MDOT Traffic Camera for Grand Rapids

The Michigan Department of Transportation or MDOT has cameras located in Grand Rapids and Detroit. Here is a link to the MDOT Cameras in Grand Rapids, you'll need to click the Grand Rapids button because it defaults to D-Town for some reason. 

MDOT Traffic Cameras: http://mdotwas1.mdot.state.mi.us/public/drive/cameraViewer.cfm

Grow Giant Pumpkins

Check this site out.

http://www.giantpumpkins.com/howto.htm

I had some growing in my backyard but the deer ate them a few months ago. 

Board Meeting Minutes September 22, 2008

ADA TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING

MINUTES DRAFT

 

SEPTEMBER 22, 2008

Meeting was called to order by Supervisor Haga at 7:30 p.m. Members present: Supervisor Haga, Treasurer Pratt, Clerk Ensing Millhuff, Trustees: Damstra, Proos, Sytsma and Westra. Also present: Recording Secretary Smith and 18 community members. Trustee Damstra left the meeting at 8:45 p.m.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA Added to the agenda under Reports/Communications: Supervisor's Report #2 – September – 09/20/08; added to the agenda under Warrant Report: Item A. Roselle Park Improvement Project Application #1 – Twin Lakes Inc. Moved by Westra, supported by Sytsma, to approve the agenda as amended. Motion carried.

 

 

KENT DISTRICT LIBRARY UPDATE

Pamela VanderPloeg, Assistant Director, explained the 2007 Annual Report, highlighting the facts KDL is the busiest library in Michigan with a 23% increase in circulation. She explained programs, current projects, and finances. Diane Cutler, Cascade Branch Manager, gave an update on activities at the Cascade library, including the life-size bronze sculpture donated by the Lewis family, book discussions, Friends donations and author visits. Charles Fry, delegate, explained stewardship issues and the creation of a foundation.

 

 

GENERAL TOWNSHIP BUSINESS CONSENT AGENDA: Approval of Minutes

September 8, 2008, Regular Board Meeting

 

 

Receive and File Various Reports/Communications

1. Building Permit Report – 08/31/08; 2. Zoning Board of Appeals Minutes – 08/05/08; 3. MTA Weekly Legislative Report – 08/29/08, 09/05/08 & 09/12/08; 4. Region 8 Notes – 09/08; 5. KDL for the Blind and Physically Handicapped – 08/08; 6. American Planning Association (APA) 20 Year Member Recognition Supervisor Haga 08/18/08; 7. Kent County – Gypsy Moth Suppression Program – 09/10/08; 8. Treasurer's Investment Report – 07/08; 9 Supervisor's Report #2 – September – 09/20/08.

 

 

Moved by Westra, supported by Pratt, to approve items on the Consent Agenda. Motion carried.

APPROVAL OF WARRANTS AND RECEIPTS

Treasurer Pratt presented Warrants and Receipts in the following amounts: Hand Checks: #101 $5,091.02; #205 $1,394.05; #208 $337.75; #590 $39.98; #591 $645.54; #592 $1.63. Total Hand Checks: $7,509.97. Warrants: #101 $11,805.00; #205 $30,557.77; #208 $3,835.95; #211 $25,398.95; #590 $16,196.39; #591 $10,078.12; #592 $3,523.39. Total Warrants $101,395.57. Total All Checks and Warrants $108.905.54. Moved by Sytsma, supported by Proos, to approve the Warrant Report of September 22, 2008, in the amount of $108,905.54. Roll Call: Yes – Westra, Haga, Pratt, Proos, Sytsma, Ensing Millhuff. No – 0. Absent – Damstra. Motion carried.

 

 

ROSELLE PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT APPLICATION #2 – TWIN LAKES INC.

Moved by Proos, supported by Westra, to approve the Application Payment #1 to Twin Lakes for Roselle ark Entry Project in the amount of $48,436.15. Trustee Proos added that he thought the township should consider making the AIA procedures mandatory. Motion carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There was no public comment.

 

 

BOARD COMMENT

Trustee Westra referenced the legislative report in regard to limiting cell towers. He also asked about the for sale sign on Pettis near Lena Lou having been removed. Supervisor Haga replied it was still for sale and there was still an open grant. He encouraged the board to do whatever it could in the Administrative Committee to establish formal written policies and procedures to allow for a smooth transition of new officials.

Clerk Ensing Millhuff announced a free program sponsored by the Ada Historical Society with author Kit Lane regarding the history of the Grand River, exploring various aspects of the Grand River. She also reminded everyone of the a pumpkin carving contest for Halloween, the October 4 Open House/ River-fest at Roselle Park, and the river clean-up on September 27.

