Thank you from The Burbank Times
serving the community for 37 years!
The Burbank Times thanks you in our 37th year of serving the community. Your ads, announcements, news and pride are what we seek to share and be YOUR paper, as well as on line pride. Please advertise on www.burbanktimes.net, and in print editions. We are better together so please help us to help you!
Advertise by contacting us and submitting news at burbanktimes@gmail.com;
818-841-NEWS (6397). Year of the Tiger! Happy 2022!
About Burbank: Burbank is a diverse community of 106,800 residents. Billed as the “Media Capital of the World”, numerous media and entertainment companies are headquartered in Burbank including Warner Bros. Entertainment, The Walt Disney Company, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, Netflix Animation, and Cartoon Network Studios. With the Hollywood Burbank Airport located within the City, Burbank is a go-to destination for business and tourism. Additionally, Burbank is known for its walkable and safe neighborhoods, well-run school district, and “small town” charm.
City Council Postpones Vote on Design Guidelines Changes to Allow for Public Forum...
Again, let me say a huge THANK YOU to Preserve Burbank members who emailed City Council or called into Public Comment for Tuesday's City Council meeting. I can tell you that Council members are influenced by your calls and emails, especially as they continue to hold virtual meetings.
If you'd like to watch the replay of the meeting here is the link: https://burbank.granicus.com/player/clip/9696?view_id=42&redirect=true
Discussion on the Design Guidelines portion of the meeting starts at approximately 03:19:00 into the meeting.
Council Member Frutos was in attendance and immediately moved to postpone the discussion and decision for 30 days to allow for a public forum for the residents to ask questions and get answers to questions about the proposed changes. There was a lot of back and forth with the City Attorney trying to distinguish if postponing the vote might also reopen public input before the vote is taken. This went on for some time and a second motion was made to tighten up the time frames. In the end, it was decided that a Public Meeting would be scheduled for Monday, February 28th and then a final vote would happen on March 15th. I will send another email as soon as I find out the time and location of the public forum.
We need help from anyone with a construction background or experience reading codes as we try to decipher the staff's proposal to "Streamline the Design Guidelines" before the meeting. Our hope is to pinpoint issues of concern so we can ask specific questions to help us formulate our own proposal by the March 15th final vote. If you would like to volunteer, please email me directly at jim.casey@harcourtsprime.com.
As always, please direct questions or comments to info@preserveburbank.com or call Jim Casey at 818-641-9050 with any questions or concerns.
As is tradition at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, the NHRA Winternationals will kick off the year at the famed track in Southern California.
“We are thrilled to start our 2022 season at Pomona with the NHRA Winternationals,” said Kasey Coler, NHRA Vice President of Track Management and Operations. “The Pomona facility holds so much history and we’re excited to return to our traditional NHRA Winternationals dates for 2022.”
The historic Pomona track sees two of NHRA's most significant events on tour: the NHRA Winternationals and the Auto Club NHRA Finals. Both events are on the bucket list of wins for NHRA drivers and must-see races for NHRA fans.
Tickets for the 2022 Winternationals are on sale now! Click here to buy tickets.
https://www.nhra.com/schedule/2022 link
The NHRA season will once again kick off at its traditional site, Southern California’s Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, with the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals presented by ProtectTheHarvest.com. The famed raceway, which also hosts the season finale in November, will be the scene of numerous new team and sponsorship debuts and is the first event at which Top Fuel drivers can earn points towards the All-Star Top Fuel Callout in Gainesville.
As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers, as Every Ticket's a Pit Pass® at the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet! Get direct access to the teams, see firsthand as the highly-skilled mechanics service their hot rods between rounds, and get autographs from your favorite NHRA drivers.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking the TICKETS button above or by calling 800-884-NHRA (6472). Purchase early and save!
“We are thrilled to start our 2022 season at Pomona with the NHRA Winternationals,” said Kasey Coler, NHRA Vice President of Track Management and Operations. “The Pomona facility holds so much history and we’re excited to return to our traditional NHRA Winternationals dates for 2022.”
The historic Pomona track sees two of NHRA's most significant events on tour: the NHRA Winternationals and the Auto Club NHRA Finals. Both events are on the bucket list of wins for NHRA drivers and must-see races for NHRA fans.
Tickets for the 2022 Winternationals are on sale now! Click here to buy tickets.
https://www.nhra.com/schedule/2022 link
The NHRA season will once again kick off at its traditional site, Southern California’s Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, with the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals presented by ProtectTheHarvest.com. The famed raceway, which also hosts the season finale in November, will be the scene of numerous new team and sponsorship debuts and is the first event at which Top Fuel drivers can earn points towards the All-Star Top Fuel Callout in Gainesville.
As always, fans will have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers, as Every Ticket's a Pit Pass® at the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet! Get direct access to the teams, see firsthand as the highly-skilled mechanics service their hot rods between rounds, and get autographs from your favorite NHRA drivers.
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking the TICKETS button above or by calling 800-884-NHRA (6472). Purchase early and save!
It has never been more essential to learn than what we are all living today. As pioneers in this Age of Information, Technology, a multi-year global pandemic, we all live in challenging times.
As a credentialed, active educator in public schools, I have witnessed and joined in the extreme pivot to online education, teaching virtually for the past year. Please join me in applauding those who have kept education going at all, regardless of all the controversy and fallout to be expected. I have marveled at the talents and dedication of so many teachers, and also cried for their heartaches as well as for the students and families who are struggling for so many reasons. We are all doing our best and need compassion, support, connection and to know that there are many ways to learn, always have been and always will be.
Living the learning and realizing that living your best life is the best school, seeing the many alternatives available to your students and to excite and include parents who are so inclined and see this opportunity to answer this call, not only for your own child, but for all students; here is a chance to learn about those choices.
National School Choice Week 2022 begins on Sunday, January 23, and ends on Saturday, January 29.
This will be the twelfth annual celebration of National School Choice Week. The first celebration of National School Choice Week was in January 2011.
GOALS: The goal of National School Choice Week is to raise awareness about the K-12 education options available to families in communities across the country. During the Week, participants also shine a spotlight on the benefits of opportunity in education and providing parents with access to a variety of education environments for their children.
National School Choice Week does not prefer one type of education environment over another. Instead, we invite schools of all types – along with homeschooling groups and families – to use the Week to spotlight their achievements and accomplishments. National School Choice Week is nonpartisan, nonpolitical, and committed to including all school choice perspectives (traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling) in the celebration.
