Mayor's Weekly (Mar 31 - Apr 6)

On my Mind
If you have been to Vintage Oaks in the past few days, you may have spotted a 6-foot tree stringed with blue lights.  This past Wednesday, about 150 people gathered to light the tree for World Autism Awareness Day.  According the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 50 American children have autism.  The simple purpose of the gathering was to come together and shine a light on autism.  The event started with art gallery exhibit at NH2 Salon where the students’ work was on display and then everyone congregated outside near the tree.  Michael Pritchard warmed up the crowd, a short video was shown, and the tree was lit.

At the event, I had the privilege to speak with parents and students from all over the county who continually expressed their appreciation for the local gathering.  All the credit goes to Nicole Hitchcock, co-owner of NH2 Salon, who put the event together for the second straight year.  Last year, Nicole wanted to take her son Ramsey to an Awareness Day gathering, but learned that none existed in Northern California.  Rather than just not attend an event, Nicole worked with Vintage Oaks to put one together herself. 

It’s amazing how many great causes, fundraisers, and community events have similar stories.  When individuals see a need or a void, instead of looking to others, they take it upon themselves.  In a certain sense, these people are “community entrepreneurs” and it’s this spirit of involvement that makes Novato and Marin extraordinary. To all volunteers throughout our entire community, thank you for doing what you do.  Our neighborhoods wouldn’t be the same with you.

Around Town
Congrats & Thank you to Beverly James – On Monday (3/31), many gathered to celebrate and recognize Beverly James on her retirement as Manager-Engineer from the Novato Sanitary District.  Thank you Beverly for all your contributions to the city of Novato and the district.

Earth Day Marin Festival – The festival today certainly benefited from the best weather of the week.  It was a great gathering with for the whole family with food, speakers, music, exhibits, and plenty of give-a-ways.

Olompali Art Post Contest - The Olompali People and Olompali State Historic Park announce the opening of The Olompali Art Poster Contest.  Entry deadline: April 24, 2014. For information go to www.facebook.com/TheOlompaliPeople or email spotter12@hotmail.com.

The Week Ahead
Monday (Apr 7):
Planning Commission Meeting – 7:00PM (City Hall)

Tuesday (Apr 8):
City Council Meeting – 6:00PM (City Hall)
Note: 6:00PM start time for quarterly agenda setting.  Regular council meeting starts at 6:30PM.