DEGREE RECIPIENTS … American FFA Degree recipients Hannah Barnes and Kendra Ehrsam. NATIONAL CONVENTION … The whole group that went to National FFA Convention from the Delta FFA Chapter. By: Melanie Wyse DELTA FFA REPORTER The National FFA Convention is where members get together and travel to Indianapolis, Indiana. The members go on numerous educational tours and activities to have fun and learn more about agriculture. It happens only once a year and it’s always a trip to remember. The bus left on October 28th in the early morning and returned on November 1st. Delta FFA Chapter traveled with Black…
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(Resident Of Bryan) Nancy C. Bates, 72, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Parkview Bryan Hospital – ER surrounded by family, following a brief illness. Nancy was born on February 18, 1953, in Marion, Ohio, daughter of the late Gerald C. and Mary C. (Rice) Fleming. She graduated from Marion Harding High School, and in 1971 received her training in histology and bacteriology at the FC Smith Clinic in Marion, OH, where she worked until 1975 and met her future husband. Nancy married Steven K. Bates on March 1, 1975, in Marion. Following a relocation to…
By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com John Russell Skelton, the father of three young Morenci boys who vanished in 2010, is now formally charged with murder in their long-standing disappearance. The charges were filed in Lenawee County just weeks before he was scheduled to complete his prison sentence related to the case. According to court records, six felony charges were authorized on November 12th including three counts of open murder and three counts of tampering with evidence. Skelton, 53, continues to be held while the new charges advance through the legal process. The new charges arrive fifteen years after…
PHOTO BY JOHN FRYMAN / THE VILLAGE REPORTER RETIREMENT … Montpelier Grade 7-12 Principal Suann Thorp (left) greets new interim principal Steve Arnold (right) before the Montpelier Exempted Village Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, November 11. Thorp will be retiring from the district on December 31, 2025. By: John Fryman THE VILLAGE REPORTER john@thevillagereporter.com The Montpelier Board of Education met in regular session on Tuesday, November 11, highlighted by the retirement resignation of longtime Grade 7-12 principal Suann Thorp. Following the roll call of board members, it was noted that Dunne Gambler, Nate Rose, Jennifer Schlosser, and Patti Rockey…
By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com Pettisville Local Schools has accepted the retirement of longtime choir director Duane Beck after an internal investigation found he engaged in inappropriate communications and failed to maintain professional boundaries with students. Beck, who has worked in the district since 1998, was placed on administrative leave on September 23rd and will officially retire on May 31st, 2026, after using his collected sick time. A separation agreement approved by the board of education on November 5th bars Beck from district property or events without the superintendent’s permission. The agreement follows an 18-page investigative report in…
By: Amy Wendt THE VILLAGE REPORTER amy@thevillagereporter.com The Archbold Board of Education met for its regular board meeting on November 10, 2025. Following roll call and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, the board approved the agenda. The meeting also served as a Public Hearing for the proposed 2026-2027 School Calendar. In her report, Elementary Principal Andrea Thiel recognized October Bluestreaks Best (Students of the Month) for displaying the character trait of “responsibility” and noted those students were treated to a pizza party to celebrate their achievement. Those who received the honor were Kindergarteners Olivia Ross, Lillian Marihugh, Dietrich Beck,…
PRESS RELEASE – Members of the Archbold FFA Chapter attended the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo held October 29–31 and November 1 in Indianapolis, Indiana. On the way to Indianapolis, the chapter stopped at J&M Manufacturing in Fort Recovery, Ohio, for a tour of the facility. Members learned about the company’s manufacturing process and the various types of equipment produced for the agricultural industry. While in Indianapolis, Archbold FFA members attended two convention sessions where they listened to keynote speakers and national FFA officers. The group also spent time at the National FFA Expo, connecting with agricultural colleges, industry…
