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Roselle Park in Ada Michigan along the Grand River is 247 acre park that is
a dedicated Natural Habitat Refuge. On a rainy Saturday a few weeks
ago, we stopped and took a few photos. It was cold and windy but
the fall colors were great. We walked on one of the trails along the Grand
River. A very peaceful place to visit. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
These silos were left from the previous owner of the property. The one with
the stars on top has been made into a 9 story observation tower.
View from the observation tower toward the Grand River
On the walking trail along the river.
The Grand River, the longest river in Michigan. It starts near Hillsdale MI and
winds it’s way north then west, eventually emptying into Lake Michigan.
This spot is just north of the confluence of the Thornapple River at Ada MI.
Additional information on Roselle Park:
Roselle Park Nature Preserve on the Grand River
Roselle Park Flood Stage Spring 2009 Video
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Ada Township Park Participates in Connecting Families with Nature Saturday Sept 19, 2009 ~ Free Ada MI Event
The Kent Conservation District is holding a Kick Off Event for their
Nature Passport Program. These local events will be held at local
parks and Nature Areas this fall. The events are to encourage
families to enjoy outdoor activities and your local park resources.
Ada Township Parks and Recreation – Invites families throughout
Kent County to come out and enjoy a family day at Ada Township
Park. You can pick up your “Passport for Adventure”. Check in
at the Park Shelter to register and get your “Passports” and then
you can have a range of free activities for your day at the park.
Saturday Activities include:
- Learning Center with nature artifacts and hands on science exhibits
- Free racquets to borrow for tennis and pickle ball
- Nature trails through woods and prairie with interpreters
- Paved bike paths for walking & biking
- Free fishing poles and bait to borrow at the fish pond
- Scavenger hunts in the Arboretum
- Balls for playing basketball & soccer
- Plus additional fun ideas to help you enjoy your day at the park
Event Information :
Location Ada Park 1180 Buttrick Ave. Ada MI 49301
Date/Time: Sept 19, 2009 10am to 2pm
Additional Saturday Sept 19 Events are planned at these Nature Centers:
Calvin College Ecosystem Preserve
Howard Christensen Nature Center
Wittenbach/Wege Agri-Science and Environmental Education Center
June 13th 2009 ~ Kid’s Bike & Safety Rodeo
Located at Ada Park 1180 Buttrick Avenue in Ada Township,
Michigan, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department is hosting
a Bike & Safety Rodeo from 10 am to 1:30 pm Saturday,
6-13-2009.
The event is open to children 12 and under, able to ride a
2 wheeled bicycle. Bring your own bike and helmet.
10 am to noon – Bike inspections, an obstacle course, helmet
checks, and bus and fire safety will be covered.
Awards, raffles, and a free cookout lunch will begin at noon.
Bike parade will be at 1 pm led by Sheriff’s Dept motorcycles.
Register by mail or in person with Sandi Jones,
Kent County Sheriff Dept. Community Policing Unit,
701 Ball Ave NE, Grand Rapids Michigan, 49503.
Donations of $5 per child will be given to the Kent County
DARE program and the Community Policing Units.
Call 632-6220 for information
Westbrook Realty ~ Grand Rapids Real Estate
Copyright 2009 all rights reserved
National Senior Health & Fitness Day May 27th, 2009
Is it true that the words free and seniors just go together? As I edge ever
closer to this category, it certainly seems so to me. At the very least,
a free event should be well attended in this economy. If you find yourself
available next Wednesday, here’s a couple of free options for education
and entertainment:
National Senior Health & Fitness Day Wednesday, May 27
Special Activities at Ada Park 9:00 – 3:00 Free
Forest Hills Fine Arts Center 9:00 – 3:00 Free
Healthy Living Lecture Series – by St Mary’s Health Center
Alternatives to Medication 10-10:45 am
Feeling Over-medicated? 11:00-11:45 am
Healthy Living 101 12:00-12:45 pm
Staying Sharp 1:00-1:45 pm
Getting a Good Night’s Sleep 2:00-2:45 pm
Also: Vital Health Screenings and Neck Massages, Door Prizes
Kick off Fitness Walk begins at 8:30 am
100,000 adults will participate in activities at more than 1,000 locations
throughout the U.S. as we celebrate the 16th annual
National Senior Health & Fitness Day.
The common goal for this day: to help keep older Americans healthy and fit.
Come on out to Ada Park or Forest Hills Fine Arts Center to take part in a
series of guided activities and presentations to promote your health.
Or just come out to any of our local parks for some fresh air and exercise.
Contact the Park office for details; 616-676-0520, adaparks@ada.mi.us
Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids Real Estate
Copyright 2009 all rights reserved
Photos by Bonnie Westbrook
We took a drive along the Grand River last week and took in some
local sites. The Grand River was a full flood stage and it changed the
scenery in a few places. This short video was taken at Roselle Park
in Ada Township Michigan. This park is a 274 acre natural preserve
right on the banks of the Grand River. It normally has some swampy
areas, but nothing like the scenes in the video. Usually you have to
walk about 100 yards to get close to the river.
