February Around Town E-Newsletter |
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Information about YOUR Neighborhood
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Meet the Staff - Fire Marshal Jack D. Pesha
Hello, my name is Jack D. Pesha. I am the newly appointed Fire Marshal for the Birmingham Fire Department. With more than twenty-three years in the fire service, I look forward to working with the team of professionals at the Birmingham Fire Department.
Some of my professional background in the fire service include being a certified fire inspector, plans examiner, and advanced training and experience in fire investigation. I possess a bachelor’s degree and have completed Fire Staff & Command receiving a certificate.
Prior to being appointed to the Birmingham Fire Department, I was the Fire Chief for the Ferndale Fire Department. Before becoming Chief, I served as the Fire Marshal with the department.
My career focus and interest has always been that of fire prevention with focus on public education. I believe in public interaction, customer service and developing relationships with members of the community, building trust and delivering the important message of safety.
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COVID-19 Vaccine Information |
The Birmingham Fire Department hopes to assist with inoculating Birmingham residents. The department has formally requested vaccines from the state and the Oakland County Health Department.
“I want to remind the community that this vaccine is safe, and it is critical in our fight against COVID-19," said Birmingham Fire Chief Paul Wells. "More than 30 Birmingham firefighters are paramedics and we will be ready when vaccines become available.”
Following the vaccination, residents should expect mild symptoms such as body aches and a low fever for 12-24 hours. The side effects, which may be more noticeable after the second shot, are normal and signify the immune system is kicking into gear, as intended. Residents are reminded to continue to wear masks even if they had COVID-19 or if they received the vaccine, as it may still be possible to spread the virus to loved ones and fellow citizens.
For information about vaccine availability, residents should not call at this time but follow these steps to receive updates regarding the vaccine rollout:
2) Register for the City's Nixle emergency alert system at www.nixle.com or simply send a text message with the zip code 48009 to 888777.
3) Visit www.OaklandCountyVaccine.com and complete the ‘Save Your Spot’ form. Register for updates from the Oakland County Health Department by texting OAKGOV to 28748.
The City will send out updates as more information becomes available. Residents may visit www.bhamgov.org/virusprevention for helpful information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the State of Michigan, the Oakland County Health Division and more. View the infographic below for information about new gathering guidelines beginning February 1, 2021.
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Free Parking in Structures thru March 31
Enjoy free parking in the City's five municipal structures through March 31, 2021. Hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the structures, downtown area and city parks. Free and convenient Five-Minute "Buy & Fly" reserved parking spaces are also located throughout the City for curbside pick-ups and quick trips.
City Services
City offices continue to service the public, however the Municipal Building and Department of Public Services remain closed. Forms and payments may be submitted 24/7 via the drop box located behind City Hall, or use the drive-up drop box located near the driveway entrance off of Henrietta. Documents such as building permit applications and plans can be picked up at the Police Department entrance on the east side of City Hall and dropped off in the new Community Development drop box located behind the building. As part of the City's operational relief efforts, most City forms, applications and payment submissions are also available at www.bhamgov.org/formsandpayments. Residents are encouraged to contact any department requiring assistance via phone or email. Visit www.bhamgov.org/contacts to view a list of departmental contact numbers for services needed.
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Birmingham Residents Encouraged to Participate in Citywide Master Plan Public Engagement Opportunities |
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Birmingham residents are invited to join the Birmingham Planning Board as they continue discussions regarding the Citywide Master Plan for 2040. Upcoming virtual meetings are scheduled for Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. on February 10 and March 10. Learn how to participate in all upcoming meetings at www.bhamgov.org/participate.
On Wednesday, February 10 at 7:30 p.m., the Planning Board will review public feedback regarding proposed neighborhood plans. The board will consider this feedback as they work with the planning team to develop the second draft of the Citywide Master Plan for 2040. Specific neighborhood plans will be discussed, including topics about potential neighborhood loops to connect many different neighborhoods and other neighborhood elements such as parks, churches, and schools. In addition, bike and pedestrian access through individual neighborhoods and connecting to other neighborhoods will be reviewed.
Neighborhood Packets, which convey the first draft Master Plan’s proposals relating to Birmingham’s neighborhoods, are available to view at www.thebirminghamplan.com. Visit the site to access the full neighborhood plan packet, plus a version with relevant maps in a “full spread” format. The community was encouraged to submit comments regarding the packets from late-September through Nov. 20th. The Board will again welcome public comments regarding Neighborhood Packets during their meeting on February 10.
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Learn about Parks & Recreation Bond Projects at February 2 Meeting |
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Learn and ask questions about Parks and Recreation Bond projects at the virtual Parks and Recreation Board meeting on Tuesday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m. Topics on the agenda include: the Birmingham golf course annual report, the Adams Park consultant review, the Birmingham Ice Arena renovation/addition project, and more. Learn how to participate in the meeting via Zoom at www.bhamgov.org/participate. Also keep an eye on www.bhamgov.org/parksbond for next steps and project updates!
