Public Art Community Survey: What do YOU Envision for Public Art in Brisbane?
As outlined in the City’s Art in Public Places Ordinance, public art has the power to energize our public spaces, arouse our thinking, and transform the places where we live, work, and play into more welcoming and beautiful environments that invite interaction. By its presence alone, public art can heighten our awareness, question our assumptions, transform a landscape, or express community values, and for these reasons it can have the power, over time, to transform a city's image. Public art helps define a community's identity and reveal its unique character.
To this end, the City of Brisbane administered a widespread Request for Proposals (RFP) process and accompanying interviews to select NINE dot ARTS, a national art consulting and creative placemaking firm, to develop the city’s first-ever Public Art Master Plan.
What do YOU envision for public art in Brisbane? Share your ideas by participating in a short community survey by July 19th! Answers will be collected and compiled into recommendations related to the types and locations of public art in Brisbane.
If you’d prefer to complete a physical version of the survey, you will find a copy in the June STAR (dropping in mailboxes around 6/1). If you want to pick up a copy now, you can find them at City Hall, the Library, or the Sunrise Room. To request the survey in another language, please email Parks and Recreation Director Noreen Leek at nleek@brisbaneca.org. Thank you in advance for making your voices heard!
Brisbane Honorees at California Parks & Recreation Society, District 4 Annual Awards Dinner
Last week, California Parks & Recreation Society, District 4, held their annual awards and recognition dinner to honor outstanding individuals in their communities. Two of Brisbane’s finest, Sharon Boggs and Leanne Borghesi, received an award recognizing them for their countless voluntary contributions to the community over several decades.
Leanne, a bicoastal nationally-recognized performing artist, has shared her talent tirelessly with the community by volunteering at events including the annual Festival of Lights, Artists’ Evening of Sharing, and headlining fundraising events like the Mood Swings Cabaret Show. Sharon Boggs is a former Parks & Recreation Commissioner, School Board Member, and Lions Club President. In early 2020, she was instrumental in establishing the Brisbane Covid-19 Response Coalition, which matched residents to volunteers to ensure every member of our community had basic needs met during the pandemic. She donates audio/visual services to the City for special events and received the 2021 Volunteer of the Year award. She also played an integral role in the founding of Brisbane’s LUNAFEST event which has raised over $100k in scholarships for Brisbane women pursuing degrees in male-dominated fields. This dynamic duo acts with the purpose of community in mind and embody the spirit of volunteerism in Brisbane. Kudos to you both!
Walk for Awareness Recap
Thank you to the 40-50 people who came out for last Saturday's Walk for Awareness! It was perfect weather for a walk along Crocker Park Trail, with all ages and four-legged family members joining as well.
See more activities happening during the month of May for Mental Health Month on the City's website.
A reminder that the Brisbane Library also has a couple more events in store for Mental Health Month, including Soul Soup with Amber Hines on Thursday, May 23rd at 11:30 AM. Weaving song, dance, and story together, Soul Soup invites you to play, explore, restore, and strengthen your connection to self and one another. Soul Soup is a family-style music ritual that combines interactive performance and relational education through music. Bay Area native Amber Hines blends traditional and contemporary music with voice and live drum accompaniment that uplifts, builds social-emotional literacy, and creates community for all ages. Registration not required.
Wildfire Awareness Event Recap
Saturday was abuzz with activity in downtown Brisbane, with there being North County Fire Authority's Wildfire Awareness Event in the Park.
Thanks to those that came out to learn about wildfire prevention and interact with personnel from North County Fire Authority and the Brisbane Police Department (getting on the motor always draws a crowd).
Several people signed up to receive SMC Alerts at the City's booth as well. Please make sure you're registered to receive these, as they are what the City will use in the event of an emergency to reach residents. It would also be a good time if you use social media to make sure you're following the City's accounts as critical information would also be posted there, as well. Those include, Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, and Twitter/X.
Speaking of social media, North County Fire Authority uses Twitter/X when notifying residents of emergency incidents. Yesterday, there was a residential structure fire in town that was put out very quickly and didn't affect any neighboring structures. Below is their media advisory:
We are grateful for the men and women who dedicate their lives to keep our communities safe. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week (May 12-18 this year). The flags were at half-staff yesterday, with the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Flag flying all week at the Park and at City Hall.
Spotlight on Complete Streets Safety Committee Member: Linda Dettmer
Linda has served on the City's Complete Streets Safety Committee for about the past 10 years. She has dedicated countless hours to serving Brisbane in this capacity, shepherding new members and working closely with the staff to study huge issues, such as residential parking in town. We spotlighted her a few years ago, but wanted to bring this back at a critical juncture; there are currently 2 open seats to apply for on the Complete Streets Safety Committee. We are looking for residents who share Linda's passion; please read on.
If this interests you, please head to the City's website to fill out an application form today!
