, Pam Wampler, Leslie VanAusdale, Chuck Wallace, and Jason Gruver.

After Mayor Robert Day, councilor Chuck Wallace, and councilor Leslie VanAusdale took their oath of office, a motion made by councilor Gruver to elect CONTINUED ON PAGE A9

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Obituaries & Death Notices Catherine Wagenknecht (1951 – 2023) (Wauseon High School Graduate)

You may have known her as Catherine Ann Ledyard born on March 24, 1951, until June 17, 1972, when she married James (Jim) Wagenknecht and became forever known as Catherine (Cathy) Ann Wagenknecht.

You may have known her from Wauseon where she was born to Charles and Leilah Ledyard and graduated from Wauseon High School. Sister to Mike Ledyard (Kris) and Norris Ledyard.

You may have known her through her husband Jim, or through her children Lori Wagenknecht (Jeff Brown) and Benjamin Wagenknecht (Elizabeth Wagenknecht).

You may have known her through her grandchildren Aaron Brown, Allyssa Wagenknecht, Leilah Wagenknecht, Vivian Wagenknecht, Evelyn Wagenknecht, and Johna Brown.

You may have known her from Lake George and Devil’s Lake where she spent her summers sailing, water skiing, and boating with the Ledyard’s and the Wagenknecht’s.

You may have known her throughout her career beginning as an LPN at Mercy Hospital downtown Toledo, OH, to Computer Land, Sarcom, Cardinal Staffing, and eventually retiring from Pomeroy.

You may have known her from Myrtle Beach where she and Jim spent a month or two during the winter for about 14 years on the beach enjoying family and friends. You may have known her from Hamilton Lake where she and Jim retired to. She was President of the Hamilton Lake Association and was involved with the Stueben County Lake Council.

You may have known her as a faithful servant of God whose faith was the cornerstone of her life since childhood. She offered spiritual leadership and companionship and led Bible studies and prayer groups in various churches over her lifetime.

Cathy wore many hats throughout her life, but the most important were loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother (Mee-Mah). She will be in our hearts forever and never forgotten.

Services for Cathy will be private. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Fair Haven Foundation, 1702 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202 or to Heartland Hospice, 2720 Dupont Commerce Ct., #210, Ft. Wayne, IN 46825.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon, Ohio has been entrusted with arrangements.

Linda Whitney (1948 – 2023) (Lifetime Member Of Bryan AmVets)

Linda K. Whitney, age 75, of Edgerton, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023, at Parkview Bryan Hospital following complications from multiple strokes.

Linda worked as a nurse’s aide, component finisher, bar tender at the Bryan AmVets and retired as a dietary aide from Fountain Park Assisted Living.

In retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and her dog, Bear. She was an avid OSU Buckeye’s fan and raised money to support Alzheimer’s Disease research for many years.

She was a life member of the Bryan AmVets and VFW Auxiliary and had attended Melbern United Methodist Church.

Linda was born on December 4, 1948 in Paulding, Ohio, the daughter of Norman and Irene B. (Saco) Stockman. She attended Edgerton High School. She married Junior O. Whitney on May 9, 1971 and he preceded her in death on December 28, 1993.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Dawn Tocaciu, of Edgerton; life partner, Hal Barrow, of Edgerton; granddaughter, Alicia (Mitchell) Christleib, of Edgerton and great grandchildren, Brianna and Brantley Shankster, Elizabeth Strausborg and Maysen Christleib.

She was preceded in death by her father, Norman Stockman, mother and stepfather, Irene and Richard Streeter and her sons, Michael and Edward Whitney.

Funeral services were held on Friday, January 5, 2024 at the Krill Funeral Home in Edgerton with Pastor Chris Avell officiating. Burial followed at Brown Cemetery in Bryan.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be directed to Elera Caring Hospice.

Discover the Distinctive Difference! www.distinctiveroof.com Jason Luke

Eugene “Gene” Freese (1962 – 2024) (Resident Of Montpelier)

Eugene “Gene” Scott Freese, 61, of Montpelier, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He was born on June 23, 1962 in Montpelier to William and Janet L. (Perkins) Freese. Gene graduated from Montpelier High School in 1982 and on October 7, 1989 he married Peggy M. Rummel in Montpelier, and she survives.

Gene attended Life Changing Church in Edgerton.

From the time of his childhood, he collected Breyer Horses. Gene also dearly loved his dog Dolly, and he will be missed by many.

Gene is survived by his loving wife Peggy M. Freese of Montpelier; parents, William and Janet Freese of Montpelier; two brothers, William (Sheryl) Freese and Ron (Becky) Freese all of Montpelier; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Gene was held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at the Thompson Funeral Home on Main Street in Montpelier. A funeral service took place immediately following visitation at the funeral home with Pastor Rick Stiver officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s memory to Peggy, to help defray funeral expenses.

Condolences may be left for the family at www. thethompsonfuneralhome.com.

Cletus Noll (1936 – 2024)

(Member Of Montpelier Moose & Eagles) Cletus F. Noll, 87, of Montpelier, Ohio passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He was born on September 19, 1936 in Caldwell, Ohio to Bernard E. and Irene K. (Crum) Noll. Cletus graduated from Coldwater High School in Ohio. He served in the Ohio National Guard for 3 years.

Cletus worked for New

Idea in Coldwater, Ohio.

He was also a truck driver for various trucking companies for 18 years. Cletus was a member of the Montpelier Moose and Eagles. He also enjoyed playing cards and dancing.

He is survived by his children Carol Noll, Elaine Lowmaster, Jan (Carl - deceased) Sonneberger, Becky Noll, Louie (Don) Warnecke, Rose (Eric) Metz, Steve (Petra) Noll, Francis (Amanda) Noll and Bernadette (Marty) Warnecke; twenty-six grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren; special friend Linda Palmer; siblings Susanna Sanning, Bernice Hemmelgarn, Adrian (Linda) Noll, Jerry (Carol) Noll, Charlene (Terry) Kittle, Marian (Duane) Kaiser, and brother-in-law Tom Zumberge.

Cletus was preceded in death by his parents, son Brian Noll, brothers Richard, Galen and Roger Noll and sister Rita Zumberge.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 6th, 2024 at the Thompson Funeral Home in Montpelier. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier.

Memorial contributions may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences can be left for the family at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.

Mary Snyder (1943 – 2024) (Montpelier Resident)

Mary Ellen (Frederick) Snyder, 80, of Montpelier and formerly of Toledo, peacefully passed away surrounded by her family, on Monday, January 1, 2024 at Evergreen Healthcare in Montpelier, OH. She was born on October 29, 1943 in Hackleburg, Alabama to Loranzie “Ranzie” and Lovie (Patterson) Frederick.

Mary worked for GM, Fisher Body Division in Tecumseh, Michigan, where she became the first female sewing machine repairman, working there until it’s closure in 1987. She then transferred to Power Train in Toledo and retired after 30 years of service.

Mary leaves behind to cherish her memory, four children, Theodore “Ted” Snyder, Jr., LeeEllen (Jerry) Scheanwald, Lance Snyder and Rainey (James) Gehring; 8 grandchildren, Joshua (Britney) Brown, Megan (Brent) Charette, Danielle Younglove, Taylor Knight, Cali (Evan) Penix, Kylee (Kyle) Groves, Jamie Gehring and Mariah (Mark) Maginn; 14 great-grandchildren, Heaven, Elizabeth, Brennan, Zander, Kyle Jr., Grayson, Maci, Leah, Mark Jr. “Bubba”, Evan, McKenzie, Jared, Raelynn and Ella, and one great-granddaughter, Destiny, on the way; two siblings, Christine Emerson and Duane Frederick; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother and sister, Aundell and Verlene; two adult siblings, Lois Mann and Willa Jean Fortner; and great grandson, Trenton.

Per her wishes, Mary will be cremated, and no public services will be held. Her family will celebrate her life privately and Mary will be laid to rest next to her parents in her home state of Alabama.

Memorials may be made in her memory to Elara Hospice.

Grace Kinsey (1939 – 2024)

(Member Of West Clinton Mennonite Church) Grace Evelyn (Waidelich) Kinsey, 84, of Archbold, passed away peacefully on Jan. 3, 2024 at Defiance Inpatient Hospice.

Grace was born Aug. 18, 1939 in Wauseon, Ohio, to Arthur and Vera (Nofzinger) Waidelich.

She married Ray Kinsey on Nov. 6, 1960, who preceded her in death Dec. 27, 2013.

Grace accepted Christ and was baptized at 11 years old and was a lifetime member of West Clinton Mennonite Church.

There she taught Sunday School, Bible School, and worked with the Wayfarers and MOPS groups. She was also a member of the Women’s Mennonite Sewing Circle, which was a favorite mission for her.

Grace enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, gardening, and singing with Ray. They also enjoyed traveling together in their motorhome.

She spent many hours in her flower gardens and often shared flower arrangements with friends and neighbors. She was a regular volunteer for 30 years at the Care and Share Gift & Thrift store.

Through the years, she wrote weekly letters to the children when they lived elsewhere, and to other relatives and friends.

In her later years, she enjoyed making and sending cards for birthdays and other important events in people’s lives. In addition to her husband, Grace was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Marvin and Virgil, and sisters-in-law Letha, Marilouise, and Arvilla.

She is survived by two sons, Randy (Kelly) of Avon Lake, Ohio, and Wesley (Michelle) of Archbold, and three daughters, Karen (Dennis) Kelley, of Carolina Shores, NC, Janet (Keith) Myers of Stryker, and Julie (Jay) Boykin of Caldwell, TX; 12 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She is also survived by brother Gene (Mary Alice) Waidelich and two sisters, Marjorie (Charles) Gautsche and Donna (Lyle) Friesen, all of Archbold.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, Jan. 7 at West Clinton Mennonite Church in Wauseon. A private family burial preceded the service.

The family suggests memorials be given to Gideons International, Mennonite Central Committee, or CHP Hospice of Defiance.

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A2 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

Russell McQuillin (1936 – 2024)

Elisabeth Ramsey (1934 – 2024)

V. Dudley Hillard (1925 – 2024)

Russell Elwin McQuillin, age 87, of Archbold, passed away January 1, 2024, at the Parkview Bryan Hospital. Russell worked as a farmer, at Sauder Woodworking, and at Samuel Mancino’s, Archbold.

Russell was born on April 12, 1936, in Wauseon, to the late Glen Elwin and Phoebe Ann (Pennington) McQuillin.

He was a Wauseon High School graduate of 1954.

On June 16, 1962, Russell married his beloved bride, Ruth Ann (Crossgrove), who preceded him in death October 6, 2004. Russell served his country in the United States Army.

He enjoyed running, biking, health, and fitness. He liked to stay active and enjoyed playing pool. Russell was also a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers. Russell was a member of the Archbold Evangelical Church.

Surviving Russell is his son, Rodney (Tammy) McQuillin of Wauseon; son, Rick McQuillin of Archbold; and daughter, Rita McQuillin (Matt Welch) of Archbold; grandchildren, Mindi (Derek) Lynn, Leah (James) Whitmire, Micah (Rachel) McQuillin, Eric (Megan) McQuillin, Caleb (Kelsey) McQuillin; Mylee McQuillin, and Josiah McQuillin; and sister-in-law, Hazel McQuillin.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Ann; parents; grandson, Aaron McQuillin; and brother, Robert McQuillin.

A memorial service took place at the Archbold Evangelical Church, on Friday, January 5, 2024, with Pastor John Horning officiating. Burial will be private at the Pettisville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Russell requested that memorial contributions be made to the Archbold Evangelical Church or the Archbold Fire and Rescue Department.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Grisier Funeral Home of Archbold is honored to serve the McQuillin family.

Elisabeth Hallie Ramsey left this world on January 4, 2024. She was born in London, England on July 4th, 1934.

Her father Thomas, a World War One veteran and renowned dermatologist, took his children for walks on the heath, telling them stories of the adventures of English robins and hedge hogs which he invented as they went along.

This kindled Elisabeth’s imagination and her love of little creatures (except frogs!) which she cultivated throughout her life. Her mother Hallie, quiet, gentle, and strong - taught her the importance of kindness, faith, dignity, and grace.

When she was only six years old, London was bombed for fifty-seven nights in a row by the Germans during World War II. This harrowing experience affected her deeply, both scarring her and giving her remarkable resilience during difficult times.

After the war, as she grew into a young woman, Elisabeth loved attending church, developing a deep Christian faith, which she cherished her entire life.

She loved singing and dancing with her friends, she rode horses, she swam in the sea, she roared around the streets of London on the back of a motorbike.

Traveling on a train in 1952 she met a handsome young American serviceman from Tennessee named Carl Ramsey and they fell in love. Despite her parents’ concerns, Elisabeth was a believer in destiny.

They married in 1954, settling in Dayton, Ohio. Elisabeth had six children with Carl in a marriage lasting forty-two years.

They moved to Delta in 1971, where she developed an appreciation for small town life. There she developed a network of friends that would be dear to her the rest of her life. She had an innate ability to charm people, making them feel listened to and cared for.

After her marriage to Carl ended, she fell in love with Clarence Finney, with whom she shared a passion for antiques.

They lived a simple, quiet life together for over twenty years on Burr Road in Wauseon, Ohio. Clarence was devoted to her until the very end and did his best to help care for her under the most difficult circumstances.

Elisabeth was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Throughout her life she was childlike at heart, always loving towards little children, who were drawn to her. She was the center of gravity in her family, always keeping track of her children’s lives. She loved music, movies, books, nice clothes, and always, always anything and everything British.

The bond with the country of her birth was always close to her heart, yet she was also a proud citizen of the USA. Elisabeth loved her home and made it her own, furnishing it with many fine and unusual things.

Throughout her life she followed where her heart led her, once her mind was made up, it rarely could be changed. In the end her story is best described as one of love. She leaves behind something beautiful in the hearts of all she loved.

Elisabeth was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Hallie Brain, her husband Carl Ramsey, her brothers John Brain, and Tony Brain and also her first born son David, who died at birth.

Elisabeth is survived by her companion Clarence Finney and her children: Stephen (Linda) Ramsey, Andrew (Penny) Ramsey, Mark Ramsey, Amy (Robert) Fisher, Matthew (Sheryl) Ramsey. Grand children: Jennifer (Justin) Fogle, Sara (Ben) Lahman, Michael Savage, Thomas (Rachel) Ramsey, Colin (Stephanie) Fisher, Aubrey (Paul) Mason, Jacob (Elizabeth) Funchion, Nicholas (Michaela) Funchion, and ten great grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating Elisabeth’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 129 Elm St., Wauseon, Ohio 43567. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to FISH food pantry, 222 Depot St., Wauseon, Ohio 43567 in her memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 5825 St Hwy 109 in Delta. Please visit www.barnesfuneralchapel.com to send condolences to Elisabeth’s family.

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vaughn Dudley Hillard, of Montpelier, who left us just shy of his 99th birthday.

A resilient soul and a true patriarch, he entered the arms of Jesus on January 3, 2024 surrounded by the love of his family. His legacy is one marked by honor, commitment and a love story that spanned 73 remarkable years.

Vaughn Dudley Hillard was born on February 9, 1925 in Bridgewater Township, the son of Fay O. and Ina B. (Holt) Hillard.

He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1943 and went on to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tri State University in Angola.

Dudley retired from Hause Valve in Montpelier where he worked as Chief Engineer for approximately 30 years.

Dudley served his country as a Staff Sargent in the United States Army, 12th Infantry Regiment Division, and did so with unwavering bravery during World War II, earning both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his valor.

His sacrifice and dedication to preserving freedom stand as a testament to the strength of character that defined his life.

A hero in every sense, he carried the weight of history on his shoulders and emerged as a symbol of resilience of generations to come.

Beyond his military service, Dudley found his greatest joy in the enduring love he shared with his beloved wife of 73 years, Nancy (Rundell) Hillard. They married on August 4, 1950 at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Montpelier.

Their commitment to each other was a beacon of inspiration, weathering the storms of time with grace and unwavering devotion. His role as a loving husband, father and grandfather, shaped the foundation of a closeknit family.

Dudley is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy Hillard; his loving children, Cynthia (Anver) Suleiman, Connie (Greg) Shoup, Stacie (Chuck) Moore and Steve Hillard; eight grandchildren, Shane (Marianne) Hillard, Kyle (Melody) Hillard, Travis (Sarah) Shoup, Brandon (Erika) Shoup, Anny (Tim) Gardner, Ashley (John) Waterson, Alysia (Seth) Miller and Briton (Brooke) Moore; and 17 great-grandchildren. Their family bonds, forged in love and strengthened through shared experiences, reflect the enduring legacy of al life well lived. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Genevieve Youse.

Dudley had a love of fishing, golfing, and woodworking. Many woodworking pieces of Dudley’s can be found in many households throughout Montpelier. He was also a member of St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Montpelier.

Dudley will be remembered for his strength, kindness and the indomitable spirit that guided him. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul, we find solace in the countless memories and lessons he leaves behind. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the gratitude of a nation and the love of those who cherish him.

A celebration of Dudley’s life took place on Friday, January 5, 2024 at St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Montpelier with Pastor Kevin Doseck officiating. Military honors were presented by the Montpelier Veterans at Riverside Cemetery following the service.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dudley’s memory to St. Paul’s Methodist Church or CHP Hospice.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.

(1954 Graduate Of Wauseon High School)

V E T E R A N

Merle Griffis (1930 -2024) (Formerly Of West Unity)

Merle R. Griffis, 93, formerly of West Unity, Ohio passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Hillside Country Living, Bryan.

Merle was born December 9, 1930, in LaFayette, Indiana, son of the late Merle and Mary (Chaney) Griffis.

Merle graduated from Stockwell High School in 1948 where he excelled in baseball and basketball.

He served in the United States Army in the 18th Engineer Combat Battalion assigned to the 7th Army as a demolition specialist. Merle honorably served from January 12, 1951, until his honorable discharge on May 21, 1953.

He married Betty (Lohse) Smith on June 5, 1981, in Archbold, Ohio and she survives. Merle worked for Lutheran Mutual Life Insurance Company as an insurance salesman, retiring in 1990. He also managed Hillcrest Country Club for 15 years, retiring in 2005. Merle was an active member of Trinty Lutheran Church in Bryan, Ohio, where he served on Church Council, Lutheran Men in Mission, and participated in the Furniture Bank of Williams County, as well as the Bed Brigade.

He was a member of the West Unity American Legion Post 0669, a former member of the VFW, Wood County Cancer Society, Williams County Habitat for Humanity, and Habitat for Humanity Public Relation Committee in Florida.

After retirement, he was a professional driver for the Montpelier Auto Auction, retiring in 2013. Merle enjoyed wintering in Haines City, Florida with his wife, Betty. He enjoyed playing golf, cards and was an avid Purdue University sports fan.

Surviving is his loving wife, Betty Griffis of Bryan, Ohio; eight children; Stephen (Kathleen) Griffis of Advance, North Carolina; Terry Elliott of Perrysburg, Ohio; Connie (Paul) Powell of Spring Lake, North Carolina; Debbie (Rob) Curtis of Perrysburg, Ohio; Vicky Kline of Fayetteville, Tennessee; Tom (Lisa) Smith of West Unity, Ohio; Jayne (Joe) McKanna of Bowling Green, Ohio; Sue (Jeff) Martin of Cincinnati, Ohio; 19 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters, Joan Murtaugh and Patty Horney.

Visitation for Merle R. Griffis will be Wednesday, January 10, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 509 Center Street, Bryan, Ohio, where funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the church with Pastor Mary Beth Smith-Gunn officiating. Interment will follow at Floral Grove Cemetery, West Unity. Arrangements are in care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, 202 North Liberty Street, West Unity.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Williams County Habitat for Humanity or Alzheimer’s Association.

Condolences may be sent to the family or memories may be shared at www.oberlinturnbull.com

V E T E R A N

(Moved To Delta In 1971)

Janice Mielke (1955 – 2024) (Edon Resident)

Janice Lee Mielke, age 68, of Edon, Ohio passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, Indiana.

A 1974 graduate of Angola High School, Janice was employed for 22 years with Micromatic Textron and an additional 8 years with Camden Café. Janice greatly enjoyed reading, spending time with her dogs and, most of all, being a mother.

Janice was born on January 11, 1955 in Greenville, South Carolina, the daughter of Anderson T. and Helen Virginia (Ingle) Payne. She married Wesley M. Mielke on June 10, 1973 and he preceded her in death.

Janice is survived by her son Shawn (Crystal) Mielke of Edon, Ohio; step-daughter Angelique Mielke of Waterloo, Indiana; brothers, Jerry (Mary Burrell) Payne of St. Paris, Ohio and Donald (Cathy) Payne of Mooresville, Indiana; sisters, Joyce (Mike) Nelson of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, Sharon (James) Crager of Angola, Indiana, Rita Alexander of Hamilton, Indiana, Deborah (Rick) Cleckner of Angola, Indiana, and Carol German of Fairview, Texas; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her husband, mother, father, two nieces, and one nephew.

A visitation will be held at Krill Funeral Home, 204 West Indiana Street, Edon, Ohio on Friday January 19th from 2 P.M.- 4 P.M., followed by a celebration of life with Pastor Michael Hesterman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Steuben County Humane Society.

(1943 Graduate Of Montpelier High School)

V E T E R A N

Larry Fritch (1936 – 2024) (Owned Ney Auto Service)

Larry E. Fritch, age 87, of Ney, Ohio passed away Friday, January 5, 2024 at Glenn Park of Defiance with his family at his side.

Larry was a mechanic by trade and owned Ney Auto Service for many years. He later worked as a journeyman mechanic at General Motors. Larry also farmed for 50 years.

He was a volunteer firefighter for Washington Township and served as assistant chief for several years.

Larry was a member of the Defiance County Fish & Game Club and a life member of the NRA. He enjoyed hunting, including taking 24 hunting trips to Wyoming, fishing and was an avid collector and gardener.