The Week is held every January with the goal of empowering parents to choose schools for their children during the best time of year to start the process of selecting a school. We also offer resources for parents that explain all the education options available in each type of school on a state-by-state basis. These can be found at schoolchoiceweek.com/mystate.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES: National School Choice Week is the largest annual series of education-related events and activities in U.S. history.
More than 25,000 schools are planning community events across the country to celebrate their staff, students, and families and welcome interested parents. We’re anticipating more than 1 million families exploring their school choice options using NSCW resources online.
Activities include school fairs, social media contests, movie nights, capitol rallies, field trips, parades, a kick-off video featuring students from all 50 states, and more. Across the country, dozens of iconic state landmarks will light up in School Choice Week’s official colors, red and yellow. We’re also excited for the first-ever NSCW virtual event in Spanish, which will reach families nationwide.
ABOUT SCHOOL CHOICE: School choice means giving parents access to the best K-12 education options for their children. These options include traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling.
School choice is important because every child deserves an effective, challenging, and motivating education that inspires them to be successful and achieve their dreams. But children learn in different ways, and have different talents, skills, and challenges. What might be a good school for one student might not be a good fit for another child. School choice allows parents to identify the best learning environments for their individual children.
As a credentialed, active educator in public schools, I have witnessed and joined in the extreme pivot to online education, teaching virtually for the past year. Please join me in applauding those who have kept education going at all, regardless of all the controversy and fallout to be expected. I have marveled at the talents and dedication of so many teachers, and also cried for their heartaches as well as for the students and families who are struggling for so many reasons. We are all doing our best and need compassion, support, connection and to know that there are many ways to learn, always have been and always will be.
Living the learning and realizing that living your best life is the best school, seeing the many alternatives available to your students and to excite and include parents who are so inclined and see this opportunity to answer this call, not only for your own child, but for all students; here is a chance to learn about those choices.
National School Choice Week 2022 begins on Sunday, January 23, and ends on Saturday, January 29.
This will be the twelfth annual celebration of National School Choice Week. The first celebration of National School Choice Week was in January 2011.
GOALS: The goal of National School Choice Week is to raise awareness about the K-12 education options available to families in communities across the country. During the Week, participants also shine a spotlight on the benefits of opportunity in education and providing parents with access to a variety of education environments for their children.
National School Choice Week does not prefer one type of education environment over another. Instead, we invite schools of all types – along with homeschooling groups and families – to use the Week to spotlight their achievements and accomplishments. National School Choice Week is nonpartisan, nonpolitical, and committed to including all school choice perspectives (traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling) in the celebration.
The Week is held every January with the goal of empowering parents to choose schools for their children during the best time of year to start the process of selecting a school. We also offer resources for parents that explain all the education options available in each type of school on a state-by-state basis. These can be found at schoolchoiceweek.com/mystate.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES: National School Choice Week is the largest annual series of education-related events and activities in U.S. history.
More than 25,000 schools are planning community events across the country to celebrate their staff, students, and families and welcome interested parents. We’re anticipating more than 1 million families exploring their school choice options using NSCW resources online.
Activities include school fairs, social media contests, movie nights, capitol rallies, field trips, parades, a kick-off video featuring students from all 50 states, and more. Across the country, dozens of iconic state landmarks will light up in School Choice Week’s official colors, red and yellow. We’re also excited for the first-ever NSCW virtual event in Spanish, which will reach families nationwide.
ABOUT SCHOOL CHOICE: School choice means giving parents access to the best K-12 education options for their children. These options include traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling.
School choice is important because every child deserves an effective, challenging, and motivating education that inspires them to be successful and achieve their dreams. But children learn in different ways, and have different talents, skills, and challenges. What might be a good school for one student might not be a good fit for another child. School choice allows parents to identify the best learning environments for their individual children.
LA County Reports Over 43,000 Cases Setting New Daily Record; Health Systems Facing Rising Pressure Due to Healthcare Workforce Shortage
43,712 New Positive Cases and 28 New Deaths Due to COVID-19 in Los Angeles County
(Jan. 7, 2022) As cases continue to surge, L.A. County today recorded over 43,000 cases, setting a record for one day. This follows yesterday’s record number of over 37,000 cases, which was the previous record for highest daily case counts.
As Public Health continues to respond to this latest surge, the county’s health system is experiencing significant healthcare workforce shortages due to high rates of COVID transmission. As of January 6th, there are an additional 973 newly reported cases since the previous report ending on December 30th; this is an increase of over 47% since the prior reporting period. In total, there have been 50,353 healthcare workers and first responders confirmed with COVID-19 in Los Angeles County.
As of January 6th, skilled nursing facilities and hospitals reported the highest share staff cases among health care setting sites. Among occupations, nursing staff accounted for 27% of new cases. Public Health is also reporting that among all healthcare workers, over one-third (39%) reported being exposed to a known case within their facility, either a patient and/or co-worker.
Given the powerful protection offered by booster doses, on December 23rd, 2021, LA County revised its Health Officer Order to align with the State of California Health Officer Order requiring booster doses for all healthcare workers. The revised order required booster-eligible workers in healthcare settings be boosted by February 1st, 2022, or be tested for COVID-19 twice a week beginning December 27th (if in acute health care or long-term care settings). “I know so many are mourning the loss of a loved one and send my heartfelt condolences and wishes for healing,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “Keeping healthcare workers safe is critical to maintaining functionality across our healthcare facilities when surges lead to staffing shortages and rising rates of hospitalizations. Across multiple healthcare settings, our health care personnel have given their all and been fully vaccinated at high levels for many months,” Ferrer continued. “Every resident can also do their part to protect our healthcare personnel and hospitals. Please get vaccinated or boosted as soon as possible if eligible. Vaccinated individuals are between ten and thirty times less likely to need hospital care than those unvaccinated. We ask that you do not go to the emergency room unless you need care for a serious medical concern and please do not call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency.”
Today, Public Health confirmed 28 additional deaths and 43,712 new cases of COVID-19. Of the 28 new deaths reported today, three people were between the ages of 30 and 49, four were between the ages of 50-64, 15 were between the ages of 65-79, and four were over the age of 80 years old. Of the 28 newly reported deaths, 24 had underlying conditions. To date, the total number of deaths in L.A. County is 27,756. Information on the two deaths reported by the City of Long Beach is available at www.LongBeach.gov
Public Health has identified a total 1,887,526 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County. Today’s positivity rate is 20.9%.
