Many neighborhoods face similar issues: cleanups, crime, litter, maintenance of infrastructure, potential overdevelopment, traffic-calming, or pretty much any topic that affects the general well-being of businesses, residents and responsible landowners.

Last summer, Delaware, Phelps Grove, and Rountree started a neighborhoods’ Facebook page, “The SNUG,” to discuss these issues. We share common goals of keeping our neighborhoods safe, clean, and healthy. The SNUG is loose-fitting acronym for the Southeast Urban Neighborhood Group. The word “snug” comes from the small, private rooms in British pubs, where one can have a quiet conversation away from the boisterousness of the bar. The SNUG Facebook page recently expanded to include Brentwood, Meador Park, and University Heights. 

Kickball World Championship Tournament

So, some questions naturally arose, “Who has the best neighborhood? Who has the smartest kids, most athletic adults, cutest critters, etc.?”

It was a simple challenge offered by Delaware to Meador Park Neighborhood Association. Quickly, we (?) decided it should be settled with the Springfield Neighborhood Kickball “World Championship” Tournament. Rountree and Phelps Grove neighborhoods stepped into the fray, and now on Sunday, April 7, from noon to 6 p.m., these four neighborhood associations will kick it out at Meador Park Sports Complex, 2500 S. Fremont Ave. to see who is the best … at kickball.

Kids and adults from these neighborhoods, ages 8 and up, are invited to play, cheer, or just come hang out with neighbors. Kick-off is at 1 p.m. for Delaware vs. Meador Park and Rountree vs. Phelps Grove. A championship game will follow. The event is free. Food and refreshments will available. Donations will be accepted. The event is sponsored by The SNUG and Springfield-Greene County Park Board and other neighborhood businesses. May the best neighborhood win!

Speaking of kickball, maybe Bradford Park, Doling, Heart of the West Side, Woodland Heights, and others might want to field a team next year …

Delaware now on bimonthly meeting schedule

Delaware Neighborhood Association now has bimonthly general meetings (odd months) and board meetings (even months). Both meet on the first Tuesday of the month at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1551 E. Portland St. at 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. dinner for general meetings). All are welcome at general and board meetings.