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Burbank Fire Fighters Make Quick Attack On Smoldering House Fire

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Burbank Fire Fighters were called to the 800 Blk of California Street late last night after neighbors reported seeing smoke coming form the roof.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Fire Fighters arrived on scene and found a single family single story resident with lazy smoke rising from the roof vents. Neighbors reported to the arriving Fire Fighters that no one was home and the Firefighters had to force entry into the house.

Breaking windows and gaining entry Firefighters found no smoke no fire in the house. Using heat seeking devices they located a heat source in the attic area over a bedroom in the front portion of the residence.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Firefighters using poles opened up the ceiling and found the cause of the smoke to be a smoldering insulation and beams.

The assignments called for 3 engines companies 2 truck companies a rescue ambulance and a Battalion Chief.

Firefighters overhauled the room where the smoldering was and a cause investigator was called to the scene. No personal were injured and the damage was not listed at this time.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

The post Burbank Fire Fighters Make Quick Attack On Smoldering House Fire appeared first on myBurbank.com.


Burroughs Pitcher Signs With NAIA School

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Burroughs High pitcher/outfielder Shaine Leonard has signed a national letter of intent with the University of Antelope Valley.

Leonard, a right hander with a submarine delivery, accepted an offer from the Lancaster-based school after attending some events intended to help his recruitment. Antelope Valley competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

“I went to a few showcases and they saw me and invited me to their camp at their school for prospects,” Leonard said. “I’ve talked to the coaches for a while now and they helped me out and gave me a bit of a scholarship. I’m real happy about it.”

Leonard said there were several factors that made the decision an easy one.

“I’m going to be able to come every weekend and spend time with my family, so it’s going to be perfect,” Leonard said. “This seems like a great fit for me.”

Leonard said he also likes the role he expects to play.

“They’re going to give me an opportunity to be a (two-way) player and see if I can play in the outfield,’’ Leonard said.  “They mostly see me in the bullpen as of next year and we’ll see where it goes from there.”

Burroughs coach Craig Sherwood thinks Leonard has a high ceiling in terms of potential.

“I’m very happy for Shaine. He reinvented himself last year as a submarine pitcher and has worked very hard with our pitching coach, Tony Sandoval, to improve,” Sherwood said. “I think the best is still yet to come with his ability.”Leonard signing 2

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Burroughs’ Hernandez Signs With St. Francis

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Burroughs High wide receiver Erick Hernandez has signed a letter of intent with St. Francis University in Pennsylvania.

The 6-foot, 165-pound Hernandez chose St. Francis over offers from Dixie St. and Western New Mexico universities. St. Francis competes at the Division I Football Championship Subdivision level, previously known as Division I-AA.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

“I have a good opportunity and I couldn’t pass it up,” Hernandez said. “They graduated four receivers, so they expect me to come in and play right away.”

A first-team All-Pacific League selection, Hernandez had 36 receptions for 532 yards and 13 touchdowns last fall. He was named the Pacific League champion Indians’ most valuable offensive player.

He finished his high school career with 83 catches for 1,215 yards and 22 touchdowns. He also had a pair of rushing touchdowns.

“I’m excited,” Hernandez said. “The coaching staff really believes in me.”

Burroughs coach Keith Knoop, who recently retired after 19 years as the head coach, said he greatly enjoyed coaching Hernandez.

“His 10th grade season really opened his eyes as to what he needed to do to compete on the varsity. He took the challenge by getting a personal position trainer, started working hard in the weight room and really molding his craft,” Knoop said. “Erick has always taken care of his academics and really learned how to be a leader. In the spring of 2015 he told me we were going to win a championship and we were not going to lose to Burbank. It all came true because of his talent and leadership. Now Erick is going off to play Division I football and we are going to miss his talents for sure.”

 

 

 

 

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Read Across America Day Promotes Reading To Youngsters

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Members of the Burbank community visited several Burbank Unified School District elementary schools and local preschools on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 1 and 2, as part of the 16th annual National Read Across America Day.

The event, created by the National Education Association, honors beloved author Dr. Seuss on his birthday, March 2, and encourages reading.

TSA Agent Stu Megaw  read to a class at Bret Harte.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

TSA Agent Stu Megaw read to a class at Bret Harte. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Eleven employees from Burbank Bob Hope Airport went to Bret Harte Elementary School Wednesday morning to read to children in grades from Kindergarten through fifth.

“We have sent readers to Bret Harte since 2006,” explained Lucy Berghdorf, Director of Public Affairs and Communications for the airport.

Andrell Shade (American Airlines), Ron Reynolds (Million Air), Narbeh Hartoonian (TSA), Jose Amezcua (TSA), Stu Megaw (TSA), Cynthia Padnuk (TSA), Rosa Moncoda (Standard Parking), Sal Martinez (Standard Parking), Jodi Litchfield (Southwest Airlines), Armen Avoyan (Bob Hope Airport) and Nataly Rivera (Bob Hope Airport) all visited classrooms to read.

Station Manager For American Airlines  Andrell Shade read at Bret Harte.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Station Manager For American Airlines Andrell Shade read at Bret Harte. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

More than 30 readers including City officials, firefighters, local business owners, police officers and BUSD officials stopped by William McKinley Elementary School to read Wednesday morning as well, said McKinley Principal Liz Costella.

Well-known children’s book author David Shannon visited Pre-Kinder, Transitional Kinder and Kindergarten students at George Washington Elementary School auditorium on Tuesday for a special reading of his popular No, David! books, according to Washington Principal Brandi Young.

 (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

City of Burbank firefighters also read from their favorite children’s books to preschool students at the YMCA Child Development Center.

More celebrations of National Read Across America Day will be held throughout the remainder of the week at Burbank schools.

Burbank Fire Fighter Justin Chin read during Read Across America at The Burbank YMCA.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Fire Fighter Justin Chin read during Read Across America at The Burbank YMCA. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson) TSA Agent Stu Megaw  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) TSA Agent Stu Megaw  read to a class at Bret Harte.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) Station Manager For American Airlines  Andrell Shade read at Bret Harte.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) Sal Martinez and Rosa Moncada of SP Parking at Bob Hope Airport.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) TSA Agent Cynthia Padnuk.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) Burbank Fire Fighter Steve Owen reads ay Burbank YMCA. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) Burbank Fire Fighter Steve Owen read at YMCA.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) Burbank Fire Fighter Justin Chin read during Read Across America at The Burbank YMCA.  (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

 

The post Read Across America Day Promotes Reading To Youngsters appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Tennis Holds Off Hoover

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tennis balls

The Burbank High tennis team was once known for its strength in doubles. That was under legendary coach Clyde Richards, who led the Bulldogs to a CIF championship, 14 straight league titles and 116 consecutive league victories from 1990 to 2002.