There are 2,902 people with COVID-19 currently hospitalized. Testing results are available for more than 10,235,300 individuals, with 17% of people testing positive.
To keep workplaces and schools open, residents and workers are asked to:
For updated isolation and quarantine guidance, please visit www.publichealth.lacounty.gov
For information on where you can get tested, please visit www.covid19.lacounty.gov/testing
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and are recommended for everyone 5 years old and older to help protect against COVID-19. Vaccinations are always free and open to eligible residents and workers regardless of immigration status. Appointments are not needed at all Public Health vaccination sites and many community sites where first, second, and third doses are available.
To find a vaccination site near you, or to make an appointment, please visit:
www.VaccinateLACounty.com (English) or www.VacunateLosAngeles.com (Spanish).
If you need assistance, you can also call 1-833-540-0473 for help:
Finding an appointment
Connect to free transportation to and from a vaccination site, or
Schedule a home visit if you are homebound.
For more information regarding COVID-19 in LA County you can also visit the Public Health website at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov here you will find information on:
COVID-19 sector protocols & best practices,
COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboards, and
COVID-19 Surveillance Interactive and, Recovery Dashboards
As Public Health continues to respond to this latest surge, the county’s health system is experiencing significant healthcare workforce shortages due to high rates of COVID transmission. As of January 6th, there are an additional 973 newly reported cases since the previous report ending on December 30th; this is an increase of over 47% since the prior reporting period. In total, there have been 50,353 healthcare workers and first responders confirmed with COVID-19 in Los Angeles County.
As of January 6th, skilled nursing facilities and hospitals reported the highest share staff cases among health care setting sites. Among occupations, nursing staff accounted for 27% of new cases. Public Health is also reporting that among all healthcare workers, over one-third (39%) reported being exposed to a known case within their facility, either a patient and/or co-worker.
Given the powerful protection offered by booster doses, on December 23rd, 2021, LA County revised its Health Officer Order to align with the State of California Health Officer Order requiring booster doses for all healthcare workers. The revised order required booster-eligible workers in healthcare settings be boosted by February 1st, 2022, or be tested for COVID-19 twice a week beginning December 27th (if in acute health care or long-term care settings). “I know so many are mourning the loss of a loved one and send my heartfelt condolences and wishes for healing,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “Keeping healthcare workers safe is critical to maintaining functionality across our healthcare facilities when surges lead to staffing shortages and rising rates of hospitalizations. Across multiple healthcare settings, our health care personnel have given their all and been fully vaccinated at high levels for many months,” Ferrer continued. “Every resident can also do their part to protect our healthcare personnel and hospitals. Please get vaccinated or boosted as soon as possible if eligible. Vaccinated individuals are between ten and thirty times less likely to need hospital care than those unvaccinated. We ask that you do not go to the emergency room unless you need care for a serious medical concern and please do not call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency.”
Today, Public Health confirmed 28 additional deaths and 43,712 new cases of COVID-19. Of the 28 new deaths reported today, three people were between the ages of 30 and 49, four were between the ages of 50-64, 15 were between the ages of 65-79, and four were over the age of 80 years old. Of the 28 newly reported deaths, 24 had underlying conditions. To date, the total number of deaths in L.A. County is 27,756. Information on the two deaths reported by the City of Long Beach is available at www.LongBeach.gov
Public Health has identified a total 1,887,526 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County. Today’s positivity rate is 20.9%.
There are 2,902 people with COVID-19 currently hospitalized. Testing results are available for more than 10,235,300 individuals, with 17% of people testing positive.
To keep workplaces and schools open, residents and workers are asked to:
- Adhere to masking requirements when indoors or at crowded outdoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status
- Stay home is you are sick and adhere to isolation and quarantine requirements if you are infected with COVID or a close contact of an infected person
For updated isolation and quarantine guidance, please visit www.publichealth.lacounty.gov
For information on where you can get tested, please visit www.covid19.lacounty.gov/testing
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and are recommended for everyone 5 years old and older to help protect against COVID-19. Vaccinations are always free and open to eligible residents and workers regardless of immigration status. Appointments are not needed at all Public Health vaccination sites and many community sites where first, second, and third doses are available.
To find a vaccination site near you, or to make an appointment, please visit:
www.VaccinateLACounty.com (English) or www.VacunateLosAngeles.com (Spanish).
If you need assistance, you can also call 1-833-540-0473 for help:
Finding an appointment
Connect to free transportation to and from a vaccination site, or
Schedule a home visit if you are homebound.
For more information regarding COVID-19 in LA County you can also visit the Public Health website at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov here you will find information on:
COVID-19 sector protocols & best practices,
COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboards, and
COVID-19 Surveillance Interactive and, Recovery Dashboards
Tournament of Roses Returns!
Burbank's 2022 Float Entry, "An Unlikely Tale"
After a pandemic pause last year, The Tournament of Roses annual New Year's Day parade and football game, returns to Pasadena, celebrating its 133rd year. Traditions that long are only served by loyal, hardworking, volunteers and sponsors who understand the true heart and soul of people working together for a common goal. People like Burbank's Tournament of Roses President this year, Linda Cozakos, who spoke with me at the float site while the core crew put on last minute finishing touches to this year's float, "An Unlikely Tale" for the theme, "Dream, Believe, Achieve". Linda boasts 50 years participating on the float and has passed that down to her children and 3 year old grandson. The many personal stories that these volunteers have woven into their creation; stories of love for the work, this community, which has literally become family to many who met and married and bring the next generation in to work on the float each year attest to the love of this project.
Vice President, Steve Edwards, also boasts a long float career of over 20 years and usually crawls under the belly of the beast to drive it to Pasadena and down Colorado Blvd. He admitted feeling the loss last year and making that drive anyway, as did Linda.
This year's float will raise the dragon's head to 25 feet on the 18 foot length, with legs that will appear to move and walk down Colorado Blvd., a tail that will move adorned with over 25,000 roses and other beautiful organic material, generously donated by some of our local businesses.
The young knight, a girl, and dragon skip the slaying to join in a gentle friendly scene of sharing the reading of a book. Updates to the design that would have been in 2020, were to represent the essential workers in symbols on the kids' blocks at the end of the float.
Congratulations to the Burbank Float Association and thank you for your volunteer service to this beautiful art and tradition.
