Thank you from The Burbank Times
serving the community for 34 years!
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818-841-NEWS (6397).
Break an egg! Spring has sprung. Pasadena Designer Showcase 2019 is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens only through May 19!
Ushering in Spring in our area, the annual Pasadena Designer Showcase opened on Easter Sunday for its short blooming season from April to May. An unusual and great choice for this year's mansion makeover to showcase local talented interior and exterior home designers, a public venue was chosen in the Boddy House of Descanso Gardens. Sitting atop this gorgeous 165 acre, oak-covered ranch in La Canada, CA, Elias Manchester Boddy purchased the land in 1936, naming it Rancho del Descanso, or Ranch of Rest in Spanish, into a floral paradise we know and love as Descanso Gardens. The Boddy House sits atop the gardens and was completed in 1939 for this newspaper publisher's family, designed by James E Dolena originally, in the Hollywood Regency style, boasting a 12,000 square foot mansion. In 1957, the Descanso Gardens Guild was established to work with the County to preserve the Boddy Estate as a public garden, known as the Hospitality House. With this rejuvenation of a home that will not be lived in, I am told that the viewing for the public showcase from April 21-May 19 (excluding Mondays), is available for Pasadena Showcase supporters. Thereafter, the home will be available for private rental uses.
Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA) is a non-profit organization bringing music enrichment programs to Southern California. Now in its 55th year, formerly known as Junior Philharmonic Committee, PSHA officially adopted the Pasadena Showcase House of Design as their annual benefit in 1965. It is one of the oldest, largest and most successful house and garden tours in the country, visited by approximately 25,000 guests annually.
Opening with the festivities of the garden's Easter events and display, shuttles up to the house or a beautiful stroll to the House lead you to this domestic tranquility amidst a natural wonderland with comforts of a privileged home of luxurious lifestyle.
My hope is that the fine work of this wonderful organization continues to choose stunning public venues like this to showcase quality local talents while raising funds all year long for private as well as public uses of the beautiful end result. Hopefully, they may offer it for public viewing all year long when not in private use for all to enjoy while continuing to raise funds for their music education goals. This is a great service annually that could be provided to many local historical sites sorely in need of rejuvenation and public awareness to enrich our community lifestyle.
Thank you for supporting with your visit to this year's Showcase, its marketplace vendors, and Descanso Gardens which invites our membership year round. Living an active lifestyle using these beautiful local venues is the best support you can give to them and to your own life and health. Get to know Descanso, and contact the designers to rejuvenate your own domestic paradise. Visit the websites which are linked in this article and in the captions on the slideshow providing designer email addresses. Beautify your life and community while contributing to the benefits of music education.
Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA) is a non-profit organization bringing music enrichment programs to Southern California. Now in its 55th year, formerly known as Junior Philharmonic Committee, PSHA officially adopted the Pasadena Showcase House of Design as their annual benefit in 1965. It is one of the oldest, largest and most successful house and garden tours in the country, visited by approximately 25,000 guests annually.
Opening with the festivities of the garden's Easter events and display, shuttles up to the house or a beautiful stroll to the House lead you to this domestic tranquility amidst a natural wonderland with comforts of a privileged home of luxurious lifestyle.
My hope is that the fine work of this wonderful organization continues to choose stunning public venues like this to showcase quality local talents while raising funds all year long for private as well as public uses of the beautiful end result. Hopefully, they may offer it for public viewing all year long when not in private use for all to enjoy while continuing to raise funds for their music education goals. This is a great service annually that could be provided to many local historical sites sorely in need of rejuvenation and public awareness to enrich our community lifestyle.
Thank you for supporting with your visit to this year's Showcase, its marketplace vendors, and Descanso Gardens which invites our membership year round. Living an active lifestyle using these beautiful local venues is the best support you can give to them and to your own life and health. Get to know Descanso, and contact the designers to rejuvenate your own domestic paradise. Visit the websites which are linked in this article and in the captions on the slideshow providing designer email addresses. Beautify your life and community while contributing to the benefits of music education.
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Universal's Dark Arts Light ShowApril 2019 The newest scare at Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the Dark Arts light show that projects the horrific realism of the fantastical creatures from the Potter movies. It’s viewed on the façade of the castle. We were invited to experience it with the crowds gathering in the streets in front of the castle watching the larger than life virtual reality before your eyes. " The all-new “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” projection display brings to light an exciting new dimension of sorcery within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.” A mesmerizing pageantry of light, music and special effects unleash the darkest creatures and villains from the Wizarding World, including the powerful Dark wizard Lord Voldemort.
Guests will be challenged to summon their inner strength and bravery in the face of the all-consuming Dark Arts as some of the awe-inspiring moments and creatures inspired by the films come to life within the majestic light display accompanied by an atmospheric musical score created by John Williams," (NBC/Uni) With a little more time to get a sense of the park, it was suggested to tour the castle which ends in a ride of terror. It was an immersive lock down into a bench seat for a ride that twirls through a maze, all directions, with all kinds of visually invasive and scary images coming at you. If you like being scared and appreciate ever emerging special effects and seeing the Harry Potter empire continue, enjoy the show. The distance of viewing the li;ht show from the castle makes it fine for kids or more sensitive people as the proximity is less invasive than the castle ride. The ride is not for under 12 or anyone who has any hesitation. A walking tour, sans ride, is available to view the castle. |
Happy New Year Means Burbank Float time in the Rose Parade
Stompin' Good Time is the 2019 float for the City of Burbank Tournament of Roses annual entry into the Rose Parade New Year's Day. Here are some of the awesome volunteers who tirelessly create the award winning float for Burbank. Some are veterans of 30+ years!
Happy Holidays!
Disney's 2018 Holiday Family Film, Mary Poppins Returns
Mary Poppins Returns and we screened it to our delight. Sharing a favorite old family classic that followed the big musical award winning formula the director and multi talented writer and choreographer Rob Marshall, (who I went to college with and knew at Carnegie Mellon and wish I knew now, sigh).
