THIS WEEK in Creston:

 

Pollinators are essential to our environment and the food we eat. Pollinating more than 85 percent of the world's flowering plants these insects represent the "world's largest workforce!"  They are responsible for pollinating two-thirds of the world's crops and are uniquely linked to most terrestrial ecosystems that provide seeds and fruits for birds and mammals.  

Supporting native bees and beneficial insects right at home is the first step in conservation of these species.  By choosing the right plants and adopting "Smart Gardening" behaviors, home gardeners we can help our native bee and insect populations thrive.  Join MSU Extension Horticulture Educator in exploring a wide palette of plants as well as conservation techniques to encourage pollinators.  

For more information on a wide variety of Smart Gardening topics, visit www.migarden.msu.edu or call MSU's Lawn and Garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464.

MSU Extension programs and material are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or veteran status.

To help everyone prepare for the large regatta, event organizers invite you to a meeting TONIGHT, Monday, August 5th at 7pm at Boat Launch 1 (Knapp Street).  

They will discuss the event schedule, what to expect as a neighbor, and steps they are taking to minimize the impact on your neighborhood. If you are unable to attend and have questions, feel free to reach out to Katy at ktigchelaar@westmisports.com.   Details about the event are available online at www.2019regatta.com and also at www.usrowing.org/event/2019-usrowing-masters-national-championships/.

All neighbors are invited to the event on August 14-18, 2019 at Riverside Park.  You can experience the exciting racing, enjoying the vendors and beer garden, or even volunteering (see positions here: https://signup.com/go/gmxCcDg)!  
 

We live in the 2nd Ward, and TOMORROW, August 6, we get to vote for a new City Commissioner.  Don't know much about the candidates or how they want to serve you and your neighbors?  Wonder what they think about the challenges we face, like housing affordability, gun violence and safe policing, serious income inequality and economic development?  Check out their websites here: 

Michael Farage
Wendy Falb
Milinda Ysasi

Creston Neighborhood National Night Out
Briggs Pool open free!  .  Supper provided  .  Kids' activities  .  Fire Truck  .  Meet our neighborhood Fire Fighters and Police Officers
Learn how Creston neighbors saved Briggs Pool!
Tuesday, August 6
6:00-8:00pm
Briggs Park

 

Creston History Walking Tour 
How did Creston get its name?  What did Creston residents do for work 100 years ago?  What architectural styles are represented in our houses?  
Learn all these things and more!
Guided walking tour, followed by a lunch.   
August 24
10am-1pm
Starting location to be confirmed. 

Creston Neighborhood History Exhibit
Do you know significant landmark of Native American history runs along our neighborhood's boundary?  What role did Creston residents play in Grand Rapids' struggle for civil rights?  Are there any famous people from Creston? 
 Photos and artifacts will illustrate the story of our shared history
Date and location to be confirmed--stay tuned! 

Want to help create content for its newsletters, blog (coming soon!), and social media accounts?  Anyone with an interest in community journalism is welcome to join!  
 

Communications Committee
6:30-8:00pm 
August 21, 2019
CNA Community Room 
205 Carrier St NE

Have you noticed that our website is a little old?  We have too.

Communicating well with you is essential to our work, and we’re excited to have one place to share information about real estate development, land use, Living Green in Creston, community events and all the things that are important to you.

A neighborhood donor donated funds for the bulk of the website costs, and volunteers are providing photography and writing. We’re looking for donors to help carry us to the finish line.  The new site will make CNA more accessible, will all information in one place.  
 

Donate online or send a check in the mail to:
Creston Neighborhood Association 
205 Carrier St NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505