Supervisor Haga announced the work session on the DDA on October 6 at 7:30 p.m. and referenced an article regarding Cascade Township and the continuing gypsy moth discussions.

Ada Township Board Meeting Minutes September 22, 2008 Page 2

OLD BUSINESS RESOLUTION R-092208-1 – FOREST HILLS CENTRAL HOMECOMING PARADE Forest Hills Central student council president Austin Clover and vice president Wade Hall explained the October 3 parade will begin at 4:30 and take the same route as the last few years; adding the assistance of Kent County Deputies along the parade route will be requested. Moved by Sytsma, supported by Proos, to adopt Resolution R-092208-1, which is the Forest Hills Central homecoming parade. Supervisor Haga noted the insurance certificate had been provided. Roll Call: Yes – Damstra, Westra, Sytsma, Proos, Ensing Millhuff, Pratt, Haga. No – 0. Absent – 0. Resolution adopted.

NEW BUSINESS

 

RESOLUTION R-092208-2 – RESOLUTION APPROVING CONSENT JUDGMENT FOR PURPOSE OF RESOLVING PENDING LITIGATION – PETTIS V ADA TOWNSHIP MATTER Moved by Westra, supported by Proos, to postpone vote to allow more time to review information presented to us in our

current packet. Roll Call: Yes - Sytsma, Proos, Damstra, Westra. No – Ensing Millhuff, Haga, Pratt. Absent – 0. Motion carried.

MOTION TO RECEIVE AND ACCEPT ADA TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT FOR FY 2007/2008

Dan Veldhuizen from Siegfried Crandall explained the auditor's report, letter to internal control and comments and recommendations. Of most importance is the unqualified opinion. The purpose of the audit is to give an opinion on the fairness of the financial statements. Explaining there are two relatively new audit standards this year and 12 in the last two years. Standards include communication and audit adjustments. There was one deficiency related to no systems or controls in place to prepare financial statements with GAP stating this is true for 97% of their audit clients and is probably not a fair expectation of townships in West Michigan. Mr. Veldhuizen recommended improvements include specifying the division of the Parks and land preservation funds; both the Treasurer and Clerk signatures required on the tax fund (stating this had already taken place); in-depth monitoring of Fire Department payroll; new accounting standard for post-employment benefits. Board members had questions/comments regarding the public safety budget, fund balance, splitting of the parks and land preservation funds, need for strategic planning, and the need for written policies and procedures.

 

Moved by Westra, supported by Proos, to receive and accept the Ada Township Audit Report for fiscal year 2007/08.

OPEN SPACE ADIVSORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION FOR APPRAISAL SERVICES Moved by Damstra, supported by Westra, to approve the recommendation from the Open Space Advisory Board to pay $9,000 to Soper and Associates for an appraisal on the VanderWard property, with the money to come from the open space preservation funds. Supervisor Haga suggested a sharing of expenses with the property owners as the appraisal would be a benefit to both Ada Township and the property owners. Trustee Westra asked how much of the property was reasonably developable. Jamie Ladd explained the reason for the appraisal in addition to Township knowing the value: property owners would have a value for tax purposes. Trustee Proos asked about references of Soper and Associates for the appraisal. Mr. Ladd explained he sits on another committee and they used Soper. Lloyd Paul, 1268 Pettis, agreed Soper was very experienced and reasonably priced, adding the standard is the prospective purchaser pays for an appraisal. Motion carried.

 

OPPORTUNITY FOR ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENT

Lloyd Paul, 1268 Pettis, stated he was surprised to see tonight's agenda reflecting the settlement with Pettis & Associates. Mr. Paul stated he is the closest neighbor and believed the board had not reached out to the neighbors for input. He added the Planning Director had been to his house and taken pictures of the impact of both the recycling plant and composting on his property. During the whole process there has been no gate, no hours posted no dust control, and a strong odor.

Sue Schellen, representing Forest Glenn, Forest Bend and Longpoint Court, encouraged the board to continue the emphasis on discussing gypsy moth spraying. She described the effects experienced on these streets.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 9:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

 

______________________________

Deborah Ensing Millhuff, CMC

Ada Township Clerk RS: JS

Events in Ada

Ada Parks & Recreation Department

Program Offerings - Fall 2008

 

Ada Township Parks & Recreation Department:

Office located in Ada Park, 1180 Buttrick Ave, Ada, MI 49301

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

 

Mission: "To provide all community members with diverse recreational opportunities including access to premier natural, historical and cultural areas that enhance our quality of life and inspire the preservation of nature."