Fast forward to 2016 and the Bulldogs are now using their strength in singles to pull out victories.

The Bulldogs swept all nine singles sets Thursday in a 11-7 Pacific League victory over host Hoover High.

“The singles did their job as usual. That is going to be our strength,” Burbank co-coach Kenneth Banares, a 2011 graduate, said. “The doubles need a little work. This is the beginning of the season and you don’t know who you are going to be pairing up in doubles. We’re trying to find out who we can use, who we can put together.”

In singles, No. 1 player Kevin Orellana swept his three sets by scores of 6-0. No. 3 singles player James Lee also swept all three sets by 6-0 scores.

No. 2 singles player Luciano Dapuetto won his sets 6-2, 6-1, 6-0.

In doubles, Burbank’s No. 1 team of Arsh Zahed and Ryan Hyun went 3-6, 2-6, 1-6.

The No. 2 team of Harout Abgaryan and Nathan Soria went 3-6, 4-6, 7-5.

The No. 3 team of Ethan Lee and Emory Kim went 1-6, 4-6, 6-2.

The post Burbank Tennis Holds Off Hoover appeared first on myBurbank.com.

FLASHBACK FRIDAY:

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Warner Bros Lockheed

Ever wonder what it was like to be one of the thousands of people who worked for Lockheed during World War Two?

Wonder no more!! Through the magic of the cinema you can be there! During the War Warner Brothers made a Patriotic Movie titled “WINGS FOR THE EAGLE”.

Warner Bros had access to the production facilities for their background footage and you can see Hudson Bombers and P-38 Lightning’s being made as the actors move through the plant.

We have put together a highlight reel here, enjoy!

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Burger Review: Harry’s

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If you have lived in Burbank for a while, than you know of Harry’s. It has been by the corner of San Fernando and Burbank for as long as people can remember. Open 24 hours, you have probably stopped by there sometime in the middle of the night, possible after too many adult beverages.

Harrys 3Having ate there before, some of the dishes like Country Fried Steak are very good.

When we stopped in to eat around 1:30 pm, there were very few people there (maybe two tables) which always worries me a little at lunch time. A restaurant this large, with plenty of parking and being around this long should be much more busy.

When ordering the burger, I was never asked about how I would like it cooked so of course, I was worried about the patty. I would hope that a restaurant burger would be fresh. I asked for cheddar cheese and also avocado to help the taste hopefully.

Harrys1When the burger came, it was served on a plate and it appeared that the cheese was was not a slice, but shredded. There was also a healthy amount of it which had been melted onto the patty. The problem is that the patty, while somewhat large, did not look handpacked.

The bun did not appear to be toasted or toasted for more than 20 seconds and in all honesty did not taste that fresh to me. With the avocado came some lettuce, tomato and everyone’s favorite condiment, thinly sliced carrot? There was ketchup and mustard available at the table but I requested the burger saver, thousand island to smear the bun with.

Harrys 2As I ate the burger, I did not taste any juiciness at all and in fact, the whole thing just tasted a little dry. The only two good parts seemed to be the avocado and the cheddar cheese. The patty did not seem as though it had been seasoned at all.

By the time I was finished, I really did not find the burger to be anything more than something you might find in just about any diner that has aged. Oh wait, I forgot, I was at Harry’s. I guess it all makes more sense that way.

Side Notes: Also ordered the cole slaw and it was made on site. Not a lot of flavor but you could tell it was fresh. The french fries turned out to be my nemesis, the steak fries. I just don’t like steak fries myself and even asking for these well done, just did not do the job.  They probably needed 3 more minutes in the fryer and any kind of seasoning salt to at least try and make them special.

Harry’s is located at 920 N San Fernando Blvd (818) 842-8755 in Burbank –. Open 24 hours

Harry’s receives: Could Use a Rewrite

myBurbank Ratings:
Tops In Town (Outstanding)
On The Marquee (Really Good)
Could Use A Rewrite (Average or Slightly Below)
Don’t Quit Your Day Job (Poor)

If you would like us to consider a location for a review – let us know HERE

The post Burger Review: Harry’s appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Miller Read Across America Event Celebrates Reading Fun

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Forty members of the Burbank community, including the Vice Mayor, a City Councilmember and the Police and Fire Chiefs, visited Joaquin Miller Elementary School to read books to the students on Friday, March 4, as part of Read Across America Week.

Many schools in the City of Burbank marked Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’ birthday earlier in the week, participating in the National Education Association’s week-long annual program highlighting reading in the schools.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

“To celebrate Read Across America Week, the staff and students participated in a variety of planned activities that encourage reading,” said Principal Judy Hesson. “One of our students’ favorite is our Miller Read In Day.”

“Not only do we get to spend the day reading in our pajamas but we invite individuals from the city, the school district and our Miller parents to come into our classrooms and read a book and talk about why reading is so important in the job that they do.”

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

 

“We want our students to understand that anything and everything that they do will require them to know how to read and that this skill is vital to their future.”

Forty people visited the Miller Read Across America event, including Vice Mayor Jess Talamantes, City Council Member Will Rogers, City Clerk Zizette Mullins, Police Chief Scott LaChasse, Fire Chief Tom Lenahan, Public Works Director Bonnie Teaford, Community Development Director Patrick Prescott, Board of Education President Charlene Tabet, Board of Education Member Armond Aghakhanian, BUSD Superintendent Matt Hill and BUSD Assistant Superintendent Tom Kissinger.

Hill, Hession and several adults donned their pajamas as well, to celebrate the spirit of the event. Additional readers included Burbank Philharmonic Conductor Steven Kerstein, Burbank Youth Librarian Cathleen Bowley and Burbank Financial Services Director Cindy Giraldo.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

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Burroughs Baseball Helped By Divine Intervention

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By Rick Assad

 

There was a real sense of sadness hovering over Tomahawk Field prior to Saturday’s semifinal game of the 12th Annual Easton Tournament between Burroughs High and Moorpark.

The reason was earlier in the day it was learned that longtime Crespi baseball coach Scott Muckey, who had been Burroughs Coach Craig Sherwood’s mentor, passed away at the age of 63.

Maybe Muckey was looking down on the proceedings as the Indians rallied for three runs in the bottom of the seventh inning and edged the Musketeers, 3-2.

The Indians (4-0) will face Harvard-Westlake, which held off El Camino Real, 3-1, in the other semifinal, on Tuesday at Birmingham High in the title game.

