State of the City 2011

On Thursday evening, Mayor Bill Bogaard gave his State of the City report at Paseo Colorado's ArcLight Cinemas.

Hundreds of people came and gathered in the lobby prior to doors of Theater 9 being swung open for the proceedings.

Councilwoman Margaret McAustin came prepared for special effects!


The theater filled up quickly:


Vice Mayor Victor Gordo served as master of ceremonies:


The Blair High School JROTC presented the colors:


Mayor Bogaard is pleased every year to spotlight a local arts organization. This year it was Lineage Dance:


Before he began making his official remarks, Mayor Bogaard made a nice tribute to City Councilman Steve Haderlein, who received a standing ovation. After 12 years of service on the council, he decided not to seek re-election.



Mayor Bogaard also introduced Pasadena's new director of planning, Vince Bertoni.

Then it was on to the speech, the text of which you'll find here.


Mayor Bogaard reminded everyone that although there are enormous challenges, which he discussed openly, there are plenty of accomplishments to be proud of and it’s important to keep this in perspective.

By golly, he’s right.