There are many takeaways and good messages to take to heart. Invest your tuppence, for one! We did not learn what it was invested in but the movie magic we wish was real, that it would only take tuppence invested well to save the day.
The settings and revisiting Cherry tree Lane are gorgeous and the special effects are the stars of the film that take us into the wondrous magic, using amazing technology of today, yet with respect to the past groundbreaking efforts that the original Mary Poppins offered; like when they befriended and danced with animated penguins and visited fantastical worlds.
Mary Poppins, played by Emily Blunt, seems to have emphasized her famous line of being “practically perfect in every way” as she is properly British, efficient and presentable, sings and dances and is magical, however, she is more stern and lacking the warmth and humanity for deep endearment with just enough distance to remember not to invest your heart that will be carried off with the next wind she rides away on.
Bert steps it up, but is Jack, a street lamplighter, as played by Lin-Manuel Miranda of "Hamilton" fame, representing the common folk and blue collar workers of London, leading them and the chimney sweeps as Bert did. Pleasantly played and suggesting the budding relationship with Jane, is to suggest he will soon be officially one of the family. Big dance numbers with the chimney sweeps, and then with Mary and Jack on stage, reflect Rob Marshall’s ‘Chicago’ days with more risqué outfits, and slick performances, as are his forte of dance and choreography as I remember him majoring in that in college. A questionable edge to put in this family film, but that's entertainment.
The music is enjoyable and full but nothing so memorable on the lips of the viewers, at least not yet perhaps.
The amazing Ed Wynn as beloved Uncle Albert has turned into the quirky Russian accented cousin of Mary played by Meryl Streep. The fun setting they visit her in is again the star as this topsy turvy setting lures us into yet another magical world.
Michael and Jane have grown up together to show us how strongly siblings can support each other especially in times of need but are part of each other’s daily lives. Michael goes through rough times as we saw his father do, affirming that true wealth is love and family.
17 Cherry Tree Lane will remain in the Banks family, so of course that means many more sequels to come with secured real estate.
A happy holiday wish and beautiful family movie. May you all be able to leave your legacy of shared family memories and a wonderful family home for everyone to always return to.
There are many takeaways and good messages to take to heart. Invest your tuppence, for one! We did not learn what it was invested in but the movie magic we wish was real, that it would only take tuppence invested well to save the day.
The settings and revisiting Cherry tree Lane are gorgeous and the special effects are the stars of the film that take us into the wondrous magic, using amazing technology of today, yet with respect to the past groundbreaking efforts that the original Mary Poppins offered; like when they befriended and danced with animated penguins and visited fantastical worlds.
Mary Poppins, played by Emily Blunt, seems to have emphasized her famous line of being “practically perfect in every way” as she is properly British, efficient and presentable, sings and dances and is magical, however, she is more stern and lacking the warmth and humanity for deep endearment with just enough distance to remember not to invest your heart that will be carried off with the next wind she rides away on.
Bert steps it up, but is Jack, a street lamplighter, as played by Lin-Manuel Miranda of "Hamilton" fame, representing the common folk and blue collar workers of London, leading them and the chimney sweeps as Bert did. Pleasantly played and suggesting the budding relationship with Jane, is to suggest he will soon be officially one of the family. Big dance numbers with the chimney sweeps, and then with Mary and Jack on stage, reflect Rob Marshall’s ‘Chicago’ days with more risqué outfits, and slick performances, as are his forte of dance and choreography as I remember him majoring in that in college. A questionable edge to put in this family film, but that's entertainment.
The music is enjoyable and full but nothing so memorable on the lips of the viewers, at least not yet perhaps.
The amazing Ed Wynn as beloved Uncle Albert has turned into the quirky Russian accented cousin of Mary played by Meryl Streep. The fun setting they visit her in is again the star as this topsy turvy setting lures us into yet another magical world.
Michael and Jane have grown up together to show us how strongly siblings can support each other especially in times of need but are part of each other’s daily lives. Michael goes through rough times as we saw his father do, affirming that true wealth is love and family.
17 Cherry Tree Lane will remain in the Banks family, so of course that means many more sequels to come with secured real estate.
A happy holiday wish and beautiful family movie. May you all be able to leave your legacy of shared family memories and a wonderful family home for everyone to always return to.
Happy Chanukah!
Each year the lights of the menorah are lit publicly to invite all people to celebrate our religious freedom. Chabad of Burbank leads our city spiritually by presenting their 15 foot menorah to be shared by all in downtown Burbank Towne Center mall. Rabbi Shmuly Kornfeld leads this Jewish Center and annual lighting, inviting local Congressman Adam Schiff to help light the candles. One light is added for 8 nights to commemorate the miraculous victory of the Jewish army in ancient times in overcoming the odds of a larger army in their fight for religious freedom. Chanukah means rededication as the temple that was destroyed had to be rebuilt and our souls are rededicated each year to the spiritual building we all can do. Rituals around the holy oil that was used to light the menorah include eating foods fried in oil, so doughnuts are symbolic and traditional to eat as they are passed out for the public. Time to dedicate and light your inner lights to shine bright during the dark winter months and on.
"Wicked" returns to the Pantages!
Don't miss this award winning musical spectacular
Holiday in Magnolia Park kicks off the Season!
Magnolia Boulevard traffic was all on foot for the annual holiday season kick off. Magnolia Park business district was blocked off and filled with community happily meeting, walking, shopping, eating and getting to know and patronize Burbank local businesses and city supported services. Businesses lining Magnolia Blvd. stayed open for this late night and even set up in the street, offering free samples or discounts. Families happily played together in child friendly setups of games, crafts, bounce house, dancing to music and bubbles filling the air. The credit union parking lot is always a festive playground when they bring in actual snow to play in. Live bands and artists performed, as well as carolers singing traditional holiday songs in their Victorian costumes.
Please BUY BURBANK & support your local businesses. Save Magnolia Park as our hometown village that we love. Rents are high and tough for small businesses so please support and do your shopping in Burbank and work locally. Thank you!