The theme and application for the design contest of 2023, "Turning the Corner", can be found at https://www.burbankrosefloat.com/forms/DESIGN2023.pdf, and must be received by Wed. Jan. 26th, 8 pm.
Vice President, Steve Edwards, also boasts a long float career of over 20 years and usually crawls under the belly of the beast to drive it to Pasadena and down Colorado Blvd. He admitted feeling the loss last year and making that drive anyway, as did Linda.
This year's float will raise the dragon's head to 25 feet on the 18 foot length, with legs that will appear to move and walk down Colorado Blvd., a tail that will move adorned with over 25,000 roses and other beautiful organic material, generously donated by some of our local businesses.
The young knight, a girl, and dragon skip the slaying to join in a gentle friendly scene of sharing the reading of a book. Updates to the design that would have been in 2020, were to represent the essential workers in symbols on the kids' blocks at the end of the float.
Congratulations to the Burbank Float Association and thank you for your volunteer service to this beautiful art and tradition.
The theme and application for the design contest of 2023, "Turning the Corner", can be found at https://www.burbankrosefloat.com/forms/DESIGN2023.pdf, and must be received by Wed. Jan. 26th, 8 pm.
Michael Albanese Named Permanent Police Chief
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(December 29, 2021) – Michael Albanese, the current Interim Police Chief, was selected by City Manager Justin Hess to become the permanent Police Chief for the City of Burbank.
Chief Albanese was originally appointed as the Interim Chief in July 2021. During these six months, he has implemented several programs that include, promoting diversity within the department by way of recruitment and hiring practices, creating a succession plan, implemented new traffic strategies to combat speeding/racing vehicles, established the biennial survey in both Armenian and Spanish for the first time, and met individually with sworn and non-sworn staff and solicited input to develop ideas to improve communication and collaboration throughout the department. Additionally, Chief Albanese has met with community members to garner feedback as to how the police department can deliver the optimal in police services.
Chief Albanese is a tenured law enforcement professional who began working for the Burbank Police Department in 2010 as the Patrol Captain. In that assignment, Albanese provided managerial oversight of all the Department’s uniformed operations and the delivery of police services. In July of 2015, Albanese was appointed to the Department’s Deputy Chief position. As the Deputy Chief, Albanese was instrumental in developing and implementing the Department’s Mental Health Evaluation Team, acquisition of the Body Worn and In-Car Camera systems, the Department’s Strategic Plan, and other various and ongoing critical Departmental operations and community outreach programs.
Since working at the Burbank Police Department, Albanese has immersed himself into the Department and community, developing best practices in law enforcement and enhancing community engagement and relationships. Albanese can regularly be seen at many functions and outreach programs connecting with the community. Additionally, Albanese has been a member of the Burbank Family Service Agency’s Board of Directors for the past eight years and is currently the President of the Board of Directors.
“Chief Albanese has provided tremendous leadership for the Burbank Police Department and brings an unwavering commitment of safety, service, and dedication to our community. He’s a seasoned officer and a forward thinker, strategizing the future succession of the department’s leadership and determined to further diversify his team. He has proven to be the most qualified to maintain the department’s gold standard practices and lead them into a successful future,” said City Manager Justin Hess.
“It’s a privilege to serve a dynamic and diverse City like Burbank. I am deeply grateful to the Burbank community for entrusting me with this appointment as the City’s Chief of Police,” said Chief Albanese. “I am proud of the men and women who work for our Police Department and serve our community every day. It’s our mission that the department continue to be a collaborative partner in the community, preserve the safety of our City, and lead the organization into a direction that is representative of Burbank’s needs.”
Chief Albanese will assume the role of Chief of Police effective immediately.
### Instagram: @BurbankCA Facebook: @BurbankCA, Twitter: @BurbankCA, Website: www.burbankca.gov
Chief Albanese was originally appointed as the Interim Chief in July 2021. During these six months, he has implemented several programs that include, promoting diversity within the department by way of recruitment and hiring practices, creating a succession plan, implemented new traffic strategies to combat speeding/racing vehicles, established the biennial survey in both Armenian and Spanish for the first time, and met individually with sworn and non-sworn staff and solicited input to develop ideas to improve communication and collaboration throughout the department. Additionally, Chief Albanese has met with community members to garner feedback as to how the police department can deliver the optimal in police services.
Chief Albanese is a tenured law enforcement professional who began working for the Burbank Police Department in 2010 as the Patrol Captain. In that assignment, Albanese provided managerial oversight of all the Department’s uniformed operations and the delivery of police services. In July of 2015, Albanese was appointed to the Department’s Deputy Chief position. As the Deputy Chief, Albanese was instrumental in developing and implementing the Department’s Mental Health Evaluation Team, acquisition of the Body Worn and In-Car Camera systems, the Department’s Strategic Plan, and other various and ongoing critical Departmental operations and community outreach programs.
Since working at the Burbank Police Department, Albanese has immersed himself into the Department and community, developing best practices in law enforcement and enhancing community engagement and relationships. Albanese can regularly be seen at many functions and outreach programs connecting with the community. Additionally, Albanese has been a member of the Burbank Family Service Agency’s Board of Directors for the past eight years and is currently the President of the Board of Directors.
“Chief Albanese has provided tremendous leadership for the Burbank Police Department and brings an unwavering commitment of safety, service, and dedication to our community. He’s a seasoned officer and a forward thinker, strategizing the future succession of the department’s leadership and determined to further diversify his team. He has proven to be the most qualified to maintain the department’s gold standard practices and lead them into a successful future,” said City Manager Justin Hess.
“It’s a privilege to serve a dynamic and diverse City like Burbank. I am deeply grateful to the Burbank community for entrusting me with this appointment as the City’s Chief of Police,” said Chief Albanese. “I am proud of the men and women who work for our Police Department and serve our community every day. It’s our mission that the department continue to be a collaborative partner in the community, preserve the safety of our City, and lead the organization into a direction that is representative of Burbank’s needs.”
Chief Albanese will assume the role of Chief of Police effective immediately.
