On Saturday morning (9/16) I was making my usual cup of coffee, enjoying expected and helpful advice from the Car Guys on NPR and watching fellow Wolverine fans flood down Wells Street to the Delaware State game. Hearing a knocking sound at the front of the house I opened the door and met Mr. Tony Pinnell. Tony was visiting neighbors to tell us about the North Burns Park Association (NBPA).

I learned from Tony and the Association’s residents guide that this part of Burns Park is a unique and “historical mix of fraternity, sorority, co-operative, rental, and single family residences.” NBPA welcomes all area residents and “serves as a forum for discussing issues and concerns, meeting with City Council representatives, and getting acquainted with … neighbors.” Meetings in the fall and spring take place at the Friend’s Meeting House at 1420 Hill Street.

The residents guide reviewed interesting activities at Burns, Washington and Douglas Parks, as well as identifying various trash and recycling rituals, fall leaf pick-up dates, and sidewalk safety - especially during the snowy winter months. The guide also listed useful Ann Arbor City names and numbers, including police, water department, gas emergency, and city council representatives.

Neighborhood associations bring people together and build important linkages in our city. If you would like additional information about the North Burns Park Association and upcoming meeting times, please contact Peter Nagourney at nagourney@gmail.com.