Larry E. Fritch was born on May, 31, 1936 in Bryan, Ohio the son of Herbert “Herb” B. and Agnes I. (Schwarzbek) Fritch.

He was a graduate of Ney High School. Larry married LeAnn Steele on August 10, 1957 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church at The Bend and she survives.

Larry is also survived by his daughter, Vicki (Larry) Rhodes, of Farmer, Ohio; 5 grandchildren, Haley, Ashleigh, Landon, Hunter and Michael; 5 great grandchildren and a brother, Gene Fritch, of Atkins, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his three sons, Doug Fritch, Dean “Charlie” Fritch and Donald “Donny” Fritch.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 3:00-7:00 P.M. in the Krill Funeral Home, 860 West Mulberry Street, Bryan. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024 in the funeral home. Private interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations can be given to the Washington Township Fire Department or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

To leave a condolence or sign the online guest book, please visit http://www.krillfuneralservice.com.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A3

Donald Mock (1950 – 2023)

Anna Belle Smith (1933- 2024)

Jacqueline Weber (1959 – 2024)

Donald Eugene Mock, age 73, of Swanton, passed away unexpectedly at the University of Toledo Medical Center on December 31, 2023.

He was born November 2, 1950 to the late Willard Wayne Mock and Bessie Pearl (Baldwin) Mock. He would graduate from Delta High School in May 1970.

After graduating he would marry the love of his life, Raecynthia Kennedy on December 20, 1970 and together they would raise four children, together they spent 43 years before her passing in July 7, 2013. Donald spent most of his working years at the Campbell Soup Company in Napoleon, giving them 41 years before retiring in 2014.

When his health allowed, you would find him at local auctions, specifically a Whalen one.

Left to cherish his memories are children, Donald (Rebecca) Mock II of Delta, Richard (Muthoni) Mock of Delta, Shana Morey of Swanton and Robert (Sondra) Zimmerman II of Delta; sister, Donna Minnich - Piercy of Delta and grandchildren, Ethan, Dylan, Donavin, Christopher, Domanick, Joshawa, Kacie, Ashley and Wangūi; one great granddaughter, Evelynn Heffner.

Friends will be received from 10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, January 10, 2023 at Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 5825 St Hwy 109, Delta, Ohio 43515; where a funeral service honoring Donald’s life will begin at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday; also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Delta. Pastor Maryann Reimund will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing a show of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Open Door, 104 Monroe St. Delta, Ohio 43515 in his memory.

Please visit www.barnesfuneralchapel.com to send condolences to Donald’s family.

Anna Belle Smith, age 90, of Wauseon, passed away on January 5, 2024, in her home. Anna Belle was born on June 8, 1933, in Fulton County, to the late Clay and Grace (Quillet) Eby. She was a graduate of Chesterfield High School.

On December 28, 1955, Anna Belle married the love of her life, George Smith, and he survives.

She worked as a supervisor at McCord.

Anna Belle loved to crochet and was known for her scrubbies that she crocheted and gave away. She was known to send greeting cards to people all of the time.

She enjoyed helping with Bible School at local churches and was a long-time member of the Haven Heights Baptist Church.

Anna Belle is survived by her husband, George Smith of Wauseon; daughter, Cheryl (Casey) SmithMiller of Chapel Hill, NC; daughter, Julie (Ken) Soldenwagner of Wauseon; grandchildren, Cassandra (Curtis) MacDonald, Amber (Chris) Dillon, Aaron Soldenwagner, Kyle (Katherine) Miller, Ryan (Katherine) Miller, and Brett Miller; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, George Eby, Marie Smith, and Joyce Eby. Visitation for Anna Belle will take place on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Haven Heights Baptist Church in Wauseon, from 2 pm to 5 pm. A funeral service will take place on Friday, January 12, 2024, at the church, at 11 am, with Pastor Lance Wyse officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Smith Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Haven Heights Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon is honored to serve the Smith family.

Jacqueline Pauline Weber, age 64, of Edgerton, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Dupont Hospital in Fort Wayne following an extensive battle with cancer.

Jacquie worked at Cooper Tire and Rubber for 19 years. She was a life member of the Life Changing Church in Edgerton.

She enjoyed sewing and quilting, baking cookies, ministering to women and others fighting cancer; but most of all enjoyed time with her children and grandchildren.

Jacqueline was born on October 10, 1959 in Cloquet, Minnesota, the daughter of Anton and June (Troutner) Altringer. She attended Fort Wayne Bible College. She married Duane Weber on September 12, 1981 and he survives.

Jacquie is also survived by her daughters, Elizabeth (Benjamin) Campbell, of Huntington, Indiana and Jennifer (Gary) Culp, of Cromwell, Indiana; son, Anthony Weber and fiancé, Jennifer Hurtig, of Boston, Massachusetts; 4 grandchildren, Lilian, Violet, Oliver and Olivia; parents, Anton and June Altringer, of Cloquet, Minnesota and brother, Russell (Kelly) Altringer, of Mission Viejo, California.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at the Krill Funeral Home in Edgerton, with Pastor Rick Stiver officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be directed to Cancer Assistance of Williams County.

To sign the online register or to send condolences, please visit http://www.krillfuneralservice.com.

(Member Of Haven Heights Baptist Church)

(Delta High School Graduate)

(Edgerton Resident)

Williams County ~ Fulton County Area

POLICE, EMT, FIRE, TRAFFIC & COURT NEWS BRYAN POLICE December 28th •422 W High St; burglar alarms •800-B E Maple St; foot patrol •Bryan St / Lebanon St; suspicious •High St / Lebanon St; assist public •1100-B W High St; foot patrol •Main St / High St; traffic stop •Imagination Station; assist, public •727 S Main St; neighbor dispute •1 Faber Dr; lockouts •W High St / Enterprise Dr; traffic stop •1200-B S Main St; traffic stop •1399 E High St; assist, dept.

•1215 S Portland St; assist, dept.

•304 W High St; assist, public •142 N Main St; assault •402 S Main St; lockouts •Main St / Wilson St; juveniles •1210 S Main St; assist, public •Union St / High St; traffic stop •403 N Main St; traffic stop •403 N Main St; K-9 assist •308 N Union St; assist, public December 29th •403 E Mulberry St; crew •Main St / Hamilton St; 403 E Mulberry St; crew •936 E Wilson St; domestic •915 E Bryan St; assist, public •216 S Main St; juveniles •428 N Walnut St; assist, dept.

•511 N Union St; trespass •825 N Main St; auto violation •938 E Wilson St; welfare check •511 N Union St; suspicious •411 N Main St; info.

•1 Courthouse Square; peacekeep •623 S Beech St; assist, public December 30th •111 Palmer Ln; harassment •314 S Walnut St; burglar alarms •824 E High St; domestic •1215 S Main St; welfare check •CR 15 / CR C; crew •300-B E Bryan St; warrants •632 E South St; auto violation •1380 S Main St; lockouts •1700-B E High St; welfare check •100-B S Lynn St; parking violation •Wilson St / Emmet St; traffic stop •Cherry ST / High St; traffic stop •Glen Arbor Dr / High St; traffic stop •300-B W High St; assist, public •High St / Bruce Dr; traffic stop •High St / Glen Arbor Dr; traffic stop December 31st •100-B VanGundy Dr; traffic stop •800-B E High St; assist, public •1205 S Main St; traffic stop •Wilson St / Emmet St; traffic stop •Mulberry St / Cherry St; traffic stop •221 S Beech St; crew •221 S Beech St; assist, dept.

•936 E Wilson St; assist dept.

•119 N Baker St; civil •511 N Union St; assist, public •433 W High St; assist, dept.

•Emmet St / Mulberry St; traffic stop •121 S Walnut St; traffic stop •341 W High St; traffic stop

•232 S Union St; suspicious •1700-B E High St; nuisance January 1st •232 S Union St; traffic stop •200-B N Union St; traffic stop •Walnut St / High St; traffic stop •4123 CR H; K-9 assist •100-B S Main St; traffic stop •317 Bruce Dr; assist, public •433 W High St; welfare check •910 Wesley Ave; dog complaints •Lebanon St / High St; hazardous conditions •813 Haver Dr; lockouts •211 W High St; civil •300-B N Lynn St; parking violation •227 S Emmet St; property found •1433 N Main St; general •Walnut St / Holden St; traffic stop •Union St / Fountain Grove Dr; traffic stop •1215 S Main St; traffic stop •Perry St / Walnut St; traffic stop •936 E Wilson St; peacekeep •1215 S Main St; traffic stop •103 W Butler St; shoplifting •433 W High St; assist, dept.

January 2nd •504 E Edgerton St; welfare check •1100-B W High St; extra patrol •433 W High St; assist, dept.

•1200 Rays Dr; welfare check •221 N Main St; 911 hangup •511 N Union St; vandalism •402 S Main St; trespass •342 S Beech St; parking violation •323 N Williams St; peacekeep •100-B E Edgerton St; welfare check •911 E High St; warrants •Toy St / High St; traffic stop •Maple St / Toy St; traffic stop •201 W Butler St; peacekeep •323 N Williams St; peacekeep •304 W High St; 911 hangup •200-B N Beech St; assist, public January 3rd •Trevitt St / Main St; traffic stop •Main St / Foster St; traffic stop •200-B S Main St; traffic stop •Lynn St / Butler St; parking violation •1600-B S Main St; immobile vehicle •105 Palmer Ln; 911 hangup •910 E Maple St; assist, public •216 S Main St; crew •216 S Main St; assist, dept.

•1215 S Main St; lockouts •316 W Perry St; assist, public •924 E High St; general •N Cherry St / E Mulberry St; traffic stop •800-B E Wilson St; auto violation •S Main St / E South St; traffic stop •924 E High St; crew •1200-B E Wilson St; traffic stop •S Main St / Holden St; traffic stop EDGERTON POLICE December 28th •233 N Michigan, Car fire •113 E Lynn, Harassment •124 Maple, Fraud •307 E Gerhart, Animal problem •223 W Sargent, Suspicious activity

December 30th •343 E Hull, Well-being check •223 W Sargent, Investigation January 1st •54 Madyson, Domestic January 2nd •207 W Hull, Lifting assist •223 W Sargent, Drug complaint January 3rd •705 W Indiana #25, Agency assist •207 W Hull, Medical January 4th •358 E Gerhart #213, Trauma •707 N Michigan, Choking •111 E River, 911 hang up EDON POLICE December 28th •101 Marilyn, Lockout December 29th •308 N Church, Theft January 3rd •402 Marilyn, Juvenile problem January 4th •105 Kenny Ray, Suspicious car •102 Kenny Ray, Attempted B&E WILLIAMS COUNTY EMS December 28th •600 S Union #19, Chest pain •TP MM 8.5, Pi accident •14066 Selwyn, Medical •BCH Med Surg to Toledo Promedica, Transfer •1709 E Wilson, Medical •Ace Corners, Trauma •Bryan Telemetry to Parkview Regional, Transfer •Bryan Med Surg to Fairlawn Nursing, Transfer •BCH Telemetry to Parkview Regional, Transfer •17679 SR 34, Medical •1104 Wesley, Medical •125 Shire Crest #104, Medical •Bryan ER to Certus, Transfer December 29th •411 W Brown #B, Medical •12731 Co Rd A, Medical •307 Mill, Medical •BCH ER to Toledo Children’s, Transfer •111 S Defiance #2B, Medical •428 N Walnut, Medical •BCH Meg Surg to Parkview Regional, Transfer •Bryan ER to Parkview Regional, Transfer •219 Park, Convulsions •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical •1012 Clover, Breathing •18475 Co Rd O, Medical December 30th •Bryan ER to Evergreen, Transfer •Co Rd 15 S of Co Rd C, Pi accident

•328 W Vine, Medical •201 E Wabash, Allergy •11495 SR 15 #2, Medical •12114 Co Rd 13 #5, Medical •BCH ER to Parkview Nursing, Transfer •201 E Wabash, Heart problem •406 Walz, Medical •714 S Michigan, Medical •WCGH ER to BCH ICU, Transfer •6695 SR 15 #99, Medical December 31st •221 S Beech, Medical •936 E Wilson #E4, Suicide attempt •9876 Co Rd 16, Trauma •220 S East, Medical •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical •108 E Indiana, Stand by •2015 US 20, Structure fire •Bryan ER to Evergreen, Transfer •8381 Co Rd A, Medical •502 Bryant, Medical •TP MM 3, Pi accident •340 N Monroe, Trauma January 1st •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical •BCH Med Surg to Fairlawn, Transfer •328 W Vine, Medical •502 N Liberty, Unruly child •109 Sycamore, Medical •22891 Co Rd B50, Medical •215 S Pleasant, Convulsions •Bryan ER to Parkview Nursing, Transfer •202 Elbar, Trauma •Bryan ER to Parkview Regional, Transfer January 2nd •20/P, Pi accident •328 W Vine, Medical •201 Park, Trauma •310 Arthur, Trauma •530 S Platt, Trauma •BCH Telemetry to CHP, Transfer •102 Clark, Medical •5842, SR 15, Chest pain •BCH Telemetry to Evergreen, Transfer •207 W Hull, Trauma •124 Palmer, Breathing •BCH ER to Toledo Hospital, Transfer •125 Shire Crest #103, Medical •434 Old Farm, Medical •526 Bryant, Medical January 3rd •15/O, Pi accident •13485 SR 15, Medical •1724 Colonial, Medical •328 W Vine, Medical •442 W High, Breathing •1433 N Main, Medical •BCH Telemetry to Evergreen, Transfer •BCH ER to Parkview Randalia, Transfer •207 W Hull, Medical •205 S State, Breathing •13197 SR 15, Medical •103 E Lynn, Convulsions •3151 Co Rd 2425, Medical •304 Clear Fork, Medical •BCH to Parkview Regional Er, Transfer •WCGH ER to St V’s, Transfer CONTINUED ON PAGE A5

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A4 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

January 4th •1433 N Main, Medical •BCH ER to Fountain Park, Transfer •3151 Co Rd 2425, Medical •WCGH ER to BCH Telemetry, Transfer •358 E Gerhart #213, Trauma •416 First, Trauma •206 S Pleasant, Trauma •124 Palmer, Breathing •707 N Michigan, Choking •19259 US 20, Medical •17706 Co Rd 12, Medical •Bryan ICU to St. V’s, Transfer •307 E North, Medical WILLIAMS COUNTY FIRE December 28th •233 N Michigan, Car fire •TP MM 8.5, Pi accident December 29th •Co Rd Q W of SR 49, Controlled burn •4440 E Territorial, Medical •24075 US 6, Fire alarm December 30th •12114 Co Rd 13 #5, Medical December 31st •2015 US 20, Structure fire •201 S Michigan, Stand by •TP MM 3, Pi accident January 1st •1605 N 950, Mutual aid January 2nd •20/P, Pi accident •201 Park, Trauma January 3rd •SR 15/O, Pi accident •6440 E Territorial, Medical January 4th •12113 Co Rd I, Controlled burn •14212 Selwyn, Alarm MONTPELIER POLICE December 28th •401 Snyder, Alarm •14066 Selwyn, Medical •1003 S Platt, Juvenile •WCGH Er to Hutch’s Towing, Citizen assist •233 N Michigan, Car fire •Ace Corners, Trauma •13920 SR 107, Agency assist •501 E Madison, Missing dog •604 E Main, Misdemeanor warrant December 29th •411 W Brown #B, Medical •307 Mill, Medical •1812 Magda, Alarm •219 Park, Medical •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical December 30th •303 Empire, Juvenile •719 S Harrison, Domestic •201 E Wabash, Medical December 31st •312 W Main, Disorderly •220 S East, Medical •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical •14502 Co Rd 15, 911 hang up •221 Empire, Civil •S Platt Bridge, Animal problem •502 Bryant, Medical •340 N Monroe, Medical January 1st •424 S Pleasant, Disorderly •106 Broad, Recovered prop •924 Charlie’s Way, Medical •11471 SR 15, Miscellaneous •E Main/Lincoln, Miscellaneous •215 S Pleasant, Medical •1444 Whitaker, Lockout •13056 SR 15, Disorderly January 2nd •510 Bryant, Agency assist •1150 E Main, Alarm •1444 Whitaker, Lockout •201 Park, Medical •313 S East, Animal problem •530 S Platt, Medical •119 E Jefferson, Domestic •526 Bryant, Medical January 3rd •13485 SR 15, Medical •129 W Main, Lockout •207 E Lawrence, Nuisance •129 W Wabash, Suspicious January 4th •306 S Pleasant, Medical •204 W Main, Escort •13038 SR 15, Agency assist •308 Lafayette, Keep the peace •909 Snyder, Juvenile •14212 Selwyn, Alarm •S Harrison/E Washington, Traffic offense OHIO STATE PATROL December 28th •3930 SR 49, Pd accident •SR 191/G, Disabled vehicle •SR 49/Williams Defiance Co Line, Traffic hazard December 29th •US 6/15, Disabled vehicle •SR 34/12, Pd accident

•13/US 6, Traffic hazard

•125 Shire Crest #104, Medical •1057 E Meadow, Citizen assist

December 31st •2015 US 20, Structure fire •3945 SR 49, Property damage

December 30th •101 S Defiance, Found property •501 E Church #204, Agency assist •605 W Church, Animal problem •403 E North, Stray animal •123 S Main, Agency assist •600 Oak, Suspicious car

January 1st •C/SR 576, Disabled vehicle January 2nd •20/P, Pi accident

December 31st •US 20A, Traffic offense •608 W North, Well-being check

PIONEER POLICE December 28th •505 S State, 911 hang up •511 N State, Repossession December 29th •805 S State #18, Neighborhood problem •805 S State #8, Domestic December 31st •613 Lake Shore, Custodial January 1st •805 S State #8, 911 hang up

January 3rd •805 S State #19, Noise complaint •613 Lake Shore, Keep the peace •1001 S State, Lockout •103 E Lynn, Convulsions •304 Clear Fork, Medical

January 4th •516 Parkway, Wanted person •310 N Main #2, Agency assist •1301 W Jackson, Theft •610 W Jackson, Lockout •307 E North, Medical

January 4th •416 First, Well-being check

ARCHBOLD POLICE

STRYKER POLICE

December 28th •Lafayette/Victory, Traffic offense •400-b E Lutz, Traffic offense •N Defiance/W Lutz, Traffic offense •500-b Lafayette, Traffic offense •S Defiance/Schlatter, Traffic offense •Lafayette/S Pleasant, Traffic offense •200-b Nolan, Traffic offense •Jackson/S Jackson, Crash •800-b W Barre, Traffic offense •405 E Lutz, Miscellaneous •N Defiance/Stryker, Traffic offense •S Defiance/South, Traffic offense

December 29th •111 S Defiance #2B, Medical WILLIAMS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE December 28th •14553 SR 49, Investigation •10583 Co Rd 10A, Civil •134 Navajo, Deliver message •Ace Corners, Trauma •SR 49/Williams Defiance Co Line, Traffic hazard •223 W Sargent, Suspicious activity •3065 Co Rd 9, Suspicious activity •14896 SR 49, Investigation •US 20/5, Traffic hazard

December 29th •S Defiance/Taylor, Traffic offense •209 Brussel, Vehicle unlock •N Lincoln/Murbach, Traffic offense •600 Lafayette, Animal call •600 Lafayette, Special detail •301 N Defiance, Drunk

December 29th •2851 Co Rd Q, Citizen assist •2900 Co Rd C, Fraud •12464 Co Rd D, Alarm •US 127/M90, Traffic offense •12722 Co Rd 2, Agency assist

December 30th •S Lincoln/W Barre, Traffic offense •N Defiance/Norfolk Southern RR, Road blocked •408 Stamm, Crash •201 Bankey, Fire •1900-b S Defiance, Traffic offense

December 30th •5332 Co Rd C75, Suicide threat •125 S Mill, Domestic •14896 SR 49, Civil •7702 Co Rd 16, Keep the peace •411 Woodville, Lockout December 31st •9876 Co Rd 16, Trauma •14896 SR 49, Abandoned vehicle •2015 US 20, Structure fire •3945 SR 49, Property damage •102 W Centre, 911 hang up

December 31st •100-b N Defiance, Traffic offense •102 Christine, Stolen car •700 North, Animal call •US 66/S Village Limits, Animal call

January 1st •4123 Co Rd H, Suicide threat •6695 SR 15 lot 44, Fireworks •105 Pleasant, 911 hang up •150/P50, Pd accident •1185 Co Rd D, Pd accident •4637 Co Rd 1575, Telephone harassment •N of 1001 N Main, Found property •18258 Co Rd H50, Suspicious car •11670 US 127, Lockout •14896 SR 49, Domestic •22891 Co Rd B50, Medical •3272 Co Rd S, Domestic •5734 Co Rd 1575, Suicide threat •18716 Co Rd M, 911 hang up January 2nd •20/P, Agency assist •9701 SR 107 #13, Lockout •10490 SR 15, Keep the peace •SR 34/1950, Investigation •619 E Main, Disabled vehicle •3849 Co Rd 3, Stolen car •8345 Co Rd 18, Littering •305 Clay, Custodial •11359 Co Rd D #C, Suspicious acitivty

January 4th •US 6/9, Traffic hazard •G/18, Animal problem •1399 E High, Pd accident •7371 Co Rd S, Theft •8177 Co Rd S, Theft •6/US 20, Disabled vehicle •102 Kenny Ray, Attempted B&E •14857 US 20, Civil WEST UNITY POLICE December 28th •204 E Jackson, Alarm •1107 Oak, Stray animal

January 2nd •715 E North #3, Well-being check •125 Shire Crest #103, Medical •406 E North, Suspicious activity January 3rd •210 W Catherine, Stray animal •200 W Jackson, Alarm •Maple/E Church, Animal problem •205 W Jackson, Abandoned vehicle •101 W Jackson, Unsecure premise