 

Ada 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 , 110 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.

Observation silo open dawn to dusk – call Park office to set time for access to silo observation deck.

 

For your information:

Park Hours: Park grounds are open to the public dawn to dusk. Park office open daily 9-5.

Dog Policy: Township ordinances require dogs to be on a leash and cleaned up after in all parks.

Shelter & Gazebo Reservations: Ada Park, available April through October. Contact the Park office.

Athletic Field Reservations:     Area leagues use the ball fields in Ada Park and Leonard Field throughout the playing season. For use times or to reserve one, contact the Park office.

E-News: Are you interested in receiving newsletters or announcements from the Ada Parks & Recreation Department via e-mail? If so, send a request to: adaparks@ada.mi.us

 

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Special Events:

 

River Clean-Up Day        Saturday, September 27      8:30 a.m. -12:00

All along the Thornapple River and Grand River volunteers will be removing trash and debris from the shores and in our rivers. This event is in partnership with the Thornapple River Watershed Council and the West Michigan Environmental Action Council. Ada Township volunteers will meet at Leonard Field Park and Covered bridge between 8:30 and 9:00 am for an orientation and supplies then head out to designated sites along the rivers. Individuals or groups are welcome to help out but must pre- register with the Ada Township Parks office by Wednesday, September 24. To sign up or for more information contact:

Ada Township Parks & Recreation Department 616-676-0520 adaparks@ada.mi.us

Thornapple River Watershed Council      269-948-8056 ext 117 dstrouse @thornapple river.org

West Michigan Environmental Action Council 616-451-3051ex 25
kklomp@wmeac.org

 

Roselle Park Open House and River Festival Saturday, October 4 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Come out and enjoy Ada Township's new Roselle Park! See how the development of this unique restoration project is coming along and enjoy the new park facilities.

Special activities set for the day will include:

*Exhibits and displays by local river conservation and history organizations.

*Live Music            *Hands-on and discovery activities for kids

*Wagon Rides            *Special Presentations

*Bike paths opens            *Guided Hikes

*Snacks available            *Free admission

Ada Parks & Recreation Programs – Fall 2008 P. 2

 

Lectures and Special Speakers

 

The Grand:   Rivers of Michigan Series    by author Kit Lane

Wednesday, September 24, 2008         7:00 p.m.     Averill Museum      No fee

Hosted by the Ada Historical Society and held at the Averill Museum at 7144 Headley St. in Ada.

Kit Lane, author of more than 20 books on Michigan History, will speak about her new book, The Grand. It is the second book of the Rivers of Michigan Series. Kit will discuss the longest and most historic river in the State of Michigan with a mile-by-mile survey discussing interesting history and sights along the way. There is no fee for this event but Kit may have books for sale.

For information call 616-676-9346 or email: adahistoricalsociety@gmail.com

 

Bats of the World
    Saturday, October 18        4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Ada Park Learning Center                $5/adult, $3/youth

Reservations are required since space is limited. Call ahead: 616-676-0520.

A special presentation by the Organization for Bat Conservation (www.obc.org) with live bats and an exciting multimedia presentation about bats from around the world. Learn about the benefits of these fascinating creatures, their unique adaptations, sound waves, ecosystems, food webs, conservation and world geography. Live bats to be shown including local brown bats, large fruit bats and a "Flying Fox" with a 4-foot wingspans!

 

Planning and Certifying your Backyard Habitat

Two presentation times: 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 23

Ada Park Learning Center             $4.00/adult

Pre-registration by phone or e-mail appreciated, pay at event.

Presentation will focus on methods for developing and enhancing habitats on your property for wildlife as well as the certification process for the National Wildlife Federation's Backyard Habitat Program. Open to residential landowners, schools and businesses. More details about NWF is available at: www.nwf.org.

Participants will receive materials to certify their property with the NWF.

 

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Walks with a Naturalist        Times & Days vary     $3/adults $2/youth.

Guided outings by Park Naturalists in the Township Parks. Dress for the weather of the day.

Pre-registration is appreciated by calling 676-0520 or email. Pay on site.

 

3 Parks in 1 Hike        Thursday, October 9     9:00 a.m.    Ada Park

This walk will start in Ada Park, follow the bike path through the Grand River Natural Area and end up at the McGraw Park to view the Grand River. Walking on the bike path, about 1 ½ miles.

 

The Back Trails of Roselle    Thursday, November 6     10:00 a.m.     Roselle Park

This hike will leave the paved paths to explore north section of the park including a visit to the Fen on site. Walking on the bike path, dirt trails and open fields (rough terrain) about 2 ½ miles.

