Since last summer, Brentwood Neighborhood has organized and participated in several community events to foster connection among neighbors.
June: Summer kickoff at Kirkwood Park
The neighborhood association hosted a vibrant Summer Kickoff at the new Kirkwood Park playground. The event featured live music by Brian Pitts, a cookout by Jeremy and Ali Ennis, prizes donated by Brentwood Shopping Center businesses (coordinated by Mark Hayman), a membership drive led by former president Mert Seaton, and games donated by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and transported by Amy Hunsaker-Williams. Setup was managed by Amy, Mert, Brent Rinker, Zack Miller, and Dave and Pam Buhr. The event was a resounding success and will return in summer 2025.
August: Neighborhood Cleanup & library landscaping
On Aug. 10, neighbors cleaned Luster Avenue, the Field Elementary School lawn, and Eugene Field Park, including sweeping playground equipment. Board members also helped spread mulch around the Brentwood Library’s flower beds. Additionally, Dave and Pam Buhr restored the neighborhood sign at Glenstone and Sunset, while Michael Harned and his neighbors worked on the Brentwood South sign at Battlefield and Barnes.
Good Neighbor Week (Sept. 28-Oct. 5)
- Lantern Making Party (Sept. 27): Hosted at the Brentwood Library by Brent Rinker, Lisa Meeks, and Amy Hunsaker-Williams, the event provided crafts, snacks, and games. Despite lower attendance, plans are underway to increase participation in 2025.
- Pizza Party & Ice Cream Social Membership Drive (Sept. 29): This well-attended event welcomed new members. Pizza was donated by Godfather’s Pizza, through Lisa Meeks, and ice cream by Amy Hunsaker-Williams’ real estate team EA Group of Keller Williams. Attendees included Mert Seaton, Brent Rinker, Lisa Meeks, Chris Schulze, Jane Augustine, Jeremy and Ali Ennis, Zack Miller, Karen Johnson, Dave and Pam Buhr, Mark Hayman, Joel Boyd, Mike Gugliotta, Brandy Babcock, and Robin Foster and her father, among others.
- Lantern Walk (Oct. 5): Participants brought lanterns for a parade through the neighborhood, promoting pedestrian safety. Stations with safety activities and snacks were managed by Mert Seaton, Brent Rinker, Lisa Meeks, Jane Augustine, Amy Hunsaker-Williams, Mark Hayman, Joel Boyd, and Brandy Babcock. Setup assistance was provided by Ryan Williams.
November: Community Service & Events
- Citywide Clean-Up (Nov. 2): Brentwood partnered with Galloway and Oak Grove neighborhoods for a successful cleanup at Enterprise Park Lanes. Board member Brent Rinker coordinated with the City to organize dumpsters for trash, electronics, and lawn debris.
- Bass Pro Marathon Cheering Table (Nov. 5): Brentwood’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” theme was a hit with runners, and the table was staffed by Brent Rinker, Amy Hunsaker-Williams, Karen Johnson, Jane Augustine, Traci Phelps, Zack Miller, Mike Gugliotta, Chris Schulze, and Mert Seaton. Two Drury Baseball players volunteered, and Mark Hayman ensured supplies didn’t run out.
- Backpack Packing Night (Nov. 7): Lisa Meeks, Chris Schulze, and his daughter helped pack food bags for Field Elementary families through the PTA and Care to Learn program, chaired by Amy Hunsaker-Williams. This monthly event brings together Field families, local church members, and the Brentwood neighborhood. If you would like to participate in future packing nights, please reach out to Amy.
New leadership for 2025-26
In October, the following board members were elected:
- President: Brent Rinker
- Vice President: Chris Schulze
- Secretary: Lisa Meeks
- Treasurer: Amy Hunsaker-Williams
- Board Members at Large: Jane Augustine, Mike Gugliotta, and Traci Phelps
These events highlight Brentwood’s dedication to building community, maintaining the neighborhood, and fostering a welcoming environment. We welcome you to join us!