Justin Palafox’s single to right field drove in Jason Whaley, who reached on a  fielder’s choice, for the game-winner off reliever Dane Aguilar, who faced five batters and was tagged with the loss.

“I wanted to stay focused and do my job,” said Palafox, who had two singles, of the final at-bat. “There was no pressure. It’s the same at the end of the game or the beginning of the game. I just wanted to do my part.”

The Indians, who are the defending Pacific League champions, sent seven batters to the plate in the seventh, had four hits and was helped out by an error.

Nathan Palafox opened up the frame with a base hit up the middle, while Riley Hooper was hit by a pitch.

With one out, Mitch Lefevre laid down a bunt that Aguilar failed to get a glove on and Randy Catlett (two hits) reached on an infield hit.

“Everything I do is based on my experience being around him,” Sherwood said of Muckey, who was at Crespi for 28 years and claimed 11 league banners, two Southern Section titles and sent numerous players to college and professional teams. “He’s the best high school baseball coach in the country. I think he helped us win today.”

Afterward Sherwood paid tribute to his mentor by munching on Doritos and sipping a Dr. Pepper, something Muckey did after games.

Moorpark, which has gone to the CIF Southern Section playoffs the last seven seasons, was a thorn in the side of Burroughs in 2015 as it took out the Indians in the Easton Tournament and the CIF playoffs.

“They knocked us out of the Easton Tournament and they had three straight shutouts,” Sherwood said of Moorpark. “They’re a good team, but our guys believe in the system. I dedicate this game to him [Muckey].”

Moorpark (3-1) scored two runs in the top of the seventh inning when Greg Dominguez lined a one-out double down the left-field line off Jesse Galindo (2-0).

Matt Page singled to center field with one out and Dillon Holliday was hit by a pitch and both eventually came around to score.

Galindo didn’t allow a hit until two out in the third inning when Dominguez doubled to left center.

Dominguez stole third base, but was thrown out at home plate when second baseman Brandon Martinez gunned the ball to catcher Tanner Whitlock.

Galindo, who allowed six hits with four strikeouts, three walks and one hit batter in seven innings, gave up a two-out single to Jimmy Friery in the fourth inning, but induced Junior Sandoval to fly out.

Page singled to lead off the fifth inning for the Musketeers, and after Holliday sacrificed, Galindo retired Dominguez on a liner to left field and T.J. Foreman grounded out.

In the sixth inning, Galindo surrendered a two-out base hit to Cole Kriger, but Friery grounded out.

Other Burroughs players who singled were Martinez, Whitlock and Whaley.

The post Burroughs Baseball Helped By Divine Intervention appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Magnolia Park Optimist Club Present Police Officers Of The Year

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By Joyce Rudolph

Doreen Wydra has her own story about being grateful to the Burbank Police Department.

When her 94-year-old great-aunt went missing from her home after an accident, Wydra turned to the police to find her and they did — in only about 45 minutes — at a local hospital.

So as president of the Magnolia Park Optimist Club, she wholeheartedly supports her group’s annual Respect for Law program.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

This year five employees from the department were honored during a dinner at the Elks Lodge.

“This award is so little thank you for all they do. God bless them for all they do!” said Wydra. “We should even do this more.”

Police Chief Scott LaChasse served as master of ceremonies and told the audience what makes the department a success is teamwork.

“And that’s the approach we take at the Burbank Police Department,” he said. “We stay together, work together and prosper together and it is truly a team and I think the entire community benefits from the team effort of the department.”

Adam Baumgarten received the Detective of the Year. He is a Burbank native and graduate of John Burroughs High School. He was in the U.S. Air Force and served in Iraq. He joined the Burbank Police Department in 2005 and has served as a patrol officer and was a member of the Crime Impact Team and Gang Enforcement Team.

Baumgarten was promoted to detective in 2013. He is considered highly proactive in the enforcement of crimes involving gangs. He also is considered a department expert in surveillance technologies and is highly respected by supervisors and peers as a knowledgeable investigator and team player.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Michele Larson is the Non-Sworn Employee of the Year for the second time. She first received the honor in 2009.

She graduated from Burbank High School and is married to jailer Glen Larson. She joined the Burbank Police Department in February 1992 and over the years has served as Communications Operator, Data Entry Operator, Police Technician, Network Systems Analyst I and Network Analyst II.

In July 2004, she was assigned to the city’s Information Technology Department and returned to the police department in November 2007 as a Crime Analyst. She is the department’s Operational/Administrative Crime Analyst, and is the department’s leading expert of the Tiburon Total Command Computer System. Michele is also responsible for compiling, verifying and reporting the department’s crime statistics to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

Police Officer Cindy Guillen was named Co-Officer of the Year. She has a daughter, Natalia.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

She earned a master’s degree in criminal justice and has served as a Police Explorer. She became a police officer in 2000 and has worked the park detail in addition to being a defensive tactics instructor and Explorer advisor.

She also served as a Community Resource Officer from 2011 to 2015. Community Resource Officers are liaisons between the public and the police department in helping to resolve community problems. In that role, she has assisted with organizing the Community Academy (in Spanish and English), National Night Out and Police-Fire Service Day.

Guillen is the contact person for neighbor disputes and mediation with the city attorney and other law enforcement offices. She is the public information officer for the Spanish-speaking media. She also is the Regional Occupational Program & Youth Academy Instructor, providing information about a vocation such as law enforcement to high school juniors and seniors.

The other Co-Officer of the Year is Police Officer Joshua Kendrick. He and his wife, Dawna, have two daughters. His brother, Aaron Kendrick, and brother-in-law, Neil Gunn Jr., are also in law enforcement.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Kendrick will complete a master’s degree in criminal justice this summer. He began with the Burbank Police Department as a recruit in January 2006 and became a police officer in June 2006. In 2011, he started as a Community Resource Officer performing such duties as recruitment, press information including social media, conducting the Community Academy, handling community complaints and event organizing for National Night Out, Police-Fire Service Day, Coffee with a Cop, Shop with a Cop and others.

John Kemmerer is the Police Department Volunteer of the Year. He has lived in Burbank since 1971 and has been married to his wife, Lyn, for more than 50 years.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

He attended one of the first Burbank Police Department Community Academies in 2001. He became a Burbank Police Department Volunteer in 2007 and has spent most of his volunteer time at the front counter helping the public. He also volunteers time to the Burbank Animal Shelter, the Hoof & Woof Walk to benefit the K-9 and mounted police units, Baker to Vegas Race and the Burbank Police Officer Assn.’s Golf Tournament. Recently, he began training new police department volunteers.

In 2015 alone, he logged 548 volunteer hours at the Burbank Police Department.

