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CORRECTED ANNOUNCEMENT

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The 39th annual Ada Harvest and Herb Festival included the crowning of the festival queen. Six high school seniors were part of the 2025 royalty court:

• Lydia Demacio, daughter of Jen Zimmerly
• Kaylie Klear, daughter of Nick and Rachel Klear
• Emma Lambdin, daughter of Matt and Jen Lambdin
• Alyssa Nau, daughter of David and Martha Nau
• Jordyn Smith, daughter of Jeff and Cherie Smith
• Laenen Ulrey, daughter of Ryan and Katie Ulrey

Contestants were interviewed by a pageant committee and wrote three essays, an endeavor that took some of them out of their comfort zone, as was noted by Ada Area Chamber of Commerce Director Lindsay Hollar. She commended the contestants on stepping forward to participate and thanked their families for supporting them.

The National Anthem was sung by Kiya Tabler and Kylee Kober and–filling in for coordinator Taylor Osbun–the awards were announced by Arlene Allison.

Emma Lambdin was crowned as the new festival queen by 2024 Harvest and Herb Queen Lexi Poling. First runner up and essay winner was Alyssa Nau. Second runner up was Laenen Ulrey.

The ceremony was held at Depot Park with the contestants appearing in front of the red Pennsylvania Railroad caboose. The girls wore decorative Harvest and Herb sashes and were presented with fall-themed floral arm bouquets as well as gift bags provided by local businesses. 

Judges for the contest were Rachel Ludwig, Becky Heister, Patty Deview and David Dellifield.

Mike and Marie Gossman were thanked for decorating the float and escorting the contestants in the 9:00 a.m. parade.

The contest was made possible by the following donors:

• Ada Area Chamber of Commerce
• Artistic CreationsEl Campo
• Carol Slane Florist
• Community Market
• Hanson Neely Allison Funeral and Cremation Services
• Jalapenos
• Mercantile on Main
• Middlefield Bank
• Ohio Northern University Office of Alumni
• Ohio Northern University Office of the President
• Padrones
• Quest Federal Credit Union
• Shannon Theatre
• Shirley's Gourmet Popcorn Company
• Starbucks
• Tavern 101
• Twirl
• Viva Maria
• Wilson's Sporting Goods