PHOTO BY JOHN FRYMAN / THE VILLAGE REPORTER THE NUMBERS … Pioneer Village Council members Joseph Nikloy (left) and Dean Frisbie (right) go over the financial report at the council meeting held on Monday, November 10. By: John Fryman THE VILLAGE REPORTER john@thevillagereporter.com Pioneer Village Council adopted a new rate schedule for village waste pickup during its monthly meeting on Monday, November 10, at the Pioneer Community Center. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer given by Pastor Craig Bard of Pioneer Community Church, a roll call of council members followed, with Ben Fiser, Joseph Nickloy, Trever West, Bryan Gendron,…
PRESS RELEASE – During the month of October, the Delta FFA Chapter members got together to make goodie bags for all the hard-working farmers in our area. The bags included meat sticks, doughnuts, oreos, Cheez-it, Mott’s bars, trail mix, fruits snacks, mints, and water. Everyone worked hard to assemble all the bags made and then delivered them when harvesting began. The officers went to various places across the county. This includes Falor Farm Center, Davis Farm Service, Gerald Grain in Delta and Wauseon and Pettisville Grain in Delta. We also made some individual deliveries to farmers who students are related…
PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER ISO CLASS 3 … Fire Chief Brian Fritsch updates the council on the improved ISO Class 3 Fire Rating for the Village of Montpelier. By: Brenna White THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com The Village of Montpelier received an improved rating of an ISO Class 3 for its excellent fire coverage and water department. The Montpelier Village Council held its regular meeting on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the Montpelier Police Department, where they discussed upcoming council vacancies, Park Board appointments, and new ordinances to come. Mayor Steve Yagelski, Council President Heather Freese, Clerk…
By: Brenna White THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com The Bryan City Schools Board of Education convened for its regular meeting on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Mose Issac Field House Conference Room. All board members, Ben Camarillo, Deb Opdycke, Dustin Schlachter, Caleb Turnbull, and Lynn Wieland, were in attendance. The meeting began with the approval of the minutes from the October 13, 2025, regular board meeting. The 2025 cross country state qualifying team was recognized in a student spotlight. The treasurer’s report included general financial recommendations and a generous donation of $4,991.22 from the George Azar and…
PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER MAINTENANCE … The Airport Authority Board discusses ongoing repairs around the Williams County Airport as winter approaches. By: Brenna White THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com The Williams County Airport Authority recently convened to discuss ongoing operations and potential new business developments coming to Bryan, Ohio. Brian Paugh of Premier Avionics, Fort Wayne, joined the board for an introduction and brief overview of his company. The meeting took place on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Paugh approached the board to explore opportunities for collaboration and expansion, expressing a strong interest in relocating…
By: Jesse Davis THE VILLAGE REPORTER jesse@thevillagereporter.com Swanton Mayor Neil Toeppe thanked residents during the most recent Swanton Village Council meeting for their participation in the recent election, while simultaneously praising the candidates. “Too often, our residents are not presented with choices at the ballot box, but this year was different,” Toeppe said. “We had six dedicated residents step forward, each offering their time, experience, and concern for the well-being of our village. I commend their commitment to our community and their willingness to serve.” Toeppe said new council members Pat and David Pilliod, as well as incumbent Noah Kreuz,…
PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER EQUIPMENT PURCHASES … The Edon Summer Ball League was awarded a $4,000 grant from the Bryan Area Foundation for baseball and softball field updates. The funds will be used to replace a dated PONY League mound and purchase new softball pitching mats. These improvements will enhance the quality of practice and games for youth participating in these sports, while also providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for player development. Pictured left to right during the check presentation are Edon Summer Ball League President Chad Livensparger and Bryan Area Foundation Grant Making Committee Chair…
PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER VOLLEYBALL ALL-STARS … The District 7 Volleyball Coaches Association held their All-District Awards and All-Star match at Lourdes University on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. Senior players from division 5-7 were placed on four teams and played a round robin set with the other teams. Front row: Jordan Ramirez – Swanton, Aletha Fausnight – Liberty Center, Hayden JoHantgen – Hilltop, Genna Ripke – Edon, Brooklyn Kuszmaul – Hilltop. Back row: All-Star game coach Allison Bloir – Edon, Kelsie Storrs – Fayette, Ada Christman – Patrick Henry, Brynn Rodriguez – Hilltop, Alexa Faber – Swanton, Lexi…
PHOTO BY JESSE DAVIS / THE VILLAGE REPORTER CHIEF WEIGHS IN … Swanton Police Chief John Trejo shares his concerns on the potential for expanded golf cart usage by residents in the village during a special public hearing. By: Jesse Davis THE VILLAGE REPORTER jesse@thevillagereporter.com Only one resident shared their comments with the Swanton Village Council during a public hearing on the proposed relaxation of regulations of the driving of “low-speed vehicles” on village streets after the council’s most recent regular meeting. The proposal – initiated by Councilman John Schmidt – included the opening of Main Street to golf carts…
PHOTO BY BRIANNA BALOGH / THE VILLAGE REPORTER BILL UNCERTAINTY … Superintendent Anthony Stevens (left) explains the complex and uncertain nature of House Bill 186 to board members David Wehrle (center) and Patty Eicher (right) during Monday’s meeting. By: Brianna Balogh THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com The Edon Board of Education met on Monday, November 10. The meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m. and began with the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken, with all members present. Members are President Cody Best, Vice President Jamie Schaffter, Patty Eicher, Ashley Reed, and David Wehrle. Treasurer Deb Nester and Superintendent…
(Retired From LaChoy Foods In Archbold) Loretta Trevino, age 85 years, of Archbold, passed away Monday morning, November 10, 2025, at Majestic Care of Bryan. She was born on April 19, 1940, in Houston Texas, the daughter Blas and Lilian Apodaca. She went to school in Toledo, then went on to work at LaChoy Foods in Archbold for 30 years before retiring. She enjoyed her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed country music and was in bowling league in Archbold for many years. And was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Archbold. She is survived by her four children,…
(Delta Resident) Kimberly Locke, age 51, of Delta, passed away on November 12, 2025, at CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice. Kimberly spent her life caring for her family and her home. Kimberly was born on August 3, 1974, in Toledo, to Kenneth and Luann (Hilton) Locke, Sr. Kimberly spent 32 years with her life partner, Steve Keller. Kimberly enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and traveling. Her biggest joy in life was being a Nana. Kimberly is survived by her daughter, Amber Locke of Wauseon; daughter, Tabatha Keller of Wauseon; and daughter, Alycia Keller of Holland; grandchildren, Liam, Xavier, Steele, Aiden, MaleKai, Alaina,…
PRESS RELEASE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER NATURAL GAS TALK … The President on the Ohio Gas Association, Jimmy Stewart, spoke to the Bryan Rotary Club. The OGA is the trade association of the natural gas distribution and transmission companies who operate in Ohio. Ohio Gas Company in Bryan is a founding member of the OGA. Stewart gave an update on the Natural Gas Industry. United States is the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas. The demand to generate electricity is increasing and using natural gas is the most economical way. It’s important to remember that Ohio is sitting on…
PRESS RELEASE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER LUNCH WITH A VETERAN … Stryker Local Schools celebrated Veterans Day by inviting veterans to eat lunch with students. The veterans were also able to choose a gift made by the Panther Tech Club. Enjoying lunch with Lilly Alls is Veteran Israel Aguilar.