### Instagram: @BurbankCA Facebook: @BurbankCA, Twitter: @BurbankCA, Website: www.burbankca.gov
Burbank Councilmember Appointed to the League of California Cities Public Safety Policy Committee Burbank, CA
(December 27, 2021) – The League of California Cities has selected Burbank Councilmember Bob Frutos to receive a presidential appointment for a one-year term on the Public Safety Policy Committee. The role of the Public Safety Policy Committee is to review issues related to law enforcement, fire and life-safety policies, including emergency communications, and emergency services, as well as ambulance and disaster preparedness. “It is a privilege to receive a presidential appointment to serve on the League of California Cities’ Public Safety Policy Committee,” said Councilmember Frutos. “The League of California Cities plays an important role in local government and I look forward to working with the Committee to support policies and resources that strengthen the work of our first responders and law enforcement."
The League of California Cities is an association of California city officials who work together to enhance their knowledge and skills, exchange information, and combine resources so that they may influence policy decisions that affect cities.
For more information about the League of California Cities, please visit https://www.cacities.org.
The League of California Cities is an association of California city officials who work together to enhance their knowledge and skills, exchange information, and combine resources so that they may influence policy decisions that affect cities.
For more information about the League of California Cities, please visit https://www.cacities.org.
Burbank Celebrates the Re-Opening of Burbank Boulevard Bridge
(November 24, 2021) — The City of Burbank hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the re-opening of the Burbank Boulevard Bridge on Wednesday, November 24. Holiday shoppers will now be able to use the bridge to quickly travel across the city.
For motorists travelling across the I-5, the new bridge features three through lanes and two left turn lanes in each direction to access the freeway. The bridge also includes bicycle lanes and a 10-foot sidewalk for pedestrians on the south side, creating a safer environment for those using alternative transportation options.
The bridge was also moved approximately 125 feet to the west of the old bridge to straighten the I-5 alignment improving drivers’ visibility along the freeway. The enhancements are part of a complete reconstruction of the Burbank Boulevard interchange into a “diamond interchange,” which makes access to and from the freeway more direct for motorists and replaces older loop ramps with straightened ones that meet current safety and capacity standards. The old northbound I-5 onramp, which was previously separated from the interchange and connected to a residential street, was relocated into the interchange. The bridge will remain open with some minor lane, ramp, or overnight closures to finish overall freeway construction. “We are very excited about the reopening,” said Burbank Mayor, Bob Frutos. “Just in time for the holiday shopping for Burbankers to easily travel through and around the City.”
“Today’s completion of the new, modern Burbank Boulevard Bridge is a milestone that will benefit many. Residents and visitors to the area will have a smoother driving experience. And it’s a big step towards ultimately widening the I-5, the backbone of trade and commerce in the western United States. A big thank you to all the partners who helped bring this project to its completion: Senator Anthony Portantino, California Transportation Commission Chair Hillary Norton, Metro, CalTrans and the City of Burbank -- who has borne the most significant impacts -- for their commitment, patience and determination,” stated Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
“I am excited to have worked with my colleagues in Burbank to complete the Burbank Boulevard Bridge re-construction. The re-opening of the new and improved bridge is a momentous day for Burbank residents and visitors, making access to and through the City more seamless and efficient. This a significant advancement for the City of Burbank and its neighboring cities,” said Metro Board Vice Chair & Glendale Councilman Ara Najarian. “The new Burbank Boulevard Bridge is longer than the old 1961 span, and its construction will allow Caltrans to extend carpool lanes in both directions on I-5,” stated Mark Archuleta, Deputy District Director for Construction for District 7. “These improvements will help to ease traffic on the freeway as well as provide extra safety for both drivers, bikers and pedestrians.”
The Burbank Boulevard Bridge reconstruction is the last of the Golden State Freeway (I-5) Corridor Improvement Project, for the City of Burbank. Funded by Caltrans and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the project included construction of the new Empire Avenue Interchange, which opened in September 2019 and now provides a new multimodal crossing of Interstate 5 between Downtown Burbank and the growing Golden State/Airport neighborhood. It also included the construction of a grade-separated rail crossing at Buena Vista Street, which was completed in 2017 and improved safety at this former rail crossing while also building important double-track improvements needed to bring frequent, bi-directional Metrolink service to the City. The ribbon cutting event, inspired by the original bridge’s ribbon cutting event in 1961 concluded when a collection of vintage automobiles escorted the City Council and other officials in a “first drive” across the new freeway crossing to commemorate the event.
More information about the Golden State Freeway (I-5) Corridor Improvement Project and the reconstruction of the Burbank Boulevard Bridge is available at www.my5la.com.
For motorists travelling across the I-5, the new bridge features three through lanes and two left turn lanes in each direction to access the freeway. The bridge also includes bicycle lanes and a 10-foot sidewalk for pedestrians on the south side, creating a safer environment for those using alternative transportation options.
The bridge was also moved approximately 125 feet to the west of the old bridge to straighten the I-5 alignment improving drivers’ visibility along the freeway. The enhancements are part of a complete reconstruction of the Burbank Boulevard interchange into a “diamond interchange,” which makes access to and from the freeway more direct for motorists and replaces older loop ramps with straightened ones that meet current safety and capacity standards. The old northbound I-5 onramp, which was previously separated from the interchange and connected to a residential street, was relocated into the interchange. The bridge will remain open with some minor lane, ramp, or overnight closures to finish overall freeway construction. “We are very excited about the reopening,” said Burbank Mayor, Bob Frutos. “Just in time for the holiday shopping for Burbankers to easily travel through and around the City.”
“Today’s completion of the new, modern Burbank Boulevard Bridge is a milestone that will benefit many. Residents and visitors to the area will have a smoother driving experience. And it’s a big step towards ultimately widening the I-5, the backbone of trade and commerce in the western United States. A big thank you to all the partners who helped bring this project to its completion: Senator Anthony Portantino, California Transportation Commission Chair Hillary Norton, Metro, CalTrans and the City of Burbank -- who has borne the most significant impacts -- for their commitment, patience and determination,” stated Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
“I am excited to have worked with my colleagues in Burbank to complete the Burbank Boulevard Bridge re-construction. The re-opening of the new and improved bridge is a momentous day for Burbank residents and visitors, making access to and through the City more seamless and efficient. This a significant advancement for the City of Burbank and its neighboring cities,” said Metro Board Vice Chair & Glendale Councilman Ara Najarian. “The new Burbank Boulevard Bridge is longer than the old 1961 span, and its construction will allow Caltrans to extend carpool lanes in both directions on I-5,” stated Mark Archuleta, Deputy District Director for Construction for District 7. “These improvements will help to ease traffic on the freeway as well as provide extra safety for both drivers, bikers and pedestrians.”
