Joseph Lupercio, a 25-year-old man from Sylmar has entered a no-contest plea and was found guilty in a car-to-car shooting which took place in Burbank back in February of 2016.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

On the night of February 8, 2016, Burbank Police Officers found a male suffering from a gunshot wound in the 1600 block of Grismer Avenue. The investigation led officers to the Burbank Boulevard overpass, where it was discovered that a car-to-car shooting had taken place, resulting in the victim being shot.

Burbank Police Detectives soon identified Lupercio as the shooter. The vehicle used in the shooting was located in the city of Sylmar, and Lupercio was later taken into custody during the service of a search warrant.

In a news release issued by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office on February 11, 2016, it was alleged that Lupercio was a passenger in a vehicle being driven by his girlfriend when he allegedly shot at another vehicle where her ex-boyfriend was a passenger. The driver of that vehicle was the one injured, but not the ex-boyfriend, prosecutors added.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Lupercio was charged with one count each of attempted murder, shooting at an occupied motor vehicle and assault with a firearm.

On March 22, 2017, Lupercio pled no-contest in a Pasadena courtroom and was found guilty for shooting at an occupied vehicle, which included an enhancement for personally and intentionally discharging a firearm during the commission of a felony. He was sentenced to 27 years in prison.

The male who was shot survived the attack.

The post Man Charged with 27 Years In Prison for Burbank Car to Car Shooting appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Flanking a life-size cardboard cutout of Queen Elizabeth are Burbank royalty President Julie McArdle, left, and Event Director Kathleen Marsden during the Providence St. Joseph Medical Center Guild’s “Passport to London” fashion show luncheon. (Photos by Joyce Rudolph)

Providence St. Joseph Medical Center Guild provided guests the next best thing to traveling abroad during their luncheon fashion show on Saturday at the Sheraton Universal Grand Ballroom.

Reservations Chair Grace Mylroie Patz greets master of ceremonies George Pennacchio, entertainment reporter for ABC 7 Eyewitness News.

In her welcome to “Passport to London”, President Julie McArdle pointed out that the benefits of taking a virtual trip are no security lines, no packing and no jet lag.

What the more than 350 guests did enjoy was perusing several boutique vendors offering colorful cruise wear, jewelry and handbags, bidding on the silent auction and posing for souvenir photos.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Cusumano Family Neuroscience Outpatient Center at the medical center.

The main tour guide was Director Kathleen Marsden who was assisted by Co-Director Maureen Walsh and Advisor Donna Mahoney. Serving on the committee were Marian Enos, Karen Barragan, Kristen Reiter, Judy McDowell, Jill Allen, Erika Mayer, Rhoberta Kerr, Pamela Shriftman, Patricia Scully, Patricia Cimo, Sharon Reid, Gabrielle Cochran, Terry Campbell, Dee Call, Lucy Brown, Maria Balke, Ollie Vick and Lori Riela.

The queen of reservations Grace Mylroie Patz, a lovely 103 years young and wearing a gold crown, made sure everyone had a good seat, including master of ceremonies George Pennacchio, entertainment reporter for ABC Channel 7 Eyewitness News.

Providence St. Joseph Medical Center Interim Chief Executive Officer Kerry Carmody escorts a model down the runway with help from Romeo, a fluffy white Great Pyrenees.

Celebrity models were executives, Interim Chief Executive Officer Kerry Carmody and Chief Financial Officer Glenn Bales, and physicians Raul Mena, David Sato, Stephen Kishineff, Daniel Eisenberg, Stuart Steinberg, George Orloff and Christopher Lee. Wearing dark glasses each took a turn down the runway while the James Bond theme played.

Carmody had the honor of strolling with Romeo, an 8-year-old, fluffy white Great Pyrenees owned by Providence nurse Ann Valladares.

Couture Productions’ Fashion Director Lucinda Miedema combined a show of fashions from Lourdes Chavez Couture Collection. Several vibrant styles were also seen from IC Collection, represented by Marti Klarins. Ballroom dance entertainers Natalia Lind and Michael Kuka opened and closed the show with a romantic routine of graceful turns and lifts.

Organizers kept to the royal theme in titling the four major prizes the Crown Jewels. Grand prize — a Laguna vacation — went to Rae Flynn. A dinner for 10 at Los Angeles Fire Department Station #27 went to Connie Lawless. Pam Shriftman will be dining out for several evenings on restaurant gift cards and Jana Yost has a shopping spree in her future.

Lunch began with the hotel’s signature Tomato Basil Soup topped with puff pastry. Statler Breast of Chicken, roasted fingerling potatoes and zucchini and carrot sticks were followed by a lemon tart.

The post Fundraiser is a Real ‘Virtual Trip’ appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Since the 1970’s, pioneers of California health food and Vegenaise, the owners of Follow Your Heart market and restaurant, have served vegetarian and vegan food from their San Fernando Valley location in Canoga Park.

When one is looking for a healthy and hearty breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner in Canoga Park, Follow Your Heart rates as one of the top options in town. There is no meat to be found on the menu, and the dishes prove meat is not necessary for a filling and tasty meal.

Tofu Rancheros at Follow Your Heart in Canoga Park are delicious and healthy.(Photo By Lisa Paredes)

We get out to Canoga Park every now and then, and Follow Your Heart, with its colorful market, cozy restaurant and patio and very friendly staff, always rates a visit.

Recently, we enjoyed some Tofu Rancheros ($11.50) – organic corn tortillas covered with tofu sauteed with diced tomatoes and herbs are topped with jack and cheddar cheese and served with black beans, organic Spanish rice, a to-die-for guacamole and sour cream.