 

Full Moon Night Hike    Thursday, November 13     7:00 p.m.    Roselle Park

Come dressed for a cool hike through Roselle Park by the light of the moon. Silo observation deck open as well. Walking on the bike path, about 1 ½ miles.

 

 

River City Wild Ones meeting & workshop     Monday, October 20 7:00 p.m.     Ada Park

River City Wild Ones, a group dedicated to the preservation of native plants and education programs about them will hold its October meeting and program at Ada Park at 7:00 p.m., Monday, October 20.

The topic will be on sowing wildflower seeds and presented by Julie Frankie of the Meijer Gardens.

Pre-registration is required through the River City Wild Ones: 616-233-0833, rivercitywildones@gmail.com.

Ada Parks & Recreation Programs – Youth Programs P.3

 

Schools Based Programs – Field Trips, Rentals, Service Learning

*Field Trips: K-12 Environmental and Outdoor Education Field Trips are available at Ada Park & Arboretum, Leonard Field and Covered Bridge and the new Roselle Park. These are naturalist guided, outdoor programs, 1-2 hours in length, tailored to your curriculum needs. Themes may include ecology, adaptations, plants, trees, wildlife, rivers, wetlands and others. There is a fee of $2/student. Contact the Park office for details and to schedule events.

*Rentals: Ada Park has shelter rentals available for self-guided programs by schools. $15-$25.

*Service Learning Projects are available, usually without a fee.

*Outreach programs into schools or other properties are set up by individual requests.

 

Boy and Girl Scout Programs:

*Badge work in the Parks: Guided and instructed programs are available for Scouts after school,

some evenings and occasional weekends. Contact the Park office to discuss details on your groups

needs, program options, set up a time, and fees.

*Rentals: Ada Park has shelter facilities available for self-guided programs by Scout groups.

*Service and Conservation Projects: A variety of projects are available for Scouts ranging from

conservation work to facility improvement to helping with education and recreation programs. No fee.

Other Youth Groups:

*Contact the Park office for facility use, guided program opportunities or volunteer service projects.

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Junior Naturalist         Ages 8-12    Dates vary    4:00 – 5:30 p.m.     $4/youth*

Each event with special presentations, hands-on activities, games and outings. Pre-registration requested & guardian contact information form required.

*Fantastic Fall Fishing        Thursday, September 25        Ada Park

*Terrific Trees            Thursday, October 16        Ada Park

*Who are you calling a Turkey?    Thursday, November 6        Ada Park

 

Terrific Tuesdays     Ages 3-5     Dates vary    10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon $4/youth*

Pre-Schoolers bring your parent for a fun morning of nature study, hands-on activities and a craft.

Pre-registration requested by calling 676-0520 or email adaparks@ada.mi.us.

*Be A Nature Detective        Tuesday, September 30        Ada Park

*Trick or be a Treat!            Tuesday, October 21        Ada Park

*Amazing Animal Adaptations    Tuesday, November 4        Ada Park

 

"Halloween Happenings"

 

It's a Hoot! - Pre-Halloween Fun Day         Ages 6-12        Ada Park

Saturday, October 25        10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon        $4.00/youth*

Join in a series of fun activities to put you in the spirit of fall harvest and Halloween fun. From playing games like bobbing-for-apples, to taking a hike to look for creepy creatures, to painting mini-pumpkins to playing themed games. Parents welcome to stay to help or drop off kids.

 

Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest     Ages 12 and under     Averill Historical Museum

Drop off - Thursday, October 30, 3:00 - 5:30 p.m. Awards - Friday, October 31, 7:00 p.m.

Drop off your carved pumpkins and Jack-o-Lantern creations to the Averill Historical Museum on Thursday, October 30 between 3:00 and 5:30 for display and judging. Awards will be given for the "funniest," "scariest" and "most creative" pumpkins at 7:00 p.m. Friday, October 31.

 

Trick or Treat             Ada Township Fire Station

Friday, October 31            6:00 – 7:00 p.m.        Free

Stop by the Ada Fire Station Halloween evening for their unique Tricks & Treats event.

 

*Ada Township residents receive $1.00 off the fee of these programs.

(Don't miss the Bats on October 18! – See P.2 for details)

Ada Parks & Recreation Programs P. 4

 

For the Health of It!

 

Yoga for Nature Lovers        Wednesdays, Sept. 24 – Oct. 29     9:00 - 10:00 am

Instructor: Melissa Gaudette.     Ada Park        Fee of $70 for the 6 session program.

Pre-registration is required by contacting the Ada Park office by Monday, Sept. 22^nd.