January 2nd •102 Clark, Medical

January 3rd •SR 15/O, Pd accident •8518 Co Rd J, Alarm •15456 Co Rd D50, Keep the peace •4591 Co Rd 24D, Pd accident •15/J, Pd accident •3151 Co Rd 2425, Lockout

January 1st •502 N Liberty, Unruly child •311 N Madison, Information •715 E North #1, 911 hang up •513 School, Stray animal

January 1st •219 E Williams, Assist fire/rescue •Frey/Stryker, Traffic offense •107 Short-Buehrer, Vehicle unlock •725 Siegel, Assist fire/rescue •N Defiance/Stryker, Traffic offense •320 Primrose, Suspicious person January 2nd •N Defiance/Norfolk Southern RR, Road blocked •103 N Defiance, Property found •Frey/N Village Limits, Assist police unit •100-b W Holland, Traffic offense •705 Lafayette, Traffic offense •500-b E Lutz, Traffic offense •Lafayette/24, Traffic offense •500-b Lafayette, Traffic offense •N Defiance/N Village Limits, Traffic offense •S Defiance/W Lugbill, Traffic offense •N Defiance/Stryker, Traffic offense •S Defiance/W Barre, Traffic offense •Sauder/W Barre, Traffic offense •E Lutz/Siegel, Traffic offense January 3rd •Stryker/West Field, Traffic offense •N Defiance/E Williams, Traffic offense •S Defiance/E Lugbill, Traffic offense •W Lutz/North Pointe, Traffic offense •500-b Lafayette, Traffic offense •108 E Mechanic, Larceny •720 W Barre, Assist fire/rescue •Frey/West Field, Traffic offense January 4th •103 N Defiance, Welfare check •Franklin/Park, Traffic detail •N Defiance/Norfolk Southern RR, Road blocked •Franklin/Norfolk Southern RR, Road blocked •1100 S Defiance, Crash •200-b N Defiance, Traffic offense •24/W Lutz, Traffic offense •1919 S Defiance, Miscellaneous •S Lincoln/W Barre, Traffic offense •Franklin/Park, Traffic detail •600-b Lafayette, Traffic offense •S Defiance/Schlatter, Traffic offense •400-b E Lutz, Traffic offense •N Defiance/Norfolk Southern RR, Traffic offense

•829 Ringenberg, Assist fire/rescue •Franklin/Park, Traffic detail FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE December 28th •Coral Service Center, Suspicious person •Dover Glen lot 118, Generic complaint •EF/2, Property crash •14900 Co Rd H, Peace keep •Rodeway Inn, Welfare check •20A/66, Reckless operation December 29th •7025 Co Rd 2, Loud noise •Willie’s Garage, Property crash •10156 Co Rd 18, Traffic stop •13516 Co Rd B, Civil matter •109/20A, Property crash •10-2/L, Property crash •20/109, Injury crash •9360 Co Rd 10, Unlock •20A/11, Suspicious person •3087 SR 109, Injury crash December 30th •26-1/L, Property crash •22571 US 20A, 911 open line •6962 SR 109, Traffic stop •15257 Co Rd 12, Alarm activation •Pettisville Meats, Alarm activation •9116 Co Rd 5, Domestic dispute •605 N Gorham, Assist other police •12261 SH 120, Alarm activation December 31st •26285 US 20A, Livestock on road •Pettisville Meats, Alarm activation •NFS/D, Possible OVI •64/L, Disabled vehicle •10034 SH 66, Property crash •66/E, Livestock on road January 1st •9/A, Trespassing •66/L, Property crash •2513 US 20A, Motorcycle/ATV/Snowmobile complaint •Dover Glen lot 40, Protection order violation •219 Fulton, Neighbor dispute •4/E, Traffic stop January 2nd •6482 Co Rd 1-1, Paper service •5463 Co Rd 2, Unlock •14660 Co Rd 2, Larceny •12200 SH 120, Alarm activation •Rodeway Inn, Welfare check •4046 Co Rd M, Suspicious activity •S/127, Welfare check January 3rd •13417 Co Rd D, Fire •15103 Co Rd AC, Generic complaint •4410 SH 66, Unlock •221 S Adrian, Threats/harassment •Village Mart, Property crash •8607 Co Rd 11, Welfare check •14900 Co Rd H, Unlock •129 Courthouse Plz, Identity theft/ scam January 4th •3402 SR 109 lot 24, Welfare check •509 Swanton, Unruly/runaway juvenile WILLIAMS COUNTY TRAFFIC •Klender, Joseph L (Bryan) Stop School Bus. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $200.00 •Kurtz, Ashton R (Edgerton) 75/55 Speed. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Mavarez, Carlos J (Montpelier) No Drivers License. Costs: $85.00 Fine Amount: $250.00 •Tovar, Austin (Stryker) Fail To Reinstate. Costs: $85.00 Fine Amount: $250.00 •Sperling, Nicholas I (Bryan) Expired Plates. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Rios, Gavino (Bryan) 44/25 Speed.

Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Whitlock, Elizabeth A (Montpelier) Expired Plates. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Resendez, Amy S (Bryan) Expired Plates. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Dow, James A (Bryan) Expired Plates.

Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Lehmann, Shirley E (Bryan) R O W Turn Left. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $71.00 •Gary, Imogene L (Bryan) Expired Registration. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Brown, Stacey D (Montpelier) 69/55 Speed. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $46.00 •Downs, Jade M (Bryan) Child Restraint. Costs: $79.00 Fine Amount: $21.00 WILLIAMS COUNTY CRIMINAL •Alvarez, Taylor J (Montpelier) Theft.

Defendant Plead Guilty, Defendant Found Guilty; Costs: $90.00 Fine: $250.00 FULTON COUNTY TRAFFIC •Harmon, Aaron P (Delta) Expired Plates. Costs: $85.00 Fine Amount: $37.00 •Cinkus, Anthony R (Swanton) 65/50 Speed. Costs: $85.00 Fine Amount: $77.00

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A5

Violent Human Trafficking Ring Dismantled By Central Ohio Task Force (COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Six members of a violent crime ring in south Columbus have been indicted on a combined 124 felony charges – including murder and human trafficking – following an investigation by the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.

The task force, formed under the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Investigations Commission, conducted the investigation as part of its ongoing mission to eradicate human trafficking.

“Busts like this free victims from the clutches of trafficking and rid our streets of dangerous criminals,” Attorney General Dave Yost said. “These successful investigations propel us closer to a future in which no human beings are bought or sold in Ohio.”

A Franklin County grand jury on Dec. 27 indicted the following suspects on a range of felony charges, including many that carry additional firearm specifications: James Antwan Dukes-Johnson, 28, of Columbus: 39 felony charges, including aggravated murder, murder, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, trafficking in persons, compelling prostitution, trafficking in a fentanyl-related compound and felonious assault.

Michael Anthony Davis, 21, of Columbus: 38 felony charges, including aggravated murder, murder, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, trafficking in persons, compelling prostitution, trafficking in a fentanyl-related compound and felonious assault.

Sarah Rose Dotson, 33, of Columbus: 29 felony charges, including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity,

trafficking in persons, compelling prostitution and possession of a fentanyl-related compound.

Shahee Siler, 38, of Columbus: 10 felony charges, including aggravated murder, murder, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, promoting prostitution and felonious assault.

Alexias Monay Lashel Carr-Johnson, 28, of Marysville: Four felony charges, including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity and money laundering.

Tyler Leianne Payne, 29, of Columbus: Four felony charges, including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity and money laundering.

Anyone with information about the alleged criminal activity or knowledge of additional victims of human trafficking is encouraged to contact the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) at 855-BCI-

50 YEARS

OF HOMECOOKING AND STILL GOING STRONG. Bringing in breakfast at Eicher’s subs.

Breakfast times starting at 5am Monday – Friday and 7am on Saturdays.

Eicher’s Subs & More Montpelier 419-485-1678

An oven explosion at Frozen Specialties Inc., located at 720 West Barre Road in Archbold, left two employees injured. Fire departments were paged out to the location at 7:41 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3rd.

Archbold Fire Department Assistant Chief Kyle Brodbeck said that two FSI employees were injured in the incident.

One employee was transported to the Fulton County Health Center and another employee was treated on scene and released.

As for the fire itself, Brodbeck stated the inside of the oven itself was on fire, along with the ceiling tiles.

Other items were also affected and were smoldering and had to be addressed as well. The facility does use flour, but no cause was able to be determined at the time of the incident.

No issues were apparent with the facility’s natural gas or anhydrous ammonia usage and no structural issues were detected. Employees were sent home, and a cleanup crew was onsite.

The Archbold Fire Department was assisted by the Ridgeville Fire Department and Morenci Fire Department, with the Wauseon Fire Department providing an ambulance.

OHIO (855-224-6336) or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-3737-888 and ask to speak to a member of the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.

The task force consists of representatives from the Columbus Division of Police, BCI, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, the Licking County Sheriff’s Office, the Powell Police Department, the Ohio State University Police Department, the Marysville Police Department, the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office, the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Southeast Healthcare and the Salvation Army.

Indictments are criminal allegations.

Defendants are presumed innocent unless proved guilty in a court of law.

UTLICIOUS SANDWICH, BREAKFAST SUBS, BRE

LE TEA AND ICED TEA

P, GRAVY TRAIN ROLL, BREAKFAST SLIDER, D

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

AKFAST PIZZA, FRENCH TOAST, COFFEE, BUBB

ON

Oven Explosion At Archbold’s Frozen Specialties Inc. Injures Two

Fulton County Clerk Of Courts Release December & End Of Year Report Fulton County Clerk of Courts Tracy L. Zuver has provided his monthly report for December 2023, with December 2022 in parentheses, with the following: New cases filed in the legal department 133 (138); domestic 16 (9), civil 23 (24), criminal 10 (10), miscellaneous 1 (2), judgment liens 83 (93), and appeals 0 (0) with a total of fees collected being $16,623.20 ($14,138.78).

The title department issued a total of 1,230 (1,332) titles; new cars 63 (59), used cars 638 (734), new trucks 47 (34), used trucks 334 (316), vans 13 (38), motorcycles 24 (18), manufactured homes 16 (41), trailers 15 (16), travel trailers 12 (8), motor homes 15 (11), buses 2 (0), off-road vehicles 28 (47), watercraft 7 (4), outboard motors 5 (2), other 11 (4), watercraft registrations 1 (0), and driver examination tests 79 (0) with a total of fees collected being $650,332.14 ($634,202.61).

Zuver also provided an end of year report for 2023, with 2022 in parenthesis, with the following: New cases filed in the legal department 2,142 (2,260); domestic 136 (183), civil 251 (220), criminal 143 (138) and miscellaneous 24 (24), Judgment Liens 1,578 (1,685), and Appeals 10 (10) with a total of fees collected being $218,264.12 ($218,307.87).

The title department issued a total of 18,164 (18,595) titles; new cars 940 (1,064), used cars 9,353 (9,457), new trucks 648 (606), used trucks 4,341 (4,383), vans 242 (336), motorcycles 592 (643), manufactured homes 190 (202), trailers 272 (268), travel trailers 401 (400), motor homes 240 (274), buses 16 (23), off-road vehicles 511 (579), watercraft 210 (202), outboard motors 64 (42), other 144 (115), watercraft registrations 276 (0), driver exams 268 (0) with a total of fees collected being $9,676,751.72 ($9,900,796.54).

B U BBL E W A F F L E W R A

Williams County ~ Fulton County Area

Local Hometown News DELTA VILLAGE COUNCIL

New Mayor, Returning Council Members Sworn In By: Jesse Davis THE VILLAGE REPORTER jesse@thevillagereporter.com Delta’s new mayor was sworn in at the first 2024 meeting of the Delta Village Council on Tuesday, January 2.

Allen Naiber, who defeated sitting Mayor Frank Wilton 550 votes to 421, was sworn in by council member and Vice Mayor Ashley Todd. Todd was unanimously voted to remain vice mayor by council members later in the meeting.

Immediately after being sworn in, Naiber then swore in returning council members Lynn Frank, Anthony Dawson, and Chad Johnson.

New council member Daphne Demaline was sworn in during the last meeting of 2023 after being selected by the council to fill the seat of Arthur Thomas after his unexpected resignation.

Naiber is a firefighter and EMT for the Delta Community Fire Department.

The only item of business handled at the meeting was an ordinance establishing 2024 wages for certain village employees.

NEW MAYOR SWORN IN ... Delta Village Council member and Vice Mayor Ashley Todd swears in new Mayor Allen Naiber, who defeated sitting Mayor Frank Wilton in the November 2023 election.

According to Village Administrator Andy Glenn, the changes were for village employees hired just before or shortly after the

PHOTOS BY JESSE DAVIS / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

BACK FOR MORE ... Freshly sworn in Delta Mayor Allen Naiber swears in re-elected council members (from left) Lynn Frank, Anthony Dawson, and Chad Johnson.

council passed wage adjustments last July, and gave them the three percent cost of living adjustments they missed due to the timing of

their employment.

Council members approved the measure, also voting to make it effective immediately and not

require further readings.

The next council meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16.

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A6 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

BRYAN CITY COUNCIL

2024 Committee Composition Decided During Councilor Alspaugh’s First Session By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Bryan City Council met for the first time in 2024 on the 2nd of January at 5:30, at the council chambers on the second floor of 1399 East High Street.

Present were Mayor Carrie Schlade, City Clerk - Treasurer John Lehner, Council President Mary Leatherman, and Councilors John Betts, Jim Kozumpliik, Richard Hupe, and new Ward Four Representative Stephen Alspaugh.

Their first order of business was the approval of the minutes from their December 18, 2023 meeting. Committee suggestions for 2024 were then made and approved, with the following councilors assigned to the following committees...

Budget Committee: Mary Leatherman and John Betts; Finance and Audit Committee: Jim Kozumplik and Stephen Alspaugh; Wage Committee: John Betts and Richard Hupe; Tax Incentive and Review Committee: Stephen Alspaugh, Jim Kozumplik and Mayor Schlade.

Assigned to the Negotiations

PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

BRYAN CITY COUNCIL SEES FIRST SESSION OF 2024 … The first Bryan City Council meeting of 2024 saw new Ward Four Councilor Stephen Alsplaugh seated next to newly elected Council President Mary Leatherman and Councilor Jim Kozumplik.

Team: John Betts and Mary Leatherman; the Revolving Loan Fund: Mary Leatherman; BIPAC: Mary Leatherman; Prevailing Wage Coordinators: Brian Wieland and Tiana Traxler; ADA: Patrick Thorp.

There was discussion held on councilor Leatherman and councilor Betts availability for the Negotiations Team, and Mayor Schlade assured them

that they would be worked with to ensure that a councilor is present at key decision making times, whether this be in person or virtually.

An ordinance establishing the pay rate scale for seasonal workers in the Parks and Recreation Department was established for 2024, with news being shared that this will be the first step in getting the depart-

ment activated after a COVID spurred hiatus.

The new Planning and Zoning Code was given its second reading, and then council approved appointments for the Mayor’s Office and the Parks and Recreation Department.

Council then spoke on the city’s recent events, and the essential support that has been provided to pull it all to-

gether.

Councilor Alspaugh thanked his predecessor, Judy Yahraus, for her help in getting familiarized with his new position, and shared his excitement for the upcoming year.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was then accepted, with the Bryan City Council set to meet next Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

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The center is open from 6:00 am – 5:30 pm Monday through Friday and has 9 caregivers. Due to their unique location, they currently have North Central, Millcreek-West Unity and Montpelier schools that pick up and drop off at the center. They are also set up for children enrolled in Head Start.

They take pride in what they do and are very honored that parents would choose to bring their children to the center and care for them. They work very hard to get the children ready for kindergarten while also addressing the ODE Standards.

They have many outings for the children who come to the center, including our summer school-age program. In the summer, they take the school-agers to the pool, parks & recreation program in town, local nursing homes, tour a local farm, supermarket, pizza shop, and also plan an all day outing to Sauder’s Village. We would encourage those who would be thinking about needing care, to give us a call so we can show you around and what we have to offer.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A7

EDGERTON BOARD OF EDUCATION

Robert Siebenaler Named President; Lyn Bowsher To Serve As Vice President By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Edgerton Local Board of Education met for their organizational meeting on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Annex Board Room. Members present were Lyn Bowsher, Amanda Giesige, Nick Hug, Robert Siebenaler, and Bill Swank.

The first thing that took place was the swearing in of newly elect-

ed school board members Lyn Bowsher, Robert Siebenaler, and Bill Swank by William Blakely, Treasurer/CFO. Siebenaler was then elected president of the 2024 Edgerton Board of Education, with Bowsher elected as vice president.

Board President Siebenaler was then named delegate, with Nick Hug as alternate, for the 2024 OSBA Capital Conference in Columbus, Ohio in November.

We realize that the loss of a loved one is one of the most painful moments a family can endure. We also know that this difficult time can be financially burdensome which includes expensive costs associated with placing obituaries within local newspapers.

The Village Reporter publishes obituaries within our print edition, online edition and social media platforms free of charge as our community public ministry. We hope this small effort will help alleviate a small amount of financial burden during your time of loss.

The following committee assignments were then made: Audit Committee: Lyn Bowsher; Legislative Committee: Robert Siebenaler; Student Achievement Committee: Amanda Giesige.

A $5,000 service fund was then created for 2024 board expenses, and all annual standing authorizations, which authorize certain actions given to those in specific roles, were approved before the board entered into executive session.

Winners Crowned At Saint Patrick Catholic School (Bryan) Spelling Bee

Weekly Recipe - The Village Reporter -

Sandwich Puts Bacon On Notice

B

acon has undeniable appeal.

With its smoky and salty flavor, bacon often can transform dishes from tasty to delicious.

There are many ways to enjoy bacon during meals, and not just at the breakfast table. In this recipe for "BLTs with Pimiento Cheese," bacon is the star of the show and enhanced by pimiento cheese, which is a spread traditionally made from shredded cheddar, mayonnaise and pimiento peppers. It's often called the "pâté of the South" because it is frequently utilized in cuisine popularized in the southern United States.

Those seeking a sandwich that is full of flavor, look no further than this recipe, courtesy of, "Cooking Light: Fresh Food Superfast" (Oxmoor House) by The Cooking Light Editors.

BLTS WITH PIMIENTO CHEESE Yield: 4 servings 1/2 cup light pimiento cheese spread (such as Price's) 8 (1-ounce) slices whole-wheat bread 12 reduced-fat bacon slices, cooked 4 green leaf lettuce leaves 12 (1/4-inch-thick) slices tomato 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1. Spread 1 tablespoon pimiento cheese over each bread slice.

2. Top each of four bread slices with three bacon slices, one lettuce leaf, and three tomato slices. Sprinkle with pepper. Cover with remaining four bread slices. Cut sandwiches in half; secure with wooden picks. Serve with a mixed fruit salad.

Obituaries are gathered from participating area funeral home websites from Northwest Ohio, Northeast Indiana and Southcentral Michigan on a daily basis by newspaper staff, obituaries where the departed and/or surviving family members have a connection to our immediate coverage areas of Williams & Fulton Counties in Northwest Ohio are published free of charge both in print and online. The Village Reporter does not limit obituary word counts and allows families to place personalized messages and/or scripture references within their final published message to their loved ones which are then archived at the newspaper office, local Northwest Ohio Historical Societies along with College Libraries dating back to the 1870’s).

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If your chosen funeral home does not participate in this program or is located outside the Northwest Ohio, Northeast Indiana or Southcentral Michigan area obituaries may be sent directly to The Village Reporter via email at publisher thevillagereporter.com or by stopping at our main office located at 115 Broad Street, Montpelier, Ohip open 8:30 a.m. - 4:50 p.m. Monday - Friday).

400 North Park Street Fayette, Ohio 43521

Did you know: We hope you never need our free services, but we are here if you do, The Village Reporter does not charge to publish obituaries. This has saved local grieving families an estimated $1 million+ in the last two decades.

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

Obits may be emailed with photo to publisher@thevillagereporter.com

OUR PUBLIC MINISTRY - NO CHARGE OBITUARY POLICY

SPELLING BEE WINNERS … Saint Patrick Catholic School held its school Spelling Bee on December 20, 2023. Congratulations and good luck to our first-place winner, Tony Alcantar (left), and runnerup, Tadzio Krukowski (right) at the Williams County Spelling Bee.

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C ommunity C alendar Wednesday, January 11, 2024 – Monday, January 17, 2024 Jan 11 • Thursday • Fulton County Senior Center Gym Overcome Arthritis Pain Class (Reservations 419-337-9299) - 9 a.m.

• Local Talent Coffee House - Fayette Opera House - 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• West Unity Village Council - 7:30 p.m. ______________________

fast - 7 a.m. - 11 a.m.

• St. Caspar Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest (Wauseon) - 12:30 p.m.

• Pride of Williams County Pageant (Edon School) - 4:30 p.m. ______________________

Jan 12 • Friday

No events as of press time ______________________

Jan 13 • Saturday

No events as of press time ______________________

Jan 14 • Sunday

Jan 15 • Monday

• Edgerton Fireman’s Free-Will Break-

• Wauseon City Council - 5 p.m.

• Archbold Village Council - 5:30 p.m.

• Bryan School Board Organizational

Meeting - 6:00 p.m.

• Stryker Village Council - 6 p.m.

• Edon Village Council - 7 p.m. ______________________

Jan 16 • Tuesday

• Red Cross Blood Drive (Delta American Legion) - 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Fulton County Board of DD Organizational Meeting - 4 p.m.

• Bryan BPA - 5 p.m.

• Bryan City Council - 5:30 p.m.

• Metamora Village Council - 7 p.m. ______________________

Jan 17 • Wednesday

No events as of press time ______________________

*Events are often modified last minute, please double check with organizers to ensure dates and times have not been changed.

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Add Your Event To The Community Calendar By Visiting www.thevillagereporter.com (Click On "Submit News") START NEWSPAPER DELIVERY - SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM OR BY CALLING (419) 485-4851

A8 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Mayor & Council Sworn ...

