Do It for Daniel: A Conversation About Suicide

Birmingham Youth Assistance, with approval and support of Birmingham Public Schools is hosting a parent education program called, “Do it for Daniel: A Conversation about Suicide.”

The program is presented by Jeff Olson, the father of Daniel, who had depression and eventually died by suicide. The intension is to reduce stigma, create community conversations, awareness and connections for families. Recommended for parents – high school students may attend if with a parent.

For more information about the program please go to www.doitfordaniel.com.

If you have any questions about this program you may contact Cathy Womack, BYA Caseworker at 248-203-4300 or at womackc@oakgov.com.

Veterans Day Brunch
Veterans are invited on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, for a Veterans Day brunch. The event will be at BPS Education and Administration Center, 31301 Evergreen Road.

Birmingham Public Schools hosts the event featuring food, refreshments and student entertainment.  RSVP by Monday Nov. 11. or by contacting Joan Crampton at 248-203-3001.

Maple Road Plans

Enhancements coming to the Maple Road corridor as design plans for the reconstruction project in 2020 near completion.

There are many enhancements that will result from the upcoming work, expected to start next spring and take about four months to complete.

Major safety improvements at the Southfield Road and Maple Road include realigning the intersection slightly to the west, resulting in more standardized turning movements than are currently in place. Other enhancements include the widening sidewalks in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and installing mast arm style traffic signals.

In addition, a new mid-block crossing, similar to those now on Old Woodward, will be added on Maple, east of the city’s main roadway. These improvements further add to the city’s walkability as well as calming traffic flow in downtown. More information on the Maple Road Reconstruction Project can be found at www.bhamgov.org/maplereconstruction.

First Draft of Master Plan Available, New Survey Out This Month
The first draft of The Birmingham Plan: A Citywide Master Plan for 2040 was presented to the City Commission and Planning Board at the joint meeting on Oct. 17.

Commissioners and board members provided direction to the master plan team, noting various revision points and areas for further exploration as the consultants work on the second draft.

The community is encouraged to review the draft at www.TheBirminghamPlan.com. A third and final public survey seeking public input will be released this month. The survey will be available electronically on the City’s website and hard copies will be available at the Baldwin Public Library, City Hall and Birmingham Fire Stations. Visit www.TheBirminghamPlan.com to sign up for project emails and to submit comments.

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Long-time Berkshire Swim Coach Dies

Officials at Berkshire Middle School announced the passing of long-time Berkshire swim coach, Blake Lindsay, on Oct. 20. “Blake loved everything about our Berkshire students and their families. His passion for coaching swimming combined with his sincere care for our kids was something that we will always admire,” said the school in a statement.

On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the Board of Education unanimously approved the school’s request to rename the Berkshire pool as “The Blake Lindsay Natatorium.”

 

 

Substance Abuse/Mental Health Survey

Birmingham Bloomfield Community Coalition, the prevention partner for Birmingham Public Schools, is conducting a brief survey to gain a better understanding of parental opinions and attitudes regarding underage substance use and mental health issues in the community. This information will help BBCC and the schools better support parents.

This survey is anonymous and will take approximately nine minutes to complete. Parents with children in fifth through 12^th grade are encouraged to participate.

 

 

Strange, Spooky and Wicked Michigan

For a hauntingly good time, block out Thursday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m. on your calendar.

Strange, Spooky and Wicked Michigan covers a range of stories featuring mysteries, old legends, creepy creatures, ghosts, haunted locations and a dab of true crime from all over the mitten state. Amberrose Hammond, author and researcher, will have you on the edge of your seat.

The cost: Complimentary for Birmingham NEXT members and $5 for non-members.

Click here to register.

 

 

Redistricting and Voter Rights

Voters, not Politicians will be presented on Thursday, Oct. 31, at 6 p.m.

Last year, Michigan voters passed two important initiatives for expanding democracy in Michigan. The first, discussion will be on the constitutional amendment adding the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, what the commissioners will be responsible for and how you can become a commissioner or be involved to have your voice heard.

Next, the presentation will focus on important changes to the Michigan voting rights such as same day registration (or address change) and no reason absentee ballots. These presentations are brought to you by volunteers from Voters Not Politicians and the ACLU.