The post Magnolia Park Optimist Club Present Police Officers Of The Year appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Tagging Burbank – Part 1, Is There a Gang Problem in Burbank?

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February 4th, 6 p.m., gunshots are heard coming from Lundigan Park in NW Burbank. Burbank Police report it is a suspected gang-related retaliation hit, with a single victim suffering a gunshot wound to his lower body. It was later determined that while the victim and shooter had gang affiliations, the shooting incident was triggered by a domestic dispute, and not directly related to gang activity.

Does Burbank have a gang problem?  Is it real?  A perception?

After being arrested for DUI, the driver who caused the accident is led to a police car where he will get a much safer ride to jail  The accident occurred at the Victory and Parish around 2 am Saturday, November 5, 2011.  The driver was taken to the hospital for injuries while the driver was booked for DUI.    (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

(Photo By Ross A. Benson)

According to Sgt Claudio Losacco, Public Information officer with the Burbank Police, there is an increase of gang tagging and suspected activity in an area that is north and west of N. San Fernando Blvd. and W. Empire Ave. Other sources indicate the activity may involve two large and well-organized Los Angeles-area gangs which may be either recruiting or attempting to form in areas of Burbank adjacent to North Hollywood.

December 31st, 2:30 p.m., an 18 year old man is shot in a suspected gang-related “drive-by” incident in the 200 block of W. Verdugo Ave.

According to a former local law enforcement officer who requested not to be identified, Burbank has historically had several Hispanic gangs with a presence in the city, although some may not currently be active, or openly visible. The list included 4 named gangs, although myBurbank is withholding those names based on a policy not to advertise or “glorify” any gang or antisocial organization.

The former officer further explained that most gangs in the Burbank area were not well-established as criminal gangs, but were rather smaller groups that were trying to hold neighborhood “turf” as part of a need for identity and connection with others based on ethnicity or other cultural connections.

Those gangs did in some cases act as “farm teams” for recruiting members into more established, or organized gangs.

There is evidence of activity from several gangs, with increased tagging and other presence in the area identified by Sgt Losacco being the most visible. According to one area resident, “we do not want gangs feeling comfortable in this neighborhood, nor trying to establish any kind of presence.” Note that no interviewees contacted for this article, other than the Burbank Police Department, wanted their real identity published, for fear of retaliation from gangs.

On Saturday morning myBurbank photographers drove throughout the city looking for evidence of tagging or potential gang activity. The search did not reveal any sign of new or fresh tagging, and in fact only revealed a couple of tags that wee likely several years old.  This included industrial areas within Sgt Losacco’s interest area, several area pars, industrial areas along Interstate 5, the Clyburn corridor, Chandler corridor, along San Fernando Rd, and numerous alleys in both industrial and residential areas of the city.

The larger gangs, including those LA-based groups identified by Sgt Losacco, may be transnational (present in several countries) in nature, and further affiliated with violent organizations such as the Mexican Mafia, and Russian organized crime. Those gangs are often identified as being involved in the drug trade, weapons, enforcement, and even murder.

In many cases the local or regional gangs are used by the more established organizations as “hired help” used for enforcement, including assault – and in some cases murder, trafficking of drugs, and handling of other controlled items.

The former officer indicated it was his opinion these gangs were in the Burbank area more in an attempt to recruit new members, rather than set up any concentrated activities within the city.

A recent parolee from the state prison system, and former gang member, indicated during a recent drive down Victory Blvd. between Hollywood Way and Buena Vista St., that he was able to identify at least three gang members openly active along the route, and in his opinion likely attempting to make contact with middle and high school students walking alone or in small groups.

Does this prove Burbank has a gang “problem?”

Let’s look at crimes. The following chart, using numbers reported by Burbank Police on Crime Mapping (crimemapping.com), show the following crime data (note September 2015 only has data available for the second 3 weeks of the month).

Crime Statistics in Burbank Sep 2015 - Feb 2016

Statistically, this does not show any significant increase in crime categories during the periods of media reported gang-related incidents in December and January, with the exception of a surge in December related to Theft/Larceny.

According to Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse, the majority of crimes reported or investigated in Burbank are either shoplifting, or automobile burglary.  This may involve some level of organization, however, Chief LaChasse also advised that most suspects in this category of crime “come from the outside, not from within Burbank.”DUI Arrest Victory & Burbank -1

Violent crime, such as assault, only accounted for an average of 9% of all reported crimes, with December and January showing a percentage point decline from November (from Crime Mapping).

While it is hard to reject the idea gangs have a presence in Burbank, Chief LaChasse notes that large, established gangs “do not have a foothold in Burbank.” However, Chief LaChasse also noted that Burbank sits in the middle of cities, notably Los Angeles, which do have a gang issue. “We cannot build a wall around Burbank,” and gang members will enter the city from North Hollywood and other points.

In April 2015 two men were assaulted, one with gunshot wounds, the other beaten, outside of the Burbank Town Center following a movie at the mall’s AMC theater. The incident was thought to be gang-related. The incident was investigated, and it was determined that members of rival gangs had both entered Burbank to view a movie, encountered each other in the theater, and a violent fight followed. It was further suggested that since in many gang operating areas, there are simply no theaters, and often gang members may enter Burbank, Glendale, or Pasadena for the purpose of seeing a movie, and encounter rivals at or near the theater.

Burbank has received some financial support for law enforcement gang units under California’s Assembly Bill 109 (2011). However, Chief LaChasse emphasizes if the situation warrants, the Burbank Police are fully capable of responding to any situation, including the potential of an expansion of gang activity. At this point Chief LaChasse does not believe Burbank has a specific gang “problem,” although the department will continue to aggressively monitor gang activities both inside Burbank, and in surrounding cities and communities. Officers are continuously trained in gang awareness, and all fully understand the implications of allowing gang activity to extend into the community.

Part 2 of this series will focus more on the history of gang activity in Burbank, starting in the 1980s until recently, and will include more interviews with current and former Burbank Police officers, as well as current and “retired” gang members.

Part 3 of this series will introduce techniques the city and residents can use to respond to signs of gang activity, as well as more importantly prevent our youth from being recruited into gangs.

 

The post Tagging Burbank – Part 1, Is There a Gang Problem in Burbank? appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Sweeps Glendale

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swim

The Burbank High boys’ swimming team didn’t have much to spare in the end as they defeated visiting Glendale 85-84 in a Pacific League dual meet Wednesday.

The Bulldogs fared much better on the girls’ varsity side, winning 113-57.

“We’re picking up where we left off last year,” third-year Burbank coach Gilbert Raposa said. “I’m impressed with my new swimmers. It’s nice to continue to see the kids I’ve had for three years improve.”