Start your week with yoga in beautiful Ada Park !   We will meet outdoors (weather permitting) or we'll use the multi purpose room in the park office building (next to the tennis courts).  All levels welcome.  Please bring a yoga mat.  Enjoy the park before or after yoga to walk, bike or run for a complete work-out experience.

 
 

Pickleball at Ada Park        Mondays & Wednesdays     Ada Park

Pickle-Ball is a hybrid of badminton, tennis and table-tennis, played with wooden paddles and a perforated plastic ball on a tennis court with the playing court smaller. Tennis Court #1 at Ada Park is reserved on Monday and Wednesday afternoons & evenings for adults to enjoy this fun game. Newcomers are welcome. No fees.

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Averill Historical Museum of Ada

Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 – 4:00 PM or by appointment.

On Headley St. across from the Ada Post Office.

For membership, to volunteer or other information call 616-676-9346

or email: adahistoricalsociety@gmail.com
www.hsmichigan.org/ada/museum

 

The Ada Farmer's Market

Located at the Averill Museum and Barn

Open Fridays until October 31^st

11:00 am - 3:00 pm.

 

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Ada and Cascade Township's Fall Trash Collection Day

Saturday, October 18        8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Leonard Field parking lot for "Shred-It" paper recycling and Salvation Army donations.

Kent County Road Commission Fase Street facility for all other items.

 

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Volunteer Opportunities:

Ada Parks & Recreation Department is recruiting Volunteers to assist in the following areas:

Grounds, gardeners, odd jobs, trail monitors, habitat stewards, program instructors, clerical.

Contact the Park office at 676-0502 to apply or attend one of the following work days:

Upcoming Volunteer Work days –

 

Tuesday, September 23, from 9 – 11 a.m. at Ada Park. We will remove woody plants from the Prairie Fen and work on the Woodland Garden and Backyard Habitat areas.

 

Saturday, September 27, from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. River Clean-up. Join us for a morning of cleaning up the banks of the beautiful Thornapple and Grand Rivers. Meet at Leonard Field for donuts and coffee and then head to near-by river access points for clean-up duties.

 

Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Roselle Park Open House and Riverfest. Be a part of the first annual Riverfest. Help is needed with set-up and clean-up, information tables, host, parking, snacks, youth activities and guided nature walks.

 

Tuesday, October 7, from 9 – 11 a.m. at Roselle Park. We will prepare the Rain Gardens for the winter and work on the NWF Backyard Habitat demonstration site.

Carl Creek Wetland Preserve Dedication

The dedication for Carl Creek Wetland Preserve is scheduled for Sunday. Ada Township purchased 34 acres of woods and wetlands along Alta Dale Avenue, south of M-21. The $300,400 purchase came out of the township's open space fund with about $102,250 in donations from residents. A conservation easement with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan has been placed on the property, which includes a tributary of the Grand River, to maintain the land in a natural state. The township eventually might consider installing a path along the south side of the property and a small parking area. The dedication is set for 3 p.m. at 155 Alta Dale Drive SE.

from
http://www.mlive.com/news/grpress/index.ssf?/base/news-3/1223298922168420.xml&coll=6

Belle Tire Fixes Flats for Free on 28th Street by Centerpointe

I recently got a flat tire coming home from work the other day. I was swearing up a storm as I was driving through one. I got home called Discount tire which closed at 6, I called Belle Tire which was open until 8. Got to Belle Tire at 6pm got out at 7pm. One hour and it didn't cost me a thing. They were able to fix the flat tire and put it back on for free.

I didn't even buy the tires from them and I didn't have them do any prior work on my car but still it was free. Not sure if it was a mistake but I asked them once and they said no cost. Not wanting to argue, I left and the tire has been great since. Hats off to Belle Tire for this great service.

Ada Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest Details

Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest

Ages 12 and under

Averill Historical Museum

Drop off - Thursday, October 30, 3:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Awards - Friday, October 31, 7:00 p.m.

Drop off your carved pumpkins and Jack-o-Lantern creations to the Averill Historical Museum on Thursday, October 30 between 3:00 and 5:30 for display and judging. Awards will be given for the “funniest,” “scariest” and “most creative” pumpkins at 7:00 p.m. Friday, October 31.

Ada Fall Clean Up Day October 18, 2008

Saturday, October 18

8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Leonard Field parking lot for “Shred-It” paper recycling and Salvation Army donations.

Kent County Road Commission Fase Street facility for all other items.

