Spring is the best time to get your yard work done because when executed properly (and on time,) it can yield a near-carefree summer's worth of enjoyment.
And what better way to approach a park in Eastown than by giving a little of your time this year at the annual Sigsbee Park clean-up, where for years the neighbors have come out to participate in this annual event.
Realizing not everyone can get to the park that morning, Eastown Neighborhood Association is partnering with area businesses to present their 2nd annual Picnic in the Park event as an opportunity to thank the workers who labor on this day to make the park so beautiful for the summer crowds, as well as to provide a community celebration for their neighborhood with free food, games, and live music.
In addition to hot dogs from Yesterdog, a veggie snack from Terra, and offerings from many other area merchants, the afternoon event features the music of the Kent County String Band, Wazobia, and Aerial Tactic - A Break Dance Crew of the Cook Arts Center.
There will be plenty of kid's activities as well, from a bike rodeo, face painting, and a bounce house, to a visit from the GRFD.
But why should you care about Eastown's Sigsbee Park?
"That's simple: because this is not a city park," says Executive Director Lindsey Ruffin. "The Sigsbee Park has been cared for by neighborhood residents for many, many years. It is not eligible for city parks money as this one is a part of the Grand Rapids Public Schools inventory."
She is quick to remind me that this extra effort is not because GRPS has neglected it but because a park in the city with this much use from the neighborhood kids deserves a little extra love. The residents are happy to join together to get it done.
I would be remiss if I did not point out that, should one be looking to relocate or move to a Grand Rapids neighborhood, an event like this provides an excellent opportunity to see folks plugged into making our city that much more beautiful. Last year they had more than 200 people and expect even more to wander in and out throughout the day this year.
And stay tuned later this month: Eastown's Wilcox Park, along with 13 other city parks, will be a part of the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks' annual citywide
Spruce Up the Parks event held this year on May 31.
Admission: Free