Please BUY BURBANK & support your local businesses. Save Magnolia Park as our hometown village that we love. Rents are high and tough for small businesses so please support and do your shopping in Burbank and work locally. Thank you!
Veteran's Day at the Burbank War Memorial
Veteran's Day, November 12, 2018, honored all who served in the city of Burbank at the McCambridge Park War Memorial, sponsored by the City of Burbank and the Burbank Veterans Committee. Led by one of our favorite local veterans, Mickey DePalo, Chair of the Burbank Veterans Committee, a beautiful sunny southern California morning was well attended by local and state dignitaries to honor three special veterans from our city through military presentation by Mayor, Emily Gabel-Luddy.
Honorees were; Christina Reuter of the United States Air Force, Joseph Reuter of the United States Air National Guard (and her father), and John Paul Grasse, United States Army.
State support came from distinguished politicians who spoke to us of the brave veterans they have met while instilling the sense of hope, patriotism and pride we appreciate from our elected officials. Thank you for representing with professionalism, encouragement and compassionate leadership to United States Congressman Adam Schiff, California State Senator Anthony Portantino and California State Assemblymember Laura Friedman.
Music is the quickest way to our souls as the national anthem was beautifully rendered by singer Heidi=Marie Ferrn and followed up by her own composition later in the program of her work with veterans titiled, "Eyes of a Soldier". Thirty years coming to sing "God Bless America", Pat Walmisley hit the high notes once more, proudly joined by all. In closing, we hear a bagpipe rendition of "Amazing Grace" from Anjanetter McFarling, Taps from the buglers of the Burbank Community Band and a thankful crowd making community stand strong on their feet with applause.
We were made aware that so many veterans return needing much help in many ways and many continue to tirelessly serve as some of the firefighters who are on the frontlines currently, trying to save our precious California that is under siege in the Woolsey Fires now. We must strive to support these brave people and assure them sustenance and homes, medical help and support upon their return.
Honorees were; Christina Reuter of the United States Air Force, Joseph Reuter of the United States Air National Guard (and her father), and John Paul Grasse, United States Army.
State support came from distinguished politicians who spoke to us of the brave veterans they have met while instilling the sense of hope, patriotism and pride we appreciate from our elected officials. Thank you for representing with professionalism, encouragement and compassionate leadership to United States Congressman Adam Schiff, California State Senator Anthony Portantino and California State Assemblymember Laura Friedman.
Music is the quickest way to our souls as the national anthem was beautifully rendered by singer Heidi=Marie Ferrn and followed up by her own composition later in the program of her work with veterans titiled, "Eyes of a Soldier". Thirty years coming to sing "God Bless America", Pat Walmisley hit the high notes once more, proudly joined by all. In closing, we hear a bagpipe rendition of "Amazing Grace" from Anjanetter McFarling, Taps from the buglers of the Burbank Community Band and a thankful crowd making community stand strong on their feet with applause.
We were made aware that so many veterans return needing much help in many ways and many continue to tirelessly serve as some of the firefighters who are on the frontlines currently, trying to save our precious California that is under siege in the Woolsey Fires now. We must strive to support these brave people and assure them sustenance and homes, medical help and support upon their return.
Thank-a-Soldier 8th Annual Sends 1000 Boxes of Donations to Our Troops
The 8th Annual Keller Williams Thank-a-Soldier event brought hundreds out to volunteer and show their appreciation for our troops on the front lines all over the world. Collection of desired items that soldiers enjoy, like bottles of hot sauce to spice up not great food there, packed in socks for shipping, starts in August! Keller Williams of Burbank, Glendale and La Canada join to host this event in the Unme credit union parking lot, adding a live band and food for volunteers. One thousand boxes are sent to chaplains everywhere to give to the soldiers who so appreciate it. Thank you to our soldiers! What a great way to build community while doing good.
"Beautiful"; The Carole King Musical Returns to The Pantages
Carole KIng's story continues to sing the plight of every woman's story, especially us babyboomers of her age. Beautiful is the musical stage production based on the iconic music of singer songwriter Carole King.
Identifying with the "everywoman", the rise to stardom of this plain working mother with the gift of music is captured 'beautifully" through her lyrics and tunes that have been on the lips of America for decades. A marriage of music and lyrics, Carole met Gerry Goffin, and the rest is their life story of marriage and family and careers that made this show intriguing, real and entertaining when set to their own musical history.
"So Far Away", "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", "One Fine Day"," It's Too Late", You've Got a Friend", "Beautiful".... lyrics that ring true and have stood the test of time as classics mirroring the women's movement of the 20th century. Carole King was born at just the right time to live the life so many others needed to identify with to find their own strength, voice and strive for success. Carole's coming of age and success meant success for all, especially people who responded, supported her and made her that star she never dreamed she would be. Not glamorous, plain, big unruly hair, an earth mother image, Carole redefined celebrity based on the merit of your work and not how you look. Be your best self is the greatest superstar you can be. That is timeless, cherished and we can all be grateful and feel "beautiful", truly, to those who supported her success which is the success for us all.
Her story is in her music and played out in this stage production so well by Sarah Bockel, as Carole King, in this short run at the Hollywood Pantages Theater. Directed by Mark Bruni, choreographed by Josh Prince, book by Douglas McGrath with words and music by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, music by arrangement with Sony/ATV Music Publishing.
Carole King and "Beautiful" is an inspiration to all women, all people, encouraging them to believe in themselves, follow your passions and build your strengths. "You're as beautiful as you feel", is the message in her lyrics to this title song. When you're singing your own songs, your music will find its listeners and they will thank you. The world needs what you can give.
Identifying with the "everywoman", the rise to stardom of this plain working mother with the gift of music is captured 'beautifully" through her lyrics and tunes that have been on the lips of America for decades. A marriage of music and lyrics, Carole met Gerry Goffin, and the rest is their life story of marriage and family and careers that made this show intriguing, real and entertaining when set to their own musical history.