Second Annual Roselle Park Open House & River Festival

All information taken from http://www.ada.mi.us/RoselleRiverFestOpenHouseflier.doc

Saturday, October 4, 2008
10:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.
At Roselle Park
1010 Grand River Drive, Ada, MI 49301

Exhibitors tent with displays, exhibits by area conservation organizations.
*The “Discovery Building” with nature exhibits, hands-on science and displays.
*Music and dining tent with musicians and special presentations.
*Averill Museum’s tent with displays, activities and pioneer toys.
*A “games” area for kids coordinated by Ada Parks & Recreation Department.
*Workshops and information areas about Raingardens and Backyard Habitats.
*Storytellers to “spin” their tales and do a special “boat launch” at the canoe landing .
*Guided Nature Walks by Master Naturalist
*Hay Wagon Rides

**Walking and bicycles are encouraged in that there is 1 ½ mile bike path in the park. *Canoes and kayakers will be able to access the Park from the Grand River.

For more information contact:
Ada Township Parks & Recreation Department
P.O. Box 370, 7330 Thornapple River Dr., Ada, MI 49301
616-676-0520 (phone), 616-676-5870 (fax), adaparks@ada.mi.us

Ada River Cleanup Day - Annual River Clean-Up Day

This saturday, well tomorrow is cleanup day for the Thornapple River in Ada, MI. Not very well advertised as I just found it today. But here are the details which all come from http://www.ada.mi.us/RiverClean-UpDayAdaTWPflier.doc

Annual River Clean-Up Day
On the Thornapple and Grand Rivers
Saturday, Sept. 27th 2008

Everyone for Ada Township is to check-in at Leonard Field by the Covered Bridge between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. Clean-up teams will be assigned to one of several sections of the rivers. Private landowners are welcome to focus on their own property. Canoeists and other boaters will paddle section of the river corridors. Each section should take about 2-3 hours to clean.

*Options for clean-up sites include: McGraw Park on Grand River (Cascade Twp); Ada Dam area on Thornapple River; Leonard Field/Ada Covered Bridge on Thornapple River; Ada Boat launch; Knapp Street boat launch on Grand River; Chief Hazy Cloud Park on Grand River; private lands along both rivers; and the river corridors for boaters.

WZZM 13 News Blooper - Lauren Stanton

Great WZZM 13 blooper video featuring Lauren Stanton loving the little blue pill, Viagra.

http://www.wzzm13.com/red_player_1/red_player.aspx?aid=35392&sid=95974&bw=hi&cat=172

I wish they would post more bloopers, I know there is a great one out there of Susan Geha wondering whether the "Wings will shoot down the Dicks" oops should have been Ducks. Wish I could find the video of that.

Black bears in Ada, Michigan

The Chicago Tribune has listed Ada as possibly having black bears in it.

"A young bear was struck and killed by a car in Ada, less than 10 miles east of Grand Rapids, in 2007. A 135-pound bear was killed in 2006 after being struck by at least three vehicles on I-75 in urban Flint Township"
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-mi-bearboundaries,0,492240.story

Pick your own Blueberries, Raspberries, Apples, Cherries...

This site lists a ton of farms that let you do the picking yourself in and around West Michigan as well as other areas within the state.

http://www.pickyourown.org/mimp.htm

Shame on you Milfmuff

Seems that the loser is a bit sore.

http://blog.mlive.com/grpress/2008/08/ada_planner_says_he_saw_clerk.html

I believe Jim.

Fly a kite in Ada, MI

Go fly a kite. But first, learn all about them. Pros from Mackinaw Kite Co. will instruct ages 6 to 12 about the history of kites, styles and flying tricks during Ada Township's Kite Day. The event runs 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Ada Park. Cost is $5 per child for township residents, $7 for nonresidents. To register, call 676-0520 or e-mail adaparks@ada.mi.us.

http://www.mlive.com/news/grpress/index.ssf?/base/news-3/1217250908112600.xml&coll=6


I would suggest you call to register since the parks department does not seem to respond to emails.

Fase Street should stay closed

Please support those members who do not want Fase Street open. Opening that street to traffic would be a disaster to our nice neighborhood. You can see it now with all the construction traffic. I like to bike and walk down that road without worrying about getting hit by a car and opening this entrance would just make it worse. Contact and vote to keep our streets safe. Don't open Fase Street.

I received this email from adamoorings@gmail.com encouraging opening the street. They are wrong. Here's what it said and how not to vote. Contact whoever you want to discourage this type of political nonsense.