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Share Your Feedback on City's Website
The City of Birmingham will launch a new website this year. As a Birmingham resident, your input is very important as we kick off the project. We want to know what you like or dislike about the current website, and we want to learn about your ideas for the new website.
We value your feedback and appreciate you taking our short survey to help us build a better website for the community. Access the survey here: bit.ly/bhamwebsurvey2021.
Please submit your feedback by Friday, February 12. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Birmingham Welcomes New Businesses
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Suit Bar Clothier
155 S. Bates St.
The Suit Bar Clothier offers unique, personal, and impeccably finished suiting tailored to perfection. Visit their website at www.suitbarclothier.com or Facebook page for more information.
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James & Bloom Fine Custom Cabinetry
146 West Maple Rd.
Through exquisite custom cabinetry, James & Bloom is building a legacy of fine design and superb craftsmanship in some of Michigan’s finest homes. For more information, visit https://jamesandbloom.com/.
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Craig Ryan Fine Clothiers
147 Pierce St.
Craig Ryan Fine Clothiers offers fine custom clothing and unique services including wardrobe consultations, master tailoring and more. Visit their website at https://craigryan.com to find out more.
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Enjoy a Taste of Birmingham During Restaurant Week
Earn $25 in Birmingham Bucks for every $50 spent (for a maximum of $100 in Birmingham Bucks) while treating yourself and your family to delicious, specialty menus during Birmingham’s popular Restaurant Week event.
Restaurants are providing many dining options including curbside pickup, carryout, take-home meal kits, heated outdoor dining and indoor dining starting February 1. Please contact restaurants directly for dining information and reservations.
For a list of restaurants and menus visit:
Instagram and Twitter @BhamShopping.
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Residents Making a Difference
Birmingham is full of amazing residents, and we're recognizing them with a brand new feature called 'Residents Making a Difference'. Each month, one resident will be featured in this newsletter and via the City's social media channels.
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Thank You, Andrew Simon!
Birmingham Resident, Andrew Simon, has worked for months straight (seven days per week), 14-16 hours per day, providing PPP loans to businesses.
Additionally, he owns a 40-person delivery business that contracts with FedEx and during the pandemic, he has delivered almost two million packages. He is currently adding security measures to his fleet, as they will soon be delivering vaccines. We are honored to recognize Andrew Simon for his hard work and dedication during the pandemic.
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Bundle Up and Enjoy the Outdoors This Winter Season |
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Residents and visitors are encouraged to take advantage of all that Birmingham
has to offer this winter season. With 26 parks covering 230 acres, there are many options to satisfy every outdoor enthusiast. Bundle up and get ready for safe, outdoor fun with our list of top picks for outdoor activities in Birmingham this season! When participating in these outdoor activities, please continue practice social distancing and other safety measures. For more tips on staying safe in the parks, park locations and amenities, visit www.bhamgov.org/parks.
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Visit the Parks:
Each of Birmingham’s 26 parks is unique and amenities include play structures, hiking trails, sports fields, tennis courts and more. New this year, the tennis nets will remain in place for visitors to enjoy throughout the winter months, weather permitting. Tennis courts are available at Crestview, Kenning, W. Lincoln, Pembroke, Poppleton, Quarton and St. James parks.
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Explore Rouge River Trail System:
Nature lovers can access over two miles of beautiful Rouge River trails right here in Birmingham. For the trail map, visit www.bhamgov.org/rougetrails.
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Sledding and Winter Sports:
Bring your sleds and enthusiasm for some fast-paced fun on the hills! Sledding is offered at Lincoln Hills Golf Course, Booth Park and the Birmingham Museum. Lincoln Hills Golf Course is also a great location for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Rental equipment is not provided, but visitors are welcome to bring their own skis and snowshoes and enjoy the peaceful, yet challenging course. Residents should call Lincoln Hills at (248) 530-1670 before visiting.
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Outdoor Ice Skating:
Grab your ice skates and head over to Barnum Park, to take a spin around Birmingham’s large outdoor rink. City crews work hard to maintain the rink, however users are welcome to shovel any snow accumulation, to clear an area for skating. Hockey can be played at the rink from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. daily. Signs will be posted in the event of a closure due to slushy or soft ice. For more on outdoor skating at Barnum Park, visit www.bhamgov.org/outdoorskating.
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The Birmingham Ice Arena is Now Open
The Birmingham Ice Arena is now open and ready to welcome you for our popular Learn to Skate classes and open skate sessions. As part of its commitment to the safety of its skaters, the Birmingham Ice Arena has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols. You may preregister and pay for sessions at https://play.bhamgov.org/. Please visit the Ice Arena's website for the open skate schedules, COVID-19 protocols and more.
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Apply Now for Open Boards & Committees |
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Would you like to get more involved and make a difference in your community? There's no better time than now to get involved in a wide range of available boards and committees in Birmingham. You may be interested in the museum, art, or transportation - wherever you look, we've got a place where you can make a difference. For a complete list of openings and requirements for each board please visit the City's website.