It was then time for council to elect their council president.

A motion was made for Harold Stickley to be appointed to the position, with that motion being voted on by council and approved. Councilman Chamberlin then exited the meeting at 5:07 p.m.

The meeting proceeded next with the approval of minutes, with the following being approved. Minutes for the Special Council meeting held on December 18th, Council Meeting held on December 18th, Committee of the Whole meeting on December 28th, and Special Council Meeting held on December 28th.

Department head reports were then heard, with Fire Chief Phil Kessler stating the department finished the year at a steady pace, and that they are focusing on what they can do in the new year.

Police Chief Kevin Chittenden spoke next and stated the department’s new Durango was received by Terry Henricks, and that a second one may be coming within the next week or two.

Public Service Director Keith Torbet then brought item 20241 to councils’ attention. They

Is It Really So? By: Dr. Jerry Bergman, Montpelier, Ohio

Has Eugenics, Once Dead, Been Reborn?

Right To Abort Until Birth Now Part Of The Ohio Constitution

MAYOR … Law Director Thomas McWatters III administers the oath of office to Incumbent Mayor Kathy Huner. were informed by Mr. Torbet that it is listed as an emergency. Bids will have to go out for this item, and it has to be approved by April 1st in order to proceed.

The following agenda items were then approved by council.

Resolution 2024-1 authorizing the mayor to enter into an LPA Federal Local-Let Project Agreement for the milling and resurfacing of approximately .40 miles of Oak Street and declaring an emergency.

Resolution 2024-2 authorizing the mayor to enter into

an agreement with HR Premier Consulting, LLC for Human Resource Services, and declaring an emergency.

The third reading of Ordinance 2023-7 amending Section 1114 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Wauseon to add a new section 1114.12 titled “Adult Use Cannabis Operators”.

Item 2023-7 passed in a vote of 4-1 with Councilman Stickley being the no vote. Council then moved to pay the bills before moving to adjourn at 5:28 p.m.

Parkview Bryan Hospital Welcomes First Baby Of 2024 PHOTO PROVIDED /

THE VILLAGE REPORTER

FIRST BABY OF NEW YEAR 2024 …

The Parkview Bryan Hospital welcomed the first baby of 2024 born in their facility on January 2, 2024. Holden Michael (pictured above with parents Chelsea and Lyndon) was born at 6:49 a.m. and weighed 7 lbs, 2.8 oz and measured 19 inches long.

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Edgerton Fire Department ... councilor VanAusdale as the president pro tempore was approved.

Everyone congratulated councilor VanAusdale on her position on council, and she responded by thanking everyone for their commitment and contributions to bettering the Village of Edgerton.

The mayor then touched on the progress of the renovation for the throw-back basketball game on Saturday, and everyone commented how great the current renovations look.

It was also shared that the historical society will be open during the game so people can check them out, and that Rick Heisler will be covering the radio broadcast of the game.

Mayor Day and Administrator Fitzcharles thanked everyone involved, especially the village’s two interns, for their hard work on the renovation so far.

Fitzcharles shared that there will be further improvements made to the location, and shared that the village has recently been awarded a safety grant that is to see 75% of the costs associated with a mechanical floor-mat and its installation.

The funds are expected to be received within the next 120 days, and are issued in an effort to reduce employee strain and injury historically linked to the manual laying of protective floor mats when events take place at the village administration office.

Fitzcharles also shared that the engineering for the Oak Street project should be completed in February, with construction expected to take place this Summer.

Fiscal Officer Knecht shared that there was an additional $1,400 received in back payments before the official year’s end, and the bills were approved as presented - including an invoice to August Mack for the Edgerton Metals Brownfield Remediation Project and December’s financial report.

She shared that budget work has moved into 2024, but there is still work to be done preparing the end of year financial report for 2023.

Council then approved the transfer of a parttime police officer to full-time, and then regretfully accepted a fire department resignation due to a change in residence.

Councilor Wallace shared that the fire department is in dire straits when it comes to personnel, and new blood is needed desperately.

Most of the department’s members find themselves with over 30 years of experience, with many of the 18 firefighters being over 60 years of age.

These 18 members are managing to protect what 35 members did years ago, 14226 US HWY. 20-A and at least five are eligible for retirement. Anyone interested in working with Montpelier, OH 43543 the Edgerton Fire Department should 419-485-5029 reach out.

There is training required, but counLicensed, Non-profit, Christian based Curriculum cilor Wallace made it clear that local in•Year round child care volvement is necessary for the continued protection of the residents of Edgerton.

• 6:00 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Another way to show your support is • Ages 6 weeks - 12 years old to attend their first Fireman’s Breakfast of the year, which will take place from 7 • Full Day • Half Day • Preschool a.m. to 11 a.m. on January 14, 2024.

• Latchkey • Summer School Age Program The Police Department Policy Manual was approved after its third reading, and School Bus Transportation to: everyone was wished a Happy New Year Montpelier, North Central, Hilltop before the meeting was adjourned at 6:02 * Play/Learning Centers * Kindergarten Readiness * Craft & Music p.m., with council set to meet next Janu* Physical Activities * Socialization * Professional Loving Staff ary 17, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

Little Lights

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The constitution amendment, which guaranteed women’s right to “make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions,” passed with a 57% majority.

It was the seventh straight victory in statewide votes for supporters of free-abortion access nationally since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned constitutional protections. Specifically, it says, every woman “has a right to make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions, including but not limited to decisions on continuing one’s own pregnancy. The State shall not, directly or indirectly, burden, penalize, prohibit, interfere with, or discriminate against either: An individual’s voluntary exercise of this right or a person or entity that assists an individual exercising this right, unless the State demonstrates that it is using the least restrictive means to advance the individual’s health in accordance with widely accepted and evidence-based standards of care. However, abortion may be prohibited after fetal viability [22 weeks or 5 months]…

Except if, in the professional judgment of the pregnant patient’s treating physician, it is necessary to protect the pregnant patient’s life or health.”

Although the courts will need to determine the specifics, essentially the Ohio law allows abortion up to the time of birth.

The right to protect the pregnant woman’s life or health has been interpreted to mean, if a woman strongly does not want to have her baby, it can be aborted.

One example of the application of eugenics is the new abortion law in Oregon that allows taxpayer-funded abortion for most any reason up to nine months. In Europe, abortion has been used to largely eliminate Downs syndrome (trisomy 21) babies.

Ultrasound, amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling evaluations were used to diagnose genetic disorders before birth for the purpose of aborting what are judged to be imperfect humans. The program is attempting to achieve the ideal human by eugenic ‘de-selection.’

As a result, nearly 2,300 abortions of fetuses, some with mental or physical disabilities were carried out in the U.K. alone in 2010, illustrating that it is all too easy to be seduced down the Nazi route.

The most infamous act of the Nazis was to euthanize persons deemed mentally unfit, or in some way deformed, such as Down syndrome babies.

In 2004, Denmark became one of the first countries in the world offering prenatal Down syndrome screening to every pregnant woman, regardless of age or other risk factors.

Nearly all expecting mothers choose to take the test.

Of those having a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis, more than 95 percent choose to abort their baby. They have now almost completely wiped out this population.

This policy comes close to those used in Nazi Germany

to reduce the number of inferior persons, which was eventually extended to certain ethnic groups, including Slavic peoples, Jews, and Romani.

A good friend related to me that, of her four children, by far her favorite child was her Downs girl.

Her Downs child has been with her since birth and, now as a widow, has been a joy from the moment she came home from her local German hospital with her.

Childcare workers tell me one of the greatest joys in life is helping children born with certain maladies, such as Downs. I liken it to buying old used $400 desks at Goodwill for $40 and rebuilding them.

Refinishing a desk that now looks new was far more rewarding than buying a new one. Likewise, helping a handicapped child, who has every right to live, is very rewarding. The problem is, who will decide who lives and dies, and who sets the criteria?

Those who believe they are qualified to make such decisions should first watch Holocaust films as they disposed of multi-millions of humans they considered genetic trash.

Their abhorrent crimes were carried out with noble intentions a little over seventy years ago in the most educated nation on Earth.

Hitler would be proud with our progress in reducing the physically imperfect population.

Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, was an eugenicist who systematically targeted “inferior people and races.”

She opened her first clinic in a Black neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. Blacks are now 13 percent of the USA population and 40 percent of all aborted children (and 40 percent of the inmate population).

Today, close to half of all abortion clinics are located in neighborhoods where over half of the residents are Black.

By the end of 2021, 63.5 million abortions were performed in the USA since the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v.

Wade decision.

A total of 20 million Blacks have died by abortion since 1973, making abortion the number one cause of killing Blacks.

In one recent year, more Blacks were aborted than were born live in New York State. According to the Ohio Department of Health, in 2022, 48.4% of abortions performed in Ohio were on Black women. Black babies in Ohio are six times more likely to be aborted than White babies.

With low cost widely available abortions, Sanger’s dream of drastically reducing the inferior human population will now be achieved.

----------------------Dr. Bergman is a multiaward-winning teacher and author. He has taught in the science and psychology area for over 40 years at the University of Toledo Medical College, Bowling Green State University, and other colleges. His 9 degrees include a Doctorate from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He has over 1,800 publications in both scholarly and popular science journals that have been translated into 13 languages. His publications are in over 2,400 college libraries in 65 countries. Bergman has spoken over 2,000 times at colleges and churches in America, Canada, Europe, the South Sea Islands, and Africa.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A9

ARCHBOLD VILLAGE COUNCIL

Council Members Sworn In During First Meeting Of 2024 By: Amy Wendt THE VILLAGE REPORTER amy@thevillagereporter.com It’s back to business for the Archbold Village Council as it kicked off 2024 with a regular meeting on January 2.

Several visitors filled the public seating area as supporters attended the swearingin ceremony of several elected village officials.

A local Girl Scout Troop (Brownies) also came to witness the proceedings so its members could earn Local Government Badges.

With Mayor Bradley Grime beginning a new term, the Village’s Law Director, Mark Hagans was on hand to issue the Oath of Office to the incumbent.

Mayor Grime then had the honor of swearing in Councilors Karla Ball, Kevin Eicher, Aaron Babcock, and Gary Dominique whose terms commenced on January 1. The council elected Karla Ball to serve as its president for the new year.

Getting down to regular business, the minutes of December 18, 2023, were approved as well as Bills and Payroll in the

MAYOR BRAD GRIME … Law Director Mark Hagans (right) swears in Brad Grime (left) to serve as Mayor for his new term beginning in 2024.

of $280,564.95.

After an emergency declaration, council adopted Ordinance 2024-01 appointing officers and board members to serve the village in 2024 with Mayor Grime noting that there may be a few adjustments made to the list presented to council.

Resolution 2024-02 authorizing the sale of personal property by internet auction in 2024 was then adopted with Village Administrator Donna Dettling noting that the housekeeping measure allows the village to dispose of any unneeded supplies and equipment on Gov.deals.com.

“Gov.deals has been a very good vehicle for moving property and getting the best dollar we can,” elaborated Dettling.

Following a declaration of emergency, Ordinance 2024-03 providing for reimbursement of the cost of operation of the General Fund including Mayor/Administration, Council, Finance, State Audit, and Legal Services was adopted by council.

Dettling offered further clarification to the measure. “We don’t normally have to adopt this every year but there was a small tweak made to Income Tax Fund that one went down a percent.”

“And then we added a couple percent to the Water and Wastewater (funds) because of some shifting of duties.”

“This item is needed so that General Fund gets paid for processing payroll, accounts payable, and doing HR for each of the other cost centers.”

"So water department, wastewater department, engineering, everybody has to help pay for the services that general fund provides.”

Council moved on to address Resolution 2024-04 accepting “Change Order #3” for the Archbold Municipal Building Project.

Assistant Village Administrator Aaron Alt noted that the change order, totaling $11,752, encompasses structural items to

PHOTOS BY AMY WENDT / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

2024 COUNCILORS … Mayor Brad Grime issues the Oath of Office to Councilors Aaron Babcock, Karla Ball, Gary Dominique, and Kevin Eicher whose new terms began on January 1. be addressed relating to the project.

Dettling added that the change order brings the new total project cost in at $1,586,045 and the resolution was adopted following a declaration of an emergency.

Ordinance 2024-05 providing for the annual deposit of $50,000 from Income Tax to the Archbold Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) was adopted following a declaration of emergency.

The $50,000 was an increase recommended by the Finance Committee from $20,000 deposited in previous years.

Committee and board minutes before council for review included those from the Police & Fire Committee and the Trustees meeting from December 18, 2023.

Reports for council to review included Income Tax Receipts for December 2023, Income Tax Predictions for 2023, and the Annual Law Enforcement Trust Fund 213 Report.

Dettling added, “There are about $358,000 in refunds and rebates that come out of that (Income Tax) number.”

“So, I mean it’s great that it’s a number that’s really high - you will notice that’s the most we’ve ever collected. But again, most of that - all of that is due to the .3% increase that we got.”

“When you compare last year to this year, if we hadn’t gotten the .3% increase, we would have been down about $166,000 in receipts, so that made a huge difference.

Overall withholding is down about 3%...”

Council then moved to go into executive session to discuss real estate matters and no action was taken following the session.

Council will be meeting with the Park Board on Monday, January 8 at 5:30 p.m. and will see its next regular meeting on Monday, January 15, at 5:30 p.m. A German Township Trustee Meeting will be held on Monday, January 8, at 6:00 p.m.

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A10 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

Hilltop National Honor Society For 2023-2024

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

NHS MEMBERS … Front Row Left to Right: Dylan Siebenaler, Brock Kesler (new inductee), Devin Dempsey (new inductee), Ingrid Hoffman, Conner Sanders (new inductee), Cameron Schlosser (new inductee), Maggie Wheeler, Makensie Kerr. Middle Row Left to Right: Marissa Bennett, Aidden Johnson (new inductee), Giada Rising (new inductee), Alora Siegel, Joscelyn Layman, Olivia Rossman, and Kris Hansen. Back Row Left to Right: Libbie Baker (new inductee), Shealyn Brown, Julia Dickinson (new inductee), Brooke Moreland (new inductee), Lindee Lammon (new inductee), Alaina Russell (new inductee), Julia Rodriguez, Eleana VanArsdalen (new Inductee), Emily Serrano (new inductee), Kenzie Weber (new inductee), Emma Smith, and Savanah Westfall.

"Pork To Fork" Winter Event Scheduled At Sauder Village

St. Mary School (Edgerton) Students Advance To Williams County Spelling Bee

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

Archbold, OH – Sauder Village will kick off the winter season with a new event held January 11-13 in the Historic Village.

This event, Pork to Fork, will showcase the historic butchering process as the education staff takes a pig on a journey from pen to plate.

This three-day event in Pioneer Settlement will give guests an opportunity to learn how historic butchering was done on the farm. The staff will present the way in which 19th century farmers would have cleaned, prepped, cut, and cooked a pig.

Guests can smell the delicious pork dishes being prepared in the historic homes, and learn about the various methods this versatile animal has been used historically, and today.

In Pioneer Settlement, visit the Witmer Roth home, the Eicher Cabin, the Stuckey home and the Log School for activities.

There will be historic cooking demonstrations including making sausage, head cheese, a historic recipe sharing wall, and pork themed games & activities for kids.

On Saturday, January 13, the Fulton County Pork Queen, Keigan Schuster, will be on hand to talk with guests as well as Jamie Burton, from “The Slow Oven” with historic cooking demonstrations.

While the Historic Village is closed for the winter, it will be open for this special

event January 11-13 from 10:00 a.m.4:00 p.m. Admission is $15.00 per day or $10.00 for Sauder Village members.

Guests will also have the option to purchase tickets for all three days for the price of two days. Pre-Registration is available on our website at saudervillage. org, or guests may walk in and pay at the door.

Prohibition Experiences will also be happening on Saturday, January 13 at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. Guests 21 and over must pre-register for these special experiences on the Sauder Village website.

Be one of 12 guests to experience The Broken Barrel Speakeasy, an authentic secret hidden room here at Sauder Village.

The history of Prohibition and its consequential impact on Northwest Ohio and the rest of our country from 1920-1933 will be shared while guests imbibe on a Prohibition cocktail and savor the different taste profiles of 4 different bourbons.

The Barn Restaurant will be serving their Breakfast Buffet on Saturday, January 13 from 11-2 and open for dinner until 7 p.m.

Make it a weekend getaway at the Sauder Heritage Inn. For more information phone 1-800-590-9755, visit www. saudervillage.org, like Sauder Village on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.

Did You Know?

ADVANCING TO COUNTY COMPETITION … St. Mary School recently held a Spelling Bee competition for students in grades 5 and 6. After a fierce battle, Brycen Cape was the champion, correctly spelling the word sheepish. Eli McMaken was the runner-up, correctly spelling slivers. Both of these individuals will advance to the Williams County Spelling Bee on January 23 at 7:00 pm at Stryker Local Schools. Nora Gerchutz will be the alternate. Pictured are from left to right Brycen Cape, Eli McMaken, and Nora Gerschutz.

Participation Needed From Blakeslee Residents To Fill Vacant Council Seats By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Blakeslee council has been met with some challenges as we greet 2024, mostly as a result of a lack of participation in local government.

In order to be put on the ballot, each potential council member must garner a petition with 25 signatures.

There was a significant struggle this year in obtaining signatures, so much so that there were three seats left open by prior council president Eric Jenkins being appointed as mayor and the lack

of names on the ballot due to low petition response.

Two of the remaining seats were filled with a majority vote by council, appointing Shelly Cox and Nick Reed to the positions.

That leaves one open council seat left for 2024, able to be filled by majority vote by council.

Blakeslee residents are urged to reach out to council to learn more about the position, and are reminded that their participation in the local government is integral to its continued representation of Blakeslee constituents.

The hard working team at The Village Reporter, composed of local residents, spends on average 300-350 combined work hours per week publishing local news, obituaries, and sports.

Subscribe today online at www.thevillagereporter.com or the subscription form inside this week's edition for just $2.00 per week!

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A11

January Birthdays & Anniversaries At Williams County Senior Centers

STRYKER SENIOR CENTER … January birthdays - Rebecca Miller, Marjorie Brown, Stanley Whitlock, and Pam Oberlin. Missing from photo is Paul Rohrs.

BRYAN SENIOR CENTER … January birthdays - Robert Byroads, Pat Coopman, Artis Gilcher, Barbara Sullivan.

WEST UNITY SENIOR CENTER … Is sending a New Year’s toast (with coffee) to Conversions Technologies International for sponsoring their January Birthday and Anniversary celebration. Each senior at coffee hour received a new travel mug to keep their hot beverages warm this winter. They also supplied some hot beverage supplies for the month and snacks for prize bingo. The group had a lot of fun and really appreciate them for going above and beyond to support the local senior center.

EDGERTON SENIOR CENTER … January birthdays - Host: Arlene from Park View Care Center, Howard Olson & site manager Cindy Tingle.

EDON SENIOR CENTER …

January birthday - Larry Buck.

MONTPELIER SENIOR CENTER … (Right photo) January birthdays - Donna Stahler, Linda Rummel, Dennis Reader, Roger Brown, Frank Middleton, Pat Retcher.

"The Village Reporter" Announces Winners Of Annual Coloring Contest The littlest readers of The Village Reporter recently submitted their creative works for the annual coloring contest!

With so much artist flair and imagination the little artist made it hard for judges to choose winners.

Winners for the 2023 Christmas Coloring Contest are as follows: PRESCHOOL / KINDERGARTEN - Cecelia Rodriguez 1-3 GRADE WINNER Poppy Dewulf 4-6 GRADE WINNER Ryan Stokes Thank you to all participants! We enjoyed each picture submitted!

Cecelia Rodriguez

Poppy Dewulf

Ryan Stokes

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A12 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

Bryan Knights Of Columbus Donate Proceeds From Golf Outing The Bryan, Ohio Knights of Columbus Council 1915 awarded four donations of $500 each. The donations were made to Maumee Valley Guidance Center,

Quadco Rehabilitation Center, Williams County EMS, and Williams County Humane Society on January 4, 2024 before their regular meeting. These donations

PHOTOS PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

are made possible by proceeds from the council’s annual golf outing that took place at Patriot Hills Golf Course in September.

WILLIAMS COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY … Pictured left to right: Jeff Burkholder, David Lamore, Alicia Strup (WC Humane Society), Sydney Strup (WC Humane Society), Jose Resendiz, Greg Gendron.

MAUMEE VALLEY GUIDANCE CENTER … Pictured left to right: Jeff Burkholder, David Lamore, Connie Planson (Maumee Valley Guidance Center), Jose Resendiz, Greg Gendron.

QUADCO REHABILITATION CENTER … Pictured left to right: Jeff Burkholder, David Lamore, Dana Fritch (Quadco), Jose Resendiz, Greg Gendron.

WILLIAMS COUNTY EMS … Pictured left to right: Jeff Burkholder, David Lamore, Allison Herman (EMS), Kevin Myles (EMS), Jose Resendiz, Greg Gendron.

Sunday Thursday 11-9 1111 -9

BLAKESLEE VILLAGE COUNCIL

Eric Jenkins 2024 Blakeslee Mayor By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Blakeslee Village Council met for the first time of 2024 on January 3rd at 6 p.m. Mayor Eric Jenkins, Fiscal Officer Courtny Osborn, and Police Chief Randy Mohre joined councilors Robert Mohre, Rosemary Alexander-Thiel, and Shelly Cox, who greeted 2024 as council president. Councilor Cletus Radabaugh was absent.

Their first order of business was approving the minutes of the November meeting, and purchase orders from December and January

presented by Fiscal Officer Osborn.

The monthly financial report was accepted as presented, with receipts listed at $2,847 and payments at $206.90.

Discussion was then held regarding the elevation of prior Council President Eric Jenkins to mayor, as this leaves three open council seats vacant.

Council members are going to speak with the community to see who may be interested in the positions, and anyone interested is encouraged to reach out. Nick Reed stated that he would be willing to fill one of the open positions.