The Burbank Boulevard Bridge reconstruction is the last of the Golden State Freeway (I-5) Corridor Improvement Project, for the City of Burbank. Funded by Caltrans and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the project included construction of the new Empire Avenue Interchange, which opened in September 2019 and now provides a new multimodal crossing of Interstate 5 between Downtown Burbank and the growing Golden State/Airport neighborhood. It also included the construction of a grade-separated rail crossing at Buena Vista Street, which was completed in 2017 and improved safety at this former rail crossing while also building important double-track improvements needed to bring frequent, bi-directional Metrolink service to the City. The ribbon cutting event, inspired by the original bridge’s ribbon cutting event in 1961 concluded when a collection of vintage automobiles escorted the City Council and other officials in a “first drive” across the new freeway crossing to commemorate the event.
More information about the Golden State Freeway (I-5) Corridor Improvement Project and the reconstruction of the Burbank Boulevard Bridge is available at www.my5la.com.
City of Burbank Recognized for Program Excellence Aiding Homeless
(October 14, 2021) – The City of Burbank has been recognized by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) as a recipient of the Community Health and Safety Award for its Homeless Street Outreach Program. The ICMA Local Government Excellence Awards highlight creative contributions to professional local government management, while demonstrating the difference that this type of management makes to the quality of life in our communities. ICMA’s Program Excellence Awards are presented to local governments and their chief administrators in recognition of their innovative and successful programs. Nominations are evaluated by an independent, 17-person panel of ICMA members.
The award recognizes innovative local government programs or processes that improve the community’s safety, health, and/or wellness, or enhance the quality of life for the disadvantaged. Like many other cities in California, Burbank has experienced an increase in homelessness, exacerbated by the state’s housing crisis and economic downturn. To help combat the crisis, Burbank developed a comprehensive Homeless Street Outreach Program that involves city staff, local nonprofits, Los Angeles County agencies, contracted services, the Burbank Police Department’s Mental Health Evaluation Team and the City’s Public Information Office to combat homelessness.
“The City of Burbank is honored to be recognized for our efforts in addressing homelessness. The cooperation between our city partners has resulted in a robust Homeless Street Outreach Program that has been successful in proactively seeking out and assisting the most vulnerable individuals in the community,” said Mayor Bob Frutos. “Our Program can point to numerous success stories, including helping 122 individuals procure shelter, food, clothing, medicine, and reunification with family members; and placing 46 families into shelters and housing with no relapse into homelessness.”
To learn more about how the City is tackling the homelessness, visit https://www.burbankca.gov/homelessness.
The award recognizes innovative local government programs or processes that improve the community’s safety, health, and/or wellness, or enhance the quality of life for the disadvantaged. Like many other cities in California, Burbank has experienced an increase in homelessness, exacerbated by the state’s housing crisis and economic downturn. To help combat the crisis, Burbank developed a comprehensive Homeless Street Outreach Program that involves city staff, local nonprofits, Los Angeles County agencies, contracted services, the Burbank Police Department’s Mental Health Evaluation Team and the City’s Public Information Office to combat homelessness.
“The City of Burbank is honored to be recognized for our efforts in addressing homelessness. The cooperation between our city partners has resulted in a robust Homeless Street Outreach Program that has been successful in proactively seeking out and assisting the most vulnerable individuals in the community,” said Mayor Bob Frutos. “Our Program can point to numerous success stories, including helping 122 individuals procure shelter, food, clothing, medicine, and reunification with family members; and placing 46 families into shelters and housing with no relapse into homelessness.”
To learn more about how the City is tackling the homelessness, visit https://www.burbankca.gov/homelessness.
Burbank Water & Power Completes Installation of New Electric Vehicle Charging
(June 21, 2021) — Burbank Water and Power is excited to announce the installation of 16 new level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports located at the Community Services Building parking lot at 375 E. Olive Avenue. The charging ports are conveniently located in Downtown Burbank and are available for members of the public and City employees. The installation of these 16 EV charging ports are part of BWP’s goal to install 24 publicly available EV charging ports during the 2020/21 fiscal year.
Other recent installations include six curbside EV charger ports at N. Hollywood Way near Victory Blvd., N. Buena Vista St. adjacent to the Buena Vista Library, and W. Alameda Ave. near S. Main St., and four EV charger ports in the BWP Lake Street parking lot. BWP worked closely with the City’s Community Development Department and Public Works Department to complete these projects. Funding came from a grant from the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the sale of state Low Carbon Fuel Standard credits.
“The installation of the 16 EV charger ports in Downtown Burbank is an exciting upgrade for the City because it makes access to charging stations more accessible for residents, Library patrons, Downtown Burbank visitors, and City staff,” said Mayor Bob Frutos.
For more information about this EV charging station and others throughout the City, visit EV.BurbankWaterAndPower.com.
Other recent installations include six curbside EV charger ports at N. Hollywood Way near Victory Blvd., N. Buena Vista St. adjacent to the Buena Vista Library, and W. Alameda Ave. near S. Main St., and four EV charger ports in the BWP Lake Street parking lot. BWP worked closely with the City’s Community Development Department and Public Works Department to complete these projects. Funding came from a grant from the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the sale of state Low Carbon Fuel Standard credits.
“The installation of the 16 EV charger ports in Downtown Burbank is an exciting upgrade for the City because it makes access to charging stations more accessible for residents, Library patrons, Downtown Burbank visitors, and City staff,” said Mayor Bob Frutos.
For more information about this EV charging station and others throughout the City, visit EV.BurbankWaterAndPower.com.