Click here to register.

 

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Friends,

We had a beautiful fall day this past Friday, so my kids and I played hooky and went to the cider mill.

The weather was perfect: cool temps, blue skies and the sun was warm on our backs. The apples were plentiful on the trees and the pumpkins were picture-perfect in the fields.

Going to the cider mill is so romanticized in my head. I always think about how cute I’ll look in flannel and boots; how adorable my kids will be running through the orchard; how wholesome we’ll be out in nature gathering our food. In reality, I look like an actual farmer (not the goal), the kids are running because they’re afraid of bees and our farm-to-table apples cost a whopping $26 for a half of a bushel. The doughnuts are even insanely expensive at nearly $9 a dozen.

But some aspects of the cider mill are priceless, such as convincing my kids we have to pick doughnuts off the trees because they’re best when fresh. They weren’t 100% persuaded, but they didn’t want to take any chances either, so they saved a produce bag just in case we rolled by any doughnut trees.

It’s always best to be prepared.

Rebecca

Enjoy the Smooth Sounds of Jazz Day

Listen to Alexander Zonjic & Friends featuring 12-year-old keyboard sensation Justin Schultz and the Motown Sounds of Phase 5 on Thursday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.

General Seating tickets are $50 including after-glow. Seats for $100 include the pre-glow exclusive reception with Alexander and the cast.

The concert will take place at The Community House at 380 Bates Street. All proceeds benefit The Community House. For more info call 248-343-5611.

 

 

 

 

Did You Know?

Did you know that as part of the Maple Road Reconstruction Project, planned to start next spring, safety improvements include realigning and slightly relocating the intersection of Southfield Road and Maple Road to the west?

Other improvements include installing mast arm style traffic signals as well as widening sidewalks for greater walkability and to be compliant with the American Disabilities Act.

Learn more about the Maple Road Reconstruction Project at www.bhamgov.org/maplereconstruction.

 

 

 

Turkey Shoot Nov. 2

The 6th Annual Turkey Shoot at Lincoln Hills Golf Course takes place Saturday, Nov. 2, at 10 a.m. Bring a frozen turkey and get $10 off your entry fee. Entry fee is $30 per player.

Registration is at 10 a.m., shotgun start is 10:30 a.m. Call 248-530-1670 to register.

 

 

 

 

Vote Nov. 5 on School Millage

The Millage ballot proposal is on the ballot Tuesday, Nov. 5, and will restore, replace and extend the Birmingham Public Schools Operating Millage.
What does the proposal ask?

• For voters to restore the 18 mill non-homestead (commercial) rate
• Replace the authorized limit to 21 mills on non-homestead (commercial) property allowing the
• District to levy the full 18 mills and protect against future rollbacks
• Extend the voter-approved homestead millage rate of 14.24 mills through 2028

 

Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

 

Find your voting location at www.Michigan.gov/sos or the Oakland County Clerk’s Office at https://www.oakgov.com/clerkrod/elections/.

 

 

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Friends,

I got my flu shot today. It came with a spiffy purple bandage with some weird design on it. I figured if I was going to take my kids to get their vaccination, I should lead by example.

It’s not going to help put their minds at ease, though. It will be a battle to get them in the car, out of the car, and then when it’s over and they’ve undoubtedly survived the ordeal, they’ll be mad at me for a while.

My conscience is clear.

However, if this year is anything like last year, I’m not sure who was more traumatized—them or me. They gave me a run for my money. When kids don’t want to do something, like get a shot, they suddenly become slippery, wet noodles with superhuman strength that can fit in any crevasse. I had no idea it was going to be so hard to get a 50-pound kid out of a Ford Fusion. By the time we got in the doctor’s office, we were all sweaty, some were crying, and no one was happy.

I guess this is part of the reason I run 5ks. Wish me luck.

Rebecca

 Veterans Day Brunch from BPS

Birmingham Public Schools invites veterans for food, refreshments and student entertainment at a Veterans Day Brunch on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will be held at the Bps Education And Administration Center at 31301 Evergreen Rd. in Beverly Hills.