"So Far Away", "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", "One Fine Day"," It's Too Late", You've Got a Friend", "Beautiful".... lyrics that ring true and have stood the test of time as classics mirroring the women's movement of the 20th century. Carole King was born at just the right time to live the life so many others needed to identify with to find their own strength, voice and strive for success. Carole's coming of age and success meant success for all, especially people who responded, supported her and made her that star she never dreamed she would be. Not glamorous, plain, big unruly hair, an earth mother image, Carole redefined celebrity based on the merit of your work and not how you look. Be your best self is the greatest superstar you can be. That is timeless, cherished and we can all be grateful and feel "beautiful", truly, to those who supported her success which is the success for us all.
Her story is in her music and played out in this stage production so well by Sarah Bockel, as Carole King, in this short run at the Hollywood Pantages Theater. Directed by Mark Bruni, choreographed by Josh Prince, book by Douglas McGrath with words and music by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, music by arrangement with Sony/ATV Music Publishing.
Carole King and "Beautiful" is an inspiration to all women, all people, encouraging them to believe in themselves, follow your passions and build your strengths. "You're as beautiful as you feel", is the message in her lyrics to this title song. When you're singing your own songs, your music will find its listeners and they will thank you. The world needs what you can give.
Find all of your holiday gifts at Odz & Enz!
Let them know that you saw The Burbank Times ad to receive 10% off at the register. Happy Holidays!
Congratulations, Graduates!
Spring Arts Festival 2018 in Downtown Burbank
Chappaquiddick Film Release; Reality, Illusion and Power
Reviewed by Francess
Chappaquiddick revisited. The recent release of this film (April 6, 2018), Entertainment Studios Motion Picture and Apex Entertainment in association with DMG Entertainment), literally dredges up an ugly, scandalous and now historically American event centering upon the fatal car accident involving Senator Ted Kennedy (actor Jason Clarke) and Mary Jo Kopechne (actress Kate Mara), on July 16, 1969, Chappaquiddick Island, Massachusetts. The mere mention of the name, Chappaquiddick, strikes a chord with Americans who witnessed this tragedy so publicly, so documented, so representative of our American perceptions of reality, power and the illusions and power of the media, including this press and the filmmaking process itself. To retell this story so vividly in film, filling in the surmised, the what ifs, the inflections of those in critical moments, relay known facts as reported, statements on record, concluding with a national press televised event, was a brave and timely gift for our current highly charged media coverage of today's political and daily news. Cleverly manipulating across media platforms, this illustration of how influential and powerful our tools of communication are, especially when controlled by driven powerful individuals seeking to affect the very minds, thought, actions and attitudes of the American people, in this case. Popular vote holds its own power, then and now, and perception, although it has no real "point' system, matters.
Living in the shadows of a family so powerful and celebrated as to invent an American Royalty, if there were one, the Kennedys have created a dynasty of generations that serve America politically as a birthright. "What's it like walking in Jack's shadow?", an interviewer asks brother Ted, seeking his own turn at the Presidency at the time. Ted freezes as every competitive childhood muscle flexed one more time in comparison to his acclaimed and beloved brother, President John F. Kennedy, and quickly executing any further questions; "I think you have what you need." For Ted Kennedy, and family, life is the stuff that Hollywood is made of. Tragic young deaths in family, in work and now in play, the Kennedys are like a magnet to high, scandalous drama. To be connected to a Kennedy was either your blessing or curse, probably both. In the end, Mary Jo Kopechne, lost her life getting too close to Ted. As Jason Clarke told us about playing Ted, a man baptized in the Vatican itself, living in his moral conundrum and afflictions are unique to say the least, brimming with dilemma and question. The time lapse of his actions, well documented from the time of the accident to calling authorities, can never be explained. That's how well orchestrated the multimedia coverage was executed.
Most effective was a brilliant ending to the film, using real footage as well, of video polling people offering their thought ,and opinions that reflect how influential the power of the media is from the diverse spectrum of their perspectives. What truth is there to be told? How? Probably the truest communication came from veteran award winning actor, Bruce Dern, playing the patriarch Joe Kennedy, post stroke and with very limited physical faculties. Director John Curran relayed to us Mr. Dern's enthusiastic approach to embracing this role consisting of five words as "five words too much!" He said he would act through his eyes. The mirrors of our soul, his eyes connected us with the deepest pre linguistic communication necessary telling all about this strained situation and intense family. The questioning remains, sides are taken, attitudes formed, human nature adapts, reasons, prioritizes and we move on. Still striving for any Truth.
Chappaquiddick revisited. The recent release of this film (April 6, 2018), Entertainment Studios Motion Picture and Apex Entertainment in association with DMG Entertainment), literally dredges up an ugly, scandalous and now historically American event centering upon the fatal car accident involving Senator Ted Kennedy (actor Jason Clarke) and Mary Jo Kopechne (actress Kate Mara), on July 16, 1969, Chappaquiddick Island, Massachusetts. The mere mention of the name, Chappaquiddick, strikes a chord with Americans who witnessed this tragedy so publicly, so documented, so representative of our American perceptions of reality, power and the illusions and power of the media, including this press and the filmmaking process itself. To retell this story so vividly in film, filling in the surmised, the what ifs, the inflections of those in critical moments, relay known facts as reported, statements on record, concluding with a national press televised event, was a brave and timely gift for our current highly charged media coverage of today's political and daily news. Cleverly manipulating across media platforms, this illustration of how influential and powerful our tools of communication are, especially when controlled by driven powerful individuals seeking to affect the very minds, thought, actions and attitudes of the American people, in this case. Popular vote holds its own power, then and now, and perception, although it has no real "point' system, matters.
