With perfect summer sun, $1 barbecued hamburger lunches and plenty of lawn chairs and open grass to sit down on, the city proved that it doesn't take fireworks to have a great Fourth of July party.

So many people came out--more than 1,000--that the city temporarily ran out of lunch tickets, but more were found and all were fed.

As residents browsed information booths, munched on lunch or played with the families, the Sunnyvale City Council presented awards to community members, recognized their colleagues and family, and listened as Mayor Dean Chu gave his State of the City address.

"I am proud to tell you that the state of our city--and of our community--is strong, our future is bright, and we are moving forward," Chu said in his speech.

And this year's address had a new theme: change for the better.

"Our local economy is showing signs of coming back to life. Companies are looking to Sunnyvale as a great place to do business. People want to live in Sunnyvale because of our moderate climate, excellent schools and reputation as a safe, clean and well-run city," he said.

Also at the event were a number of residents of all ages being recognized by the city for their efforts.

Linda Kilian was honored as Sunnyvale's Distinguished Citizen of the Year for 12 years of work on the Sunnyvale School District Board of Education.

Jim Davis and Joy Stanton were named Outstanding Community Volunteers for their work with Sunnyvale schools and Sunnyvale seniors, respectively.

Adam Simms of Toyota Sunnyvale was named 2005 Businessperson of the Year.

The Sunnyvale Community Players theater group was honored for Outstanding Contribution to the Arts for more than three decades of community entertainment.

Three high school seniors were named High School Senior of the Year. Paul Lesevic from Bellarmine College Preparatory and Jessica Lorman and Siena Milia from Fremont High School shared the title.

The 2005 Mayor's Award went to Patricia Castillo for her years of service to Sunnyvale.