*************************************************************
Dear Ada Moorings Neighbors:

On August 5, there is a primary election that takes place here in Ada, and there are some significant ramifications to the Ada Moorings neighborhood and the potential opening of Fase St. And though I'm not a strongly political person, I would like to encourage you to consider voting for the following candidates, because they support opening Fase St. for our neighborhood:·

William Wood for Township Supervisor·
Susan Burton for Township Clerk·
Cheryl Lathwell and Jon Sarb for Township Trustee, as well as any combination of Matt Nygren, Lloyd Paul, Robert Proos, and Jacqueline Smith.

Here is why. Over the past year, I've been researching possible ways to improve safety and reduce the speeds of neighborhood traffic (and if you recall, alternatives to speed bumps). One of the possible solutions discussed has been the possibility of converting the Fase St. emergency entrance into a regular entrance. Reducing traffic flow past the main entrance and our bus stops would help reduce the safety risks we face currently.

I spent some time with Township Supervisor George Haga, as well as Jim Ferro, the planning director, and discovered that there are two options for our neighborhood to pursue, if we really want that second entrance.

Option 1: Win a lawsuit. The current development was only possible because the developers won a lawsuit against the township. As part of that lawsuit, the neighborhood plan that was approved included an emergency entrance at Fase St., but apparently not much thought was put into that entrance in the following several amendments to that plan. A lawsuit would be the quickest way to get the entrance opened, but it would also prove to be reasonably costly for our combined associations.

Option 2: Take "official" steps to amend the plans and have the township open up the entrance. This starts with filing for an amendment to the original plan, followed by a review by the planning commission, a public hearing, a recommendation by that planning commission, then a vote by the Ada Board of Trustees. As many of you know, several of our current Trustees have personal interest and property on Fase St., which makes it difficult for any proposal to be passed.However, there is a bright side to Option2 – the vote on August 5. Apparently, because only Republicans run for the different positions on the Board, whoever wins the primary will win the general election, which takes place at the same time as the presidential election. As a side note, approximately 1,700 votes are cast during the primary, which translates to about 850 votes needed to win the Supervisor / Clerk / Treasurer positions, and somewhere around 500 votes to become a Trustee. We have about 220 houses in our neighborhood, which translates to around 400 votes. I think this represents a "significant" voting block.Over the last week, I spent some time calling all of the candidates for office and asking them about their position on opening Fase St. for our neighborhood.

Here are the results:

Supervisor Race:

*William Wood – will fight to open the Fase St. entrance

George Haga – stands by his decision NOT to open the Fase St. entrance

Clerk Race:

Deborah Ensing Milhuff – owns property of Fase St. and has consistently opposed opening the entrance

*Susan Burton – leans towards opening Fase St. entrance

Treasurer Race:

Norman Rhoades – irrelevant because he is running unopposed

Trustee Race:

Jacqueline Smith – has a undecided opinion, but promises to be fair in the process

Mischelle Sytsma – only person I didn't reach

John Westra – leans against opening Fase St. for safety reasons (Fase/Thorneapple intersection)

*Cheryl Lathwell – will support opening Fase St.

Matt Nygren – leans towards opening Fase St., but wants to know financial ramifications

Lloyd Paul – leans towards opening Fase St., but wants to understand full position

Robert Proos – leans towards opening Fase St., but wants to understand full position

*Jon Sarb – will support opening Fase St.(* supports the opening of Fase St.)

Obviously, there is no guarantee that Fase St. will ever open for our neighborhood. However, as a believer in the "power of the people" and in democracy, I think we should do our duty as citizens of Ada and participate in this election. There are other issues in Ada, including the development of the downtown area, the controversy of the billboard, and the development of areas in the northeast corner of Ada. However, in the end, the opening of Fase St. is an issue that has significance to us, and we should stand up and vote.

If you have questions on this vote, feel free to contact me personally at 616-780-8112 or by e-mail at edwardkuo@hotmail.com. Absentee ballots must be cast very soon, and the primary takes place in less than a week.

************************************************************************ - End

My comments - These people should really get with the program. Edward doesn't even live by Fase Street and shouldn't be sending out emails encouraging opening it. Your wrong as is adamoorings@gmail.com

Township Board Meeting Agenda 7-28-2008

TENTATIVE AGENDA

ADA TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING

MONDAY, JULY 28, 2008
7:30 P.M.