The tofu was excellent and we did not miss the eggs usually found in huevos rancheros. Vegan options are available, too.

Follow Your Heart’s The Deli Plate brings out the best in bagels, cream cheese and alfalfa sprouts. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The other big plate we dug into – the Deli Plate – included a toasted bagel with cream cheese (vegan cream cheese is available), sliced tomato, fresh alfalfa sprouts, lettuce and red onion. I added half a sliced avocado, to bring the plate’s total price to $8.50.

Both plates were hefty and very filling. Perhaps we should have ordered a half plate of the Tofu Rancheros for $7.75. Food came out from the kitchen quickly and service was attentive and knowledgeable.

Follow Your Heart’s The Deli Plate shows alfalfa sprouts how to have a little fun at breakfast. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Bathrooms were clean and accessible. The market at Follow Your Heart includes a wide selection of health food staples, in addition to books and jewelry, incense, clothing and more. Check out the gallery of photos of Follow Your Heart’s history lining the walls and the yoga/mindfulness class schedule.

More information on Follow Your Heart and their menu can be found on their website. Brunch can get a little busy, but usually the wait is not too long on the weekends. Friendly, natural and focused on healthy foods, Follow Your Heart is quintessential California.

Editor’s Note: While there’s always a lot going on in Burbank, myBurbank’s “Get Out Of Town!” highlights some of our favorite activities and events outside the town borders.

The post Get Out Of Town!: Follow Your Heart appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burroughs High boys’ water polo team was honored by the Burbank City Council Tuesday evening for winning the CIF Southern Section Division 5 title in November when the Indians defeated San Juan Hills 12-7.

This comes after the team was honored last month with an on-campus lunchtime ceremony, in which the players were able to show off their CIF championship rings.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Mayor Jess Talamantes presented the team with a certificate of recognition.

“I know it is a long road. I was never part of a CIF championship team, but we always strived at the beginning of the season, whatever sport you were playing for, you always strive to be the champion,” Talamantes, a former Burroughs student-athlete said. “With one senior leaving, everyone is coming back. We’ll see you again.”

CIF Southern Section Division 5 Player of the Year David Arakelyan talked about the honor.

“It’s great to get recognized by the city. It’s great to be part of this team and to accomplish something as good as winning CIF,” Arakelyan said. “It’s a great feeling for all of us to be here for one another.”

Burroughs coach Jacob Cook also spoke of his team’s success.

“This was the first CIF championship for our program and second in the school’s 68-year history,” It was a huge deal for us. I’m really proud of these guys.”

Burroughs Princiapl Deborah Madrigal was also on hand for the celebration.

“These boys did an amazing job and their team spirit and how they represented our school (was great),” she said. “We’re all very proud of them and know they’ll keep doing great things.”

The post Burroughs Boys’ Water Polo Team Honored at School, by City Council appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

On three occasions, the Burroughs High softball team loaded the bases without scoring and in the eighth inning had the tying run at third base and the winning run at second and also failed to score.

Too many opportunities without locating home plate resulted in a 5-4 setback in eight innings to Crescenta Valley in a Pacific League contest on Tuesday at Olive Park.

Presley Miraglia, shown in a CIF Southern Section playoff game, took the 5-4 loss to Crescenta Valley on Tuesday. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Each team entered the fray without a loss in league play, but the Falcons were able to score with timely hitting.

“They don’t fully understand that when they’re ahead in the count that they need to make something happen,” Burroughs coach Wes Tanigawa said. “They need to seize the moment.”

Tanigawa, the first-year skipper, went on: “We don’t have to hit home runs,” he noted. “Just drop the ball in the holes. That’s all we need to do.”

The Falcons (9-5-1 and 3-0 in league) plated the winning run off junior pitcher Presley Miraglia, who allowed a one-out double to left field by senior Jessica Yzaguirre (four hits including a double) and a two-out, run-producing single to sophomore Viviana Bocanegra.

In the bottom half of the final frame, sophomore Mia Storer collected a base hit to right field and advanced to second base on a wild pitch.

Junior Jessica Amaya (two singles) reached on a fielder’s choice as Storer moved to third base, but senior Amanda Flores fouled out to first base to end the threat.

Miraglia and senior third baseman Brianna Johnson are team leaders, but the pair couldn’t stop the Falcons. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“With our hitting, sometimes we struggle a lot,” Tanigawa said. “I tell them that they’re softball players. They know what to do.”

The Indians (9-7 and 2-1 in league) fell behind 1-0 in the first inning off Miraglia, who went the distance while allowing seven hits with six strikeouts and no walks.

With one out, Yzaguirre singled to left field and scurried to third base on an error when sophomore Peyton Hause laid down a sacrifice bunt and then scored on Bocanegra’s grounder.

Crescenta Valley’s advantage became 4-0 in the third inning when Yzaguirre delivered a two-run single to center field that scored sophomore Ryan Eldred, who led off with a walk and sophomore Alyssa Hernandez, who doubled to left center.

It became 4-0 on Bocanegra’s base hit to right center as Yzaguirre crossed the plate.

The Indians finally scored off junior hurler Emily Mulcahey in the third inning when junior Nikki Ricciardella tripled to center field to lead off the frame and came around on a grounder from sophomore Kaitlin Escamilla.

Junior Hannah Talavera also singled to left field, took second base on a base hit from senior Lauren Lopez and moved to third when senior Brianna Johnson was hit by a pitch.