Open Seats on City Committees: Apply by 6/5/24
The City of Brisbane is currently recruiting community members interested in serving on the Complete Streets Safety Committee, Open Space and Ecology Committee, the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accountability (IDEA) Committee, and the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District. The new deadline to apply is 5 PM on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, and the applications are available at brisbaneca.org/open-seats or by contacting the City Clerk at (415) 508-2113 or at cityclerk@brisbaneca.org.
Apply now for the following Council Commission and Committee seats (click on the links for more information):
- Complete Streets Safety Committee (1 seat for a one-year term until 2025, 1 seat for a two-year term until 2026, and up to 2 seats for a four-year term until 2028)
- Open Space & Ecology Committee (1 seat for a two-year term until 2026)
- Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accountability (IDEA) Committee* (3 seats for two-year terms until 2026)
- San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District (1 four-year term ending in 2028)
(*Note: Brisbane residents, as well as those who work but don't live in town, are welcome to apply for the IDEA Committee)
To apply for any of these positions and to have an opportunity to make a contribution to your community, fill out the application form available on brisbaneca.org/open-seats and return it to the City Clerk’s Office via email at cityclerk@brisbaneca.org or by mail to Attention: City Clerk, 50 Park Place, Brisbane, CA 94005.
Applications must be received no later than 5 PM on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. Apply at brisbaneca.org/open-seats. There is no compensation for these positions. An electronic copy of the application is acceptable to meet the deadline.
Recognition for 25 Years on the Library Joint Powers Authority Operations Committee
At the end of April, I took part in San Mateo County Libraries' Visioning & Strategic Plan Discussion. One of the areas that has brought me great satisfaction is the City's partnership with San Mateo County Libraries. I can still recall when San Mateo County Libraries was known as the San Mateo County Free Library System. They have a total of thirteen locations throughout the County and just yesterday, their first Library Outpost was delivered in Pacifica. This is something that the Operations Committee, comprised of each of their member agencies, will continue to explore in the near future, and aligns with one of SMCL's strategic goals to deliver services beyond buildings.
Libraries Honoring Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
San Mateo County Libraries is honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with events throughout the month of May. Dance sessions, painting workshops, performances and more can be found here. Note: Brisbane Library events take place May 22 and May 25, registration is required. See more information here.
San Mateo County Asian Pacific Islander Caucus' Summer Intern Program
Do you know a young individual that is an aspiring API Leader? The San Mateo County API Caucus is now taking applications for the 2024 Summer Intern Program. Participants will be engaged in a series of seminars including public speaking, speaking at a council meeting, meeting management, fund raising, personal branding/networking, Get Out the Vote (GOTV), and more! Interested? Contact Michelle Droz, Interim Executive Director, at Mkd@michelledroz.com.
Public Tree Inventory Getting Completed
Shelby, a certified arborist from PlanIT Geo was seen outside City Hall earlier today; they are wrapping up their inventory of our public trees tomorrow, May 16th. This initiative is made possible by the Open Space and Ecology Committee’s budget, aiming to provide us with a comprehensive assessment of the trees on City property.
Thursday, May 16 is Bike to Work (or Wherever) Day!
Bike to Work (or Wherever) Day, May 16 - Join the movement and ride a bike to work or wherever on Thursday, May 16, on Bay Area Bike to Work Day. The City's Parks and Recreation Dept. will be hosting an Energizer Station at Tunnel & Lagoon. Learn more and join a ride near you. And don't forget to take the challenge!
Healthy Air, Healthy Home: Thursday, May 16th
Clean air never tasted so good! Celebrate Clean Air Month with an informative & tasty presentation on how to improve your air quality and health.
- A doctor will point out unexpected sources of pollution in the home linked to asthma and other diseases.
- A chef will prepare a delicious plant-based dessert for all on a zero-emission induction stove!
- A rep from PCE and an energy coach will identify rebates and interest-free loans to replace polluting gas appliances and cars with zero-emission electric ones.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn how to improve your family’s air quality and health! Sponsored by Peninsula Clean Energy and local nonprofits. This event will be at The Firehouse at 1227 Danmann Ave in Pacifica on Thursday, May 16th at 7 PM. Space is limited - save your seat today!
Silverspot Fundraiser: Trike A Thon, May 17th
Silverspot is a parent-run, non-profit Cooperative Nursery School working to create a community of encouragement and learning for families. Their mission is to provide a positive, safe and healthy environment in which children learn through a play-based curriculum. Their upcoming fundraiser falls in line with just that!