An appropriation for repara-

tions to a village alley was passed on an emergency vote, with Ordinance 2024-01.

Everyone involved with the Christmas parade was congratulated on the success of the event, and police officers that helped with traffic will be receiving complimentary gift certificates.

Next year is expected to see another great Blakeslee Santa Parade, with council agreeing to consider planning it for earlier in the season.

It was then that the Blakeslee Village Council adjourned, set to meet next on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

Friday saturday 1111 11-10 -10

99 2 6 53 3 419

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A13

PRIDE OF WILLIAMS COUNTY PAGEANT POWCP 2024 Contestant Bios The 13th annual Pride of Williams County Pageant will be held on Sunday, January 14 at Edon Northwest School. A total of 20 Queens from Bryan, Edgerton, Edon, Montpelier and Pioneer will be vying for the titles of Miss, Teen Miss, Junior Miss and Little Miss Williams County. Doors open at 4:30 with the pageant beginning at 5:00. Tickets will be available at the door for $7 each so come cheer for your local titleholders! Be sure to bring a little extra change to vote for your favorite contestant to win the People’s Choice Award as well!

MISS CONTESTANTS

Miss Contestant #1 ELLA MAKENA MILER, Miss Edgerton

Miss Contestant #2 HALLE RENEE SIX, Miss Bryan

Miss Contestant #3 KAITLYN MARIE MILLS, Miss Montpelier

17-year-old daughter of Jerad and Danielle Miler 12th grader Sponsored by Cup O Joy Active in softball, volleyball and National Honor Society

17-year-old daughter of Michael Six and Marci Six 11th grader Sponsored by Rob’s Home Repair LLC Active in cheerleading, dance and drawing

17-year-old daughter of Randy and Stephanie Mills 12th grader Sponsored by Pioneer Police Department Active in cheerleading, Locomotion and musicals

Miss Contestant #4 TRINITY FAITH MARIE CONRAD, Miss Pioneer 18-year-old daughter of Rob and Alicia Hegler 12th grader Sponsored by Ink’d Society Active in SADD Club, softball and painting and drawing

Miss Contestant #5 ALEXIS ANN DULLE, Miss Edon 17-year-old daughter of Kevin and Laura Dulle 11th grader Sponsored by The Upper Cut Active in Drug Free Club, HOSA club and Student Council

TEEN MISS CONTESTANTS

Teen Miss Contestant #1 CLAIRE ELIZABETH GENDRON, Teen Miss Pioneer 15-year-old daughter of Chris and Suzanne Gendron and Rachel Gendron 9th grader Sponsored by Moore Industries, Inc. Active in volleyball, cheerleading, and FCA

Teen Miss Contestant #2 CLARA LYNN REITZEL, Teen Miss Edon

Teen Miss Contestant #3 CIANNA FRANCIS SHOUP, Teen Miss Montpelier

12-year-old daughter of Jimmy and Jessica Reitzel 7th grader Sponsored by Reitzel Ag Equipment/Reitzel Tractor Active in volleyball, basketball, and 4-H

12-year-old daughter of Andy and Keshia Shoup 7th grader Sponsored by M.Y. Spa LLC Active in softball, volleyball, and basketball

Teen Miss Contestant #4 KAYDANCE ANN HOBECK, Teen Miss Edgerton 13-year-old daughter of Steven Hobeck and Aeriel Hobeck 7th grader Sponsored by K & M Transport LLC Active in cross country, dance, and school musicals

Teen Miss Contestant #5 SONYA LEE STARK, Teen Miss Bryan 14-year-old daughter of Shane and Margie Stark 8th grader Sponsored by ElliAnn’s Boutique Active in drawing, painting nails, and trying new hairstyles

JUNIOR MISS CONTESTANTS

Junior Miss Contestant #1 SERINA HOPE PUENTE, Junior Miss Edgerton 9-year-old daughter of Junior and Nancy Puente 3rd grader Sponsored by Elora Belle Salon Enjoys crafts, fishing, and hanging out with friends

Junior Miss Contestant #2 KENLEE RAE VANSTEENKISTE, Junior Miss Bryan

Junior Miss Contestant #3 TESSA AUDREY FLEURKENS, Junior Miss Montpelier

12-year-old daughter of David and Jamie Vansteenkiste 6th grader Sponsored by Lamb Trucking Enjoys competitive swim, club volleyball, and wrestling

9-year-old daughter of Jaap and Kristyl Fleurkens 4th grader Sponsored by Showcase Entertainment Enjoys hanging out with her friends and family, playing golf and traveling

Junior Miss Contestant #4 CORA ROZELLA BRIGLE, Junior Miss Edon

Junior Miss Contestant #5 EMMI LEIGH BURT, Junior Miss Pioneer

11-year-old daughter of Scott and Jen Brigle 5th grader Sponsored by April Pavka - Salon 8-1-8 Enjoys cheerleading, and playing volleyball, and softball

11-year-old daughter of Ryan and Kati Burt 5th grader Sponsored by JJ Winns Enjoys playing volleyball, basketball, and softball

LITTLE MISS CONTESTANTS

Little Miss Contestant #1 CAMPBELL RENEE SHOUP, Little Miss Montpelier 7-year-old daughter of Andy and Keshia Shoup 1st grader Sponsored by Tri-State Vision Center, Inc. Enjoys reading books, watching, reading and learning about all animals and fishing

Little Miss Contestant #2 KENSINGTON (KENSI) ROZEWIN CARR, Little Miss Edon 6-year-old daughter of Dustin and Stephanie Carr 1st grader Sponsored by The Finishing Touch Salon Enjoys spending time with her best friend, art projects with Grandma and cheerleading

Little Miss Contestant #3 MIRIAM GRACE WEIBLE, Little Miss Pioneer 8-year-old daughter of Josh and Elizabeth Weible 3rd grader Sponsored by Fountain City Veterinary Hospital Enjoys dancing, playing basketball, and caring for her pets

Little Miss Contestant #4 ARIANAH LYNNE SHARTZER, Little Miss Bryan 8-year-old daughter of Nathan and Tina Shartzer 3rd grader Sponsored by Magnolia Roots Hair Co. Enjoys horseback riding, camping, and playing family games

Little Miss Contestant #5 ALEXIS MARIE BARTON, Little Miss Edgerton 7-year-old daughter of Dustin Barton, Karrie La Londe and Kodie Lerma 1st grader Sponsored by LaLonde Well Drilling & Repair Enjoys English riding and jumping, playing soccer, and riding her bicycle

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A14 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

Looking Back At What We Read Years Ago WHAT WE READ YEARS AGO WITHIN THE NEWSPAPER PUBLICATIONS THAT BECAME "THE VILLAGE REPORTER" WEST UNITY AREA NEWS The West Unity Eagle was established in March 1878. By 1887, its name was changed to The Chief. In 1890, its name was changed to The West Unity Reporter. In 1976 The West Unity Reporter merged with The Stryker Advance to become The Advance Reporter. In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter.

130 YEARS AGO January 1894 Frank Eaton commenced attending school at the Fayette Normal.

Cash Bohner left for Clarendon, Arkansas to finish oars for A.H. Wills Co. The trustees of the M.E. Church have contracted with Ufer Bros. of Bryan to fresco the new church.

Miss Cora Bourquin became Mrs. Charles W. Maudy on Jan 25.

120 YEARS AGO January 1904 George Moss has secured a position in the office of attorney O.S. Brumback of Toledo.

A.M. Rittenour was on a fishing trip at Lake George and reports a fine catch.

Invitations are out for the marriage of Mr. Earl Hamet of Leatherwood and Miss Una Swaney of Pulaski.

110 YEARS AGO January 1914 Fred Faber and Beatrice Sunder of Pulaski were married on Jan. 1.

Wiederkehr Bros. and Stryker Dry Goods Co. each carry half-page advertisement offering a huge savings for January sale.

Wm. F Kline of Stryker and Marie Krause of Defiance were married on Dec. 31.

100 YEARS AGO January 1924 The temperature dropped to 8 and 10 degrees below zero.

Cutting down on the advertising appropriation when business is dull is like cutting down the cow feed when the milk runs short.

Sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Shutettle and Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Buehrer of Evansport.

90 YEARS AGO January 1934 Aura Elizabeth Henry, 75, died Dec. 30.

Samuel B. Short, 53, founder of West Unity Woolen Mills, passed away Jan. 1.

1933 Springfield township farmers who signed the wheat allotment contracts have received $1,652.60 from the government.

120 YEARS AGO January 1904 Home from OSU for the holidays were Charles Foster and Thomas Rataiczak.

Born to Mr. and Mrs. George Buehrer Jr., a daughter.

Born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams Knapp, Jan. 15, a son.

At the last County exam held at Bryan, certificates were granted Gertrude Kitzmiller, Vernie Ufer, Mary Stough and Wayne Guthrie.

110 YEARS AGO January 1914 J.W. Schaeffer wrote -- Dear Sir: Enclosed find one dollar to pay for the Advance another year. I am one of the pioneers of Wms. Co. and cannot do without it. I had the honor of being elected the first Marshall of Stryker after the town was incorporated. I think it was in 1862. There are very few living that were there at that time- J.E. Meek, and H.T. Betts are all that I know of. I helped raise the first M.E. Church that was built in Stryker, and superintended the Sunday School in the old frame schoolhouse which I believe is used for the town hall. We used to go to Lockport to singing school when there was no Stryker on the map. I was brought up from the time I was ten years old, on what is called the M.W. Schaeffer farm. My father bought 87 acres of E.W. Fuller in 1841.

100 YEARS AGO January 1924 Miss Pauline Johnson went to Akron to commence work in the Goodyear office.

“Grizzley” Smith, who has spent 50 years in the wilderness, related his experiences at the high school auditorium on Jan. 11.

When Wyatt Ehrmin arrived at the Rupp Hardware Co. he discovered both doors unlocked, robbers had carried away tires, cuttery, guns, and a vacuum sweeper. What we need is a night watch and lights all night, but then everybody knows that so what’s the use chewing about it. Let’s do it before someone steals the Chicago Buffalo pike.

90 YEARS AGO January 1934 A Community Institute was announced for the beginning of February.

Jan. 24 saw the birth of a daughter to Mr. and Mrs. Maynard Daft.

A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Earl Dierks, named Max Mohr, on Jan. 24.

Mrs. J.W. Radabaugh, a former Stryker resident, died at her home in Hudson, Mich.

80 YEARS AGO January 1944 Miss Betty Busick became Mrs. Henry Sanford.

Herman Beach, 61, died of a heart attack at his home.

Jobe Hodson passed away at his Montpelier residence on Jan. 1.

70 YEARS AGO January 1954 Miss Marie Mock became Mrs. Thomas F. Geesey of West Unity on Jan 10.

Village officials are: Mayor R.D. Rex; Clerk Pearl Simmons; Treasurer Ray Oberlin; Council President John Juillard; and Councilors Stanley Beck, A.L. Wyse, Lyle Nafziger, James Warner, and Ed Peterson.

Marine Pcf. John Beltz, son of Mr. and Mrs. L.F. Beltz who live on Route 1 in Stryker, is attending the motor vehicle operators course at the Motor Transport School at Camp Lejeune, NC. 60 YEARS AGO January 1964 Lt. Cpl. Jim Shock was home on a 10-day furlough from Cherry Point, NC. He recently returned from a three month stay in Puerto Rico and a month in Italy and Spain.

Mrs. Clara Planson is recovering from major surgery at Detwiler Hospital in Wauseon.

Mrs. Bessie Miller enjoyed a tour of the Treasury building, White House, Pentagon, FBI building, archives building, Washington Cathedral, and President Kennedy’s grave after visiting with family in Falls Church, Va. EDON AREA NEWS The Edon Independent was established in 1895 ceasing publication in 1906. A few months later in 1906 The Edon Commercial was established. In 2010 The Edon Commercial was merged with The Advance Reporter to become The Village Reporter.

80 YEARS AGO January 1944 Williams County reached 29.17% of

its quota in the National War Fund drive.

A birthday surprise dinner was held in honor of both Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Swift at their home.

The Komedy Kings of New York City, the famous clown basketball players, were at Edon High for a fun exhibition with the Edon Pirates.

70 YEARS AGO January 1954 Cleo J. Kurtz has recently opened a barber shop in Blakeslee, located in the old garage building across from Studer’s Market.

Henry L. Taylor, Williams County Dog Warden, was at Edon State Bank selling dog licenses on January 19.

Albert Reas moved last week from his farm to his new house on East Indiana Street.

60 YEARS AGO January 1964 Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Deal of Montpelier are celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary with an open house on Jan. 12.

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Mann, Denny, and Rozzy, enjoyed a 3-hour visit with Mrs. Mann’s sister, Mrs. Charles Pierce and husband at O’Hare Field as they waited for their next flight. They were traveling from their home in Tucson, Arizona to Washington D.C. to visit with their daughter and son-in-law.

50 YEARS AGO January 1974 Ned Alan Stambaugh has been awarded his doctorate in philosophy in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He is married to the former Miss Bonnie Roan.

Deputy Registrar Alice Lonabarger announced that the new BMV location is 135 N. Main Street, across from the Bryan Post Office.

The Edon Fire Department reported that they answered 44 calls in 1973.

40 YEARS AGO January 1984 Paul Burkholder retired as Edon’s Postmaster after a 27-year tenure. He and his wife, Marlee, plan to spend their retirement traveling Arkansas and Florida.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

-WILLIAMS COUNTY HISTORIC REFLECTION-

1875: Krill Funeral Service

80 YEARS AGO January 1944 Dr. H.F. Mignery left Friday for Carolisla, Pa. where he will study several weeks to prepare him for Army duty.

John Mattoon has sold his 135 acres just east of West Unity to Emery Rupp.

The stamp and bond drive launched in the West Unity schools by the Girl Reserves the first week of Dec. with a goal of $1,165 (which is the amount needed to purchase an Army Jeep) went over the top this week.

70 YEARS AGO January 1954 William Arnold, 87, passed away at Cameron Hospital.

Harry Hutchinson received a broken left hip when he fell while trimming trees.

A.M. Stauffer, president of the village council, took over the role of mayor of West Unity.

60 YEARS AGO January 1964 The winter of 1963 set record cold spells.

Gene Franks received the pony given away as an extra bonus to Christmas shoppers by Short’s Hardware.

The West Unity post office handled a record high $21,173.34 volume of business last year.

The engagement of Brenda Lou Dean of Archbold to Thomas H. Duvendack of Pioneer was announced.

STRYKER AREA NEWS The Stryker Advance was established in 1884. In 1976 The Stryker Advance merged with The West Unity Reporter to become The Advance Reporter. In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter.

One of Williams County’s oldest businesses is Krill Funeral Service, which traces its history to 1875. The firm’s founder, Henry Krill, was born in Germany in 1859 and immigrated with his family to the United States when he was 10 years old. In 1875, Henry began working for J.H. Miller’s Edgerton furniture and undertaking firm. Miller made coffins “to measure” from walnut lumber, and Krill trimmed them, lining the inside and installing handles; it took about half a day to manufacture each coffin. Around 1885, Henry became a partner in the firm, and he assumed full ownership a few years later when health issues forced Miller to retire. The great Edgerton fire of July 1893 destroyed Krill’s wooden frame building on the east side of North Michigan Avenue; he constructed the brick structure shown in this photograph on the site. Krill claimed to have arranged the funeral services of more than 2,000 people—more than twice Edgerton’s population at the time of his death in 1938. Henry Krill is the mustached man standing at the building entrance in this undated photo. The bearded man on the right is identified only as “Uncle John;” the rest are unidentified. From 1980 to 2021, fourth generation owners J. Michael and Rebecca Krill managed Krill Funeral Service facilities in Edgerton, Edon and Bryan. In 2021, the business was sold to Gary and Amie Burr. This vintage image is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B1

- CONTINUED -

Looking Back At What We Read Years Ago William E. Armstrong, son of William L. and Virginia Armstrong, has reenlisted for three years serving with Attack Squadron 128 at Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor, Washington.

John Brigle was sworn in as the new Mayor of Edon.

30 YEARS AGO January 1994 Jan. 6 saw St. Joseph students grades 5-8 participate in the DARE program.

The Continental Pirates rode their ship into the Edon Bombers, stealing an away victory scoring at 63-36.

Edon High School performed their an-

nual winter bands concert on Jan. 9 in the gym.

Judge Robert G. Wilson announced his resignation from the Williams County Court of Common Pleas.

20 YEARS AGO January 2004 A 1992 Mercury Grand Marquis was stolen from the SR 49 garage of Thomas W. Fitzpatrick on Jan. 8.

Ted Jewell, 65, passed away Jan. 11.

Talia Thiel returned to school Jan. 12 after recovering from a severe automobile accident wherein she suffered severe head trauma, and laid in a coma for

nearly two weeks.

THE ADVANCE REPORTER (EASTERN WILLIAMS COUNTY & VILLAGE OF FAYETTE NEWS) In 1976 The West Unity Reporter merged with The Stryker Advance to become The Advance Reporter. In 2003 The Advance Reporter expanded to cover Fayette, Ohio news. In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter.

40 YEARS AGO January 1984 A daughter was born to Randy and

-FULTON COUNTY HISTORIC REFLECTION-

Wauseon: New York Central Station

Diane Schang of West Unity on Jan. 9.

Mike Poncsak, a senior trombone player, has been chosen to participate in the All-Ohio High School Band to play as a part of the Bowling Green University band.

Matthew Ruffer, 10, son of Roger and Connie Ruffer, passed away Jan. 20 at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

30 YEARS AGO January 1994 Navy seaman recruit Troy R. Layman of West Unity recently completed basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. The West Unity Village Council agreed to hire a third full-time police officer.

Terry M. Carter of Stryker has completed the munition systems specialist course at Lowery Air Force Base in Colorado.

20 YEARS AGO January 2004 Lucille A. Borton, 89, of Fayette passed away at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home on Jan. 3.

Amber Shadbolt was named senior Eagle of the Month.

Fayette’s Board of Education saw Fred Stockburger sworn in as president and Kelly Bentley as vice-president.

THE VILLAGE REPORTER (WILLIAMS COUNTY - FULTON COUNTY AREA NEWS & SPORTS) In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter. In 2013 The Wauseon Reporter merged with The Village Reporter. Over time since 2010, the newspaper expanded coverage to all the communities of Williams & Fulton Counties in Northwest Ohio to become today's format of The Village Reporter.

The above photo shows the last New York Central Station crew to work out of Wauseon. Back row, left to right: John Lind, Hank Andrews, Offie Sluder, Frank Crout. Front row, left to right: Simon J. Keafer (foreman), Ray Becker, Pete Gillen, Phillip Hess. This photo was provided by the Fulton County Historical Society. The Society will be hosting a temporary exhibit all about the many railroad lines that once ran through Fulton County. A model train of the "20th Century Limited" that ran on the New York Central line through Swanton, Delta, Wauseon, Pettisville, and Archbold will be on display. The exhibit is family-friendly with lots of interactive and fascinating history. Museum programming and special events in 2024 will be centered on this theme. The exhibit opens to the public on Friday morning, January 26, 2024.

10 YEARS AGO January 2014 The 60th wedding anniversary for Archbold’s (formerly of Stryker) Gary and Carolyn (Grime) Fidler was celebrated on Jan. 16th.

The C.B.S. Study Club enjoyed a holiday meeting at the home of Frank and Beverly Perkins. A catered lunch by Mojo’s was shared by all the members and five guests.

Pioneer Mayor Ed Kidston and Chief of Police Tim Livengood recognized retiring Officer Terry Bartel for his many years of service. Bartel, who has served for the past 41 years in Pioneer and other small towns, was presented a plaque during the Jan. 13 council meeting for all his efforts and hard work. He also received a retired officer badge.

Area Electric Cooperatives Accepting Applications For Scholarships & Youth Tour Trip To Capital (PRESS RELEASE) PAULDING, BRYAN, & MALINTA, OH — North Western Electric Cooperative, Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative and Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative are now accepting applications for more than $15,400 in scholarships, as well as a free trip for multiple students to our nation’s capital as part of the annual Rural Electric Youth Tour.

Scholarships are open to graduating seniors planning to attend college, trade, or vocational school. One winner from each co-op will move on to the state judging level and compete for additional funds from Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives.

Tricounty REC will distribute $3,000 in scholarships; applications are due Feb. 1, 2024. PPEC is awarding $5,400 in scholarships; applications are due Feb. 15, 2024. NWEC is giving out $7,000 in scholarships; applications are due Feb. 9, 2024.

Every June, around 1,800 high school students from across the country spend a week in the nation’s capital as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, sponsored by the students’ respective electric cooperatives to educate them about America’s history, our government, and the role co-ops

play in developing strong rural communities.

This free trip includes insider tours of popular sites including the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington Cemetery, Gettysburg, and more, as well as a chance to meet congressional leaders and participate in a small group on Capitol Hill.

Past delegates cite the experience as “a history buff’s dream” and an “unforgettable, fun memory,” as well as saying they made friends they still keep in contact with to this day.

Applications for Youth Tour are open to both high school sophomores and juniors. Applications are due February 9 for NWEC, February 15 for PPEC, and February 1 for Tricounty REC. Though rules and award details vary between the cooperatives, one thing is the same: any student applying for either scholarships or Youth Tour must be the child of a member of that respective cooperative and must complete the applications provided by that cooperative.

For applications, see your local high school guidance counselor, call or stop by your respective electric cooperative, or visit www.nwec.com, www.ppec.coop or www.tricountyelectriccoop.coop.

NO WAITING - READ YOUR LOCAL NEWS COVERAGE ONLINE DAILY

Subscribers - The Village Reporter provides DAILY news updates online at www.thevillagereporter.com. There is no need to wait for the weekly Print or E-Edition to arrive to read Local news coverage. Our daily newspaper format provides LOCAL news as quickly as our writers and photographers are complete with their coverage efforts, often a week before the final editions publish. This free service is part of your subscription benefits.

