One of Ada's business stories of 2019 was the retirement of Bruce Neely, funeral director and owner of Hanson-Neely Funeral Home of Ada and Alger. A late December retirement open house recognized Bruce for his nearly 46 years of service to the community. Here is a Neely family photo, taken at the event. Standing are Chris Neely, Galloway, Ohio, and Jennifer Herndon El Reno, Okla. Seated are Bruce and Sandy Neely.
2019 weather summary chart at bottom of story -
How will 2019 be remembered weather-wise?
In one word: Rain.
From April 1 to July 31 the area experienced 23.83 inches of rain. Those four months accounted for more than one-half of the entire year’s rainfall, which reached 44.23 inches.
The 2019 rainfall was the highest recorded in the area since 54.86 inches fell in 2011.
The 23.83 inches of rain during that four-month period compares to normal average of 15.43 inches during that same period.
According to Ada resident LeAnn Pryor, BBBS of West Central Ohio program director, the common denominators among Littles are single-parent families and a lower income. Still, there are many unique reasons for participation.
_____________________________
By Barbara Lockard
What do kids from lower income, single-parent families have in common?According to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, they all possess an incredible gift … potential!
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of America defends, inspires and ignites the potential of youth every day,” is the opening line of a public service announcement for the organization.
Ada’s Area Chamber of Commerce launches its 2020 programming with five new board members and membership pushing toward the 100 mark, according to Deb Curlis, chamber director.
New to the board are Dan Newkirk of Heapy, who will serve as vice president; Angela Hersh of Liberty National Bank, who will serve as treasurer; Gail Alstaetter of The Mercantile; Jon Umphress of Ada Kiwanis Club and Joni Goodman of Midwest Rehab, according to Heather Cox, board president.
Continuing board members are Jill Simmons, secretary, Jamie Hall, Patty King, Dustin Shook, Fred Steiner, Ruth Roider and Natalie Walton.
Here's a downtown Ada view photographed through a Christmas wreath at the Ada First United Methodist Church. Christmas lights and decorations are slowing coming down in anticipation of the next holiday, honoring St. Valentine.