ADA TOWNSHIP HALL
7330 THORNAPPLE RIVER DRIVE

I. CALL TO ORDER

A PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

B. MOMENT OF SILENCE

C. NOTE BOARD MEMBER PRESENT/ABSENT

II. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

III. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE FORMATION OF A DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AND DESIGNATION OF
DOWNTOWN DISTRICT BOUNDRIES

IV. GENERAL TOWNSHIP BUSINESS:

Motion to approve minutes and accept reports/communications under Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes: JULY 14, 2008

B. Receive and File Various Reports/Communications:

1. FIRE CALL REPORTS-6/08
2. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT MINUTES-6/19/08, 6/30/08
3. BUILDING PERMIT REPORT-6/08
4. SHERIFF QUARTERLY REPORT-6/30/08
5. LAND CONSERVANCY-THANK-YOU-6/23/08
6. MI LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION, SDM LICENSE-6/18/08
7. OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION ADVISORY BOARD MINUTES-5/8/08
8. MTA LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FAX-7/3/08, 7/11/08
9. COMCAST-LINE UP CHANGE-7/11/08
10. REGION 8 PLANNING NOTES-7/08
11. INVESTMENT REPORT-6/08
12. BUILDING PERMIT TRENDS-7/17/08
13. OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION ADVISORY BOARD ANNUAL REPORT-5/28/08

V. APPROVAL OF WARRANT REPORT

VI. PUBLIC COMMENT

VII. BOARD COMMENT

VIII. OLD BUSINESS

A. GRAND VALLEY ESTATES EXTERIOR TANK CLEANING

IX. NEW BUSINESS

A. APPROVAL OF ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT
B. CONTRACT AWARD ROSELLE PARK ENTRY PROJECT

X. OPPORTUNITY FOR ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENT

XI. ADJOURNMENT

Cascade July 4th Canoe Race

I've just learned that the annual July 4th Canoe Race sponsored by Cascade Township was cancelled this year due to the Thornapple River conditions (high and generally unsafe). They are planning on having the race next year barring unsafe conditions. They are also looking for a sponsor for the race, I'm sure one of the many companies in Cascade will step up by that time.

They do not have a kayak race at this time but if you own a canoe I would encourage you to participate in this event next year. It should be a good time. There are usually a max of 12 teams so the field is pretty small and a good chance for you to win.

Ada Township Planning Commission Meeting Minutes

And for those of you who are more interested in the planning commission, again not easy to find the minutes on the township site. But never fear here is a direct link to the planning commission minutes.

http://www.ada.mi.us/index.cfm?lp=minutes.cfm&mintype=2

Again they don't have the latest posted. Not sure why that is but again they should be able to post it 1-2 days after the meeting.

Ada Township Board Meeting Minutes

It's really kind of hard to find the meeting minutes for the Ada Township Board, they do a somewhat good job of posting them. I think they should be posted within 1-2days after the meeting. Here is a direct link to the meeting minutes.

http://www.ada.mi.us/index.cfm?lp=minutes.cfm&mintype=1

Construction on railroad overpass in Ada

The very narrow bridge that everyone passes through in and out of Ada is finally getting a makeover. Work will begin the week of July 14th, all traffic will have to use Fase street to get in and out of Ada if you come down Thornapple River drive.

The two side walls will be removed and new concrete sidewall will be installed. These new walls will widen the underpass to allow more room for cars to get through. Along with the widening, the overpass will also be lowered one foot. I'm not too sure about that because it doesn't make sense to me but that's what I'm being told.

I would suggest the township puts up a sign before Fase street that indicates to semi trucks that they are too high to get through the underpass. I've seen many a trucks stuck there and it would only make sense to tell them that they aren't going to fit before they miss the road that will allow them to get through Ada.

Either way, I'm looking forward to the improvements, should be great.

July 4, 2009 Kayak Race

I have some unofficial news that next years kayak/canoe race will be from the Grand River bridge on Fulton to the new Roselle Park. This will be great race if this is the case.

I wonder though how we will get our kayaks out of the park. They really should have a path for cars to get their kayaks and canoes out. Otherwise, it's just a landing spot.

Ada Kayak Race Results

I don't have any results or participation numbers from this year's event but have emailed the Parks & Rec department and am waiting for a reply. Hopefully they'll respond soon.

Ada 4th of July Kayak Race

Ada is trying to start an annual July 4th Kayak Race. Here is the info:

1st annual “Rumble on the Rivers Canoe & Kayak Race.”
Starts at the Ada Covered Bridge and goes to the Grand River

1pm Ada Covered Bridge

Contact Parks & Rec Dept. for more information:

Office located in Ada Park, 1080 Buttrick Ave., Ada, MI 49301
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 370, 7330 Thornapple River Dr., Ada, MI 49301
Phone: 616-676-0520
e-mail: adaparks@ada.mi.us

Welcome to Kayak Ada

Please drop me a line if you're interested in participating in kayak trips around Ada, MI. I'll be updating this site with other kayak information in the future. Hopefully, we can get a group together.