Living in the shadows of a family so powerful and celebrated as to invent an American Royalty, if there were one, the Kennedys have created a dynasty of generations that serve America politically as a birthright. "What's it like walking in Jack's shadow?", an interviewer asks brother Ted, seeking his own turn at the Presidency at the time. Ted freezes as every competitive childhood muscle flexed one more time in comparison to his acclaimed and beloved brother, President John F. Kennedy, and quickly executing any further questions; "I think you have what you need." For Ted Kennedy, and family, life is the stuff that Hollywood is made of. Tragic young deaths in family, in work and now in play, the Kennedys are like a magnet to high, scandalous drama. To be connected to a Kennedy was either your blessing or curse, probably both. In the end, Mary Jo Kopechne, lost her life getting too close to Ted. As Jason Clarke told us about playing Ted, a man baptized in the Vatican itself, living in his moral conundrum and afflictions are unique to say the least, brimming with dilemma and question. The time lapse of his actions, well documented from the time of the accident to calling authorities, can never be explained. That's how well orchestrated the multimedia coverage was executed.
Most effective was a brilliant ending to the film, using real footage as well, of video polling people offering their thought ,and opinions that reflect how influential the power of the media is from the diverse spectrum of their perspectives. What truth is there to be told? How? Probably the truest communication came from veteran award winning actor, Bruce Dern, playing the patriarch Joe Kennedy, post stroke and with very limited physical faculties. Director John Curran relayed to us Mr. Dern's enthusiastic approach to embracing this role consisting of five words as "five words too much!" He said he would act through his eyes. The mirrors of our soul, his eyes connected us with the deepest pre linguistic communication necessary telling all about this strained situation and intense family. The questioning remains, sides are taken, attitudes formed, human nature adapts, reasons, prioritizes and we move on. Still striving for any Truth.
Burbank Tournament of Roses Parade Float 2017
The 2017 Burbank Rose Parade float is on deadline for construction in the most exciting week, the last week of the year. I stopped in to see its progress before deco week when all of the beautiful flowers are put on. This year‘s float theme was ‘making a difference’ and here is the sketch that won through it’s recycling theme at the beach, designed by a 15-year-old high school girl, Cat Glandon. Showing at Christmas time at this construction stage, you can see the octopus whose top half will be turning in an animatronic during the parade. Lots of other fun details as you can see in the design illustration and pictures. There’s also regular photo updates and lots of info on their site at burbankfloat.com. Broadcast on KTLA, the Burbank float gets the spotlight as they parade down Colorado Blvd. in this top photo.
Holiday ReViewing
The Pitches are back for their Farewell Tour, Pitch Perfect 3. Totally stealing the show and igniting the screen (literally) is Rebel Wilson in the role we have come to know her and love, Fat Amy or Patricia; you choose. If Fat Amy doesn't become an action figure, marketing is missing a beat. This ensemble is on fire and stands for all of us, and how we wish we belong and love and define family. Their a cappella harmony and choreography always delight us.
Joining the cast, in a surprise B storyline, is John Lithgow, donning an Austrailian accent and really representing "down under", way down. Playing the scurvy scum of a father to Fat Amy, this storyline rises from B to A story, opening with the bang that ends it.
Touring through Europe brings us all through artfully rich settings as the girls stumble into one mishap after another in Spain, Italy, France. We get to know each girl better as their past creeps in, and they look toward their futures.
So much fun and laughter from clever writers.
Joining the cast, in a surprise B storyline, is John Lithgow, donning an Austrailian accent and really representing "down under", way down. Playing the scurvy scum of a father to Fat Amy, this storyline rises from B to A story, opening with the bang that ends it.
Touring through Europe brings us all through artfully rich settings as the girls stumble into one mishap after another in Spain, Italy, France. We get to know each girl better as their past creeps in, and they look toward their futures.
So much fun and laughter from clever writers.
Burbank Kicks off the Holiday Season
It's beginning to look alot like everyone's favorite time of year. Burbank ushers in the holiday season as the stage is set in front of City Hall. Colored lights adorn the facade with a green glow, wintry snowflakes and a pink flamingo this year, as a symbol in remembrance of those we lost to cancer. The tree stands tall at the entrance with sleigh awaiting Santa and Mrs. Claus to meet and greet excited Burbankians to join them for holiday photos.
The stage is also set for our local student talent of singers and dancers from the local high school and the Red Chair dance school. Their festive red and white dance costumes ignite the stage with their leaps and bounds as well as those beauties who flank the stairs inviting us to enjoy all of the holiday decor. The Muses choral group rang in the holiday music harmoniously.
The stage is also set for our local student talent of singers and dancers from the local high school and the Red Chair dance school. Their festive red and white dance costumes ignite the stage with their leaps and bounds as well as those beauties who flank the stairs inviting us to enjoy all of the holiday decor. The Muses choral group rang in the holiday music harmoniously.
Here comes Santa, escorted annually by the Burbank Fire Department in their beautiful red engine, waving to the crowd. We can also depend on our neighbors at Disney to come greet the Clauses and our community as they light the tree on the countdown giant switch to on by Mickey and Pluto. Gifts from the Mayor to the Clauses were a giant cookie and jug of milk. Spread the good cheer and remember to shop Burbank!
"Something Rotten" is so ripe! Holiday Season , Ahmanson Theatre
The twist is on Shakespeare in this uproariously funny award winning Broadway musical playing this holiday season at the Ahmanson Theater downtown at the beautiful Music Center. A very contemporary twist in flashy period costuming and sets, this musical is like Shrek to fairy tales; emcompassing a list of showstopper musicals, lines, phrases, song and dance and looks that kill as only theater can do justice to (and get away with).
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Opening night had the audience splitting their sides with laughter and holding up the candle light over their heads for more; no, that was the actors doing that. Ha! Although it certainly shed light on the Bard for my highschooler who is reading him and had her laughing!