However, Miraglia then bounced into a force out and Storer flied out to center field.

Mulcahey also went eight innings, surrendering 10 hits with four strikeouts and three walks along with five hit batters.

Burroughs sent seven batters to the plate in the sixth inning and cut the lead to 4-2 as Lopez’s single to left field drove in Escamilla, who doubled to left field with one out and then stole third base.

A two-run seventh inning pushed the match into extra innings as Talavera’s double to left field scored Ricciardella, who reached on a force out and Escamilla, who was safe on an infield hit.

Miraglia worked a perfect second, fourth, sixth and seventh inning and had a stretch where she retired nine straight batters until Yzaguirre’s double to left in the eighth inning.

“Sometimes I think that she feels the pressure of having to win the game all by herself,” Tanigawa said of his ace hurler. “She doesn’t, but I think that she feels that she does.”

The post Burroughs Softball Loses To Crescenta Valley In Eight Innings, 5-4 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

When the Burbank High boys’ volleyball team took the floor to face Crescenta Valley in a Pacific League encounter on Wednesday, the squad had to feel extremely confident.

This notion was well-founded as the Bulldogs forced a fifth and deciding set after falling behind two sets to one.

Burbank’s Adrian Rivera goes up for a kill while Crescenta Valley’s Anders Johnson tries to block the shot. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

A rally wasn’t in the cards despite playing with skill and determination, losing to the visiting Falcons, 21-25, 25-13, 25-20, 17-25, 15-11.

The star was senior middle hitter Anders Johnson, who finished with 15 kills along with six blocks for the Falcons (14-2-2 and 2-0 in league).

Teammate and senior setter Eugene Shin contributed 44 assists and senior setter Gene Kim added 23 assists with seven digs.

Meanwhile, senior opposite hitter Adrian Rivera had a tremendous outing, but even with his talent, the Bulldogs (13-8 and 1-1 in league) came up just short.

“I really think that we were ready to play and

The Falcons’ Ben Allen (#9) goes for a winner at the net. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

even though we lost, we’re going to get them the next time,” Rivera said. “We expected to come out on top.”

Rivera added: “We were getting in their heads. We’re going to work harder.”

The fifth set began with the Bulldogs forging ahead 2-0 on a kill from junior middle blocker Rory Rickey.

It was even at 3-3 on a winner from Falcon senior outside hitter Ben Allen (eight kills).

Slowly Crescenta Valley moved ahead 10-6 on a block from Johnson, but the Bulldogs came within 12-10 on Rickey’s winner only to see the Falcons score three of the final four points, including the clincher from senior middle hitter Brett Dunkin (seven kills).

Fierce net play helped determine Wednesday’s Pacific League match between Burbank and Crescenta Valley. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“This was a pretty darn close match,” Crescenta Valley coach John Nelson said. “It came down to four points.”

Nelson continued: “We showed character and mental toughness. It’s hard to rattle them. We knew what was coming. We had some inconsistency, but we’re getting better. I told them, we can do this, we’re good,” he said.

The fourth set was tied 1-1, 2-2 and 3-3 until Burbank moved in front 7-3 on Rivera’s service ace.

The Falcons even it at 8-8 on Johnson’s smash, but a 7-3 explosion by the Bulldogs saw them dash ahead 15-11 on junior libero Edward Curren’s tapper.

The crowd was on its feet and the noise level rose significantly after Burbank freshman defensive specialist Vincent Vang’s block gave the hosts a 20-13 advantage.

The Bulldogs and Falcons were defensive-minded as Brett Dunkin (#15) and Spencer Lunt (#4) show off their skill. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The set was made official after an emphatic winner from Rivera that even the match at two sets apiece.

The third set was controlled by the Bulldogs in the early stages as they took a 6-3 edge on sophomore middle blocker Luca Bily’s stuff.

Crescenta Valley rallied and even it at 11-11 when Rickey’s attempt found the net and it became 13-13 on Allen’s rocket.

The Falcons took control 19-17 on junior outside hitter Matthew Gardner’s kill and closed it out with a 6-3 spurt that was capped off on Allen’s kill.

Burbank’s Jonathan Valmonte (#10) readies himself while Vincent Vang sets play. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank led 4-0 in the second set on a tapper from Rivera, but the Falcons went on an 8-4 run and evened it at 8-8 on Johnson’s kill.

Another Falcon run followed, this time 8-1 as Crescenta Valley led 16-9 on Kim’s winner.

Crescenta Valley leveled it at a set apiece after a 9-4 burst that was finalized on Johnson’s stuff.

Burbank was sharp in the initial set and skirted ahead 8-3 on a winner from junior middle blocker Jonathan Valmonte.

The lead was extended to 14-10 on Rivera’s kill and it became 18-15 on a Valmonte’s bullet.

The Bulldogs moved in front 21-17 on senior setter Jonathan Tapan’s dagger and then closed out the set on Rivera’s winner.

The post Burbank Boys Volleyball Falls In Five Sets To Crescenta Valley appeared first on myBurbank.com.

One of the most interesting Burbank stories of WWII is the complete covering of the Lockheed Aircraft Factory.

Imagine the entire Empire shopping center covered in chicken wire with painted feathers to look like alfalfa fields. But The Empire center was only a part of the total factory that was covered.

To add to the illusion were Cardboard houses, roads and laundry lines that Lockheed employees had to climb up and change the clothes each day to keep up the illusion!

Huge poles were embedded in the ground to support the mesh and the covering had to be maintained on a regular basis especially if it got wet. On occasion when big rain storms came to town the feathers would come loose and fall to the areas below the mesh.