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B2 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

~ Williams County ~ Fulton County Area ~

Church Page TWO MINUTE DRILL

- Rex Stump, Wauseon, Ohio -

Come And See “Do you remember when?”

Those are the words of someone who is about to impart a piece of history.

It’s a special moment, maybe not for you, but the one sitting with you.

It’s a grandparent, a parent, or another person who is reflecting on a historical moment that possibly changed their life. It

might even be a coach or business person that is reflecting back to a successful event. Do you know what I mean?

If there was a positive lifechanging moment in your past, and you were to share it with me, how would your story unfold?

In the Bible (John 1), John shares in the first chapter of his

LET’S STOP SPLITTING!

- Mike Kelly, Retired Pastor, Bryan, Ohio -

EPIPHANY This week we celebrate the church feast day of Epiphany which is when the Magi or Wise Men came to seek Jesus as a child.

Magi were probably astrologers or astronomers, although the word can also mean magicians or alchemists. (“Alchemy is an ancient philosophical and protoscientific tradition that aimed to transform base metals into noble metals, discover a universal elixir, and create the philosopher’s stone”…Quora.com) They were certainly learned men and wealthy.

They most likely traveled from Persia, which was about a 1,000 mile journey of about 2-4 months. They would have brought servants, soldiers, and extra camels and livestock as well as the gifts they came bear-

ing. They certainly would have traveled in a caravan of several hundred people for the Silk Road was a dangerous place for people to travel alone or in small groups.

And there were most likely more than 3 of them.

We get three from the three gifts but there is no indication of how many wise men there were.

Historians think more like 12-25 came.

The Magi started their journey after they had somehow received from God a revelation that they would find a new king in Israel and they were to go to him and pay homage.

We have no idea how that occurred nor do we know how they were led to follow that strange star that led them to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem.

We can be pretty certain that

PASTOR'S PONDERINGS

- Pastor Steve Wilmot, Edgerton, Ohio -

Being A Prude: Good Thing Or Bad Thing?

Some words tend to change their meaning over the years.

What may have been an insult in the past becomes a compliment today. What was considered a positive characteristic decades ago turns into a slam today.

An example of the latter is the word prude. It used to be a praise-worthy trait, but it is thrown at people today who won’t lower their moral standards or go along with the crowd.

For example, I found this sentence in my research: “He wants me to listen to naughty bits of fun out of them, but I will not.

And then he calls me a prude and gets angry.”

People consider a prude to be a goody-goody, an old maid, a fuddy duddy. Not complimentary descriptions by any means.

But the truth is a prude is someone who has learned prudence. He is a prudent person. Far from a negative thing, it’s something every individual should aim for. We’d be far happier with a lot fewer regrets if we did.

The Bible book of Proverbs

offers the best perspective on prudence and its value. Twice in Proverbs, Solomon repeats word for word the same thing. “The prudent see danger ahead and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty” (Proverbs 22.3, 27.12).

The New Living Translation renders it, “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.”

Think about that for a moment. Prudence is the ability to see danger ahead and the wisdom to run away from it. It’s not one or the other — seeing danger or avoiding it. It’s both.

As you look back on your life, don’t you wish you’d seen danger ahead in some decision or action you took?

Knowing now the peril you didn’t see then; wouldn’t you have done things differently?

Imagine how much pain and heartache you could have avoided.

What if Adam and Eve possessed prudence when Satan

book, a moment he will never forget. If we were sitting with him, I believe he would start this passage with, “Do you remember when…”

36 As Jesus walked by, John the Baptist looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” he asked them. They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” “Come and see,” he said.

It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day.

Did you see it? Can you hear the excitement in his voice? Jesus gave the invitation, “come and see.”

John says, “it was 4:00pm.” How often do you see in the Bible a reference to a specific time of the day? Not that often. This was special!

It’s like John is sitting around and says, “Remember when Jesus said, “Come and see? It was 4:00pm! We did! We went with him and spent the rest of the day with him! It was incredible!” As a matter of fact, Andrew was so fired up, he went to get his brother Simon Peter.

On that day and the following, Jesus began his ministry on earth, by inviting men to follow him. The invitation was to come and see. The invitation was repeated to Philip, “Come, follow me.” Then Philip went to Nathanael and said, “come and see!”

It’s a simple thought. Meeting Jesus is a special thing! Meeting

Jesus and hearing His invitation to come spend time with Him is life-changing! If you call yourself a follower of Jesus, but your life isn’t different…then I question if you really are following Jesus.

If you don’t leave the place you stand and go to Jesus, you aren’t following Him. I believe the moment you truly set aside your agenda, and follow Him, you will never forget that moment!

Whether or not you remember that day you chose to follow Jesus, I encourage you today to pray for the passion that John writes about, for the enthusiasm that caused Andrew and Philip to share with others!

----------------------Rex Stump is the Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as a Pastor at True North Church in Wauseon, Ohio.

what they found was not what they expected to find. They came to find a king and found a baby; to find a palace and found a stone cave; to find silk and found rags.

The second thing they did was to worship God. They certainly didn’t come to find God, but they did. And what was their response when they saw the child-GodKing?

Matt 2:11a “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.”

They bowed down which they would do for any king but they also worshiped him which they would not do for a king but only for a god, in this case the God of all gods.

Amazing that these gentiles who worshiped different gods were the first non-Jews to lay eyes on the child but also the first humans to worship him.

Epiphany means “a sudden and unexpected insight”. Think of a light bulb going off over the cartoon character’s head. That’s what these men had. A sudden and unexpected insight into who they were sent to see.

Millions upon millions of people since then have had that same sudden insight. This is not a child in a manger, not

even a man on a cross, this is God in human flesh, God Incarnate. And that “epiphany” is life changing, totally transformative, raising the dead in sin to new life in Christ.

The third thing they did was to give to the King. Matt 2:11b “Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.”

Gold, we know, and we know its value, but frankincense and myrrh are not so well known.

The first is an incense and the second an oil.

Both were so rare and so desired that they were actually more valuable than gold at the time. And God had a purpose for these gifts.

He knew Joseph and Mary would have to flee to Egypt soon so he presented them with the means to live for a couple of years in a foreign land. Among God’s many attributes is that he is Jehovah Jireh, the God who Provides.

The fourth thing we should take away from the magi in addition to worshiping God, and giving to God, is to obey God. Matt 2:12 “And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.”

They had clearly told Herod they would tell him where the king was but when told not to go back to Jerusalem, they obeyed.

That obedience cost the lives of some young children.

V16 “When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.”

How sad that is but millions would die for this same King over the next 2 millennia. It probably needs to be pointed out that Bethlehem was not a big city but about the size of Ney, Ohio (300).

There would not have been many boys under 2 years old in a town that small. I’m not discounting the lost lives but sometimes we’re told dozens or hundreds were killed and that is not factually accurate.

SEEK, WORSHIP, GIVE, OBEY. A lot to learn from this event.

----------------------Mike Kelly is the founding pastor of Bryan’s Grace Community Church (retired) and Board Chairman of Bryan’s Sanctuary Homeless Shelter and Williams County’s Compassion (free) Medical Clinic.

slithered up to them and lied about God, the fruit, and the consequences of disobedience?

What if they’d had the ability to foresee the dangerous consequences ahead and walked away from Satan?

What if David had gone back to bed when he saw Bathsheba bathing instead of watching her?

What if he’d seen the danger lurking around the corner and foreseen the after-effects he and future generations of his family would suffer because of his recklessness?

What if Moses had realized before he killed the Egyptian taskmaster that he’d waste 40 years of his life alone in the wilderness with a flock of sheep as his only companions because of that single action? What if he had foreseen the consequences of that momentary outburst of anger?

What if the rich young ruler had foreseen what hung in the balance when he chose between Jesus and his wealth?

In John 6, we observe a vast crowd that walked away from Jesus after he defined a disciple as one who must die to himself.

What if they’d seen the cost of their decision before, they made it?

And what about you and me?

What if we’d had pru-

dence when we were in that unhealthy relationship?

When we looked at that first pornography website? When we spent that money? When we took that first drink? When we walked away from Jesus because we thought following him was too hard?

If you had gained prudence from reading and taking to heart the wisdom of the Proverbs, you would have seen the danger ahead of you lurking in the shadows and taken steps to avoid it.

You could have dodged many of the emotional scars, toxic relationships, and lethal addictions that have stolen the joy and hope God intended you to live with.

How different your life would be today.

In Proverbs, the prudent person is contrasted with the simple and the fool. The simple are those who don’t know any better.

They’re described in Proverbs 14:15 as those who “believe anything.” A simple person is gullible. They walk blindly through life with no idea of the danger they’re in.

Fools are those who know

right from wrong. They know that doing such-and-such will result in unpleasant consequences, but they don’t care.

They’re going to do it anyway. They won’t listen to warnings. As we’ve seen, the prudent see danger ahead and avoid it.

Three kinds of people — simple, foolish, prudent. Which one do you want to be? For me, picking prudence is a slam dunk.

What about you?

If you want the great advantages that come with prudence, you should read Proverbs. Solomon wrote it to teach prudence to his son. He’ll gladly teach you, too, if you want.

You may want to do what many others seeking prudence do — read one chapter of Proverbs every day. Go for it. Somewhere down the road, you’ll be happy you did.

----------------------Steve Wilmot is a former Edgerton, Ohio area pastor who now seeks “to still bear fruit in old age” through writing. He is the author of seven books designed to assist believers to make steady progress on their spiritual journey.

River of Life Worship Center Commercial • Industrial • Residential Pre-Engineered • Farm • Custom Design

06559 St. Rt. 34 Edon, OH 43518

Phone: 419-636-3173 Email: siebcon@bright.net

Pastor Homer Miller 14226 US Hwy 20-A • Montpelier • 419-485-5029

Sunday: Praise & Worship - 9:45 a.m.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B3

LifeWise Academy Holds First Classes At Montpelier Elementary School (PRESS RELEASE) Montpelier, OH – LifeWise Academy in Montpelier, OH commenced its first classes on January 8th.

LifeWise Academy currently enrolls students in grades 3-5.

Students travel from the Montpelier Elementary School to the Nazarene Church building where they meet to receive

Bible-based character education.

“Thanks to our supportive community, we are up and running and serving 40 students,” said Ira Barrett, LifeWise Academy Director at LifeWise Montpelier.

“We are excited to be able to provide character-based Bible

education to students at Montpelier Elementary.”

Parents can still sign up to enroll their students at lifewise. org/montpelieroh. LifeWise lessons are part of the school’s related arts time, and LifeWise classes are provided five days a week.

Students learn the Bible

chronologically as part of the curriculum. Each lesson relates a Bible passage to a relevant character trait that the students are encouraged to practice in their families and communities.

LifeWise Academy is based in Hilliard, Ohio and is a released time religious instruction program that provides Bible-based

character education to public school students.

With parental permission, students are released from school during the day to attend classes that are off school property one hour per week. For additional information about LifeWise Academy, visit lifewise. org.

WILLIAMS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Commissioners Pass Numerous Resolutions During First Meeting Of Year By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com The Williams County Commissioners had an exceedingly productive first session of 2024.

Meeting last Thursday at 9 a.m., they passed 20 resolutions approving annual appointments and contracts to prepare for 2024.

Among these was the approval of Bartley Westfall as president of the board of Williams County Commissioners, with Terry Rummel serving as vice president.

Then approved were eight resolutions for regular business, as

“THE VILLAGE REPORTER”

well as a letter for the Department of Motor Vehicles, November and December credit card appropriations, credit card reports for January for the Commissioners, Recorders, and Prosecutors offices, the weekly and monthly Dog Warden reports for December 2023, a permit for a liquor store in Montpelier, a dealership title, and a Maumee Valley payment request.

The bills and minutes were approved as presented, and the commissioners then entered recess before fixing a contract before signage.

PHOTOS BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

WILLIAMS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 2024 … The Williams County Commissioners will see 2024 with Commissioner Bart Westfall serving as president to the board, with Commissioner Terry Rummel serving as vice president. 2023 Board President Lew Hilkert is the third member of the 2024 Williams County Board of Commissioners.

CLASSIFIEDS SERVING WILLIAMS & FULTON COUNTIES AND BEYOND

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM. YOU MAY ALSO CALL OUR OFFICE AT (419) 485-4851.

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Help Wanted SPORTS WRITERS WANTED - Whether you are in high school, college, a parent, or looking to stay busy in retirement; help us promote efforts made by local student-athletes by joining our newspaper coverage team. Email interest to publisher@ thevillagereporter.com

HELP WANTED - The Millcreek-West Unity School District has a superintendent vacancy beginning 8-12024. If you wish to apply go to our website www. hilltopcadets.org>community>employment

HELP WANTED - The Montpelier School is accepting application/resumes for a full time 2nd shift custodian II. Starting pay is $16.93 per hour, 260 days per year. Health, dental, vision and life insurance also vacation, personal and sick days. Email resume to Pam Pawlowicz at ppawlowicz@ montpelier-k12.org or mail to PO Box 193, Montpelier, OH 43543. Deadline is December 19, 2023.

Notice

NOTICE TO DOG OWNERS 2024 DOG TAGS Will be on sale December 1, 2023, at the following locations: VENDOR

DATES AVAILABLE

Williams County Auditor’s Office All Year Buckeye Veterinary Hospital 12/1/23 -1/31/24 Dog Warden All Year Edon Farmers Co-Op All Year Fountain City Veterinary Hospital 12/1/23 -1/31/24 Handyman Hardware & Paints All Year Hometown Hardware All Year Town & Country All Year Williams County Humane Society All Year

ADDRESS

CITY

Courthouse 03422 St Rt 49 09464 County Rd 13 205 S Michigan 1202 S Main Street 111 W Jackson St 119 N State St 1210 E High St 09464 County Rd 13

Bryan Edgerton Bryan Edon Bryan West Unity Pioneer Bryan Bryan

With the passage of HB59, dog tags can be purchased for a term of one year ($18), three years ($54) or permanent ($180) and the price of a kennel license is $90.00. 2024 Dog tags are on sale at the above locations or online at www.doglicenses.us/oh/williams through January 31, 2024, without penalty. All issuing agencies except online purchases, Auditor’s office and the Dog Warden will charge a fee of $.75 per license. 2024 Kennel licenses will ONLY be issued by the Auditor’s Office and Dog Warden’s office and all multi-year tags will be issued at the Auditor’s office ONLY. All dogs, three months or older, are required to have a license.

(ORC 955.01) A EIGHTEEN DOLLAR ($18.00) PENALTY will be added for each license and an NINETY DOLLAR ($90.00) PENALTY will be added for each kennel license after January 31, 2024.

Legal Notices

For Rent

NOTICE OF FIRST PUBLIC HEARING – FULTON COUNTY PY 2024 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM

Clay Meadows Apartments

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners intends to apply to the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) for funding under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. CDBG & HOME are federally funded programs administered

by ODOD, Office of Community Development (OCD).

The ODOD also administers the state funded Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF). For Program Year 2024, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners will be eligible to apply for various grants from these programs on behalf of their communities. Communities interested in grant funding should attend this hearing.

This public hearing will be held on Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 at 9:15 am in the Fulton County Commissioner’s Chambers located at 152 S. Fulton Street, Suite 270, Wauseon, OH 43567. This public hearing is the first of two mandatory public hearings that will occur in PY 2024. The purpose of the first public hearing is to provide citizens and local administrators with pertinent information about the programs available and program requirements.

MVPO and the County will work with communities to identify potentially successful applications for funding. The second public hearing will be held at a future date and will review applications prior to their submittal. Please note, communities do not have the authority to apply for CDBG programs. All applications must be approved by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners via resolution.

The programs available to Fulton County are outlined in the State of Ohio Consolidated Plan and will be presented at the Public Hearing by Maumee Valley Planning Organization. A broad range of activities can be funded through the programs, including neighborhood revitalization grant planning, economic development, downtown revitalization, water and sewer facilities, flood and drainage facilities, streets and sidewalks, senior centers, parks, and demolition of unsafe structures. Projects must be designed to primarily benefit low-to-moderate income persons, aid in the prevention of slum or blight, or meet an urgent need in the community.

If a participant will need auxiliary aids (interpreter, Braille or taped material, listening device, other) due to a disability, please contact Maumee Valley Planning Organization prior to January 17th, 2024, at 419-784-3882 in order to ensure that your needs will be accommodated. The Fulton County Commissioners Office is handicapped accessible.

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Roofing ROOF REPLACEMENT Trust our LOCAL team for your roofing needs.

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Wanted WANTED - CASH for your unwanted junk vehicles. Call Jeff @ 419708-1615.

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B4 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

Reporter

PORT S S

Williams County ~ Fulton County Area (Northwest Ohio) Sports Action

BBC BOYS BASKETBALL

E don R allies I n F ourth Q uarter T o B eat M ontpelier 54-48

PHOTO BY RICH HARDING / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

FOURTH QUARTER RALLY … Cohen Hulbert puts up a shot in the second half after drawing contact. Hulbert had 14 points on the night, including five in the fourth quarter as the Bombers rallied to beat Montpelier 54-48. GAME STORY INSIDE SPORTS. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW. THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B5

Boys High School Basketball BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALL

BBC BOYS BASKETBALL

Edon Rallies In Fourth Strong First & Third Quarter Carry Quarter To Beat North Central Past Montpelier 54-48 Fayette, 53-38 By: Nate Calvin THE VILLAGE REPORTER sports@thevillagereporter.com

EDON (January 4, 2024) – In a game of runs, it was Edon that made the last one by going 7/12 from the floor and 7/10 at the foul line in a 21-point fourth quarter as they opened BBC play with a 54-48 win over Montpelier.

Edon started strong with a 5-0 spurt in the first quarter to take an 8-3 lead after an early 3-3 tie. The teams exchanged triples to end the frame with Edon’s Peyton Trausch hitting his second of the quarter and Hayden Sharps answered with one for the Locos to trim the Edon lead to 13-12.

Edon opened the second quarter with an 11-1 run led by eight points from Briggs Gallehue and another three ball

by Trausch to increase the lead to 24-13.

After a bucket from Cohen Hulbert made it 26-18, Montpelier ended the half with six straight points as Drake Sommer, Grant Girrell, and Kenneth Smeltzer each had field goals to cut the Edon lead to 26-24 at the half.

The Montpelier surge continued to start the second half with James Camper burying a three-pointer from the right wing to give Montpelier a 27-26 lead.

The Locos lead expanded to 33-26 as Smeltzer scored twice and Brayden Brink had an offensive rebound bucket off his own miss with 4:54 left in the third.

A Hulbert free throw stopped the dry spell for the Bombers followed by a score from Max Radabaugh and a trey by Trausch as the Montpelier lead was 3833 going to the fourth quarter.

Girrell started the final stanza with a put back before Edon ripped off a 7-0 run thanks to a three-point play by Gallehue, another bucket by Gallehue and Radabaugh got open inside for a layup to make it 40-40 with 6:38 remaining.

A Trausch field goal gave Edon the lead at 42-40, but a foul line jumper by Sharps tied the game again and Sommer would then add his third bucket of the half to put the Locos back ahead 44-42.

Radabaugh scored for Edon to deadlock the game at 44 and a three-point play by Hulbert after a Montpelier turnover gave the Bombers a 47-44 lead.

Smeltzer would get a hoop and some harm but couldn’t hit the free throw to complete the three-point play thus keeping the Edon lead at 47-46.

Edon then closed the game with a 7-2 spurt as Hulbert scored on an offensive rebound and the Bombers went 5/8 at the charity stripe over the final 47.8 sec-

PHOTO BY RICH HARDING / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

GLIDING TO HOOP … Montpelier’s Drake Sommer drives to the basket while trying to avoid the defender in the second half.

VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

FIRST GAME OF 2024 … Zach Whitley (North Central) takes the ball to the bucket in the opening seconds of the Eagles 53-38 win at Fayette. VIEW 111 PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

onds to wrap up the win.

Five players accounted for the Edon scoring with three in double figures fronted by Trausch and Gallehue with 15 points apiece and Hulbert added 14.

Smeltzer had 16 to lead the Locos who hit on 51% of their shots from the floor but were hampered by 20 turnovers.

MONTPELIER (48) – Saneholtz 0; Sommer 6; Sharps 6; Camper 6; Girrell 8; Martin 0; Cooley 0; Brink 6; Smeltzer 16; Totals: 18-3-3 – 48 EDON (54) – Chrisman 2; Radabaugh 8; Owens 0; Trausch 15; Gallehue 15; Hulbert 14; Reed 0; Totals: 11-7-11 - 54 MONTPELIER 12 12 14 10 – 48 EDON 13 13 7 21 – 54 JUNIOR VARSITY: Montpelier, 44-32 GAME STATISTICS MONTPELIER: FG – 21/41 (51%); FT – 3/11 (28%); Rebounds: 27 (6 offensive); Turnovers: 20; EDON: FG – 18/55 (32%); FT – 11/19 (58%); Rebounds: 23 (8 offensive); Turnovers: 14

EAGLE SENIOR … Fayette’s Wyatt Mitchell gets by a North Central defender in the first quarter.

BBC BOYS BASKETBALL

North Central Doubles Up Hilltop 54-27 In BBC Opener PHOTOS BY RICH HARDING / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

LEAGUE PLAY UNDERWAY (January 4, 2024) … North Central senior Joey Burt takes a floater in traffic during the Eagles win over Hilltop to start league play.

VIEW 50 PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW. THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

ATTACKING THE DEFENSE … Hilltop’s Brock Kesler starts a drive to the hoop in last Thursday’s BBC contest at North Central.

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B6 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

BBC BOYS BASKETBALL

Cadwell’s 3rd Quarter Scoring Leads Stryker Past Fayette, 34-21 By: Joe Blystone THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com FAYETTE (January 4, 2024) – On a night when both teams were tactfully saying, not very good offensively, Stryker got 12 points from Jacob Cadwell in the third quarter to boost the Panthers into a 15-point lead, and a 34-21 win over Fayette.

