Ada's latest news

Happy Monday, Ada! Here are AdaIcon.com's top stories from the week that was, January 19-25. For a chronological look at all Icon content, visit AdaIcon.com/archive. Bluffton Icon stories are also listed below.

JANUARY 19

Village of Ada Municipal Building Inclement Weather Policy

Gabe M. Gratz, age 30, of Ada, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026.

He was born on January 5, 1996, in Lima, Ohio, to Billy Gratz and Mona (Carroll) Parker.  

Gabe is survived by his father and stepmother, Billy (Patricia) Gratz; mother, Mona Parker; wife of three years, Maggie L. Dyer; two sons: Jameson Gratz and Dominic Gratz; half-brothers: Thomas Etzler, David “Hank” Etzler and Payton Pippin; half-sister, Kaylie Gratz; maternal grandmother, Diana Carroll; and paternal grandfather, Maurice “Jack” Gratz. 

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Catherine Gratz, and maternal grandfather, William Carroll.         

UPDATE The Icon was notified by the USV Ambulance District that the Board initially planned to purchase three acres of ground at $15,000 per acre for a total of $45,000.  When the survey was complete, however, the Board purchased 2.323 acres for the price of $34,845.

By Alec Keller

Residents of Alger, McGuffey and Roundhead shared feedback Thursday, January 22, during a public meeting hosted by the Upper Scioto Valley Ambulance District.

The district plans to build a $1.9 million station at 12231 State Route 235 in Harrod with funding supported by a 5.5-mill levy approved by voters in May 2023.

MEDIA RELEASE__St. Mark Lutheran--located at the corner of Lincoln and Johnson Streets in Ada--has cancelled the January 28 community meal due to the weather forecast.

The meal is free and opened to the community. The next meal will be served in February.

MEDIA RELEASE__Whether a winter storm leaves two inches or two feet of snow, the aftermath can bring challenges, especially if power outages occur. The Village of Ada encourages residents to take the following steps to safely dig out, protect property and stay warm during recovery.

Clear Snow Safely
When it is safe to do so, begin clearing snow around your home and vehicles as soon as possible. Fresh snow is lighter and easier to remove than snow that has settled and become compacted.

The Beatitudes Community Center, 210 N Main St., has announced the addition of a new Assistant Director, Stephanie Van Atta.

Van Atta notes, "I bring a strong passion for community involvement and have worked in public fields for most of my adult life, always focused on serving others. My goal is to see the people of Ada and Hardin County living fulfilling lives enriched by fellowship and connection.

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