Burbank was able to overcome Glendale’s Trenton Julian, who is one of the top swimmers in the nation and the son of former Olympic gold medalist Kristine Quance.

Leading the Bulldogs’ girls team was seniors Ashley Hinterlong and Melissa Udall and freshman Michelle Morlock. Hinterlong won the 100-yard freestyle (1:01.72), the 100 breaststroke (1:16.41) and was part of the winning 200 medley relay (2:10.22) and 200 freestyle relay (1:57.86).

“I dropped a second in my 100 free,” said Hinterlong, who plans to swim at Pitzer College next year. “I’m faster than I expected to be right now, so I’m happy with that.”

Udall won the 100 butterfly (1:05.95), 200 individual medley (2:33.89) and was part of the medley and 400 free relay team (4:25.12).

Morlock took the 100 backstroke (1:16.09) , the 50 freestyle (27.91) and was part of the winning 200 free and medley relays.

Also winning for Burbank in individual events was Lindsay Jensen in the 200 free (2:19.56).

For the Burbank boys’ team, Aki Arlington won the 50 free (23.37) and was part of the winning 200 free relay team (1:36.77).

Justin Miller won the 100 free (52.35) and was part of the 200 free relay.

Roman Rostomyan took the 500 free (5:18.51) and was part of the 200 free relay.

Brent Min won the 100 breaststroke (1:12.48).

 

Results

Burbank girls’ varsity (scoring athletes)

200 Medley Relay
1.Burbank (Michelle Morlock, Ashley Hinterlong, Melissa Udall, Kayla Filman) 2:10.22
3. Burbank (Dina Melkonian, Freya Downey, Naphtali Avalos, Haley Kolus) 2:20.67
4. Burbank (Lorraine Ishida, Tina Melkonian, Stephanie Harkness, Shauna Hosepo) 2:33.54

200 Freestyle
1. Lindsay Jensen (2:19.56)
2. Lorraine Ishida (2:47.86)

200 Individual Medley
1. Melissa Udall (2:33.89)
3. Emily Udall (2:43.70)

50 Freestyle
1. Michelle Morlock (27.91)
3. Kayla Fillman (31.55)
4. Haley Kolus (31.95)

100 Butterfly
1. Melissa Udall (2:05.95)
2. Naphtali Avalos (2:14.35)

100 Freestyle
1. Ashley Hinterlong (1:01.72)
4. Dina Melkonian (1:08.75)
5.  Stephanie Harkness (1:11.91)

200 Freestyle Relay
1. Burbank (Kayla Filman, Michelle Morlock, Ashley Hinterlong, Lindsay Jensen) 1:57.86
2. Burbank (Emily Udall, Dina Melkonian, Haley Kolus, Naphtali Avalos) 2:04.63

100 Backstroke

1. Michelle Morlock (1:16.09)
2. Lorraine Ishida (1:32.24)
5. Shauna Hosepo (1:39.93)

100 Breaststroke

1. Ashley Hinterlong (1:36.41)
2. Freya Downey (1:23.22)
4. Tina Melkonian (1:24.15)

400 Freestyle Relay

1. Burbank (Melissa Udall, Dina Melkonian, Kayla Filman, Lindsay Jensen) 4:25.12
3. Burbank (Freya Downey, Tina Melkonian, Haley Kolus, Emily Udall) 4:38.89

 

Boys Varsity

200 Medley Relay
2. Burbank (Roman Rostomyan, Brent Min, Ashot Gavurmadzhyan, Aki Arklington) 1:49.01

200 Freestyle
2. Roman Rostomyan (1:54.38)
3. Ben Diaz (2:03.78)

200 Individual Medley
3. Ashot Gavurmadzhyan (2:16.66)
4. Brent Min (2:22.87)

50 Freestyle
1. Aki Arlington (23.37)
2. Justin Miller (24.01)

100 Butterfly
3. Ashot Gavurmadzhyan (57.88)
5. Dorian Andrei (1:03.73)

100 Freestyle
1. Justin Miller (52.35)
2. Aki Arlington (53.64)

500 Freestyle
1. Roman Rostamyan (5:18.51)
2. Ben Diaz (5:52.20)

200 Freestyle Relay
1. Burbank (Aki Arlington, Nathan Rho, Justin Miler, Roman Rostomyan) 1:36.77
3. Burbank (Dillan Rosen, Brent Min, Ben Diaz, Dorian Andrei) 1:43.30

100 Backstroke
2. Matthew Harkness (1:16.71)
3. Gene Koo (1:21.37)

100 Breaststroke
1. Brent Min (1:12.48)
3. Dorian Andrei (1:16.28)

400 Freestyle Relay
2. Burbank (Ben Diaz, Matthew Harkness, Gene Koo, Dorian Andrei) 3.57.00

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Burroughs Edges Harvard-Westlake, 1-0, Wins Easton Baseball Tournament

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By Rick Assad

 

As expected, runs and hits were scarce when Burroughs High and Harvard-Westlake faced off in the championship game of the 12th Annual Easton Tournament held at Birmingham High on Wednesday night.

It was indeed as the Indians edged the Wolverines, 1-0, with the only run tallied coming with two out and the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh inning when Jason Whaley’s base hit brought in pinch-runner Gabriel Pellot, who came in for Omar Tejeda, who opened the frame with a double.

“I expected Harvard-Westlake [4-1] to play a tremendous game in the Easton Tournament, which is the best tournament in Southern California,” Burroughs coach Craig Sherwood said. “They have a great program. Nobody expected us to be here. We were playing with house money.”

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burroughs pitcher Kyle Nicol fanned 14 and allowed two hits in a 1-0 win over Harvard-Westlake in the Easton Tournament title game. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Front and center was pitcher Kyle Nicol, who allowed only two hits over seven innings. Nicol struck out 14 and delivered first-pitch strikes to 19 hitters.

“I don’t think you’re going to see a better performance than the one turned in by Kyle,” Sherwood said. “That was something special.”

Only 5-8 and with a submarine delivery, Nicol had the highly-ranked Wolverines eating out of his hand.

“Just because he doesn’t throw in the 90s doesn’t mean he can’t be effective and get hitters out,” Sherwood said. “Any college coach that isn’t calling him in the next 48 hours is making a big mistake.”

Sherwood went on: “He can pitch. He has great command and he kept them [Harvard-Westlake] off balance.”

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burroughs catcher Tanner Whitlock and hurler Nicol were in sync all evening versus the highly-ranked Wolverines. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

The Indians have yet to lose this season and are the defending Pacific League champion.

