I love Thanksgiving. For me, it’s a perfect holiday in that it is inclusive, family-centered, is not overly commercial and leaves religion out of the discussion.

More important, Thanksgiving gives us an opportunity to reflect our lives and really think about all of the things we have to be thankful for. The only “gifts” exchanged on Thanksgiving are love and good times with friends and family.

On Dec. 5, the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber will give thanks to two special individuals that go above and beyond to make our community a better place to live, work and play. Each year at our Annual Meeting, we name a Business Person of the Year as well as a First Citizen.

Linda Hatfiled, Birmingham Bloomfield Credit Union 2012 Business Person of the Year

The Business Person of the Year award acknowledges a Chamber member business leader who uses both their personal time and company resources to the benefit of our community. The First Citizen Award – which is presented in conjunction with the Birmingham Eccentric newspaper, acknowledges an individual who gives their time and talent to nonprofits and charitable organizations that work to improve the lives of those who need help the most.

Both awards are special to me personally. The Business Person of the Year award allows the Chamber to acknowledge and celebrate one of its loyal members, and I had the pleasure of presenting the First Citizen award for many years as former editor of the Birmingham Eccentric and pay much-deserved accolades to a quiet community leader who typically does not seek recognition for their efforts.
This year’s Annual Meeting is scheduled for 8-9:30 on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Birmingham Athletic Club. Details can be found on the Chamber Web site at www.bbcc.com

Speaking of giving thanks, we all have a chance to thank our local business owners for supporting the community by heading to downtown Birmingham on Saturday, Nov. 30 to take part in Small Business Saturday. The event is intended to remind residents to “Shop Local” and support their local shopkeepers that do so much to support the greater community.

Many retailers throughout Birmingham have special events planned for the day, and shoppers will even be able to park for free at all meters downtown for the entire day. Other perks awaiting shoppers include Perks include complimentary carriage rides, live carolers, visiting Santa in Shain Park, and free cookies and hot chocolate.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Nov. 30 as well as at our Annual Meeting.
Joe Bauman is president of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber. He welcomes feedback at joeb@bbcc.com