Many a Lockheed employee came to their car after their shift only to find it covered In wet painted chicken feathers.

It is a great tribute to the creative individuals who designed and created such a convincing camouflage that from the altitude of an airplane you could not tell that there was a factory below.

Just Farms!

NOW AVAILABLE!!

Get your Copy of Lost Burbank Now!
Slowly fading with the city’s ever-changing landscape, the places and people of Burbank’s past tell a vibrant story. Before the arrival of Warner Bros. and Walt Disney, First National Pictures built its original studio lot on Olive Ave in 1926. For over sixty years, Lockheed Aircraft Company produced some of the nation’s best airplanes where the massive Empire Shopping Center now stands. Heavyweight champion James Jeffries turned his Burbank ranch home and barn into a beloved landmark and boxing venue. Inventor Joseph Wesley Fawkes’s scheme to build a monorail to Los Angeles became a local laughingstock. Diehard Burbankers Wes Clark and Michael Mc Daniel collect these and many more forgotten local stories where they can finally be found.

The post FLASHBACK FRIDAY: No Factory Here, Just Farms! appeared first on myBurbank.com.

I grew up with comedy and I am so sick of seeing comedies being anything but funny. The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) that is playing now at the Falcon Theatre is not only funny, it is a hysterical, hilarious and it made me laugh my tush off. My abs still hurt from laughing so hard.

The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) stars Zehra Fazal, Marc Ginsburg, and Mark Jacobson and they tell the story of the Chinese book called the Art of Comedy. There are 13 chapters in the book, but the final one is missing. Therefore, we get 12 chapters of hilarity.

You know you just strapped in for a major laugh ride from the very second the lights go down. That is when the three stars come out dressed like Cavemen and one of them gives birth to an unlimited supply of babies. During our performance, there was an improvised moment between an audience member and the three leads that proves these actors have the comedy chops to pull of this show.

Now it is time for the three actors to tell us its premise and begin with one of the oldest jokes. Why did the chicken cross the road? Then they take that the joke and tell it in different styles throughout the ages like Greek Philosophy, Shakespearean, Mime, Vaudville and more. A funny is joke made funnier with the different interpenetrations.

As we all know, not everyone has a funny bone. There are a lot of unfunny people out there and they show us some of them are including mimes. I know they want us to believe that they cannot make us laugh, but they do not succeed. Mimes are funny!

Next up, they tackle politically incorrect issues like Stereotypes, Religion, Politics and Languages. Warning, you might get offended by what they say here, but they do not really say anything offensive. I am still telling some of the jokes that they told in this chapter. That is what comedy is all about anyways.

Before they close out the first act, they take the work of Chekov and tell his stories with famous catchphrases from popular TV sitcoms like All In the Family and Good Times. But it is the final scene that is a work of pure genius. They act out a Charlie Chaplin like chase scene from the Silent Movie era with a strobe lighting. They get a standing ovation for that and everything they did leading up it.

After a quick break from hysterics, it is time for the curtain to go up for the second act. We start it off with a fast talking con man, famous duos like Abbott & Costello and Laurel & Hardy, and a Tiny Tim song. Next up is a Carrot Top like shtick where the two doctors take items out of a man’s stomach they are operating on. Lots of slapstick humor, which leads to them, doing an improvised bit with two audience members. One that can either go off well or fall flat on its face and of course they nailed it. Thankfully, the audience members had a good sense of humor and helped to make bit a successful one.

During this time we are living in, we can’t avoid political humor. Yes, there are jokes about our current president. Once they made fun of him and the schmucks who came before him, they go off on the Supreme Court. Or should I say Supremes Court because they do an Avenue Q type song number with songs from The Supremes and they have puppets representing the other 6 members of SCOTUS.

And now it is time for the final scene and the newly discovered 13th chapter of the book. They send in the clowns literally to tell it, Rambozo the Clown. He has a lesson for them and all of us. One we should all listen to because it is something we need to follow.

But more importantly we all need to go see The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) at the Falcon Theatre before it closes on April 23rd. They say laughing is the best medicine and I have not been sick since I have seen it.

Seriously, I can’t remember loving a play as much as I loved this one. I laughed until hurt and so did everyone else in the audience. This is the type of play I want to see carry on for ages because everyone should know The Complete History of Comedy (abridged).

I also think the actors of this production need to be the ones to take it on tour and make people all over the World smile. Zehra Fazal, Marc Ginsburg, and Mark Jacobson worked so well off of each other, I can’t see anyone else playing their roles as well as they did.

And now comes a little bittersweet news. This production was Garry Marshall’s final selection for his theater before he passed away last year. This season is going out, the same way he lived his life, bringing joy to others. Not only is it his final selection, it is also the last production at the Falcon Theatre. Don’t worry it is not closing down, it is getting renamed after the man who founded it. Starting next season, it will be renamed The Garry Marshall Theatre. A fitting tribute to man who made this world a better place for over four decades and counting.

Tickets for The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) are available for performances Tuesday-Saturdays nights and Sunday afternoons, now until April 23rd, at the Falcon Theatre website and the Box Office located 4252 Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91505. For questions, call (818) 955-8101.

The post The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) Is a Laugh Out Loud Riot appeared first on myBurbank.com.