RSVP by Monday Nov. 11, or by contacting Joan Crampton at 248-203-3001.

 

Artisans Needed for Winter Markt

Calling all artists and artisans! The Birmingham Shopping District is looking for vendors at the Birmingham Winter Markt, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6, through Sunday, Dec. 8. The event continues to grow in popularity every year and draws thousands from the entire metro-Detroit area. Learn more about the event and download the 2019 Vendor Application today. Space at the event is limited; applicants will be contacted regarding the status of their application.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Jaimi Brook at 248-530-1254.

 

 

 

Groves Garage Sale

The Groves Garage Sale is Saturday, Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Arrive early at 8 a.m., and get a first look at all the deals for $2.  On Sunday, Oct. 20, the hours are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and items will be 50% off.

 

Prevent Lead Exposure

Oakland County Health Division is assisting Birmingham after water samples from testing of water supplies for lead and copper identified homes that exceed acceptable lead levels for municipal water systems. Water testing occurred as part of routine compliance sampling required by Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy under Michigan’s Safe Drinking Water Act.

Preventative actions taken by collaborating agencies include:

There are several things that you can do to reduce the risk of lead in drinking water:

• If you suspect that your home’s plumbing or faucets could contain lead or lead-based solder, you should have your water tested.
• Replace faucets with those made in 2014 or later or marked “NSF 61/9” since they meet stricter limits.
• Flush your cold-water pipes by running the water for approximately five minutes. The longer the water has been sitting in the pipes, the more lead it may contain. You can fill containers for later use, after the flushing process.
• Use only filtered water from the cold-water tap for drinking, cooking and especially for making baby formula. Hot water is likely to contain higher levels of lead.
• You may choose to install a water filter that is certified for lead removal. If a water filter is installed, replace filters at least as often as recommended by the manufacturer. Check and confirm in the packaging materials that the filter is certified for lead removal by the NSF international at http://nsf.org
• Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling will not remove the lead.
• Use bottled water for drinking and cooking. Commercially prepared bottled water that meets federal and state drinking water standards are recommended.
• Clean aerators. Aerators are small attachments at the tops of faucets which regulate flow of water. They can accumulate small particles of lead in their screens. Remove and sanitize monthly.

Birmingham released a public advisory regarding new state rules for lead testing in tap water. Learn more on the city’s website at www.bhamgov.org/leadtesting.

 

Sit Less, Move More

Join Marichelle Ehred, Beaumont Hospital physical therapist and certified geriatric specialist, as she presents Sitting Is The New Smoking: Why you should be sitting less and moving more, on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at noon at Birmingham NEXT.

Marichelle will discuss the important reasons to include physical activity in your daily routine. Physiological changes as we age, risks of inactivity, physical and mental benefits of physical activity and how to get started will all be covered topics. She will also go over different types of exercises that have been shown to benefit older adults, how to measure your progress and how to stay motivated, even when you have barriers to activity. Cost: Complimentary members / $5 non-members.

 

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Visit Fire Station Open House

Explore Station 1, the former Adams Fire Station, and learn about fire safety at the Birmingham Fire Department’s annual Open House event on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 572 South Adams.

Attendees will have an opportunity to operate a fire hose, try on a fire coat and watch firefighters tackle a kitchen grease fire during portable fire extinguisher demonstrations. Crowds will gather to view live vehicle extrication demonstrations with airbag deployment. Children will enjoy inflatable obstacle courses, a smokehouse and face painting.

Historic emergency vehicles will be on display, including the city’s first fire from 1924. A Birmingham police vehicle and officer will be on-site to display equipment and answer questions. A bomb disposal robot from the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad, plus HAZMAT apparatus and equipment will also be on display. Enter a raffle to win fire safety equipment and enjoy firehouse chili, hot dogs, cider and donuts at this family-friendly event.

For more information, contact the Birmingham Fire Department at 248-530-1906 or visit www.bhamgov.org/fire.

 

Curbside Leaf Collection Begins Week of Oct. 14

Determine when leaves will be picked up within your zone using the curbside leaf collection map shown below. Simply rake your leaves into the street for pick up the weekend before your street’s designated week. Residents living on uncurbed streets may place leaves in approved containers curbside by 7 a.m. on your trash day now through the week of Dec. 16. For more information, visit www.bhamgov.org/leaves.