So far Burroughs has knocked off Palmdale 3-2, West Ranch 8-0, Chatsworth 8-7 and Moorpark 3-2.

“Our goal is to repeat as league champs,” Sherwood said. “The kids believe. Only good things can happen when you believe. We’ve said, why not us?”

Sherwood added: “My philosophy is play catch. Throw strikes and play good defense. But this is nothing I’ve done. It’s what the kids have done. This about the players.”

Burroughs (5-0), which was coming off a dramatic seventh inning one-run victory over the Musketeers on Saturday, also received hits from Tanner Whitlock and Justin Palafox, who had the game-winner versus Moorpark in the Easton tourney semifinal.

“Tanner [the catcher] called a great game,” Sherwood said. “He was locked in. I just let the kids play.”

Harvard-Westlake came in with wins over Poly 10-0, Newbury Park 7-0, Simi Valley 8-4 and El Camino Real 3-1 in the Easton Tournament semifinals.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson) (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

 

 

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Caffeine 2306 Hosts “Coffee with a Cop”

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On Wednesday morning, Burbank Police command staff and officers joined residents at Caffeine 2306, a new coffee shop at 2306 W. Burbank Blvd., for coffee and casual conversation.  According to Deziree Williams, owner of 2306 Caffeine, shortly after opening in October an officer stopped by for a coffee, and suggested this might be a great spot for the next “Coffee with a Cop” event.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Coffee with a Cop is a recurring event where the police set up shop with a local café, and just spend a few hours with local residents and visitors, getting to know each other, sharing ideas, and having a bit of fun.

One resident, Lizelle Brandt, brought her 4-month-old baby by and simply Wanted to meet a cop, and say “thank you” for keeping her family safe.

Sgt. Joshua Kendrick, Burbank Police spokesman, noted that “Coffee with a Cop” is a project the department tries to support once every 2 to 3 months.    “We try to move the event all over the city” continued Sgt Kendrick.  “However, this is really the first time we’ve been in this area.”

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Amal De La Rosa stopped by and hoped she could pass on to the police that she’s concerned about speeders in her neighborhood during the evening.  With Chief Scott LaChasse, and a large group of police officers, Lieutenants, and Captains on site, eager to meet and chat with local residents, Ms. De La Rosa found the perfect audience to listen and consider her concerns.

Burbank Vice Mayor Jess Talamantes, also stopped by, also extending his welcome to the new Caffeine 2306 owner, and greet a few residents and visitors stopping by for a free coffee, provided by the Burbank Police.

Caffeine 2306 is not only a coffee shop, but also a cooperative shared workspace, offering shared and temporary working space, desks, and meeting rooms for entrepreneurs and others needing a low-cost place to work.  The coffee is great, the working spaces ready to support generating some creative ideas, and the owners happy to be of service.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Coffee with a Cop is an international project which started in Hawthorne, CA, now stretching across the US and Canada, Europe and Australia, and even Africa, “bringing police officers and community members together, over coffee, to discuss issues and learn more about each other – one cup at a time.“

You can keep up to date on Coffee with a Cop and other Burbank Police community programs either at the Burbank Police Department’s webpage (www.burbankpd.org), or on social media.

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Burbank High Student Has Artwork Selected for Bob Hope Tower

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The high school student winners of the Burbank Bob Hope Airport 2016 Tower Banner Student Art Contest from Burbank, Glendale and Pasadena Unified School Districts presented their winning artwork at the March 7, 2016, Airport Authority meeting. The winners were chosen from 219 entries across all three districts. Joining them were their art teachers and district art coordinators, along with many of the students’ proud parents.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

This is the ninth year the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority has sponsored the contest for students of the respective Unified School Districts in Grades 9 – 12. Each year, the Airport chooses a different aviation theme for the contest. This year’s theme was “History of Aviation.” In 2015, the theme was “Great Moments in Flight.” In 2014, the theme was “Skies of Freedom.” In 2013, the theme was “The Sky’s the Limit,” and in 2012 and 2011, the artists illustrated “Cleared for Take Off” and “Up and Away.”

The Burbank Unified School District determined which submissions are its top three entries. The arts and culture commission from Burbank then consider the three entries and make the final award of the first place entries based on the judging criteria set forth in the Authority’s contest rules.

The winning artwork from each school district is enlarged to a size of 16 feet by 26 feet for an approximately three-month display on the Burbank Bob Hope Airport terminal tower, where it is seen by nearly a million travelers and airport visitors as they arrive and depart the Airport.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Since the contest’s inception nine years ago, $22,500 has been awarded to each school district in honor of the winning entries, with the stipulation that the award be used to help support and promote the districts’ education programs for the arts. This year, each district will receive another $3,000, bringing the total to $25,500 for each school district.

The winning entries displayed on the tower are rotated among Burbank, Glendale, and Pasadena. This year,

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Unified School District’s winning banner, created by 11th grader Taylor Castile from Burbank High School, Instructor: James Bentley, will be the first to be displayed on the tower, beginning June 2016.

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FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Ansel Adams

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image001(10)While most people are familiar with the famous photos of Ansel Adams (Yosemite, Half Dome, etc.)  Have you seen Ansel Adams pre-wartime Photos of Lockheed?

If not, today is your lucky Flashback Friday.

Ansel was on assignment for Fortune Magazine and also shot some photos of a co-workers son employed at Lockheed.

Click this link for all the photos.

Enjoy!

image002(7)

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Burbank Rolls to Victories in Track

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It was a numbers game when the Burbank High track team hosted Hoover and Pasadena highs in a double dual meet Thursday.

Burbank easily earned victories over both schools in both the boys’ and girls’ varsity competitions thanks to having significantly larger rosters.

The Burbank girls’ team won 114-9 over Hoover and 109-18 over Pasadena. Burbank won the boys’ varsity 129-5 over Pasadena and 124-11 over Hoover.

Junior Haleigh Cusumano won four events to lead the Burbank girls’ team. She won the 400 meters in an impressive 59.06 seconds. She also took the 200 (26.34) and the long jump  (16-4 ½) and the high jump (4-6).

Candela Fernandez

Candela Fernandez

Senior Distance running star Candela Fernandez (pictured) won the 1,600 (5:37) and the 3,200 (11:26).

Junior Kira Bochard won the 300 intermediate hurdles (47.8) and the triple jump (32-5 ½).

Mikaela Teixeira won the 100 (13.5) and the pole vault (9-6).

For the boys’ team Noah Powell was a triple winner, taking the long jump (20-3 ½), triple jump (43-7 ½) and high jump (5-10).

Josh Cantong was very impressive in winning the 400 (49.9).

Adam Navar won the 1,600 (4:43) and the 800 (2:02).