With seven consecutive Pacific League titles, the Burroughs High boys’ volleyball team doesn’t get pushed to the limit too often.
Friday night the Indians had to fight their way back from a deficit before holding off visiting Crescenta Valley 25-19, 21-25, 17-25, 25-12, 15-12.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

“I’m discovering as you get those, it keeps getting harder and harder to get the next one,” Burroughs coach Joel Brinton said. “I don’t know how Alabama (football) does it.”

Burroughs (7-6, 3-0 in league) started the match on fire, opening up a 7-0 lead. The Indians, which have won 46 consecutive league matches, cruised to a 25-19 win.

For as well as Burroughs played in the first game, the Indians were equally as bad in the second and third.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

“We’ve been stressing that we need to do our job. In game two and game three we were not doing our job,” Brinton said. “We kind of took deep breaths.”

In a close second game, Burroughs made a few errors down the stetch that ended up being costly. CV continued the momentum in the third game, rolling to a 25-17 win.

“I feel like we got away from playing Burroughs volleyball and we got away from the basics,” Burroughs’ Jarrett Malone said. “We panicked a little bit. As soon as we re-set, we all said we’re winning this in five.”
Burroughs was re-focused in the fourth and played like it did in the first game, breezing to a 25-12 win.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

That momentum carried over to the fifth and decided game. CV took an early 2-0 lead, but Burroughs fought back. Malone’s kill to make it 11-8 put the Falcons in a tough position. He finished with 17 kills to lead Burroughs.
CV fought hard to make things close, but Burroughs won the match when the Falcons inadvertently hit the ball out of play.
“It was the fastest five-set match I’ve ever been a part of,” Brinton said. “I think there was inconsistent play on both sides. They deserve credit for making us play poorly. I hope we deserve credit for affecting them. I hope next time it’s cleaner on both sides.”

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Conner Ludlum had 13 kills and five aces for Burroughs. Cole Kaitz had nine kills and Levi Benitez had 40 assists. Skyler Bercini had 19 digs.

The post Burroughs Boys Volleyball Rallies Past CV appeared first on myBurbank.com.

This morning, at about 4:20 AM, Burbank Police responded to the Magnolia Car Wash in the 900 block of West Magnolia Blvd. regarding a loud noise, possible explosion that was heard.

When the officers arrived, they found a stand-alone ATM Machine, located outside of the cashier’s office with significant damage to its outer shell. Closer inspection of the ATM machine suggested that some type of explosive may have been used in an apparent attempt to steal money, or steal the ATM itself.

Investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Arson/Explosives Detail responded to the scene and are assisting Burbank Police Detectives with the investigation.

The car wash was closed at the time of this incident and there were no injuries reported.

Burbank Police Detectives are currently investigating this matter. Anyone with information is asked to contact Burbank Police 818-238-3000.

No additional details are being released at this time.

The post Burbank Police Investigate Early Morning Explosion appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The 10th Annual Family Service Agency of Burbank’s (FSA) Care Walk was held April 1st at the beautifully renovated Johnny Carson Park. Approximately 350 participants walked the 5 K course around the park.

Participants included school teams, School Board Members, City Council Members, City Officials and numerous individuals of all ages enjoying a little physical fitness. After the walk, participants received a Care Walk tee shirt, a medal commemorating the event and a complimentary tasty breakfast provided by Command Performance Catering.

During the morning activities, walkers were entertained by Dr. John Whitener’s Jordan Jazz Band and the National Anthem was performed by student Elizabeth Kundibekian.

This year the honoree who received the Jeri Buliavac Award was long time community supporter, Ray Adams. Michael Hastings once again provided his talents as Master of Ceremonies and conducted numerous interviews with the participants. Ross Benson generously provided the public address system.

The Principal of John Burroughs’ High School, Deborah Madrigal, presented a generous $5,300 check to FSA’s Care Walk.

Sponsors included: the Hollywood Burbank Airport; Nickelodeon; Tony’s Darts Away; Burbank Water and Power; Ray and Bonnie Adams; Burrtec; Sunrise Rotary; Tom and Diana Wong; Community Chevrolet; Elise Sterns-Niesen; Burbank Town Center; Captain Audio; the Reinke Family; the Vitamin Shoppe; and Supervisor Kathryn Barger of L.A. County’s 5th District. Participants also were able to visit the exhibitor booths to obtain information and free gifts.

Numerous volunteers assisted with making this event a great success. In addition to numerous individuals, volunteer groups from Providence High School, the Charity League, the Youth Board, the Community Day School and the South Keyclub provided valuable service insuring that the event ran smoothly.

All the proceeds from this annual event go to help support the no-cost school on-site counseling programs, which last year served 2000 Burbank Unified School District students, providing 12,000 hours of mental health assistance. Laurie Bleick, Executive Director of FSA and the members of the Event Committee are very grateful for all of the support and participation this event received. A good time was had by all while supporting a great cause.

The post Tenth Annual Care Walk Returned to Johnny Carson Park This Year appeared first on myBurbank.com.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Police & Fire Departments Paramedics responded on April 7, 2017, at about 2:35 PM, to a traffic collision involving a bicyclist at the intersection of Empire Avenue and
Frederic Street.
The bicyclist, identified as 74-year-old Jin Soo Oh of Burbank, was riding eastbound on Empire
Avenue when he was struck by a vehicle making a right turn, westbound onto Empire from
Frederic Street.
Oh, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered a head injury and was transported to Los Angeles
County + USC Medical Center. He was pronounced dead a short time later.
The driver of the vehicle which struck Oh is not being identified publicly.

The driver was cooperative and remained at the scene to be interviewed by officers. Neither drugs nor alcohol
were a factor in this collision. The driver was not cited or arrested.
This collision remains under the investigation of Burbank Police Traffic Detectives.

Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact the Burbank Police Traffic Bureau, at (818)
238-3100.
Each year, thousands of bicyclists are involved in traffic collisions, with hundreds more resulting
in a fatality.

The Burbank Police Department would like to remind the public to always wear a
helmet while riding a bicycle and to remain vigilant at all times while on the road.

The post Burbank Resident Succumbs Following Bicycle Accident appeared first on myBurbank.com.

George Washington Elementary School is celebrating the achievement of second-grader Michael Levonyan, who took home the Best In Show trophy for his artwork at the 2017 Burbank Youth Art Expo on Friday, April 7.

Organized by the Burbank Park and Recreation Department, the annual Youth Art Expo attracted more than 1200 submissions this year from Burbank students in grades TK through 12. Grades 6-12 were recognized on April 6 and grades TK-5 were celebrated April 7 in ceremonies at Olive Park Recreation Center.

George Washington Elementary School second-grader Michael Levonyan with his artwork inspired by “The Scream.” (Photo Courtesy George Washington Elementary School.)

“The very exciting part… is that Michael Levonyan from our LEAP – Language Enrichment Autism Program- in Ms. Gal’s special day class, won!” exclaimed Washington Principal Brandi Young.

Levonyan’s mother and father, classroom teacher Debbie Gal, Principal Young and general education teacher Barbara Kim who taught him the art lesson at school attended the awards ceremony in support.

“We are very proud and excited as we mainstream for art, music, P.E., and academic areas, when it’s appropriate for the students,” commented Young. “During Washington’s Art Day, Michael had an opportunity to mainstream in a general education class, where they were given a direct instruction lesson on the artwork of Edvard Munch, ‘The Scream.'”

“Michael was very successful with this lesson as he does well with step by step instructions and a model to follow,” added Young.

Levonyan’s success, through his own work and creativity, is supported by the efforts of a team of Washington Elementary teachers and staff, who throughout the month of April are highlighting Autism Awareness Month at the school.

Selected artworks from the 2017 Burbank Youth Art Expo are featured in the Creative Arts Center gallery at Olive Park through April 20.

The post Washington Elementary Student Art Wins Best In Show appeared first on myBurbank.com.

George Washington Elementary School highlights autism awareness throughout the month of April with special events and in-class activities. On March 30, the Burbank Unified School District Board of Education passed a resolution recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month.

Washington Elementary has a specialized program called Language Enriched Autism Program (LEAP) serving students in grades TK through five. Chandra Collins, Katie Brown and Debbie Gal are the teachers of the special day classes.

“In order to help raise awareness and understanding among all students, we celebrate Autism Awareness Month school-wide,” explained Collins. “April second is World Autism Awareness Day.”

Riley Collins, Jizel Galstian, Daniel Kesian, Sergio Salinas, Kiris Dawkins-Holt, Chandra Collins. (Photo Courtesy Edith Chavez)

On April 3, the nearest school day to April 2, students, teachers and staff at Washington were encouraged to wear blue, the color of Autism Awareness, in support. The school held activities to further awareness and engagement.

Each student was given a paper puzzle piece and encouraged to decorate it blue or with a picture or a message representing friendship, understanding and compassion, said Collins.

(Photo Courtesy Chandra Collins)

For the month of April, Washington Elementary hallways are decorated with all of the student-created puzzle piece artwork. A poster contest was also held.

School-wide, teachers show educational videos to their students with the goal of helping typical students gain understanding of their fellow students with autism.

Riley Collins and Hailey Collins with their friend Kevin Georgelos, Jr. (Photo Courtesy Edith Chavez)

The LEAP program teachers also take photos and make videos showing how the general education students can be helpful and play with students with autism.

“The students are encouraged to ask questions about autism throughout the month and the entire school year,” added Collins.

“We feel that by being given information, our entire school community will learn to be more empathetic and can teach their own families and friends about autism.”

The school community recently celebrated second grade student Michael Levonyan’s Best In Show award at the 2017 Burbank Youth Art Expo. Levonyan’s artwork was created while he participated in a mainstreamed art class during Washington’s annual Art Day.

On April 14, award-winning children’s band Rhythm Child returns to Washington Elementary with an interactive concert, highlighting diversity and acceptance, for the entire school. The concert is supported by the Washington Elementary PTA.

The post Autism Awareness Month Highlighted At Washington Elementary appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

Burbank High pitcher Matt Lungaro is usually quite reliable and effective, but his control was slightly off in the first inning and it cost him against visiting Arcadia on Tuesday afternoon.

Lungaro gave up a three-run homer to right center by senior John Woo in the initial frame before settling down until the sixth inning when the senior right-hander surrendered three more runs and took an 8-1 setback to the Apaches in a Pacific League game.

Matt Lungaro struggled early but then settled down against Arcadia. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“That home run was really big,” Burbank coach Bob Hart said. “When you get down like that so early and you’re chasing runs, it makes it really hard. But we have another chance at them on Friday.”

Hart said the short fence contributed to the deficit.

“That’s a fly ball in most parks, but not here,” he pointed out. “But Matt was having a hard time keeping the ball down and it hurt him.”

Lungaro toured five and one-third innings, allowing six runs, 10 hits with four strikeouts, one walk and one hit batter.

“Those were stressful innings,” Hart said of Lungaro’s time on the mound. “But after that first inning, he settled down and did a really good job.”

After retiring sophomore Jacob Lopez on a grounder, Lungaro gave up a base hit to left field by sophomore Jeffrey Castillo.