Outdoor Dining Reopens in Burbank
Burbank Reopens Dining, Creates In-Street Dining Parklets on San Fernando Boulevard BURBANK, CA (February 1, 2021) – Outdoor dining is now reopened in the City of Burbank. The City is working with the Downtown Burbank Business Improvement District (PBID) to implement expanded outdoor dining areas in Downtown Burbank. Various parking stalls on San Fernando Boulevard and Palm Avenue will be bound with cement k-rail barricades to create nine in-street dining parklets. The instreet dining parklets will open on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. Until then restaurants in Downtown may utilize outdoor dining in private parking lots and patios and on sidewalks with a permit. Two of the nine in-street dining parklets will be communal dining areas that are open to the public for pickup orders or coffee to-go. There will also be a communal dining area on the AMC Walkway. The designated communal dining areas will be managed and maintained by the PBID. The parklets are intended to serve as a hybrid solution to the previous complete closure of San Fernando Boulevard back in July 2020. Adding in-street dining parklets will allow for expanded outdoor dining while maintaining parking and curb-side pickup spaces. San Fernando Boulevard will remain open to traffic and dedicated 15-minute parking will also be available, for curb-side and take-out orders. The in-street dining parklets will also serve as a pilot program for several elements of the approved Citywide Complete streets Program adopted by City Council on June 16, 2020. The Complete Streets Program creates wider sidewalks and more pedestrian friendly amenities in Downtown Burbank. “Creating safe outdoor dining opportunities in Downtown Burbank is a welcome opportunity for both our businesses and the community. It is the hope of the City that this pilot program can be a trial for the recommendations of the Citywide Complete Streets Program.” Says Bob Frutos, Mayor of Burbank “In the future, with the support of the PBID, the City hopes to create more permanent improvements to the Downtown.” The new Los Angeles County Health Order allows outdoor dining to resume at 50% maximum capacity in addition to other requirements. On Friday, January 29 all Burbank restaurants were allowed to resume outdoor dining in private parking lots and patios and on City sidewalks with a permit. For a complete list of restaurants in Downtown Burbank, please visit https://dtnbur.com/dine/.
Please excuse a big COVID pause as we all stay well & reinvent ourselves. Thanks. We miss you, wish you well and ask for your support & communication.
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Disney's "Frozen" is Musical Theatre At Its Best! at the Pantages
This fabulous ensemble of the musical stage production of the smash animated feature film "Frozen" by Disney Studios, includes the star power of incredible set design and wardrobe playing their parts exceptionally in supporting the amazing performances and story. This photo of the magical creation of ice designs appearing before your eyes from the lead actress, Elsa, played by Caroline Bowman, brought the audience to applause for set changes as well as gorgeous and magical wardrobe changes in an instant and vocal performances. The signature song, "Let It Go", was breathtaking from every note and emotion unleashed at the climax of this story. Rave reviews and cheers from the crowd with standing ovations for this musical theatre experience, unparalleled and exceptional in every way.
Playing at the Pantages until February, this show is not to be missed. https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/events/detail/frozen
"For the First TIme", this cast, performing the song of the same name, represented the show in the annual Rose Parade on national television on New Year's Day initiating live entertainment into this parade tradition. Congratulations!
Playing at the Pantages until February, this show is not to be missed. https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/events/detail/frozen
"For the First TIme", this cast, performing the song of the same name, represented the show in the annual Rose Parade on national television on New Year's Day initiating live entertainment into this parade tradition. Congratulations!
Burbank Float, wins the Leishman Public Spirit Award
“Rise Up” by Burbank Tournament of Roses Association (self-built) wins the Leishman Public Spirit Award for most outstanding floral presentation from a non-commercial participant.
“Rise Up” by Burbank Tournament of Roses Association (self-built) wins the Leishman Public Spirit Award for most outstanding floral presentation from a non-commercial participant.
'Rise Up' ! Hope springs Eternal on the Burbank Rose Parade float
‘Rise Up’ is the title of this year’s City of Burbank float entry to the Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day Parade, nationally televised before the Rose Bowl game in Pasadena. In response to the theme of the Power of Hope, this design uses the legendary Phoenix bird who rises from the ashes again and again as the cycle of life is all powerful. After a year of devastating wildfires throughout California, Rise Up sends a message of hope and renewal to rise up from the ashes and rebuild like so many Californians have had to do. The float illustrates the story from the back; burnt looking landscape and foliage with funnels of fire bursting forth igniting the giant Phoenix aglow in all warm vibrant colors of reds, yellows and oranges; animated to move forward with head turning thanks to an all volunteer team including experts in pyrotechnics and animatronics. Moving our eyes forward with the great bird, nature recycles to life again of lush blossoms, greenery and flowing waters to heal itself. Hope springs Eternal. Wishing you All a Hopeful and Happy New Year! Rise Up!
Film Review; "Brittany Runs A Marathon", from Amazon Studios
"Brittany Runs" right through your heart to a personal win. Her story is ours. We fall in love with this funny, zaftig, (because funny deflects plump), young underemployed 'partygirl' in her story of single life in NYC. A wake up call from the doctor that she is trying to scam drugs from, is on to her, and prescribes a healthy lifestyle instead. A hard look in the mirror means there is nowhere to hide but run! Around the NY cityblock. As the pounds of success melt away, Brittany begins to dream big; the annual New York City Marathon. Her journey to transform to her best self is inspirational and metaphorical, funny and thoughtful, real. I know this girl; I am this girl. If she can do it, so can I. Message received.
This film is a slice of life with new friends to meet and love and take notes from. This is what real friends do. We live in an age of transformation; a call to be our best selves. Make it more than a movie and take the first step from your wake up call to finish your marathon. Art reflects life reflects art.
"Brittany Runs the Marathon" is a testament to the art of filmmaking that reveals hearts and minds of the characters so intimately and naturally, we feel like one of the gang. Thank you to this brilliant team of filmmakers. Congratulations to writer/director, Paul Downs Colaizzo, who based this on his friend, Brittany, so congratulations to her as well. Jillian Bell embodies the lead as "Brittany", as well as Executive Producer; another milestone when a leading woman is relatable and not of supermodel proportions. The ensemble of friends further contemporizes 21st century heart values of acceptance of single career women, gay families, and multicultural relationships as secondary to just being good people. Good is good in any package.
Share your story. You're not alone. Commit to you. Be the friend you want to have. Be your own best friend.
On your mark! Get set! GO! See it with friends!
Reviewed by FD Tiger
This film is a slice of life with new friends to meet and love and take notes from. This is what real friends do. We live in an age of transformation; a call to be our best selves. Make it more than a movie and take the first step from your wake up call to finish your marathon. Art reflects life reflects art.
"Brittany Runs the Marathon" is a testament to the art of filmmaking that reveals hearts and minds of the characters so intimately and naturally, we feel like one of the gang. Thank you to this brilliant team of filmmakers. Congratulations to writer/director, Paul Downs Colaizzo, who based this on his friend, Brittany, so congratulations to her as well. Jillian Bell embodies the lead as "Brittany", as well as Executive Producer; another milestone when a leading woman is relatable and not of supermodel proportions. The ensemble of friends further contemporizes 21st century heart values of acceptance of single career women, gay families, and multicultural relationships as secondary to just being good people. Good is good in any package.