Martin Swan took the 110 high hurdles (15.06) and the 300 intermediate hurdles (40.6).

Mitchell Aslo won the shot put (40-11) and the discus (140-2).

Burbank Girls Varsity

1,600
1. Fernandez (5:37)
2. Collins (5:57)

100 Hurdles
1. Petrosyan (19.5)
2. La France (19.77)

400
1. Cusumano (59.06)
2. Bochard (1:00.13)

100
1. Teixeira (13.5)
2. Pinheiro (14.45)

800
2. Giammichele (2:40)
3. Chua (2:44)
4. Apreza (2:57)

300 Hurdles
1. Bochard (47.8)

200
1. Cusumano (26.34)
2. Teixeira (27.78)

3,200
1. Fernandez (11:26)
2. Collins (12:42)
3. Danao (13:53)

4 x 400
1. Burbank (4:47)

High Jump
1. Cusumano (4-6)

Pole Vault
1. Teixeira (9-6)
2. Castresana (6-0)

Long Jump
1. Cusumano (16-4 1/2)
4. Castresana (13-0)

Triple Jump
1. Bochard (32-5 1/2)
2. Castresana (24- 1/2)

Shot Put
1. Pinheiro (29-8)
2. Bishop (28-4 3/4)

Discus
1. Di Giovanni (78-5)
2. Bishop (77-0)
3. Pinheiro (70-9)

Boys Varsity 

4 x 100
1. Burbank (43.87)

1,600
1. Navar (4:43)
2. Flores (4:55)

110 Hurdles
1. Swan (15.06)
2. Velasquez (16.19)
3. Thompson (17.1)

400
1. Cantong (49.9)
2. Hospidales (53.02)

100
1. Swan (11.0)
3. Hopson (11.41)

800
1. Navar (2:02)
2. Elzaiat (2:05)

300 Hurdles
1. Swan (40.6)
2. Velasquez (44.08)

200
1. Hopson (23.3)
2. Hospidales (23.17) ran second heat. must run first heat for win.

3,200
1. Parrott (10:21)
2. Flores (10:26)

4 x 400
1. Burbank (3:42)

High Jump
1. Powell (5-10)
3. Austin (5-2)

Pole Vault
1. Papoyan (11-6)
2. Poladian (11-0)

Long Jump
1. Powell (20-3 1/2)
2. Poladian (19-4 1/2)
4. Papoyan (18-10 3/4)

Triple Jump
1. Powell (43-7 1/2)
2. Papoyan (42-5 1/2)
3. Araradian (38-4 1/4)

Shot Put
1. Aslo (40-11)
2. Abrhamian (37-5)
4. Razavi (32-5)

Discus
1. Aslo (140-2)
2. Hovanessian (119-6)
3. Abrahamian (115-9)

 

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Burbank Police Foundation Hosts 2nd Annual Awards Luncheon

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The Burbank Police Foundation hosted the 2nd Annual Burbank Police Awards Luncheon on Thursday morning at the Pickwick Gardens, honoring police officers, civilian employees, volunteers, and citizens for their “exemplary efforts” in serving our community.

BPD Foundation Awards-6

Michael Hastings President Burbank Police Foundation.

Michael Hastings, President of the Burbank Police Foundation, provided a background for the importance of a close relationship between the community and law enforcement, while painting a broad picture of the personal commitment of the police department in keeping the community safe, and an attractive location for both business and living.

One area resident who participated in the event, Fred Herrman, recently moved to town from the South Bay, and noted that Burbank “is a good place to live, with great police, and a lot to do.” He donates to the Police Foundation every year, because “he really appreciates the job they (BPD) does in keeping this a safe place to live.”

The awards highlighted the courage, commitment, innovative ideas, and citizen contributions to the community. Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse noted that in the words of Albert Schweitzer, “the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.”

BPD Foundation Awards-7

Police Star Awards L/R Cameron Brown, Cody Roberts, Det. Todd Burke.

July 2015. Officer Todd Burke and Detective Cody Roberts arrived on scene and saw a house that was completely overtaken by smoke. Hearing voices, they immediately went into action, crawling into the house on their stomachs, guiding 3 persons out, including a 90 year old woman. All would have certainly perished had both officers not set personal safety aside, putting the lives of others above their own.

For their bravery and selfless actions, placing the safety of our citizens above their own, officers Burke and Roberts were awarded the Police Star.

BPD Foundation Awards-2

Chief Scott LaChasse and MC Jim Roope.

Jim Roope, a local media personality, provided great narratives behind each award, putting the bravery and accomplishments of each awardee into a very human perspective.

In January 2015, Officer Cameron Brown responded to a house fire near the 7100 block of Landis. Officer Brown learned there may be an elderly woman in the house, and he immediately raced in the burning home to investigate. He found the woman, and quickly brought her to safety.

For his bravery in entering the burning home, with the intent to save a human life, Officer Brown was awarded the Police Star.

Other awards provided a view into the difficulty officers have in dealing with painful, yet very human situations, such as child abuse.

In October 2012, Sergeant Celia Hawver was investigating the tragic death of a 5 week old baby. Suspecting potential child abuse, Sgt. Hawver was determined to bring justice to this poor soul’s life, and death. Using excellent interrogation technique, she was able to bring the baby’s father to confess to the crime, and closure to the tragedy.

BPD Foundation Awards-5

Burbank Command Staff with Professional Esteem Award Recipient Celia Hawver.

For her commitment to bring justice this helpless, lost soul, Sgt. Hawver was awarded a Professional Esteem Award.

Other categories of awards highlighted the actions of citizens, such as the Caamal family, who went nose to nose with a home invasion suspect armed with an assault rifle. Or the police department’s citizen volunteers, including John Kemmerer, who has devoted thousands of hours to the department, or civilian employees of the department, including Crime Analyst Michelle Larson who is well known for her work with crime analytics and statistics, and developing a comprehensive departmental online training system.

Chief LaChasse emphasized that “each award recipient shares a common attribute – selflessness” and a desire to serve their communities.BPD Foundation Awards-3

You can learn more about the Burbank Police Foundation at their website (burbankpolicefoundation.org).