Second baseman Jonathan Castaneda throws over to first base for the out in a 8-1 loss to the Apaches. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Lungaro then walked sophomore Dominick Tello before Woo’s blast over the short fence.

Junior Tyus Santa Anna (two doubles and a single) was then hit by a Lungaro offering, but struck out senior Jacob Sergi and junior James Nagaoka, both looking to end the frame.

The Bulldogs (8-6 and 4-1 in league) cut the lead to 3-1 with a run in the fourth inning when junior Abiezer Delgago singled to right center with one out and scored on a two-out infield base hit from senior Branden Phillips.

Lungaro faced five Arcadia batters in the sixth inning and allowed four hits with three runners scoring including a run-tallying hit by junior Chase Pedersen (three singles).

Burbank Coach Bob Hart gives instructions during Tuesday’s Pacific League game with Arcadia. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Two other runners crossed the plate when senior Chris Minnick gave up a double to left field by Castillo that made it a five-run margin.

When the Apaches (9-7 and 5-0 in league) dented the scoreboard for two runs in the seventh inning off senior Christian Guerra the cushion became seven runs.

In the frame, Nagaoka (two singles) and junior Eddie Presz both lined run-producing base hits to center field.

With one out in the bottom of the first inning, sophomore Davis Mieliwocki singled up the middle, but senior Henry Leake popped up and Delgado flied to right.

A two-out base hit to right field by Minnick in the sixth inning ended there when junior Matthew Shaugabay fanned on a called third strike.

Senior Jacob Kampen was the winning pitcher after working six innings, allowing four hits, fanning eight with two walks.

The post Burbank Baseball Trails Early, Loses 8-1 To Arcadia appeared first on myBurbank.com.

In what might be an upset, Sharon Springer has out polled incumbent Dr. David Gordon for a seat on the Burbank City Council. Current Councilman Bob Frutos was the top vote getter and will retain his seat.

Current Mayor Jess Talamantes was reelected in the primary election held in February as he received over 50% of the vote.

The initial results can be seen as an upset after the primary election which saw Gordon receive 4,799 votes compared to 3,914 votes for Springer.

City Clerk Zizette Mullins, who ran unopposed in the primary, will have to wait until Friday at noon when ballots mailed before the election will be counted to bring the final results. In the primary, there were close to 1,000 votes that had to be counted after the final day of the election.

Juan Guillen was also one of the finalists and placed fourth with 3,657 votes.

City Treasurer Debbie Kutka along with School Board members Steve Frintner and Char Tabet were also elected outright during the primary election.

Once the election is finalized, the newly elected officials for all seats will be sworn in during the annual May 1 meeting in the council chambers where a new Mayor for the year will be selected.

Even with the ballots that yet to be counted, there will be less than a 20% return rate with more than 65,000 voters eligible to cast votes in Burbank.

The post Frutos, Springer Have Lead in General Election Results appeared first on myBurbank.com.

With stars Alexander Hirsch and Emily Virtue taking the day off, Jagdeep Chahal took over as the leader of Burroughs High’s talented distance running group.

The junior set a personal best in one event and ran a fine time in another as the Indians defeated visiting Glendale High 104-32 in the boys’ varsity competition.

Glendale surprisingly won the girls competition, 69-51.

“For today, I wasn’t really concerned about the 1,600,” Chahal said. “I really wanted to PR (personal record) in the 800 because coach doesn’t put me in the 800 too often. (In the 1,600) I tried maintaining a kick for the last 400. I usually try to kick in the last 200.

Chahal won the 1,600 in 4 minutes, 29 seconds. He took the 800 in a lifetime best of 1:58.99.

In the boys’ competition, Burroughs also got a victory from Daniel Han in the 110 high hurdles (16.0).

Max Carrillo won the 300 hurdles (42.37) and the triple jump (39 feet, 1 inch).

Christian Valles won the pole vault at 14-0 and took the long jump (19-3).

Sammy Duran won the 200 in an impressive 22.62. Daniel Fendrich took the the 3,200 (10:25).

Azeal Estrada won the high jump (5-6).

Mike Dermendjian won the discus (116-9).

Burroughs also won the 400 (45.12) and 1,600 meter relays (3:40.25).

In the girls’ competition Burroughs got a victory from Heidi Eligio in the 1,600 (5:36) and the 800 (2:31).

Emma Bartram won the 200 (27.06) and Vanessa Reveles the 3,200 (13:14).

Elizabeth Switzer won the pole vault (9-0) and Nadime Younan the discus (95-0).

Burroughs will host Burbank High next week in its final regular season dual meet of the season.

The post Burroughs Track Earns Split With Glendale appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Arts For All Foundation holds its sixth annual gala, Party For The Arts, on Friday, April 21, at The Globe Theatre, located on the Universal Studios lot. This year’s event honors Jordan Middle School music teacher Christine DeMore, volunteer Brenda Burroughs and patron Woodbury University.

Every spring, the Foundation recognizes three pillars of support for arts education in Burbank public schools with the Patron of the Arts Award, the Arts For All Educator Award and the Champion of the Arts Award.

“Our Party for the Arts guests will enjoy a festive yet elegant evening celebrating with the Burbank community while feasting on fine food, hosted cocktails, music and dancing and many will leave with fantastic auction items,” commented Trena Pitchford, Executive Director for Burbank Arts For All Foundation.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation honors Jordan Middle School Vocal Music Director Christine DeMore as its 2017 Arts for All Educator Award. (Photo Courtesy Burbank Arts For All Foundation)

“But most importantly, they will leave knowing they have played an important role in ensuring Burbank’s students learn through creativity in their classrooms as they prepare for their futures. We guarantee a wonderful night out.”