“Our biggest concern was our patience on offense,” Stryker coach Tyler Woolace explained. “I was really proud of them here, and Fayette is going to be patient and I knew the score would be low and that’s ok.”

“We got some shots but didn’t finish but I thought we worked really hard on the defensive end and on the boards especially.”

In the first it was Daniel Donovan hitting back to back hoops including a triple to get the Panthers up 9-4, then brother William did the same in the second to double up Fayette 16-8 at intermission.

Neither team shot it well at all in the opening half as Stryker was just 7-24 while Fayette shot 4-17 from the floor.

Xander Dunnett scored six third quarter points for Fayette but the Panthers put the clamps on the Eagles' top scorer, Wyatt Mitchell, allowing him just one field goal on the evening.

“Our biggest focus was Wyatt obviously,” said Woolace. “The kid is a great ball player, he is smart being a coach’s kid and he had a heckuva game against us the first time so that was a major goal for us. A major goal to hold him to 10 points or under and we did and that was obviously good for us.”

“We did a job keeping him contained because he is explosive, he knows what to do with the ball when he gets it and I thought we did a really nice job.”

While the Panthers were holding the

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

PANTHER SENIOR … Stryker’s Jacob Cadwell drives the lane in the first quarter.

Cadwell had 12 of his game-high 14 points in the third quarter. VIEW 94 PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM Eagles in check, Cadwell knocked home five third period field goals.

The senior guard hit a pair of threepointers, canned a midrange jumper, scored on a stick back, then nailed a pull up jumper with five seconds left to give the Panthers a 34-19 bulge heading into the fourth.

“We don’t need to shoot all these contested runners and contested threes and stuff like that,” Woolace said of the Panthers 58% third quarter.

“Our guys are good enough to get open shots and that has been a big focus. We haven’t played since two days before Christmas so it’s been a long time off since (a game situation).”

Cadwell ended up with 14 on the night to lead all scorers. Dunnett had 10 as the only Eagle in double figures.

The Panthers (6-4, 1-0 BBC) shot 7-12 in the third but ended up at only 33% for the game. Fayette (3-6, 0-1 BBC) was a frigid 8-34 for 23%.

FIRING A TRIPLE … Fayette sophomore Carter Lavinder lines up a shot from downtown last Thursday at Fayette High School STRYKER (34) – M. Donovan 0; Myers 0; LaBo 2; Cadwell 14; D. Donovan 9; Froelich 0; W. Donovan 7; Batterson 2; Montague 0; Totals: 10-4-2 - 34 FAYETTE (21) – Lavinder 0; Leininger 2; Mitchell 5; Bieber 0; Beauregard 0; Jacob 2; Goble 2; Dunnett 10; Totals: 8-5 - 21 STRYKER 9 7 18 0 - 34 FAYETTE 4 4 11 2 - 21 JUNIOR VARSITY: Fayette, 33-26

BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALL

Evergreen “Steals” 53-41 Win At North Central By: Joe Blystone THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com PIONEER (January 6, 2024) - Sometimes Evergreen doesn’t shoot the ball well...and on this night they sure didn’t.

Sometimes the Vikings turn the ball over too much...and according to longtime Viking coach Jerry Keifer, 13 in this game is too many.

But the one thing Evergreen does that cures all woes and demons is harass and confound an opponent into coughing up the ball and getting “pick 6’s”, and on this night they did just that over and over in the second half to blow open a tight game and beat North Central 53-41.

“We have done a very nice job against a 1-3-1 zone the last few games and we just didn’t move tonight,” Keifer said of the Vikings off shooting game.

“It took them a little kick in the butt (at halftime) and I thought we really came out with a lot of defensive intensity in the third quarter and turned a pretty close game into a reasonable lead.”

Drew Gillen and Joey Burt matched five

points each in the first six minutes of the contest as the teams were even at 9-9 with 1:12 left in the first.

In the next 72 seconds, Eli Keifer knocked down a triple, Tyson Woodring went coast to coast off an Eagle miss and Troy Manz stuck a three-ball at the horn for a 17-9 Viking lead.

However, in the next six minutes Evergreen went ice cold, missing eight straight from the floor. The Eagles countered with nine straight to take an 18-17 advantage.

Johnny Hicks started the run with a left wing triple, Burt scored from in close, Gage Kidston split two from the stripe and hit a layup, then Ethan Beard’s 1-2 from the line put the Eagles ahead with 2:17 left.

Hunter Vaculik regained a Viking lead when he muscled in one from in close that turned into a three-point play to give Evergreen the lead for good.

Manz scored off a Keifer steal before Kidston answered with two free throws to keep the Vikes on top 22-20 at the break.

Hicks’ baseline jumper 21 seconds into the second half brought the Eagles within 23-22 but that was as close as they would get as the Vikings began their rage of thiev-

ery.

As frigid as Evergreen was in the second, the Vikings heated up in the third. Woodring ripped cord on a right wing bomb then Blade Walker three steals led to two Keifer layups, another by Riley Dunbar, and a Woodring to Dunbar hoop off another steal expanded the Evergreen lead to 41-30 by quarter’s end.

Gillen’s basket inside then three more swipe and scores in the first 80 seconds of the fourth blew the game open. Dunbar’s steal and break leading pass to Woodring was the first of the trifecta.

Walker for a third time got a pick and passed to Keifer for a layup and Dunbar then went the distance on a pick to make it 49-30 before the Vikings freely subbed the rest of the night.

“Anytime you get pick 6’s it’s great,” Keifer said. “And I think that had a lot to do with the defensive intensity we had up front with Eli and Tyson and our five man (Dunbar) is getting steals and dribbling and beating North Central down the floor and distributing passes I’ve never seen him make before.”

Kidston was the only answer for the Eagles as he scored 10 straight North Central (4-5) points in the second half out of his

game high 19.

Keifer had 16 for Evergreen (7-2) while Dunbar was a point shy of a double-double as he had 10 rebounds to go with his nine points.

Evergreen forced 23 turnovers, five of which were Woodring steals and four more

by Walker.

EVERGREEN (53) – Manz 5; Keifer 16; Woodring 9; Robertson 2; Vaculik 5; Gillen 7; Walker 0; Dunbar 9; Mounts 0; Roesti 0; Totals: 17-4-7 – 53 N. CENTRAL (41) – Burt 9; Douglass 3; Turner 0; Hegler 4; Kidston 19; Whitley 0; Beard 1; Hicks 5; Pettit 0; Clark 0; Totals: 12-2-11 - 41

EVERGREEN 17 5 19 12 – 53 N. CENTRAL 9 11 10 11 - 41 JUNIOR VARSITY: Evergreen, 47-34

BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALL

Delta Earns 51-42 Win Over Stryker PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

CONTESTED TRIPLE (January 6, 2024) …

Delta Panther Luke Reinhard launches a three-pointer with a Stryker Pantdefender in his face. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER. COM

HANDLING THE PRESSURE … Stryker Panther guard Gavin LaBo brings the ball up floor while under pressure in last Saturday’s non-league contest at Delta High School.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B7

Boys Basketball Summaries January 2, 2024 Lakewood Park Christian 56 Montpelier 51 MONTPELIER – Lakewood Park (27) overcame a 10-point first half deficit and rallied again in the final frame by outscoring Montpelier 20-11 to get their second win of the season.

Grant Girrell led three Locos (3-5) in double figures with 14 points, Drake Sommer had 13, and Brayden Brink notched 10.

LAKEWOOD (56) – Wadman 6; Kondo 24; McFarlane 8; Houser 0; Ridderheim 3; Julloff 15; Totals: 20-4-4 – 56 MONTPELIER (51) – Sommer 13; Sharps 2; Camper 6; Girrell 14; Martin 0; Cooley 0; Brink 10; Smeltzer 6; Totals: 13-5-10 – 51 LAKEWOOD 4 22 10 20 - 56 MONTPELIER 14 12 14 11 - 51 JUNIOR VARSITY: Montpelier, 47-21 North Central 53 Fayette 38 FAYETTE – North Central’s (3-4) Gage Kidston topped all scorers with 15 as the Eagles used an 11-5 first quarter and a 15-8 third quarter for the win at Fayette.

Anton Hegler added 12 points in the win and Johnny Hicks had five buckets, including a triple, for 11.

Fayette (3-5) was fronted by Xander Dunnett with a dozen and Wyatt Mitchell had 10.

N. CENTRAL (53) – Burt 4; Douglass 0; Turner 0; Hegler 12; Kidston 15; Whitley 7; Beard 2; Hicks 11; Pettit 2; Clark 0; Reinbolt 0; T. Meyers 0; Totals: 19-4-3 - 53 FAYETTE (38) – Lavinder 6; Leininger 3; Mitchell 10; Andrews; Oehlers 1; Bieber 0; Beauregard 0; Jacob 0; Goble 6; Patterson 0; Dunnett 12; Figgins; Totals: 9-4-8 - 38

24

N. CENTRAL 11 12 15 15 - 53 FAYETTE 5 13 8 12 - 38 JUNIOR VARSITY: North Central, 48OTHER SCORES: (Requested stats not submitted) Evergreen d. Otsego 66-53 January 4, 2023 North Central 54 Hilltop 27

PIONEER – The Eagles (4-4, 1-0 BBC) held Hilltop to single digit scoring in each quarter as they rolled to a 54-27 win in the BBC opener for both teams.

North Central’s Gage Kidston fronted all scorers with 24 points and Joey Burt added 13 in the win. Drew Baliey had 11 for Hilltop (3-4, 0-1 BBC).

HILLTOP (27) – Haynes 2; Grubbs 0; Schlosser 4; Shimp 2; Kesler 0; Dempsey 4; Eckenrode 4; Rossman 0; Bailey 11; Crossgrove 0; Totals: 5-4-5 – 27 N. CENTRAL (54) – Burt 13; Douglass 1; Turner 1; Hegler 0; Kidston 24; Whitley 4; Beard 7; Hicks 0; Pettit 2; Reinbolt 0; Poynter 2; Totals: 17-3-11 – 54 HILLTOP 2 8 9 8 -27 N. CENTRAL 12 15 16 11 – 54 JUNIOR VARSITY: N. Central, 35-26 Pettisville 32 Holgate 11 PETTISVILLE – Pettisville’s defense clamped down on the Tigers to hold them to just two points in the first half and only four field goals in the game as they rolled to a 32-11 win.

Jack Leppelemeier tallied 21 points to lead the Blackbird offense.

HOLGATE (11) – Giesige 2; Healy 0; Hartman 0; Miller 0; Engle 0; Meyer 1; Peck 0; Z. Boecker 2; D. Boecker 0; McCord 5; Medina 1; Rupright 1; Totals: 3-1-2 - 11 PETTISVILLE (32) – Q. Ripke 1; Leppelmeier 21; J. Ripke 4; Aeschliman 2; Horning 0; K. Wyse 0; M. Wyse 2; Morris 0; Bishop 0; Fenton; Totals: 10-3-3 - 32 HOLGATE 2 0 4 7 - 11 PETTISVILLE 11 8 7 6 – 32 JUNIOR VARSITY: Pettisville, 32-29 January 5, 2024 Tinora 54 Edgerton 52 TINORA – The Rams used a 17-7 third quarter to pull away and heldoff a Bulldog rally in the final frame to get the 54-52 win.

Edgerton’s Scottie Krontz had 26 points to top Edgerton as he hit four shots from downtown and seven twopointers.

EDGERTON (52) – Krontz 26; Baker 2; Leppelmeier 3; Herman 11; Walkup 7; Sanchez 0; Kennerk 3; Weaver 0; Totals: 12-8-4 - 52 TINORA (54) – Ferrell 2; Ackerman

15; Welling 7; Homier 2; Rittenhouse 15; Lieb 0; Spychala 13; McQuillen 0; Totals: 14-6-8 - 54 EDGERTON 10 14 7 21 – 52 TINORA 13 12 17 12 - 54 JUNIOR VARSITY: Tinora, 34-22 January 6, 2024 Pettisville 40 Fairview 26 PETTISVILLE – Just four Blackbirds scored but their defense held Fairview to single digit scoring in each quarter to get a 40-26 non-league win.

Jack Leppelmeier topped the Pettisville scoring with 10 buckets and four free throws for 24 points.

FAIRVIEW (26) – Salyer 3; Zeedyk 0; Kauffman 1; Panico 8; J. Shininger 4; Meyer 0; N. Shininger 0; Bonar 0; Brady 6; Boland 4; Williams; Totals: 10-1-3 26 PETTISVILLE (40) – Q. Ripke 0; Leppelmeier 24; J. Ripke 8; Aeschliman 2; Horning 0; K. Wyse 0; M. Wyse 0; Morris 0; Bishop 0; Fenton 6; Totals: 17-6 - 40 FAIRVIEW 7 7 8 4 - 26 PETTISVILLE 8 12 8 12 - 40 JUNIOR VARSITY: Fairview, 38-27 Delta 51 Stryker 42 DELTA – Delta outscored Stryker 13-3 at the foul line and Justin Ruple scored 18 points for the homestanding Panthers as they knocked off Stryker 51-42.

Daniel Donovan tallied 18 to pace the Stryker offense.

STRYKER (42) – M. Donovan 0; Myers 7; LaBo 7; Cadwell 6; D. Donovan 18; W. Donovan 2; Montague 2; Totals: 9-7-3 - 42 DELTA (51) – J. Ruple 18; T. Ruple 0; J. Gibbons 7; W. Gibbons 3; Reinhard 8; Morr 2; Bower 2; York 2; Brasher 9; Totals: 13-4-13 - 51 STRYKER 10 5 13 14 - 42 DELTA 12 14 12 13 - 51 JUNIOR VARSITY: Delta, 53-19 Wauseon 56 Paulding 42 WAUSEON – Paulding kept it close through the first three quarters with hot three-point shooting before Wauseon used a 15-8 final stanza to pull away.

Trey Parsons and Tyson Rodriguez each had 16 points for Wauseon and

Braden Vajen added 10.

PAULDING (42) – T. Manz 0; Rhonehouse 11; Agler 4; Schneider 0; Jones 19; Daeger 3; Barton 5; Harder 0; Beckman 0; Totals: 7-9-1 - 42 WAUSEON (56) – Riegsecker 0; Parsons 16; Rodriguez 16; Vajen 10; Ni. Stinner 5; Gype 3; Patterson 4; Na. Stinner 2; Totals: 15-6-8 - 56 PAULDING 8 11 15 8 - 42 WAUSEON 12 13 16 15 - 56 JUNIOR VARSITY: Wauseon, 41-29 Eastside (IN) 52 Edgerton 44 EDGERTON – Clay Minnick had 18 points and Ryder Reed added 10 to lead the Blazers past Edgerton in a game played at Edgerton’s old gymnasium.

Scottie Krontz fronted the Bulldogs, who are now 2-8 on the season, with 10.

EASTSIDE (52) – Johnson 9; Miller 0; Minnick 18; Reed; Baker 7; Acquavia 6; Abplanalp 2; Totals: 18-2-10 - 52 EDGERTON (44) – Krontz 10; Baker 5; Herman 7; Walkup 7; Sanchez 1; Kennerk 2; Weaver 2; Totals: 11-5-7 - 44 EASTSIDE 11 16 9 16 - 52 EDGERTON 11 12 6 15 - 44 JUNIOR VARSITY: Edgerton, 44-20 Archbold 71 Toledo Waite 37 ARCHBOLD – Twelve different Bluestreaks reached the scoring column as Archbold remained undefeated on the season after blowing out Waite.

Cade Brenner led the Archbold (9-0) attack with 16 points and Chase Miller added 14.

WAITE (37) – Villagomez 0; Hester 0; Parish 0; Taylor 0; Rodgers 4; Moya 14; McGowan 6; Hyde 2; Grover 0; Wagner 2; Shabazz 5; Belle 4; Jordan 0; Taylor 0; Totals: 9-4-7 – 37 ARCHBOLD (71) – Rodriguez 2; Phillips 5; Brenner 16; Wendt 1; Bickel 2; Seiler 8; Valentine 6; Diller 4; Miller 14; Nofziger 9; Piercefield 2; Krueger 2; Gensler 0; Harris 0; Totals: 21-6-11 – 71 WAITE 10 8 12 7 – 37 ARCHBOLD 25 22 14 10 - 71 JUNIOR VARSITY: Archbold, 70-23 OTHER SCORES: (Requested stats not submitted) Hilltop d. Jones Academy 64-25 Swanton d. Leipsic 50-47

Girls High School Basketball NWOAL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Bryan Begins Chase For Another League Title By Beating Wauseon 60-24 By: Joe Blystone THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com WAUSEON (January 5, 2024) - Those who said that Bryan girls basketball may not be as good this season after last year’s Final Four run better get a second opinion.

The Golden Bears broke away from a four point second quarter spread against Wauseon with a massive 45-8 run, and chalked up a 60-24 NWOAL win over the Indians on the opening night of league play.

The Bears started out slow, shooting just 4/11 in the first quarter, but Anna Gray hit three of those field goals to push Bryan ahead 10-6.

Ella Rau’s three pointer gave the Bears a 15-6 lead before Wauseon mounted a rally, keyed by Aunali Reyes’ putback and Johanna Tester’s steal and score to get within 15-11 with 5:38 left in the half.

“The first quarter was a struggle because we didn’t make shots, and we have been in that boat before,” veteran Bryan coach Todd Grosjean explained.

“Credit to Wauseon, they were aggressive, they got their hands on a couple offensive rebounds and loose balls that we didn’t.”

From that point Bryan capitalized on a basketful of Wauseon turnovers to spark a 15-2 romp to finish the half.

Marah Smith knocked down a triple, then had a swipe and

swoop to the rim to start the run. Gray scored on an inbounds play, Ella Voigt got a hoop off a turnover and Josey Arnold canned a triple off the last of the Indians 15 first half turnovers to give the Bears a 30-13 bulge.

“We ramped it up a little bit,” Grosjean said of the five minute burst that put the Golden Bears in control. “Our defense got us some transition baskets and runouts.”

“We had some deflections, I track those for our team, with our length. We went to a 1-3-1 and Ella Rau got a bunch of deflections out front and that got us going.”

While Bryan was using their length to harass the Indians to up-tempo the game, they were guilty of just three first half miscues handling the basketball.

Bryan’s scoring barrage continued into the third as they used a 21-6 quarter to put the game in the win column.

Smith, Arnold and Rau all laced shots from long distance, Gray had two buckets, one of which turned into a three point play and Kailee Thiel got two more hoops inside to increase the margin to 51-19 after the third.

Rau’s transition layup :50 seconds into the fourth put the game into running clock mode at 55-19.

Gray’s 15 led Golden Bear scorers while Thiel and Rau each had 11.

Bryan shot 23/47 from the

LONG RANGE SHOT …

Wauseon’s Mackenzie Stasa dials up a triple in the first half of the Indians NWOAL opener versus defending league champion Bryan. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM floor and had a mere eight turnovers. Wauseon was 10/29 and were hindered by 27 turnovers.

BRYAN (60) – Zimmerman 0; Thiel 11; Voigt 5; Gray 15; Han-

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

DEFENDING LEAGUE TITLE … Josey Arnold looks to finish off a drive for the Golden Bears while Aunali Reyes contests the shot. na 0; Brown 0; Rau 11; Smith 8; Arnold 7; Langham 3; Totals: 16-7-7 – 60 WAUSEON (24) – Stasa 5; Tester 6; Leatherman 0; Pelok 0; Coronado 2; Rupp 6; Reyes

5; Totals: 10-4 - 24 BRYAN 10 20 21 9 – 60 WAUSEON 6 7 6 5 – 24 JUNIOR VARSITY: Bryan, 39-27

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B8 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

NWOAL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Swanton Lady Bulldogs Best Evergreen In Nailbiter By: Jesse Davis THE VILLAGE REPORTER jessie@thevillagereporter.com SWANTON (January 5, 2024) - Despite trailing by as many as 10 points repeatedly early on, the Lady Bulldogs managed to take the lead in the second half and fend off a surging Evergreen in the final minutes to hold on for a narrow 49-45 victory at home.

In the first few seconds, Swanton senior Peighton Manning put in a layup for what would have given them their only lead in the first half, but due to a simultaneous foul, was awarded no points. Manning caught another foul before the first minute of play had elapsed.

Evergreen junior Addison Ricker, whose speed would make her a dominant threat to the Bulldogs throughout the game, put the first points on the board with a layup.

Junior Kennedy Emmitt followed up by stealing the ball and putting in her own layup just 10 seconds later to bring the score to 4-0.

A pair of layups by Swanton tied the game 4-4 before a Viking run including a free throw from sophomore Avah Vaculik, a breakaway layup from senior Brooke Sintobin, a layup from Ricker after stealing a pass, a free throw from sophomore Kyla Risner, and a basket from junior Ella Burgermeister to put Evergreen up 12-4.

Swanton junior Miranda Yeager sank one from outside to bring the score to 12-7 at the end the first quarter.

The second quarter started much the same, with baskets from Sintobin and Risner to put the Vikings up 16-7. Bulldog senior Olivia Gowing tried to staunch the bleeding with a three to drop their lead to 16-

BULLDOG WIN … Swanton junior Miranda Yeager puts up a runner in the lane in a win over Evergreen in their NWOAL opener. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM 10, but a quick basket from Ricker and a pair of free throws from Vaculik put them back up 20-10.

A quick five for Swanton came from a three by Manning and a basket from sophomore Lauren Bettinger, but Evergreen immediately sprang back with a solo run from Ricker, who sank two baskets and a single free throw to bring the Vikings lead back to double digits at 25-15.

With less than two minutes to go, the Bulldogs found their fire with a shot from outside

by Bettinger, a basket from Manning, and a free throw from Gowing followed immedi-

PHOTOS BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

SPLITTING THE DEFENSE … Kennedy Emmitt drives between Bulldog defenders during last Friday’s NWOAL game at Swanton.

ately by a rebound and basket from Finfera when Gowing missed her second shot, putting the Swanton girls within two at 25-23.