"Bottoms up!" shown are the Bottoms brothers, rival playwriters to Will Shakespeare. "Bottom" line, "To thine own self be true". For a great fun show, a night out with a little night music from Shakespeare, this is a must see for L.A. theatregoers. ahmansontheatre.net |
Chanukah Lights Burn Brightly in Burbank
Spreading the warm, celebratory lights of Chanukah, Chabad of Burbank, Jewish Center, proudly mounts its 15 foot menorah in the downtown Burbank AMC walkway. Gathering for an annual public lighting on night 4 of 8 nights of Chanukah, Rabbi Shmuly Kornfeld, his wife Elana and family of 8, extended family, friends, local dignitaries and steady Chabad supporters, commemorated this holiday with its traditional symbols. Former mayor, Bob Frutos, was honored to light one menorah light and shared his happiness and pride to be part of this inclusive community. Rabbi Shmuly is sure to educate, inspire and connect us all to the deeper meanings and actions we can all live by to continue sharing our own inner lights of love and peace wherever we go. Chanukah is the time to dedicate and rededicate yourself, the meaning of this Hebrew word, to always bringing your best self to others and making our world that much brighter. The war of Chanukah was a battle won for the best of the human spirit to always prevail over its oppressors as we celebrate our freedom for all.
Honoring the late, great Garry Marshall, Award winning filmmaker and entertainment industry giant, and local resident, his Falcon Theater will officially be renamed the Garry Marshall theater in a short public ceremony on September 21, 2017. Shown here is the new marquis, lighting the way, to honor and continue to enjoy the fruits of Garry Marshall's labors of love and laughter, in Burbank, Toluca Lake, on Riverside Drive.
July 4th Rocked at Starlight Bowl
Life just got better.
I joined Toluca Lake Tennis & Fitness Center.
Toluca Lake Tennis & Fitness Club
Simply the BEST!
RSVP to accept this invitation for a 2 day trial at the Fitness Club.
If you are looking for a full club experience nearby, excellent trainers, programming, and equipment, massage services, events, intra and interclub play, outdoor pool, restaurant and in a beautiful facility that invites you to work out as much as play, relax, and shmooze; this is your club.
An easy get away from work, nestled among the studios of Burbank, TLTFC has thought of every detail further enhanced through personal service and care. From dropping off your car key at the desk, to locker room amenities like personal safes and lockers with built in self setting combination locks, to stacks of clean towels, lotions and soaps, and water and drink dispensers, TLTFC is your daily retreat.
This beautiful Spanish style villa resort ambience envelops the comfortable, spacious sun filled lobby and pro shop, and adjacent member lounge. Couches and a snack and drink bar stocked with self serve flowing drinks from coffee blends and creamers to iced tea and water to relax with while viewing the Tennis Channel above or overlooking the tennis courts from the lounge or outdoor tiled patios. An outdoor living room of deep comfy white cushioned rattan couches atop the earthy mosaic floor framed by breezy light curtains are as much incentive to relax in before or after a workout; or just to come for the beautiful ambiance before or after a meal in the currently renovated restaurant it precedes. This is going to be stunning and on your radar for lunch or that special night out or event.
So, treat yourself to 2 days of unlimited use of the fitness facility during regular hours of operations. This offer includes any of the 50+ fitness classes, as well as outdoor pool and jacuzzi, sauna, cardio room and weight room.
The 2 day pass does not include the Tennis Facilities or programs. The Tennis Club offers everything from ball machine time, to lessons, clinics, social play or club competition. If you are interested in these, please call the Club or stop by for more information. Club memberships have a variety of plans. Classes are open to the public on a Class Pass pay as you go basis, well worth the affordable $22 class fee as it offers so much more,
only at Toluca Lake Tennis and Fitness Club.
Coming soon, the restaurant is being fully renovated and promises to elevate our spirits further!
tltennisandfitness.com
Let them know The Burbank Times sent you for this Personal Training & membership incentive.
The Laika Experience returns to the Globe at Universal
exhibit celebrating 10 years of the award winning genius of stop motion animation by Laika studios; from Coraline to Kubo.
Home Tweet Home illustrates how these birds all work together building their home, following plans. Together is better, like the many volunteers who make this happen each year. Congrats!
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"Home Tweet Home"
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Chanukah 2016 Burbank
Holiday Season 2016 Toluca Lake Village
Riverside Drive, the main street of Toluca Lake's retail, was bustling with pedestrians and late night shoppers, community filled with good spirit to kick off this holiday season. Honorary Mayor Fritz Coleman, NBC4 veteran weather reporter and a local familiar emcee for many good causes as well as stand up comedy, greeted the community to light the tree, thank our soldiers and community builders and usher everyone into Ramsey-Shilling who lent their offices to dress up warmly for Santa photos. Also on hand were local celebrities. Erik Estrada, who not only played a police officer in the successful TV series, ChiPs, but is also a certified policeman, leading many good causes like protecting our children from cyberbullying and dangers, accepted his "Sheriff" badge for Toluca Lake, while fellow actor Joe Mantegna, and owner of Taste Chicago in Burbank, joined in the festivities and posed for photos, together, and with family.
Let the gift giving and shopping begin! Happy Holidays to all!
Holiday Season 2016 Burbank
The quaint retail section of Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank, kicked off the holiday spirit and season of giving as shops stayed open late. This year, the whole boulevard was closed to traffic for everyone to fully enjoy Magnolia Park. Collector cars lined the center of the street to view, people meandered through leisurely, from sidewalk to the other side, stopping for street performances and food. UNME brought in a little snow to play in. Food trucks were spread out and set back a bit as opposed to lining the streets, which wisely allowed focus on promotion for the restaurants. Enjoyed more of this stroll down the boulevard on foot.
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Pick up the full printed edition of The Burbank Times at select locations near you.
Visit here, Burbanktimes.net, often for more pix and updates.
Scribd bar allows you to control size to read, to download, share or fullscreen it; your choice!
Pick up the full printed edition of The Burbank Times at select locations near you.
Visit here, Burbanktimes.net, often for more pix and updates.
Entertainment
"Cabaret"
Enjoy these photos of opening night celebrity entrances at our neighboring equity theater, just over the hill.