Celebrate San Bruno Mountain, May 18th
Join San Mateo County Parks’ celebration of San Bruno Mountain State and County Park in Brisbane this Saturday, May 18th. Staff from County Parks and San Bruno Mountain Watch will lead nature journaling walks, trail hikes, a butterfly story walk and a volunteer activity in the park’s botanical garden. All events begin at 9 AM and are free. Check out all the offerings here. To avoid paying the $6 vehicle entry fee, bring confirmation of your event registration (i.e. on your smartphone or as a printout) to show rangers at the gatehouse upon entering the park. Carpooling is strongly encouraged. For any questions, please contact Sam Herzberg at sherzberg@smcgov.org.
Consider signing up for activities taking place on the 18th if you can so you don't miss the Walk for Awareness and the Wildfire Awareness Event!
Sierra Point Yacht Club Open House, May 18th
BDW Presents: 'Down the Rabbit Hole' May 18th & 19th
Saturday and Sunday afternoon tickets for Brisbane Dance Workshop's Annual Spring Performance are SOLD OUT! But 7:30 PM Saturday Gala Tickets are still available! Purchase of Gala tix really helps support BDW and makes a BIG difference in their budget. Tickets can be purchased online at brisbanedanceworkshop.org.
Fall Soccer for Kids 4-13
Registration for AYSO fall soccer in Brisbane is now open and is filling up quickly! AYSO soccer is a fun, exciting program whose main goal is to get kids on the field, provide them with good coaches, and teach them to play the game. No previous soccer experience is needed - the focus is on developing players and cultivating good sportsmanship at all ages.
Brisbane AYSO soccer welcomes participants from Brisbane and surrounding areas, and offers generous scholarships for families in need. Cost for the season is $110 and includes a player uniform. Email brisbaneayso@gmail.com for more information.
Embodying Shakespeare at the Brisbane Library, June 1
The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival will be presenting a hands-on workshop at the Brisbane Library on Saturday, June 1st from 11 AM - noon that brings the world of Shakespeare and acting to life! Participants will deepen their understanding of their bodies’ nuances and patterns, and explore emotional response and the relationship between movement and stillness, increasing self-awareness and self-expression through exploring non-verbal communication. Limited to 10 students, so sign up through this link.
The Brisbane Chamber & The Brisbane Lions Club Present: A Night in Little Reno
Calling all fun-seekers! The Brisbane Chamber of Commerce and Brisbane Lions Club are throwing a bash you won't want to miss: A Night in Little Reno!
Did you know Brisbane once had a reputation as a hotbed of excitement? In the 1930s, bus drivers nicknamed our city "Little Reno" thanks to our lively gambling scene. Join the Chamber and the Lions on Saturday, June 22nd at 6 PM at the Mission Blue Center (475 Mission Blue Dr) for a night that pays homage to Brisbane's wild past! Here's what awaits you at this unforgettable evening:
- Games (For Fun Only!): Channel your inner high roller with classic casino games. *Remember, this night is all about friendly competition – bragging rights are the only prize!
- Music & Dancing: Get ready to swing the night away with music that'll have you movin' and shakin'.
- Heavy Appetizers & Craft Cocktails: Fuel up for a night of fun with delicious appetizers and specialty cocktails.
- Supporting a Great Cause: Proceeds from the event will benefit the Brisbane Chamber of Commerce & their Scholarship Program and the Brisbane Lions Club Scholarship Program
Mark your calendars!
- Date: Saturday, June 22nd
- Time: 6 PM onwards
- Location: Mission Blue Center, 475 Mission Blue Drive
- Age Requirement: 21+
Don't miss your chance to be part of this historic (and fun!) night! Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours today at brisbanechamber.org/littlereno.
Brisbane Farmers' Market: Thursdays in the Park, 3-7 PM
- Mountain Fresh
- Villanueva Fruits
- James Healey Confections
- Mango Blossom Apiary
- California Bakeshop
- Hummus Heaven
- Medina Berry Farms
- Amelia's Mexipino Cuisine
- Pasta Rey Artisanal Foods
- Roadside Rotisserie
Upcoming Public Meetings
Archived Meeting Videos
Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting - Wednesday, May 8, 6:30 PM
Planning Commission Meeting - Thursday, May 9, 2024 - 7:30 PM
Did You Know?
The only place in town that dogs are allowed to run off-leash is at the City's Dog Park, accessible via the parking lot at City Hall and along Park Lane (intended for small dog owners). You may have noticed a new a-frame sign at the Community Park. Per the City’s Municipal Code, dogs are not allowed off-leash at the Community Park, with the new a-frame sign placed on the grass area as a reminder.
Thank you for keeping the Park an enjoyable space for all! If you've never been to the City's Dog Park, you should check it out! It was resurfaced in late 2021 and is visited frequently by many. Note: there is also designated parking on Park Ln. and in City Hall's parking lot for Dog Park users.
Quote of the week
This concludes our update; we'll be sending out the next Blast on Wednesday, May 22nd. If this email was forwarded to you or you saw it on social media and would like to subscribe, sign up here. As always, please keep connected with us via our website & social media pages. Thanks for reading and staying engaged with us!