Trying to maintain their own momentum at the end of the half, Risner sank a nopause three pointer that left her hands with under a second remaining on the clock to bring the score to 28-23.

It would be Swanton to keep their momentum going to start the second half, putting up a massive eight point run and taking the lead for the first time in the game thanks to three baskets from senior Alexia Ostrander and one from Finfera to

put the Bulldogs ahead 31-28.

Evergreen would, throughout the remainder of the third quarter, capitalize on a pair of free throws each from Emmitt and Vaculik, but Swanton would answer with baskets from Bettinger and senior Samantha Nelson, a basket and two free throws from senior Ava Keiser, and free throws from Gowing and Finfera to increase their lead to 41-32.

With the end in sight, the Vikings regained momentum to begin the final quarter, putting up seven points of their own through a pair of baskets from Vaculik and a three from Emmitt.

A Bulldog basket from Manning was followed up by one from Ricker and a free throw from Evergreen sophomore Bailey Lumbrezer to bring Evergreen to within 43-42 with only two minutes on the clock.

After a shot up close from Finfera brought the score to 4542 with less than 90 seconds remaining, it became a game of fouls and free throws. In that time, the Bulldogs would be at the line three times to the Vikings’ two.

In those visits, the Bulldogs’ Finfera and Bettinger would put up four points to the three from the Vikings’ Emmitt to give Swanton a 49-45 win.

Girls Basketball Summaries January 2, 2024 Tinora 37 Wauseon 35 TINORA – The foul line was a struggle for both teams with Wauseon going 8/22 and Tinora just 4/18, including 2/14 in the fourth quarter, but those two makes in the final frame were enough for the Rams (5-3) to squeeze out a 37-35 win.

Mackenzie Stasa had 13 points for Wauseon (5-5), who trailed 18-12 at halftime before rallying to take the lead for a time in the fourth quarter.

WAUSEON (35) – Stasa 13; Tester 7; Leatherman 0; Pelok 0; Coronado 6; Rupp; Reyes 9; Totals: 6-5-8 – 35 TINORA (37) – Lee 2; K. Okuley 7; Blanchard 11; Coy 0; Durfey 3; N. Okuley 14; Bailey 0; Totals: 9-5-4 - 37 WAUSEON 7 5 9 14 - 35 TINORA 4 14 13 10 - 37 JUNIOR VARSITY: Wauseon, 30-21 Toledo Christian 72 Archbold 46 TOLEDO – After a competitive first quarter, Toledo Christian dominated the second stanza 23-5 to improve to 8-3 on the season after a 72-46 win.

Alanna Pedraza fronted the Archbold (5-6) scoring with three makes from two-point range, two triples, and a free throw for 13 points.

Kendall Braden of Toledo Christian led all scorers with 38 points on the night.

ARCHBOLD (46) – Pedraza 13; Forward 7; Perez 2; Gericke 7; Ruffer 4; A. Kinsman 0; Meyer 8; Grime 2; J. Kinsman 0; Bowers 3; Totals: 13-6-2 – 46 T. CHRISTIAN (72) – French 3; Leach 0; Markley 2; Neitzke 6; Braden 38; Reed 14; Fortney 2; Timberman 2; Knierim 0; Welborn 5; Totals: 26-4-8 - 72 ARCHBOLD 17 5 13 11 - 46 T. CHRISTIAN 20 23 17 12 - 72 JUNIOR VARSITY: Archbold, 34-10 January 4, 2023 Tinora 40 Edgerton 35 EDGERTON – Tinora outscored the Bulldogs 15-5 in the fourth quarter to earn a come from behind 40-35 win to start GMC play.

Edgerton’s Alivia Farnham topped all scorers with four treys and three

two-point field goals for 18 points in the loss.

TINORA (40) – Lee 8; K. Okuley 1; Blanchard 14; Coy 0; Durfey 5; N. Okuley 10; Bailey 2; Totals: 8-6-6 - 40 EDGERTON (35) – C. Gerschutz 0; Giesige 2; Stuut 0; Farnham 18; Swank 9; Keppeler 0; Everetts 6; Totals: 5-67 - 35 TINORA 10 2 13 15 - 40 EDGERTON 6 10 14 5 - 35 January 5, 2024 Stryker 37 Fayette 19 STRYKER – The Panthers (5-5, 1-0 BBC) were solid defensively, not allowing a Fayette triple in the game, for a 37-19 win in the BBC opener for both schools.

Stryker’s Emma Fulk had five buckets and two makes from the foul line for a game-high 12 points while Kelsie Storrs had five points to top Fayette (28, 0-1 BBC).

FAYETTE (19) – Sinks 2; D. Storrs 2; Mitchell 0; K. Storrs 5; Powers 4; Gorsuch 0; Fetterman 1; Brown 0; Ramay 2; Schang 3; Totals: 7-5 – 19 STRYKER (37) – Froelich 7; Oberlin 4; Leupp 2; Ruffer 6; E. Fulk 12; Creighton 1; Clemens 5; A. Fulk 0; Rethmel 0; Totals: 10-1-14 - 37 FAYETTE 2 10 3 4 – 19 STRYKER 9 7 12 9 - 37 JUNIOR VARSITY: Fayette, 14-13 (2 quarters) Pettisville 50 Holgate 41 HOLGATE – Pettisville (6-5, 1-0 BBC) took to the road to start BBC play and used a 19-3 advantage at the free throw line for a 50-41 win at Holgate (3-7, 0-1 BBC).

Grace Crawford and Amanda Grimm led the way for the Blackbirds with 17 points each.

PETTISVILLE (50) – Strauss 7; Klopfenstein 0; Bennett 1; Grimm 17; M. Remington 0; Miller 8; Crawford 17; Weimken 0; Totals: HOLGATE (41) – Tijerina 4; M. Bower 5; A. Bower 4; Fritz 0; Healy; Jones 0; Wilhelm 0; Blaker 12; Pennington 4; Giesige 9; Eis 3; Totals: PETTISVILLE 11 11 9 19 – 50 HOLGATE 7 5 12 17 - 41

JUNIOR VARSITY: Holgate, 31-18 Montpelier 50 Edon 33 MONTPELIER – Kelsie Bumb drained five triples on her way to 18 points and Jada Uribes added 17 as the Lady Locos (8-2, 1-0 BBC) used a fast start for a 50-33 win over Edon (2-10, 0-1 BBC).

Natalie Wofford was Edon’s leading point getter with six buckets and three free throws for 15.

EDON (33) – Wofford 15; Gr. Ripke 8; Craven 3; Ge. Ripke 0; Briner 2; Smith 4; Ogden 1; Totals: 9-2-9 – 33 MONTPELIER (50) – Bumb 18; Hillard 8; Z. Uribes 2; Mahan 2; McGee 2; Hopper 1; J. Uribes 17: Totals: 13-6-6 – 50 EDON 1 11 14 7 - 33 MONTPELIER 11 13 15 11 - 50 JUNIOR VARSITY: Montpelier, 39-20 Hilltop 66 North Central 8 WEST UNITY – Hilltop junior Libbie Baker broke her own school record for points in a game with 44 and went over 1,000 points in her career as the Cadets rolled past North Central 66-8.

Hilltop was in control throughout, leading 16-0 after one quarter and 37-3 at the intermission.

N. CENTRAL (8) – Burt 0; Zimmerman 2; Groves 0; Reyome 0; Cruz 0; Turner 0; Zuver 0; Gruber 1; Dominguez 0; Burger 2; Wright 3; Totals: 3-2 -8 HILLTOP (66) – Dickinson 3; Rodriguez 2; Routt 0; Baker 44; VanArsdalen 3; Bailey 4; Connolly 7; Crossgrove 3; Totals: 16-5-19 - 66 N. CENTRAL 0 3 4 1 – 8 HILLTOP 16 21 15 14 – 66 Liberty Center 56 Delta 13 LIBERTY CENTER – The Tigers (81, 1-0 NWOAL) blitzed Delta (5-5, 0-1 NWOAL) in the first half en route to a 42-4 lead at halftime and cruised to a 56-13 win.

Emerson Gray paced LC with 17 points and Kailey Blanton had six field goals for a dozen.

DELTA (13) – Demaline 0; Munger 4; Todd 2; Martinez 2; Friess 2; Haas 0; Sprow 0; Lamb 0; Gillen 3; Smith 0; Totals: L. CENTER (56) – Gray 17; Mohler 6;

Atkinson 3; Fausnight 2; Keller 7; Perry 3; Miller 0; Jones 4; Krugh 0; Zientek 0; Barrett 2; Blanton 12; Totals: 16-412 - 56 DELTA 2 2 2 7 - 13 L. CENTER 22 20 9 5 - 56 Patrick Henry 60 Archbold 40 ARCHBOLD – The Patriots (8-3, 1-0 NWOAL) led 34-28 at halftime and pulled away from the Bluestreaks with a 26-12 second half for a 60-40 win.

Charlee Forward fronted two Bluestreaks (5-7, 0-1 NWOAL) in double digits with six buckets and 5/5 at the free throw line for 17 and Alanna Pedraza tallied 11.

P. HENRY (60) – Nelson 7; Crossland 17; Boyer 2; Seemann 7; Weber 11; Guelde 3; Haas 3; Christman 7; Schwab 2; Prigge 2; Totals: 16-5-14 - 60 ARCHBOLD (40) – Pedraza 11; Forward 17; Perez 0; Gericke 6; A. Kinsman 1; Meyer 1; J. Kinsman 0; Selgo 0; Hurst 0; Grime 2; Ruffer 2; Totals: 9-3-13 - 40 P. HENRY 20 14 12 14 – 60 ARCHBOLD 16 12 7 5 – 40 JUNIOR VARSITY: Archbold, 46-42 January 6, 2024 Stryker 43 Delta 39 DELTA – The visitors from Stryker were 19/27 at the foul line compared to just 2/6 for Delta as they held off a fourth quarter surge by Delta (5-6) to get a 43-39 non-league win.

Allie Ruffer paced a balanced scoring attack by Stryker (6-5) with nine points and Grace Froelich had eight, all at the charity strip.

Grace Munger had six baskets for 12 points to top Delta.

STRYKER (43) – Froelich 8; Oberlin 7; Leupp 2; Ruffer 9; E. Fulk 7; Creighton 3; Clemens 0; Rethmel 7; Totals: 6-4-19 - 43 DELTA (39) – Demaline 1; Munger 12; Todd 5; Friess 8; Haas 6; Sprow 1; Lamb 0; Gillen 0; Smith 6; Totals: 143-2 - 39 STRYKER 6 13 16 8 - 43 DELTA 7 8 9 15 – 39 JUNIOR VARSITY: Delta 17-14 (2 quarters)

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B9

BBC GIRLS BASKETBALL

SPORTS Stryker Pulls Away To Defeat Fayette 37-19 WINTER 2023-2024

STANDINGS STANDINGS Standings Thru January 7th, 2024

• NWOAL • BOYS BASKETBALL League Overall

Archbold Evergreen Delta Liberty Center Bryan Wauseon Patrick Henry Swanton

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

9-0 7-2 6-2 3-3 4-4 4-4 3-4 3-6

• BBC • BOYS BASKETBALL PHOTOS BY RICH HARDING / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

BBC OPENER (January 5, 2024) … Abby Oberlin takes a short jumper for Stryker in their 37-19 win over Fayette. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

DRIVE TO THE GOAL … Fayette’s Kelsie Storrs slashes her way through the Stryker defense in last Friday’s conference opener at Stryker.

BBC GIRLS BASKETBALL

Baker Eclipses 1,000 Career Points In 66-8 Trouncing Of North Central

Pettisville Stryker North Central Edon Hilltop Fayette Montpelier Holgate

League 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1

Overall 6-4 6-5 4-5 3-7 4-4 3-6 3-6 2-7

• GMC • BOYS BASKETBALL League Overall

Antwerp Wayne Trace Fairview Tinora Paulding Ayersville Hicksville Edgerton

1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1

10-0 9-1 4-4 2-7 5-3 5-5 3-7 2-8

• NWOAL • GIRLS BASKETBALL League Overall

Bryan Liberty Center Patrick Henry Swanton Evergreen Delta Wauseon Archbold

1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1

10-1 8-1 8-3 6-3 7-4 5-6 5-6 5-7

• BBC • GIRLS BASKETBALL PHOTOS BY RICH HARDING / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

CAREER NIGHT (January 5, 2024) … Hilltop’s Libbie Baker (#13) broke the school record for points in a game (44) and surpassed 1,000 career points in a win over North Central. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

OPEN LOOK … Madeline Zimmerman snaps off a jumper for the Eagles last Friday in a BBC game at Hilltop.

Montpelier Hilltop Pettisville Stryker Holgate Fayette Edon North Central North Central

League 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-0

Overall 8-2 6-4 6-5 6-5 3-7 2-8 2-10 1-9 1-8

• GMC •

VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL

Balanced Scoring Carries Stryker Past Delta, 43-39

GIRLS BASKETBALL Ayersville Antwerp Tinora Fairview Wayne Trace Paulding Edgerton Hicksville

League 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1

Overall 8-0 7-3 6-3 7-4 7-4 3-4 3-7 1-9

• NWOAL • GIRLS BOWLING League

Bryan Liberty Center Wauseon Patrick Henry Delta

4-0 3-1 2-2 1-3 0-4

Overall 5-0 3-2 3-2 2-3 0-5

BOYS BOWLING INSIDE SCORE … Olivia Smith gets free inside for Delta in a 53-49 loss at home to Stryker.

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

AFTERNOON HOOPS (January 6, 2024) … Stryker’s Aubrey Clemens races the ball up the floor in last Saturday afternoon’s game at Delta. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

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League

Liberty Center Bryan Evergreen Patrick Henry Delta Swanton Wauseon

6-0 4-2 4-2 3-3 2-4 1-5 1-5

Overall 7-0 4-3 4-3 3-4 2-5 1-6 1-6

Junior High BOYS BASKETBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

January 4, 2024

January 2, 2024

7TH GRADE: Bryan d. Edgerton 50-23 N. Central d. Montpelier 33-28 Archbold d. Evergreen 37-35 8TH GRADE: Bryan d. Edgerton 47-11 N. Central d. Montpelier 36-31 Archbold d. Evergreen 58-5

7TH GRADE: Pettisville d. Montpelier 44-6 8TH GRADE: Pettisville d. Montpelier 28-7 January 4, 2024 7TH GRADE: Archbold d. Evergreen 32-16 8TH GRADE: Archbold d. Evergreen 34-21

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B10 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

High School Bowling NWOAL BOWLING

NWOAL BOWLING

Bryan Bowlers Sweep Delta In League Play

Swanton Falls At Home To Patrick Henry

PHOTO BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

LEAGUE MATCH (January 5, 2024) … Serena Shelhart recorded the high series for Delta after posting game of 129 and 123. VIEW # PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

LEAGUE ACTION (January 5, 2024) … Connor Yates of Swanton gets ready for the Bulldogs home match with Patrick Henry. VIEW ALL PHOTOS OF THIS CONTEST FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

WARMING UP … Oliver Proxmire warms up ahead of the Golden Bears league match last week versus Delta at Swanton Sports Center.

Varsity Bowling Summaries BOYS BOWLING January 5, 2024 Liberty Center 3,090 Evergreen 2,165 NAPOLEON – All five Liberty Center bowlers rolled two games of 200 or better as the Tigers posted a score of 3,090 to win easily over Evergreen.

Trevor Johnson recorded the high score of the night for the Vikings with games of 197 and 194.

At River City Bowl-A-Way EVERGREEN (2,165) - Michael Laver 190-190; Trevor Johnson 197-194; Xaviar Robinette 141; Makayla McKenzie 139; Thomas Baker 169-112; Isaac Hansel 135; Cohen Myers 164; Evergreen Baker 534 LIBERTY CENTER (3,090) - Tim Blanton 226-232; Landon Amstutz 235-214; Joey Wymer 241-236; Jacob Sexton 266-277; Wesley Wilhelm 204224; Liberty Center Baker 734 Bryan 2,074 Delta 2,022 SWANTON – Bryan led 1,703-1,536 after match play and held of the Panthers in the Baker Games to pull out a league win.

Aaryan Singh fired a 404 (225-179) series to lead Bryan while Brody Waugh

paced Delta with a 361 (214-147) series.

At Swanton Sports Center BRYAN (2,074) - Dakota Brandeberry 184-171; Aaryan Singh 225-179; Alexander Douglas 200-172; Oliver Proxmire 116; Skyler Crooks 157-159; Noah Mills 140; Bryan Baker 371 DELTA (2,022) – Brody Waugh 214147; Konrad Hawkins 151-134; Ethan Cone 188-168; Jack Tedrick 148; Carter Mitchell 159-117; Cody Stricker 110; Delta Baker 486 Tinora 2,319 Wauseon 2,031 BRYAN – Logan Tankersley had 209 and Isaiah Goliver put together a 376 (194-182) series to lead Tinora over Wauseon 2,319-2,031.

Wauseon’s Thomas Reed accounted for the high game (269) and series (401) of the night.

At Bryan Lanes WAUSEON (2,031) - Evan Stevens 150-143; Landon Gleckler 191-148; Clayton Hilton 120-113; Thomas Reed 132-269; Parker Baldwin 148-139; Wauseon Baker 478 TINORA (2,139) - Isaiah Goliver 194182; Lucas Stein 181-193; Logan Tankersley 151-209; Samuel Tankersley 138; Drew Higbea 163-190; Kody Short

145; Tinora Baker 573 Patrick Henry 2,135 Swanton 1,952 SWANTON – Derrick Munding rolled a 204 in game two and finished with a 378 series to lead Patrick Henry past Swanton 2,135-1,952.

Conner Williams topped Swanton with games of 172 and 178 for a 350 series.

At Swanton Sports Center PATRICK HENRY (2,135) - Aaron Alvarado 176-169; Derrick Munding 174204; Isaiah Geahlen 147-199; Austin Lammers 170-166; Quinton Colburn 160-123; Patrick Henry Baker 447 SWANTON (1,952) - Conner Williams 172-178; Conor Yates 149-121; Matthew Chovan 146-169; Emma Leonard 194-147; Madison Roytek 100-141; Swanton Baker 435

GIRLS BOWLING January 5, 2024 Bryan 2,020 Delta 1,339 SWANTON – Zoey Gillett rolled a 204 followed by a 191 to lead Bryan past Delta 2,020-1,339. Serena Shelhart turned in the high series for the Panthers with a 252 (129-123).

At Swanton Sports Center BRYAN (2,020) - Zoey Gillett 204191; Polly Sleesman 188; Haylie Federspiel 165; Kyah Davis 133; Ashley Grymonprez 156; Alexis Hartman 147-140; Mya Federspiel 106-137; Bryan Baker 453 DELTA (1,339) – Serena Shelhart 129-123; Kiyah Leonard 78; Chloe Cole 94-119; Kayleigh Opfer 95-106; Harper Stickley 93; Kathryn Mohring 84; Gabberiella Waller 68; Delta Baker 347 Wauseon 1,892 Tinora 1,633 BRYAN – Kymberlee Yocom led the charge for the Indians by tallying a 200 and 197 for a 397 series in Wauseon’s non-league win over Tinora.

Brianna Hays was next on the scoresheet for Wauseon with a 280 (122-158) series and Josie Spires had 259 (136-123).

At Bryan Lanes WAUSEON (1,892) - Kymberlee Yocom 200-197; Brianna Hays 122158; Josie Spires 136-123; Ruth Shelt 133-124; Chloe Robertson 113-139; Wauseon Baker 447 TINORA (1,633) - Aleksia Cook 150117; Paige Weber 102-155; Rose Billing 115-107; Jennifer Lichtenwald 149138; Deja Kimmel 130-93; Tinora Baker 377

High School Wrestling

Varsity Wrestling Summaries BOYS WRESTLING January 6, 2024

154.0; T5. Great Crossing 138.0, Nordonia 138.0; 7. Wauseon 134.0; 10. Delta 96.0; 21. Evergreen 68.0; 38. Bryan 34.0

Perrysburg Invitational Tournament TEAM SCORES: (48 teams) 1. Perrysburg 258.0; 2.

Highland (Medina) 162.0; 3. Napoleon 159.0; 4. Penn

AREA PLACERS: 106lbs – 8. Carter Stuckey (Wauseon); 113lbs – 3. Adam Mattin (Delta); 126lbs – 2. Zavian LaFountain (Wauseon); 138lbs – 1. Jack

Stubleski (Evergreen), 8. AC Torres (Wauseon); 144lbs – 2. Jordan Cook (Wauseon), 7. Landon Lintermoot (Delta); 150lbs – 6. Benicio Torres (Wauseon); 157lbs – 8. Max Mossing (Evergreen); 165lbs – 8. Kale Waxler (Wauseon); 190lbs – 2. Connor Sintobin (Delta), 6.

Austin Kovar (Wauseon); 215lbs – 7. Jaydon Dennis (Bryan)

419-636-5661 Mon.-Fri. 9:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday 9:30 am - 2:00 pm

East Side of the Square Downtown Bryan

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - B11

In Photos: Fall Sports Action - Williams County ~ Fulton County Area Athletics -

“THE VILLAGE REPORTER”

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Photos By Rich Harding, Jacob Kessler & Renea Kessler, Staff

CHARLIE WOOD SWANTON HIGH SCHOOL

KELSIE BUMB MONTPELIER HIGH SCHOOL

The male Athlete of the Week is Swanton Bulldog basketball player Charlie Wood. The 6’9 Swanton junior dropped 29 points last Saturday in a 50-47 a win at Leipsic.

The female Athlete of the Week is Montpelier basketball player Kelsie Bumb. The Loco guard drilled five trifectas and finished with 18 points to help Montpelier knock off Edon 5033 last week to start BBC play.

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B12 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, January 10th, 2024