It's easy to apply. Download the online application today, and email, fax, mail or submit it to the drop box outside of City Hall. For more information, you may also contact the Clerk's Office at (248) 530-1880.
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Greeting from Shiga Governor Mikazuki to Michiganders
Since 1968, the State of Michigan has enjoyed a sister state relationship with Shiga Prefecture in Japan. In addition to the sister state relationship, 17 cities in Michigan, including Birmingham, have sister city relationships with cities in the Shiga Prefecture. Birmingham's Sister City agreement with Ritto, Shiga, Japan was signed on April 12, 1976.
One of the key components of these Sister City relationships are the annual Goodwill Missions, which offer opportunities for Michigan and Shiga residents to deepen friendships and cultural understanding between our sister-states. These trips are a truly unique cultural experience and delegates and their host families often become lifelong friends. Typically in odd-numbered years, a delegation of Michigan citizens visits Shiga. In even-numbered years, Shiga sends a delegation to be hosted by Michigan citizens. It is our hope this tradition may continue soon in a post COVID-19 environment. Please enjoy the video greeting below from Governor Mikazuki.
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Understanding the Snow Ordinance |
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Take measures to ensure you don't find yourself in violation of the ordinance regarding snow removal and snow parking bans. Here are the two most important requirements:
1) You are required to clear snow and ice on sidewalks that abut your property. If the snow stops falling during the day, your sidewalks must be cleared by no more than 12 hours later. If the snow stops falling during the night, all sidewalks must be cleared by 6 p.m. the following day. Sidewalks that are not cleared of snow and ice will be shoveled by the city and the property owner will be fined.
2) When a Snow Emergency is declared, residents must remove their cars from city streets so the snow plows can get through. Cars in violation of this ordinance will be ticketed.
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Development in Birmingham’s commercial districts is strong and ongoing. Buildings and their site design contribute to the quality and activity along streets, affecting walkability and the success of commercial areas. Building design and business practices also contribute to the City’s local and regional environmental impact. According to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), the benefits of green buildings can be categorized into three assertions: (1) green buildings are profitable, cost effective and good for the economy, (2) commitment to green building prioritizes people’s health and well-being, and (3) green buildings can be an environmental solution.
To quantify a buildings green qualities, the USGBC developed the LEED rating system. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Buildings of all types may use the LEED rating system to provide a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. Birmingham presently enjoys several LEED certified buildings within its commercial districts, with several new buildings to be certified in the future!
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Birmingham Museum celebrates local black history during February |
Since discovering the story of George and Eliza Taylor, formerly enslaved people who settled in Birmingham in the late 19th century, museum staff and the Friends of the Birmingham Museum have been learning about their story.
During Black History Month, the museum will feature updates and posts about the Taylors, their extended family, and other African Americans who settled in this area on its social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. (Ancestry.com photo: Joseph Farmer lived and farmed in the Birmingham area and married the Taylors’ adopted daughter, Clara.)
The Birmingham Museum is currently closed to the public, but staff are here to help with your questions. Contact us at 248-530-1928 or museum@bhamgov.org to find out more about Birmingham’s history. Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. You can also do a deeper dive with our video content on Youtube!
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February News from The Baldwin Library |
Monday, February 1; 7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Jim Nash will discuss the County's water infrastructure including water quality, sewer & stormwater topics, lead & copper concerns, with lots of time for questions.
Saturday, February 13; 3:00 p.m.
Miz Rosie the Storyteller brings African and African American Folktales to audiences of all ages, virtually! The interactive storytelling, accompanied by African instruments is both educational and entertaining.
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Thursday, February 11; 7:00 p.m.
Let’s decorate some Valentine’s Day cookies together virtually! Two Sweet Chicks Bakery will provide the cookies, icing, piping bags, and sprinkles. Registration required. Grades 6-12.
The Baldwin Public Library is located at 300 W. Merrill Street in Birmingham. For more information visit www.baldwinlib.org or call (248) 647-1700. Visit www.baldwinlib.org/reopening to view current information on the Library's hours and services.
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Looking for ways to stay active and connected during the cold winter days? Look no further than to Next and their calendar full of activities geared toward local 50-plus residents. Under strict CDC guidelines, Next successfully reopened in July and have been offering the community many opportunities to safely engage ever since!
Next socially distanced offerings include fitness, art, enrichment and a wonderful Thursday Evening Speaker Series. Most of these classes are offered in person and via Zoom so you can pick the format that works best for you.
Please visit the Next website for the most up to date information at www.BirminghamNext.org or stop in for a tour. Next is located at 2121 Midvale, Birmingham, MI 48009. Phone: (248) 203-5270.
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Thank you for reading Around Town, a monthly e-newsletter from the City of Birmingham. We hope you find the information timely and useful. Please feel free to forward this e-mail to friends and neighbors who may be interested in Birmingham. |
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151 Martin St. P.O. Box 3001 Birmingham, MI 48012
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tel: (248) 530-1800
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