The complete list of awards for 2015 included:

POLICE STAR AWARD – For Bravery and Heroism in the Line of Duty

  • Officer Cameron Brown
  • Officer Cody Roberts
  • Detective Todd Burke

PROFESSIONAL ESTEEM AWARD – For Extraordinary Efforts Earning the Esteem of Your Colleagues and the Community

  • Sergeant Celia Hawver
  • Lieutenant JJ Puglisi
  • Sergeant Sean Kelley
  • Sergeant Stephen Turner
  • Sergeant Aaron Kendrick

OFFICERS OF THE YEAR – For Your Selfless Service to the Community

  • Officer Joshua Kendrick
  • Officer (Sgt) Cindy Guillen
  • Detective Adam Baumgarten

OUTSTANDING INVESTIGATIVE EFFORT

  • Sergeant Brian Gordon
  • Sergeant Mitch Ross
  • Sergeant Stephen Turner
  • Detective Adam Baumgarten
  • Detective Todd Burke
  • Detective Jamal Childs
  • Detective Neil Gunn
  • Detective Brittany Henneberque
  • Detective Marsha Laufer
  • Detective Kenneth Schiffner
  • Traffic Engineer Richard Lockyer
  • Crime Analyst Jessica Statland

LIFE-SAVING ASSISTANCE

  • DetectivE Steve Karagiosian

CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR – For Your Selfless Service to the Community

  • Crime Analyst Michelle Larson

CITIZEN AWARD – For Your Selfless Service to the Community

  • Dexter Johnson
  • Michael van Leeuwen
  • Edwin Mirzabeigi
  • Brennan Maxwell
  • Leo Anicua
  • Joe and Diana Caamal
  • Wendy Bentkowski
  • Mike McAndrews
  • Angela Ortiz

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR – For Your Selfless Service to the Community

  • John Kemmerer

 

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Burbank Police Arrest Three Burglary Suspects

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On Wednesday, March 10, at about 9:35pm, a resident in the 2500 block of N. Reese Place called the Burbank Police Department to report a suspicious person ringing her doorbell. Since the resident wasn’t expecting anyone at the late hour, she became concerned and called the Burbank Police.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Officers responded and found the resident’s side gate ajar. They did not find anyone around the property. However, the officers noticed an occupied vehicle parked on the street nearby. Officers attempted to make contact with two males inside the car. One fled on foot and one was detained. Officers noticed jewelry and a police radio scanner in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. In addition, the officers noticed the car license plates were covered with dealer style paper plates.

Assisting officers converged on the area and established a perimeter around the neighborhood. One of our K9 teams and the Pasadena Police Department helicopter also responded to assist.

Burbank Police Officer John Embleton and partner Steevo. (Photo by Ross A.Benson)

(Photo by Ross A.Benson)

Based on the information the officers collected, they believed the individuals were involved in burglary activity. The helicopter Tactical Flight Officer (TFO), circling above the area, advised the ground officers he believed two people were hiding in a backyard. A group of officers, including a K9 team, located two people in the backyard. Both suspects tried to escape. One was immediately apprehended by the dog and detained. The other was eventually captured in a nearby yard. He chose to give himself up after seeing the dog was about to be used to apprehend him as well.

Investigators have since determined the suspects were in possession of property stolen from two residential burglaries in the City of Glendale earlier in the day. In addition, a glove found at the scene of one of the Glendale burglaries matched a glove found in the suspects’ car.

The alleged suspects have been identified as 19 year-old Christopher Bonds, 19 year-old Ryan DeVaughn Joseph both from Los Angeles and a 17 year-old juvenile from Inglewood. The adults are being held in-lieu of $100,000 and $52,182 bond respectively. The juvenile, who was bitten on the arm and shoulder by the police K9, was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and cleared for booking.

The case against the adult suspects was presented to the LA County District Attorney’s Office earlier today. Bonds and Joseph were charged with two counts of residential burglary (Glendale) and one count of attempt residential burglary (Burbank). They are due to appear in court Friday morning. The juvenile, who is on probation for residential burglary and possession of a firearm, is being detained in juvenile hall. His case will be reviewed for filing consideration by the district attorney early next week.

Burbank Police want to remind citizens if you see something suspicious call the police department and let them investigate the situation, such as this Burbank Trident did.

The post Burbank Police Arrest Three Burglary Suspects appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burger Review: Forman’s

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OK, I know it is not technically in Burbank, but sometimes you have to push the envelope in the burger business and in all honesty, I have heard some outstanding recommendations about Forman’s in Toluca Lake – about a tenth of a mile out of Burbank.

(Photo By Lisa Paredes)

(Photo By Lisa Paredes)

To start with, you are in L.A. and you know what that means – parking problems.  There is some  street parking (good luck with that) and in the rear are all those weasels who want to charge you money to park. I do believe however, that Forman’s validates parking although I was lucky enough to find parking on….wait for it….Forman!

When you enter the atmosphere is friendly and you are greeted. They request that you order any food at the bar although they do bring it to you and also handle refills.

I knew that myBurbank had been here before for a restaurant review months ago but I did not read that in advance as to not form any opinions.

After checking out the menu, I went with the

Tavern Burger which consisted of jack cheese, avocado, arugula, tomato, red onion and honey mustard. You know I had to make a couple of changes like replacing the jack chesse with cheddar and although I prefer thousand island, I stayed with the honey mustard to try something new.  I did however, had the arugula removed. There is no way that I want leaves, bushes, and anything else arugula has to offer. Give me iceberg lettuce any day of the week.

Formans 1The price of the burger is a little steep ($14) but they did state that they used their own proprietary blend and was house ground daily, cooked on a wood grill and served on a potato bun. I wondered how you could cook on a wood grill when there was fire below it without it catching on fire, but that is a thought process for a different day.

Once the burger came it looked amazing.

The bun looked at first like it might be a little overbearing, but the meat just looked juicy and the cheddar cheese was prominent. The bun also had a nice toast to it and they decided to put the onion between the patty and the bun so the bun would not get soggy and self-destruct quickly. See, I do pay attention top the smaller details.

One bite in and that was it. This thing had a GREAT taste. Whatever the blend they use for the patty is, they nailed it.  I can always tell how much I like a burger by the amount that I need to drink while eating it.  I never touched that straw once until I was done.

Formans 2The cheese also had a great taste which I got on every bite and the avocado also contributed to the overall taste. Yes, it’s $14, but I really felt as though I got my money’s worth.

Side Notes: Also ordered the fries – well done of course – and they were actually nice and crispy. They were hand made fries that had some nice seasoning with them. They also came with a ketchup container. There was no cole slaw (damn it) on the menu – just wished there was because if they could do that with a burger, what could they have done with cole slaw!

Forman’s is located at 10149 Riverside Drive in Toluca Lake – right near Forman Avenue.
818 760-6900. Open daily 12 noon to 1 am

Forman’s receives: Tops in Town

myBurbank Ratings:
Tops In Town (Outstanding)
On The Marquee (Really Good)
Could Use A Rewrite (Average or Slightly Below)
Don’t Quit Your Day Job (Poor)

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