Life may be a Cabaret, but please note, this show is not for children.
Click on Play for slideshow, or on single photo. Captions on bottom of photo. Redcarpet photos by Francess
Summer Series Finale at the Starlight Bowl, Burbank.
Fans rock out to this Beatles tribute dance concert. Were you there?
Congratulations Graduates of 2016 and Retirees
John Burroughs High School, Burbank, California
Burbank High School, Burbank, California
Scroll down on the right to read select pages from our print edition
The Year of the Judys! BAFA Honors Judy Hession & Judy Dellinger
for their dedication to Arts Education in Burbank schools.
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The 5th Annual Party on the Plaza is a highlight for Burbank and the season's best night out! True supporters of all things Burbank, this stunning, dependable group of caring Burbankians and supporters of arts education, BAFA, the Burbank Arts for All Foundation, know how to have fun while giving. The fun was definitely in this fundraiser as they silently bid on many baskets, items, and services for auction displayed outside before dinner.
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Held again at the beautiful neighboring Globe Theater at Universal Studios, the red carpet ushered us into this grand Hollywood neighbor to honor real stars, shmooze, eat the deliciously catered dinner by Wolfgang Puck, dance to live music by Splash, and a lively auction led by local news weatherman Fritz Coleman. Up for auction you will not see anywhere else but near our Hollywood connections, to fundraise for arts education, Jay Leno offers a private tour of his garage and reknowned car collection; and opening nights at the Geffen Playhouse theater, to name a few.
This year's honoree Educator Awards went to Judy Hession, Principal of Miller Elementary for 13 years; and Judy Dellinger, who continues to volunteer to young students after serving for 40 years in Burbank as an educator. Judy Hession said she wanted the students to be able to experience all the art forms directly and has hired arts specialists and provided the time in school, as well as after school programming, to achieve this goal. Leading the largest Burbank Elementary school, Hession has guided Miller Elementary to a 2014 California Department of Education California Distinguished School and Exemplary Arts School awards. After making so many others shine, it was so nice to see Judy shine and be recognized. Judy Dellinger favors the littlest and youngest volunteering with the kindergarten and first graders to teach them music, give them extra literacy help and volunteering for any needs. Congratulations, Judys! Thank you, BAFA for continued efforts! For more details and to join, see; www.burbankartsforall.org. |
Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts (PSHA), a non-profit organization bringing music enrichment programs to Southern California. PSHA’s annual fundraiser, the Pasadena Showcase House of Design, is one of the oldest, largest and most successful house and garden tours in the country. Now in its 52nd year, the Showcase is visited by approximately 30,000 guests annually.
April 17 to May 15, 2016
Parking and complimentary shuttle service is at Pasadena Rose Bowl – Lot I, 360 North Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91103. House is located in beautiful La Canada-Flintridge.
Tickets cost between $35-45 and can be ordered by mail, online at Pasadena Showcase.org or by calling 714-442-3872.
We are graciously invited by our neighbors in Pasadena each year to view the spectacular renovation of a selected estate. Local designers are anxious to show their talents through such luxurious real estate to breathe new life into historic properties.
This year, we will be revisiting a Mission Revival estate that exudes stately elegance and pervades a sense of early California style. “Thought” to be designed by Myron Hunt for restaurateur Leon C. Riggs, and once known as Dryborough Hall, this glamorous home has maintained a good state of preservation since it was built in 1918 and has contributed to the architectural and historical context of La Cañada Flintridge. The main residence boasts 16,000 square feet and is complemented by a 2,032 square foot guest house. Situated on a 2-acre property, the estate includes mature trees, an outdoor barbecue area, pool and spa, and several gardens. Another essential part of Showcase is visiting The Shops at Showcase and dining at The Restaurant, (this year, it’s called The Berkshire) or grabbing a drink at the Saffron Lounge. The success of the Pasadena Showcase House of Design has enabled PSHA to make cumulative donations of $20+ million to support community music and arts programs throughout the community.
Spend a lovely day touring this beautifully renovated estate and grounds with tents to serve you lunch and shop, through May 15th.
hover over the photos for captions
April 17 to May 15, 2016
Parking and complimentary shuttle service is at Pasadena Rose Bowl – Lot I, 360 North Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91103. House is located in beautiful La Canada-Flintridge.
Tickets cost between $35-45 and can be ordered by mail, online at Pasadena Showcase.org or by calling 714-442-3872.
We are graciously invited by our neighbors in Pasadena each year to view the spectacular renovation of a selected estate. Local designers are anxious to show their talents through such luxurious real estate to breathe new life into historic properties.
This year, we will be revisiting a Mission Revival estate that exudes stately elegance and pervades a sense of early California style. “Thought” to be designed by Myron Hunt for restaurateur Leon C. Riggs, and once known as Dryborough Hall, this glamorous home has maintained a good state of preservation since it was built in 1918 and has contributed to the architectural and historical context of La Cañada Flintridge. The main residence boasts 16,000 square feet and is complemented by a 2,032 square foot guest house. Situated on a 2-acre property, the estate includes mature trees, an outdoor barbecue area, pool and spa, and several gardens. Another essential part of Showcase is visiting The Shops at Showcase and dining at The Restaurant, (this year, it’s called The Berkshire) or grabbing a drink at the Saffron Lounge. The success of the Pasadena Showcase House of Design has enabled PSHA to make cumulative donations of $20+ million to support community music and arts programs throughout the community.
Spend a lovely day touring this beautifully renovated estate and grounds with tents to serve you lunch and shop, through May 15th.
hover over the photos for captions
The main reason to visit the new Broad Museum in the heart of the city is for these 45 seconds;
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years AwayYayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room, a mirror-lined chamber housing a dazzling and seemingly endless LED light display, will be featured in the inaugural installation. This experiential artwork on the museum’s first floor has limited capacity, accommodating one visitor at a time for approximately 45 seconds, and will require a separate free timed ticket, which general admission ticket holders will be able to reserve after arrival at the museum.