(Member Of St. Mary Catholic Church) Audrey Mae Davis, age 98, of Angola, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Audrey was employed as a secretary for the Ohio Art Company, Bryan, Ohio for many years. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Edgerton, Ohio before moving to Angola. She enjoyed golfing with her son and helping her siblings. Audrey was born on May 1, 1927, in Bryan, Ohio, the daughter of Rudolph and Rose (Walsh) Davis. She married Raymond Davis on September 27, 1946, and he preceded her in death on September…
(1952 Graduate Of Stryker High School) Rev. Fred “Buck” Brandon, Jr., age 90, of Bryan, Ohio, peacefully passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Community Health Professionals Inpatient Hospice Center in Defiance. Fred was born on December 20, 1934, in Hicksville, Ohio, the son of the late Fred and Vesta Birdina “Birdie” (Andrews) Brandon, Sr. He was a 1952 graduate of Stryker High School. On January 3, 1954, he married Carolyn Mae Corwin, and together they shared 59 years of marriage until Carolyn’s passing on February 13, 2013. Fred was the owner…
(Former Owner Of Wyse Book & Office Supplies) Evelyn Jane (Short) Wyse passed to her eternal home on November 10, 2025, at the age of 91 at Fairlawn Nursing Home. She was born to Cletus and Mary (Wyse) Short on October 6, 1934, the youngest of six children. Evelyn married Wesley E. Wyse on October 7, 1953, and enjoyed 64 years together. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband Wesley, parents, an infant daughter Susan, and her brothers, Williard Short, Walt Short, Dale Short, and sisters Deloris Wyse and Doris King. Surviving are children Julia (Steven) Nofziger, Russell (Sandy),…
(Lifelong Archbold Resident) Daniel Roy Avers, died suddenly Sunday evening, November 9, 2025, in his home. He was born at Detwiler Manor, Wauseon, Ohio to Raymond and Leta Avers of Archbold. He married Anjelita Jimenez, July 29, 1983. He is survived by his mother Leta, his wife, Angie, daughter Dr. Richelle (Matthew) Avers, Fargo, ND; stepdaughter, Jessica Grime Harris, Napoleon; stepson, Jeremiah (Nicky) Grime, Wauseon; grandchildren, Charles Edward, Defiance, Carlos Edward and Cahlil Edward, Napoleon; Carys, Kyrin, and Lawson Grime, Wauseon; Kaleigh Pringle, Toledo; great grandchildren, Bryce, Savannah, Peyton and Brooks; Adaline and Brexton; Braxton, Lilly, Ellie, and Arabella. He…
(Served With Lyons-Royalton Fire Department) David Scott Creque, 69, of Lyons, Ohio, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, November 11, 2025, with his wife and granddaughter at his side. He was born on April 3, 1956, to Virgil and Janet (Bettinger) Creque. On September 11, 1981, he married the love of his life, Julie (Schmitz), and together they built a family filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. Dave was a proud father to four children — Janet (Cory) Spencer, Scott (Jenna) Creque, Cory (Emily) Creque, and Chelsea (Bradley) Edwards — and a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren: Chloe Creque &…
By: Mike Kelly Retired Pastor This month, I’m taking a few articles published on Facebook by Kent Hardy, a friend of mine, who has granted me permission to expand on his writings. This one focuses on our desire for justice, or more correctly, on why we desire justice. Ever found yourself speeding and thinking “Thank goodness, no cops saw me,” Then later seeing someone pass by you like you were standing still and wondering “Where are the cops when you need one?” Well, that’s kind of the topic today. We rejoice when we are not punished, and we often wish…
By: Dr. Jerry Bergman Montpelier, Ohio The most prominent Creation Museum in North America is located in Petersburg, Kentucky, and operated by Answers in Genesis. They interpret Biblical history from a young-Earth creationist perspective. Other creationist museums exist, including the Creation Evidence Museum in Glen Rose, TX, the Creation and Earth History Museum in Santee, CA, the Boneyard Creation Museum in Broken Bow, NE, and the Creation Education Museum at the Akron Fossils & Science Center. This museum, located west of Akron and south of Cleveland, in Copley, OH, was where I was invited to visit several weeks ago. I was…
By: Cheryl Garza The power of thankfulness. Gratitude isn’t just a feeling– it’s a healing practice. Research shows that taking time to notice what we’re thankful for can lower stress, improve mood, and even boost immunity. Try starting or ending your day with a short gratitude ritual. Write down three small things you’re thankful for–your morning cup of tea, a kind word, or even a moment of sunshine. Pause and just take in deep breaths, giving appreciation for your body’s ability to breathe in and out. Gratitude enhances health, brings happiness, and may even lengthen our lives. Gathering around the…
By: Rex Stump Wauseon, Ohio God created all things in creation; Genesis claims this truth, as well as a few dozen other scriptures. Therefore, God reserves the right to be called, Almighty Creator. Examine what we see and know, for instance, outer space. From what we know about outer space, is that there is more than the eye can imagine when it comes to estimating the size and contents of outer space. For example, the Milky Way is home to 100-400 billion stars. Multiply that by an estimated 200 billion to 2 trillion galaxies in the observable universe! That’s a lot of stars! Now…