Since we didn’t bring our wading boots, we stayed near the entrance and
just shot our video. We will go back and photograph the park without
water soon.
Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids MI Real Estate
Copyright All rights reserved 2009
Arbor Day Festival Ada Park & Arboretum Free
Saturday, April 25 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Donations accepted
Bring your family out to the Locke Arboretum at Ada Park for this festival
of events to celebrate Arbor Day. Ada Park will be set up with activity
stations for all ages including workshops on tree pruning and care,
backyard wildlife habitats, nature displays, conservation exhibits,
youth crafts and games, wildflower & tree walks and fishing for kids.
Special "tree theme" snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.
One free tree sapling to each family as supplies last.
Westbrook Realty ~ Grand Rapids Real Estate
Copyright 2009 All rights reserved
Photo of Ada Maple Tree by Bonnie Westbrook
Below is the Ada Township Parks Spring Summer Programs Scheduled:
Arbor Day Festival Ada Park & Arboretum Free
Saturday, April 25 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Donations accepted
Bring your family out to the Locke Arboretum at Ada Park for this festival of events to celebrate Arbor Day. Ada Park will be set up with activity stations for all ages including workshops on tree pruning and care, backyard wildlife habitats, nature displays, conservation exhibits, youth crafts and games, wildflower & tree walks and fishing for kids. Special "tree theme" snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. One free tree sapling to each family as supplies last.
4th of July Celebrations
Celebrate our National Holiday in the Village of Ada. At the following events:
Friday July 3rd
Fireworks Dusk 7590 E. Fulton at Ada Dr.
Saturday, July 4
Pancake Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Ada Fire Station
4th of July Parade 10:00 a.m. Ada Village Green
Entertainment/Activities 11:00 -3:00 Ada Village Green
Play Ball!
The Ada Softball Program will start games May 4th at Ada Park and Leonard Field. Games are held Monday through Thursday evenings and some Saturdays. A few openings exist for teams to sign up. Contact the Park Office at 676-0520 or email softball@ada.mi.us for an application or more details.
Area Youth League & Sports Contacts:
For information on organized youth leagues contact the following numbers or web sites:
T-ball: Southeast YMCA, 616-285-9077
Baseball: Thornapple Valley Baseball League, www.tvbl.org
Soccer: American Youth Soccer Organization, www.ayso-soccer.com
Golf, cheerleading, basketball and swimming: www.enjoylearning.com
Summer sports camps: www.fhps.k12.mi.us, www.lowellschools.com
Pickle Ball
Yes, Pickle Ball! It’s a version of racket ball played on the tennis courts and was brought to us by area seniors. Ada Park Tennis Court #1 is designated now for this game with markings on the court and allocated time slots. Check in with the park office for more information.
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National Senior Health & Fitness Day
Wednesday, May 27 Special Activities at Ada Park 9:00 – 3:00 Free
100,000 adults will participate in activities at more than 1,000 locations throughout the U.S. as we celebrate the 16th annual National Senior Health & Fitness Day. The common goal for this day: to help keep older Americans healthy and fit. Come on out to Ada Park to take part in a series of guided activities and presentations to promote your health. Or just come out to any of our local parks for some fresh air and exercise. Contact the Park office for details; 616-676-0520, adaparks@ada.mi.us.
Volksmarch
Sunday, August 9 Ada Park 11:00 – 3:00 Free
This walking event will start at Ada Park then head down the bike paths through the Ada Covered Bridge and the Village. All ages welcome. Wear comfortable shoes. Contact the Park office for details; 616-676-0520, adaparks@ada.mi.us. A partnership event with the American Volkssport Association www.ava.org
Walks with a Naturalist Dates, Times & Locations Vary $3/adult, $2/youth
Guided outings in Ada Parks to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors. Come dressed for the weather of the day and walking. Open to all ages but youth must be with an adult guardian.
Pre-registration is appreciated by calling 676-0520 or email adaparks@ada.mi.us. Pay at site.
Spring Wildflowers Friday, April 17 10:00-11:30 am Ada Park
Rivers & Wetlands Tuesday, May 19 7:00 – 8:30 pm Roselle Park
Summer Solstice Monday, June 22 7:00 – 8:30 pm Roselle Park
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Youth Programs
Discovery Days – Spring Ages 3-5 Ada Park $4/youth*
For pre-schoolers and parents together at Ada Park for a fun morning of nature study, hands-on activities and crafts. Programs will have inside and outdoor activities so come dressed to be outside. Pre-registration requested by calling 676-0520 or email adaparks@ada.mi.us.