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years AwayYayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room, a mirror-lined chamber housing a dazzling and seemingly endless LED light display, will be featured in the inaugural installation. This experiential artwork on the museum’s first floor has limited capacity, accommodating one visitor at a time for approximately 45 seconds, and will require a separate free timed ticket, which general admission ticket holders will be able to reserve after arrival at the museum.
Annual Favorites; The Ice Rink &
Burbank Rose Parade Float
Another annual favorite activity comes when the traveling Ice Rink is set up to ice skate behind City Hall. For a few short weeks, it's winter here as this rink manages to keep it icy outside for skating til New Year. Parties and entertainment find their way to the ice like local School of Rock students who performed live by the ice.
Culminating their year of work, the award winning team of the Burbank Float Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade is in the height of their frenzy to meet all the deadlines and rules of the float competition. One of six self-built all volunteer floats, I am amazed each year at this process which is now a well run system that wins year after year. This is Burbank's 84th entry in the 127th annual Rose Parade. Burbank float is a win-win no matter what, to have these wonderful warm and giving, dedicated volunteers who form the core construction team, join with the hundreds of volunteers invited into these final decoration stages. The fresh flowers and natural materials arrive the week before this national New Year's Parade before the Rose Bowl football game as the nationally televised Rose Parade boasts floats and bands and entertainment from all over the country.This year's float commemorates the 100th anniversary of National Parks. Called, "Are We There Yet?", it is humorously depicted by lively animals and the family car and camper driving in. Known for high quality detail and design, Burbank volunteers become artists excellante as each seed, grain and petal are hand glued onto the float structure. All visible surfaces must be covered by natural materials. Good luck, Burbank! You make us proud, Float participants!
Culminating their year of work, the award winning team of the Burbank Float Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade is in the height of their frenzy to meet all the deadlines and rules of the float competition. One of six self-built all volunteer floats, I am amazed each year at this process which is now a well run system that wins year after year. This is Burbank's 84th entry in the 127th annual Rose Parade. Burbank float is a win-win no matter what, to have these wonderful warm and giving, dedicated volunteers who form the core construction team, join with the hundreds of volunteers invited into these final decoration stages. The fresh flowers and natural materials arrive the week before this national New Year's Parade before the Rose Bowl football game as the nationally televised Rose Parade boasts floats and bands and entertainment from all over the country.This year's float commemorates the 100th anniversary of National Parks. Called, "Are We There Yet?", it is humorously depicted by lively animals and the family car and camper driving in. Known for high quality detail and design, Burbank volunteers become artists excellante as each seed, grain and petal are hand glued onto the float structure. All visible surfaces must be covered by natural materials. Good luck, Burbank! You make us proud, Float participants!
Holiday Festivities 2015 in Burbank
Holiday Festivities abound in December with annual traditions for the City of Burbank that we all look forward to.
City Hall becomes adorned with lights and the tree lighting becomes a full show held in the street for all to come greet the season. As the Media Capital of the World, Burbank boasts an annual visit to light the tree from Disney studios' Mickey and Minnie themselves, parading in on a vintage car and Burbank firetrucks escorting the Clauses as well. Joined by local dignitaries of council were Mayor Bob Frutos, Dr. David Gordon, and Council member and former mayor Jess Talamantes to present Santa with his own stocking stuffer. Local entertainment included the Burroughs High School a cappella singers and RC dancers. Kids of all ages waited in line to meet Santa in a beautiful big sleigh seat for pictures in front of City Hall.
City Hall becomes adorned with lights and the tree lighting becomes a full show held in the street for all to come greet the season. As the Media Capital of the World, Burbank boasts an annual visit to light the tree from Disney studios' Mickey and Minnie themselves, parading in on a vintage car and Burbank firetrucks escorting the Clauses as well. Joined by local dignitaries of council were Mayor Bob Frutos, Dr. David Gordon, and Council member and former mayor Jess Talamantes to present Santa with his own stocking stuffer. Local entertainment included the Burroughs High School a cappella singers and RC dancers. Kids of all ages waited in line to meet Santa in a beautiful big sleigh seat for pictures in front of City Hall.
A cappella singers from John Burroughs High School sang us into the holiday spirit of the annual tree lighting celebration in front of City Hall in Burbank.
Chanukah Lights Burn Bright, Inside & Out
Chanukah came early in December this year, kicked off by the annual concert at Universal Citywalk hosted by Chabad of the Valley. Televised nationally and shown on the huge screen live above the stage, Jewish soulful singers and awesome music to rock out to came from several male singing sensations making a name for themselves in the music industry as they proudly symbolize their dedication to their faith donning the orthodox keepah, or male head covering always worn. Teen singing sensation of America's Got Talent fame, 15 year old Edon flew in from Chicago to sing live and kick off Chanukah in Los Angeles. Speaking with him after, Edon told me of his exciting rise to fame credited to. yes again, the powerful exposure of the internet posting. He is an adorable, well spoken young man, so talented as a singer songwriter and dedicated to leading by good example with Jewish pride and strength as his solid foundation; like all entertainers of this evening. Mendy J rocks out solo and with his brethren who are all so talented and soulful diminishing the stodgy preconceptions of their conservative attire of dark suits. The light within shines through.
Wrapping up the eight days of Chanukah, Chabad of Burbank lit their 15 foot menorah with the help of local dignitaries who have been there each year to support leaders Rabbi Shmuly and Elana Kornfeld and their local Jewish Center to celebrate. Lighting from a ladder to reach the candles, we are reminded to keep our own inner lights bright and warm, reaching out to help others in this winter dedication to individual freedom as retold each year in this annual historical holiday. Songs, lights, foods cooked in oil, all enjoyed the donuts and potato latkas served. Wishing all a season of miracles as this holiday commemorates.
Reviews
Interview with Robert Redford and Nick Nolte
by Francess Tiger for The Burbank Times
script
Education
The Burbank Times congratulates Class of 2015!
More graduation photos
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