Woodbury University has shared its substantial resources with the Burbank Arts For All Foundation and the Burbank Unified School District for many years, furthering the development of arts programs and opportunities for local public school students.

DeMore, as Vocal Music Director at Jordan, has helped build the confidence and musical knowledge of the sixth-, seventh- and eighth- graders who have passed through her program over the years.

“The impact that Christine DeMore has had on students in our district is profound and far-reaching,” commented Suzanne Weerts, member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Brenda Burroughs will receive the Champion of the Arts Award from the Burbank Arts For All Foundation. (Photo Courtesy Burbank Arts For All Foundation)

Burroughs’ years of volunteering in the community and with the Burbank Arts For All Foundation sets an exemplary standard as well.

Formerly called the Party On The Plaza, this year the Foundation’s annual gala has become the Party For The Arts.

In addition to hosted cocktails and dinner, live music and a silent auction of some very special trips and items, NBC Weathercaster Fritz Coleman returns to emcee the event.

Sponsorship and digital ad deadline for the event is Friday, April 14. A limited number of tickets are available for the event until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, or until the seats sell out.

For more information on the event, stop by the Burbank Arts For All website. Information on sponsorships, ads and tickets can be found on the Party For The Arts webpage here.

The post Party For The Arts Celebrates Burbank Arts Heroes appeared first on myBurbank.com.

In the early 1880’s with Burbank being divided into land parcels and dirt streets crisscrossing the new city, potential buyers needed a place to stay when coming to town to look over the land for purchase.

Dr Burbank himself took on the task of building a first class hotel for local visitors to stay.

The result was the Burbank Villa Hotel built in 1887. The L A Express Newspaper said this before it opened… “There is no handsomer hotel on the Coast than Burbank Villa, to be opened the first of next month. Architecturally considered, it is a gem and its equipment is as faultless as the style of architecture. Everything done at Burbank has been done right.”

The Burbank Villa Hotel (later called the “Santa Rosa Hotel”) quickly became the focus of Burbank’s Social life. Burbanker’s hosted weddings, parties, dances and other grand events.

The hotel was a beautiful Victorian style building, very eye catching for the times.

Visitors received 5 star treatment and enjoyed the opulence of the building and its closeness to the train station and downtown Burbank!

Many a person loved the luxury of a stay there, one such was Actress Billie Burke known better as Glinda the Good Witch from the Wizard of OZ (1939).

Alas all good things must come to an end and the hotel was torn down before 1927. The lot sat empty until the U.S. Post Office was built in 1938. The Post Office still stands there today on Olive Ave halfway between First Street and San Fernando Blvd.

I think you will agree from the pictures that have survived that this was truly a Jewel of Burbank architecture and is a shame that the building did not survive to today.

NOW AVAILABLE!!

The post FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Burbank Villa Hotel appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Being prepared for pressure situations is something the Burroughs High boys’ volleyball team is used to.
Senior Conner Ludlum experienced many tough situations a year ago when the Indians won the CIF Southern California Division 2 Regional title.
Ludlum took that experience to help lift his team Friday as the Indians defeated host Burbank High 25-23, 25-15, 27-25 in a Pacific League contest.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

“This game was really a focus on our ability to go re-set throughout the match,” Ludlum said. “I know there were a couple of times we were down eight or nine points. We found a way to come together as a team, to re-set and take one point at a time.”
Ludlum, who finished with a match-high 15 kills, helped Burroughs rally back from significant deficits in both the first and third games.
“It helps out a ton,” Ludlum said of last season’s playoff experience. “I’m one of the five seniors on the team. Knowing that I’ve been there and I know what to experience that helps me to lead the younger guys. Props to a lot of the younger guys. I think a lot of them stepped up. I know a lot of people on the bench came in and they had really crucial serves. It was a big team effort.”

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Burroughs (9-6, 5-0) trailed 15-8 at one point in the first game before climbing back to tie things at 19 on a kill by Ludlum.
“Sometimes I think we get carried away trying to do too much,” Burroughs coach Joel Brinton said. “We’re trying to get them to understand it’s a point, whether it is a tip or off a block. It doesn’t have to be a crush.”
Burbank (15-9, 3-2) gave Burroughs all it could handle, led by Adrian Rivera, who finished with 11 kills.
“We were definitely prepared,” Burbank coach Gaby Gallardo said. “We came out with good intensity and were fired up. Sometimes when we make a few mistakes we let the momentum go down. We just need to go back and work harder. I’m happy with how we fought. I’m happy with how they gave everything. That’s all I ever want from them.”

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Burroughs finished off the first game with a kill from Ludlum followed by a block by Billy Singleton.
The Indians had little trouble in the second game by building a big lead early and never looking back.
Burbank jumped out a big lead in the third game, going up 10-3 at one point. Burroughs also suffered the loss of Jarrett Malone, who went out with a hand injury.
Burroughs came close, but did not actually catch the Bulldogs until the teams were tied at 24.
An ace by Ludlum helped put the Indians up 26-25 with just one point needed to clinch the match.
Levi Benitez had 28 assists and five aces for Burroughs. Cole Kaitz had nine kills and Jarrett had eight. Skyler Bercini and Everett Kanoho each had 10 digs.
Burbank’s Jonathan Tapan had 20 assists. Rory Rickey had five kills for the Bulldogs.

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