Oscar, who resides on the east 400 block of 3^rd Street will be our July 23^rd recipient of Preservation SOSs Make it Happen Project.  Oscar was a Springfield resident prior to our neighborhood being designated as historic.  He purchased his humble home on E. 3^rd in the early 80s and has resided there for nearly 30 years. 

Oscar’s home was nominated by his neighbors John and Monica for our project.  John and I went back and forth several times via email and in one he describes why Oscar is deserving of this neighborhood project:  “He is literally grateful for anything.  He is such a sweet guy.  Even with all the bad that has happened to him, he is the most cheerful person you will meet.  He always looks on the bright side of life.  His house is in desperate need of work.  He does his best with limited funds and he takes such good care of Oscar Jr.  He is really a good Dad.”

Read more: Make It Happen - July 23rd

This Saturday the Block Captains organized a massive cleanup effort to clear some of the most impassable alleys in Historic Springfield.  Springfielders were joined by 75-100 volunteers from First Baptist Church who brought commercial mowers, chain saws and a willingness to get sweaty and dirty.  By the end of the day it became one of the largest cleanup efforts in several years.

Read more: Block Captains and FBC Stage Massive Cleanup

Give it to me straight. 

Who: YOU! 

What: The Spar Block Captains are rolling out some new initiatives, starting with “The Morning After” neighborhood clean ups to take place on the first Saturday of every month, from 10am-12 Noon, with food & drink directly after. 

When: This Saturday, April 3^rd, from 10am to 12 Noon. And every month thereafter. 

Where: Meet in the parking lot at 6^th & Hubbard, then we’ll head out to the designated clean up area. This month we’re focusing on the South West quadrant of the neighborhood. Next month it could be yours. Afterwards, food & drink at Wafaa & Mike's. 

Why: Because it’s important to keep our streets, parks, and lots looking nice! Studies show that trash, debris, and unkept properties, when ignored, can lead to more serious crime and neighborhood decline. Also, more and more people are visiting our unique neighborhood everyday, so it’s important that we put our best foot forward!  

How: Gloves, “Niffty Nabbers”, trash bags, and pick up trucks are the weapons of choice usually, but feel free to get creative. 

Read more: Clean Up Time!!