Cool Critters Monday, April 20 10 to 12 Ada Park
Does it have fur, scales or feathers? Does it run, swim or fly? Look for the many
different critters that live just outside our back door.
Butterflies, Flying Flowers Tuesday, May 5 10 to 12 Ada Park
Dress up like a butterfly, learn what caterpillars need to grow up into a beautiful butterfly,
make a caterpillar out of an egg carton.
Discovery Days - Summer Ages 5-7 Ada Park $4/youth*
Parents may drop-off or join their youth at Ada Park for a fun morning of nature study, hands-on activities and crafts. Programs will have inside and outdoor activities so come dressed to be outside. Pre-registration requested at 676-0520 or email adaparks@ada.mi.us.
Creepy Crawlies Wednesday, July 8 10 am – 12 noon
What creepy crawlies live in our neighborhood? Go on an insect hunt to find out and
pretend to be a firefly looking for some friends.
Rock Hounds Wednesday, August 12 10 am to 12 noon
Be a rock hound as we explore all different sizes & types of rock. Make a pet rock to take home.
Junior Naturalist – Summer Ages 7-11 Dates & Locations vary $5/youth*
Outdoor discovery programs with special presentations, hands-on science activities, crafts, games, snacks and outings. Programs will have inside and outdoor activities so come dressed to be outside. Parents may drop off youth with completion of a contact information form. Pre-registration requested by calling 676-0520 or email adaparks@ada.mi.us.
Fishing Frenzy Thursday, June 11 9:30 to 12 noon Ada Park
Learn about fishing equipment and what makes good fish habitat. Get a chance to fish in
the Ada Park pond. Borrow our equipment or bring your own.
Arts in the Park Tuesday, June 23 9:30 to 12 noon Ada Park
Find the artist inside you! Try different mediums as you create some cool artwork to take home.
Incredible Insects Thursday, July 9 9:30 to 12 noon Ada Park
Learn about our 6-legged friends as we crawl, splash, and search through different habitats
for these special critters.
Rocks & Fossils Thursday, August 13 9:30 to 12 noon Ada Park
Explore a variety of rocks and fossils and how they are made plus go round hounding
Bikes & Hikes Tuesday, July 28 9:30 to 12 noon Roselle Park
Bring your bikes out to Roselle park for a morning of riding the bike trails and hiking off trail through the woods and wetlands.
*Ada Township residents receive $1.00 off the fee of these programs.
Kids Bike & Safety Rodeo
Saturday, June 13 10:00 -1:30 4-12 year olds Ada Park
The Kent County Sheriff Department invites you to the Kids Bike & Safety Rodeo. Join in a day of fun activities, food and goodie bags for all who attend. From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. stations will be set for bike Inspections, helmet Inspections, bus safety, fire safety plus a bike obstacle course. At 12:00 noon awards, raffles and a free cookout lunch will be provided followed by the "Bike Parade" at 1:00 p.m. led by the Kent County Sheriff motorcycles.
The Bike Rodeo is for children under the age of 12 who are able to ride a two wheeled bike. You will need to bring your own bike and helmet. Please register by mail or in person to Sandi Jones, Kent County Sheriff Department, Community Policing Unit, 701 Ball Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Donations of $5.00 per child will be donated towards the Kent County D.A.R.E. program and the Community Policing Unit. Make checks payable to: K.C.T.S. Action Fund. Contact Sandi Jones at (616) 632-6220 for more information.
Bike Decorating Day Thursday, July 2 10 a.m. to 12 noon Ada Park
Bring your bike out to the Ada Park Shelter to decorate it just in time for the 4th of July Parade in Ada! Helpers and materials will be available. For 4 – 12 year olds with parent or guardian. $3 per youth. Register on site.
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Ada Parks Summer Day Camp Adventures
Camps sessions run for two or three day per week, Tuesday – Thursday, on various weeks in the summer from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They are targeted for youth ages 6-11 years old where younger campers (6-7) may sign up for ½ day sessions. All camps start at Ada Park with some days held at Roselle Park except for Pioneer days which will be held at the Museum.
Fees: $55/full 3-day session; $45/half-day 3-day session; $45/full 2-day session; $35/half day 2-day session. Ada Township residents receive 10% off fees. Pre-registration required – obtain registration form from the Park office: 616-676-0520, adaparks@ada.mi.us.
Session 1: Water Wonders Tuesday June 30 to Wednesday July 1
Explore ponds, rivers & wetlands. Fish and dip for tadpoles. Water games and
more. Tuesday will be in Ada Park while Wednesday will be held at Roselle Park.
Session 2: Arts in the Park Tuesday July 14 to Thursday July 16
Try a variety of art media from painting, drawing and sculpture to music and drama
through presentations, instruction and opportunity for creative expression.
