Community Pride Evident in New Montage Artwork

One thing that has always impressed me about the greater Birmingham-Bloomfield community in the 20-some years I have worked here is the fierce loyalty residents have toward their hometown. “Community Pride” is not a simple catchphrase here; rather it is on proud display throughout the communities.

Want proof? When Birmingham city leaders decided to adopt an official color to help brand the community, they were unable to identify an existing color good enough to represent their hometown, so they created their own, which now is known as “Birmingham Green.”

There are similar examples in all of the six communities that comprise the greater Birmingham-Bloomfield community. Folks around here love their hometowns, and they are willing to invest their time, talent and treasure to keep their hometowns the special places they are.     

It is because of this display of civic pride that the decided to join forces with four outstanding community resources – , , the Birmingham Historical Society and the – to commission a piece of artwork showcasing the many special attributes of these communities. The Birmingham Montage highlights many of the longstanding businesses that serve the area, as well as highlights local landmarks and pays homage to historical figures and local celebrities.

We are proud of the Montage, and have partnered with Chamber member in Birmingham to make prints of the work available for sale along with special discounts for those who wish to have the prints matted and framed when they purchase the print. Store owner Jill Haury is a big-time supporter of the community, and is looking forward to helping residents proudly display their latest display of community pride.

Feel free to stop by the Art & Frame Station next to to check out the Montage, or visit us at the Chamber offices the next time you are near Adams Square to sneak a peek. We think you will like it.

In other news, Friday was a bittersweet day at the Chamber offices, when we said goodbye to longtime Operations Director Kathleen Tillson. Anyone who has come in contact with the Chamber in the past seven-plus years no doubt has had the good fortune to interact with Kathleen. She in most cases was the first point of contact for anyone attending a Chamber event, or calling or visiting the office, where she served the communities she loves with passion, dignity and grace. 

The day was bittersweet in that while we are truly saddened to see Kathleen leave the Chamber, we are excited for her as she embarks on the next phase of her life. Kathleen has big plans for the future, and there is no doubt she will continue to be a positive influence in these communities and make them an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

Joe Bauman is president of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber. He welcomes feedback at joeb@bbcc.com