Neighbor News
Celebrate Novato's Diamond Jubilee on January 31
Tickets on Sale for City Birthday Party at Buck Institute
It’s almost time for Novato to sparkle on its Diamond Jubilee. Novato’s 60th birthday celebration will feature first-class civic revelry and a stunning selection of food and beverages on Friday, January 31, at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging. The party is open to all, and tickets are on sale now.
It was 1960 when Novato debuted as an incorporated city, setting its own course for a bright future. The old red Presbyterian Church of Novato on Sherman Avenue was transformed into City Hall, and newly hired city employees set up offices in several bungalows steps away.
The municipal milestone has been celebrated by several hundred locals the past two years in grand style at the Buck Institute, the iconic structure on the southern slope of Mount Burdell. The gathering features a seated dinner with delicious choices from local restaurants, wineries, and craft breweries called “The Taste of Novato.” It also includes public unveilings of the Novato Citizen of the Year, Novato Chamber businesses of the year, and employees of the year from the Novato Fire Protection District and Novato Police Department.
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About 200 people attend the annual semi-formal gala hosted by a committee of volunteers and supported by generous sponsors. Guests include elected officials and leaders from nonprofits, schools, businesses, and service organizations. The annual event – which used to be called “Paint the Town Red” – is a tribute to the past, present and future of Novato.
“This is a celebration of those who enrich our city and unite in a strong bond of friendship,” said former Mayor and City Council member Jeanne MacLeamy, the event board chair and a former Citizen of the Year.
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The surprise Citizen of the Year announcement is always a highlight because the honoree is typically swarmed by family members who come out from hiding as soon as the recipient is named. This year, after several acknowledgements on stage, talented hometown guitarist James M. Harmon will provide entertainment, the Taste of Novato will begin and later the candles will be blown out on the city’s birthday cake.
The $60 tickets are available through PainttheTownRed.org. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the event wraps up by 10 p.m. The Buck Institute is at 8001 Redwood Boulevard.