Wonderful Wildlife Tuesday July 21 to Thursday, July 23
Activities include special presentations about local wildlife, wildlife simulation games, habitat hikes, fishing and crafts. Two days based at Ada Park and one day at Roselle Park.
Pioneer Days Wednesday July 29 to Thursday, July 30 Ada Museum*
A step back in time at the Ada Museum and Barn to explore life of the 1800’s.
Activities to include pioneer era toys, tools, food, games, clothes and more
Sports Spectacular Tuesday August 4 to Thursday, August 6
Three days of playing, instruction and coaching in a range of your favorite sports from
basketball to tennis, baseball, soccer, flag football, ultimate Frisbee and more.
Schools Programs
Field Trips: K-6 Outdoor Environmental Education Field Trips are available at Ada Park & Arboretum and Roselle Park. These are naturalist guided, themed outdoor programs, 1-2 hours in length, tailored to your curriculum needs. There is a fee of $2/student.
Shelter rentals at Ada Park are available for self-guided programs by schools at $25/day.
Service Learning Projects are available without a fee.
Boy and Girl Scout Programs:
Badge Work: Instructional programs are available for Scouts after school, some evenings and occasional weekends. Contact the Park office for program options, scheduling and fees.
Rentals: The Ada Park Shelter is available for self-guided programs by Scout groups. $25/day
Service Projects: A variety of projects are available for Scouts ranging from conservation work to facility improvement and helping with special events. No fee.
Park Volunteer Opportunities:
Ada Parks & Recreation Department is recruiting volunteers to assist with grounds, gardens, stewardship, program instruction and clerical work. Contact the Park office at 676-0502 to apply.
Volunteer Stewardship Work Days:
Garlic Mustard Pulls Sunday April 26 10-1 Ada Park
Friday, April 24 8:30 – 11 Leonard Field
Monday, April 27 10-12 Ada Park
Tuesday, May 12 10:30-12 Roselle Park
Friday, May 15 9-12 Ada Park
Backyard Habitats Tuesday, April 14 9-12 Roselle Park
Tuesday, May 12 9-12 Roselle Park
Tuesday, June 9 9-12 Ada Park
Pre-registration requested at 676-0520 or adaparks@ada.mi.us.
da Township Parks:
Ada Park & Locke Arboretum 1180 Buttrick Ave., 57 acres
Softball & soccer fields, tennis courts, basketball court, playground, fishing pond, trails, picnic tables, grills, pavilion, gazebos, Les Craig Learning Center and the Bud Locke Arboretum.
Leonard Field & Ada Covered Bridge 7490 Thornapple River Drive, 2 acres
Softball field, bike path, river overlook deck, Ada Covered Bridge.
Grand River Natural Area Grand River Drive SE, enter via Ada Park or McGraw Park , 90 acres
Nature area, trails, bike path, woodlands, wetlands, Grand River.
Roselle Park 1010 Grand River Dr. NE, 247 acres
Bike path, trails, picnic area, observation decks, natural areas, wetlands, prairie, forests, wildlife, river shore.
Ada Township Parks & Recreation Department Contact Information:
Office located in Ada Park, 1180 Buttrick Ave, Ada, MI 49301. Office open daily 9-5.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 370, 7330 Thornapple River Dr., Ada, MI 49301
Phone: 616-676-0520 fax: 616-676-5870 e-mail: adaparks@ada.mi.us web site: www.ada.mi.us
All information from Ada Township Parks Dept.
Grand Rapids Real Estate ~ Westbrook Realty
At 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, Ada Township Parks & Recreation
Department will present a workshop on how to plan and landscape your
yard as a quality habitat for local wildlife at Ada Township Park.
This Backyard Habitat Workshop will provide tips and tricks for landscape
planning and design, how to enhance your yard with the habitat elements
desired wildlife require, sources for native plants and a variety of other
resources. Backyard Wildlife Habitats are ideal ways for home owners,
schools and businesses to enhance their property and help support wildlife.
Whether you have a small garden area you want to use to attract birds or
butterflies, or a large yard "back 40" that you want to attract a variety of
wildlife, this workshop will provide planning tools and resources to meet
your needs and help you start on your yard this spring.
This Backyard Wildlife Habitat Workshop will also cover the procedures to
have your site certified through the National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF)
Backyard Habitat Program. Participants will receive habitat development
support materials and application forms to certify your property with the
NWF. More detail about NWF is available at www.nwf.org.
To pre-register or for more information, call the Ada Park office at
616-676-0520 or email to adaparks@ada.mi.us. There is a $3.00 fee,
payable on site. Ada Park is located at 1180 Buttrick Avenue, N.E.,
just off of Thornapple River Drive in Ada, MI 49301.
There are additional April 17th workshops~ information available from
the Ada Township Web site.
Grand Rapids Ada Real Estate ~ Five Star Real Estate
Video and photo by Bonnie Westbrook Copyright 2009 All rights reserved