Share your story. You're not alone. Commit to you. Be the friend you want to have. Be your own best friend.
On your mark! Get set! GO! See it with friends!
Reviewed by FD Tiger
Miss Saigon at The Pantages, Hollywood
CAMERON MACKINTOSH’S DYNAMITE BROADWAY REVIVAL OF BOUBLIL AND SCHÖNBERG’S LEGENDARY MUSICAL MISS SAIGON
4 WEEKS ONLY • July 16 – August 11, 2019
HOLLYWOOD PANTAGES THEATRE
Hollywood Pantages Theatre is pleased to present the return of Miss Saigon, the legendary musical will play a limited 4 week engagement at Hollywood Pantages Theatre (July 16 – August 11). For the first time in 17 years Miss Saigon will tour in North America. Tickets for Miss Saigon are now on sale, and available at www.HollywoodPantages.com/MissSaigon and www.Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or in person at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre Box Office (Opens Daily at 10am PT). Red Concepción will lead the tour as ‘the Engineer’ direct from the current UK Tour, Emily Bautista will play ‘Kim’ having also performed the role in the most recent Broadway production and Anthony Festa will play ‘Chris.’ Joining them is Stacie Bono as ‘Ellen,’ J. Daughtry as ‘John,’ Jinwoo Jung as ‘Thuy’ and Christine Bunuan as ‘Gigi.’ At certain performances, the role of ‘Kim’ will be played by Myra Molloy.
A beautifully performed and staged musical with awesome talent, sets and staging that put you on the front lines of the Vietnam war. Once again, the power of the arts, and especially performing arts, reflects life and humanity pulling at your heartstrings, especially in a story like this. It’s hard to not be political when talking about Miss Saigon because the statements were so strong deferring to the lead Vietnamese woman, Kim, and her half American child. History keeps repeating itself; only the names, ethnicities, faces and places change. A revival that still reflects current events and an eternal dilemma. The production doesn’t really present it as a dilemma, however, not addressing what a government’s role should or could be in such horrific circumstances as war. There is another side but it is not presented nor is it popular. It certainly sheds more light and room for thought on our current immigration crisis.
4 WEEKS ONLY • July 16 – August 11, 2019
HOLLYWOOD PANTAGES THEATRE
Hollywood Pantages Theatre is pleased to present the return of Miss Saigon, the legendary musical will play a limited 4 week engagement at Hollywood Pantages Theatre (July 16 – August 11). For the first time in 17 years Miss Saigon will tour in North America. Tickets for Miss Saigon are now on sale, and available at www.HollywoodPantages.com/MissSaigon and www.Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or in person at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre Box Office (Opens Daily at 10am PT). Red Concepción will lead the tour as ‘the Engineer’ direct from the current UK Tour, Emily Bautista will play ‘Kim’ having also performed the role in the most recent Broadway production and Anthony Festa will play ‘Chris.’ Joining them is Stacie Bono as ‘Ellen,’ J. Daughtry as ‘John,’ Jinwoo Jung as ‘Thuy’ and Christine Bunuan as ‘Gigi.’ At certain performances, the role of ‘Kim’ will be played by Myra Molloy.
A beautifully performed and staged musical with awesome talent, sets and staging that put you on the front lines of the Vietnam war. Once again, the power of the arts, and especially performing arts, reflects life and humanity pulling at your heartstrings, especially in a story like this. It’s hard to not be political when talking about Miss Saigon because the statements were so strong deferring to the lead Vietnamese woman, Kim, and her half American child. History keeps repeating itself; only the names, ethnicities, faces and places change. A revival that still reflects current events and an eternal dilemma. The production doesn’t really present it as a dilemma, however, not addressing what a government’s role should or could be in such horrific circumstances as war. There is another side but it is not presented nor is it popular. It certainly sheds more light and room for thought on our current immigration crisis.
Honoring our Veterans
A beautiful crisp spring Memorial Day was patriotically festive at Pierce Brothers Memorial Park and Cemetery in North Hollywood. Pat Boone was drawing in the crowds as the headliner to honor our veterans and our country. A proud American singer songwriter and spiritual leader, Pat Boone annually inspires a Memorial Day crowd and this year, in our own backyard. "Under God" is his original tribute song as he explained before he sang it, to ignite the perpetual controversial words in our pledge of allegiance that so many have tried to delete, replace or bend a knee to. It is his belief that our essence is our connection to God and a higher power which strengthens us as we honor and praise it in our words, actions and thoughts. It is our human spirit that is our strength as he exemplifies in his own life. It also happened to be an upcoming birthday, so to celebrate Pat Boone's 85th, a cake.
Lending their official military style to this event, the local North Valley Military Institute performed the color guard ceremony and their band played. I learned of this amazing new small charter school in neighboring Sun Valley, that is effectively guiding students grades 6-12 through their teen learning years in a rigorous program resulting in a high success rate for all and a closely bonded community. Worth looking into their program, they provide community services like these to local events. Proudly, one student was accepted to West Point!
Appearances by singers, The Sugar Sisters, sang in the retro style of The Andrews Sisters; one of them ready to deliver her baby!; there was the Ms. Pacific Coast appearance and an Elvis impersonator, honored veterans and civic leaders.
Classic cars of all ages, types, conditions, lined the edges of this beautiful park whose long drive amidst acres of green grass and trees of home to the deceased, led to the classical circular fountain area. Many people decorated their plots of loved ones for the day with beautiful flowers and sentiments, flags and balloons to honor their memory. Lunch was served free.
Lending their official military style to this event, the local North Valley Military Institute performed the color guard ceremony and their band played. I learned of this amazing new small charter school in neighboring Sun Valley, that is effectively guiding students grades 6-12 through their teen learning years in a rigorous program resulting in a high success rate for all and a closely bonded community. Worth looking into their program, they provide community services like these to local events. Proudly, one student was accepted to West Point!
Appearances by singers, The Sugar Sisters, sang in the retro style of The Andrews Sisters; one of them ready to deliver her baby!; there was the Ms. Pacific Coast appearance and an Elvis impersonator, honored veterans and civic leaders.
Classic cars of all ages, types, conditions, lined the edges of this beautiful park whose long drive amidst acres of green grass and trees of home to the deceased, led to the classical circular fountain area. Many people decorated their plots of loved ones for the day with beautiful flowers and sentiments, flags and balloons to honor their memory. Lunch was served free.
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.
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
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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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