Yesterday was the big 39 for the head executive officer of the city and county of San Francisco -- so what better way to celebrate than with a surprise party in City Hall, featuring singer Thelma Houston from Theater Zinzanni? Answer: with a red boa (pictures of red boa after the jump). Beats last year's birthday, which ended with a catfight.

Gosh, 39 candles are a lot harder to blow out than 20, aren't they? And oh yes! Gavin hair report: gelled.

More pictures after the jump.

All pictures by SanFranciscoSentinel.com, photos by John Han. Pat Murphy's letting us post his pictures today because he's having technical problems on his own site. Thanks again, Pat!

Happy BIRTHDAY, dear Gavin.... Happy birthday to you!