 

Downtown Phone Charging Stations

Did you know the city has cell phone charging stations in downtown Birmingham?

Among the improvements from the Old Woodward Reconstruction Project in 2018, was the installation of cell phone charging stations along the city’s main artery. Green charging stations, with multiple USB inputs, will also be included as part of the Maple Road Reconstruction Project in 2020. You can find the green cell phone charging stations on Old Woodward, adjacent to the granite benches, that were also installed during the Old Woodward Project.

In addition, you can get more information on the planned Maple Road Reconstruction Project in 2020.

 

End-of-Season Celebration at Farmers Market

The 17th season of the Birmingham Farmers Market will come to a close with an End of Season Celebration on Sunday, Oct. 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Public Parking Lot 6 at 660 N. Old Woodward. Attendees will enjoy autumn-themed activities including trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving demonstrations. Vendors will feature fall produce, flowers, Halloween-themed decor and more. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and stop by vendors for a special treat. Learn more.

 

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Friends, It’s officially autumn. Beyond the pumpkin spice debate lies a more important topic in my house: Halloween. My 7-year-old twins have been planning their costumes since August, so I’m very aware of how critical Oct. 31 is in their world. I’m not the only one, either. So many communities are planning trick-or-treat events, that I can’t possibly list them all. As a PTO mom, I’m helping plan a trunk-or-treat at our Eastside elementary. Enjoy the fun of October. In addition to getting juiced up on candy, there are apple orchards to visit (try convincing your kids that you’re going doughnut picking, too, it’s fun), pumpkins to carve, chili to make and football to watch. What’s your favorite activity? Enjoy autumn, Rebecca

Seaholm High School Open House

Join Birmingham Public Schools and Seaholm High School for an Open House event on Monday, Oct. 28. Learn more about character education, rigorous academics, championship sports and the wealth of opportunities for students within the Birmingham Public Schools. Groves will host an Open House on Monday, Nov. 4, at 5:30 p.m. Can’t make the Open House? Call 248-203-3001 to be connected to a school for a tour.

Birmingham Public Schools Treat for Mosquitos

With the health and safety of students and the community as a priority, the school district took precautions last weekend to treat five locations. Mosquito treatments took place at Groves and Seaholm high schools, Derby and Berkshire middle schools and Birmingham Covington School as these locations frequently host student activities at dusk when mosquitos are most active.  Seven cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis were confirmed on the southwest side of Michigan, including three fatal cases. While no cases have been reported in Oakland County so far, the situation can change swiftly. Treatments included a fog insecticide as well as a larvicide for areas of standing water. More tips and suggestions can be found on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website. Questions around EEE or the status in Oakland County can be directed to the Oakland County Health Division at 800-848-5533 or NOC@oakgov.com.  

Young Rembrandts Drawing

Fall is the perfect time to enroll your child in Young Rembrandts Drawing. Young Rembrandts students have fun learning to draw colorful compositions using creative patterns and designs. The session kicks-off with a drawing of a detailed gumball machine. Students then progress to a dragonfly composition drawing. A colorful Egyptian headdress is the focus of the art history lesson. To enroll, please visit www.communityed.net.

Road Patching on Coolidge

Asphalt road patching and concrete repairs are underway on Coolidge Highway, between Derby Road and Maple Road. This segment should return to normal traffic flows the week of Sept. 30. Smaller restoration efforts after traffic is returned to normal will require some additional lane closures. The project is expected to be completed by Oct. 5. Questions or concerns? Contact the Engineering Department at 248-530-1850.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra Morning Coffee Concerts

Fans of Aretha Franklin, take note. On Friday, Oct. 11, Birmingham NEXT is filling a bus and heading to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The bus departs Next at 9 a.m. The concert, “Queens of Soul,” features a special musical and video tribute to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and celebrate the reigning divas of Soul and R&B. Enjoy the hits from strong and soul women, including Tina Turner, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Etta James, Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys and Adele. The cost is $60 for members and $66 for non-members. Be sure to pre-register, space is limited. Click here to register.    

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net