The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expanded its popular TSA Pre✓™ operations to Bob Hope Airport (BUR) recently. Passengers traveling on Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest, United Airlines and US Airways that are eligible for TSA Pre✓™ may now receive expedited screening benefits when traveling out of the BUR’s Terminal ‘A’ and ‘B’ during peak travel periods.

“We are proud to provide TSA Pre✓™ expedited screening to passengers traveling through Bob Hope Airport,” said TSA BUR Federal Security Director Anita Minaei. “With the busy holiday travel season upon us, this added benfit will help passengers move through the busy airport efficiently, and allow us to maintain the highest levels of security.”

TSA Pre✓™ is an expedited screening program that allows pre-approved travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, keep their laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids/gels bag in a carry-on in select screening lanes.

Passengers who are eligible for TSA Pre✓™ include U.S. citizens of frequent traveler programs invited by participating airlines, U.S. citizens who are members of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler program, Canadian citizens who are members of CBP’s NEXUS program and passengers traveling on a participating airline who TSA proactively prescreens using its Secure Flight system. Later this year TSA will launch an application program, allowing more U.S. citizens to enroll in TSA Pre✓™.

More than 18 million passengers have experienced TSA Pre✓™ since it launched in October 2011. TSA Pre✓™ is currently available at 103 airports. Travelers can check the TSA Pre✓™ Participating Airports page for information on locations and hours of active TSA Pre✓™ lanes.

Eligible passengers traveling on Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways, Jet Blue and Virgin America may receive expedited screening benefits at more than 100 airports nationwide.

The post TSA Announces Expedited Screening Service at Bob Hope Airport appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Judges of the city’s outdoor holiday decorations competition are hoping to receive more entries than last year when the application deadline hits on Tuesday.

This year marks the 31st annual Holiday Decorating Contest conducted by the city’s Civic Pride Committee. Application deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday at the Public Information Office in City Hall. Certificates will be presented to the winners at the Dec. 17 City Council meeting.

Past First Place Winner – 246 S. Sparks

Last year there were only 24 entries total for all categories, said Robert Vincent, chairman.

“When I came on the committee 10 years ago we had 96,” he said.

Vincent expects more entries because, as he attends other civic functions, like the YMCA Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, he said people are smiling and seem more relaxed. Last year people were in a more pensive state of mind, he said.

“People seem to be in a more festive mood this year, even though economic times haven’t changed much, and a lot more houses have lights going up,” he said.

There are three categories –Adult, Youth (under 16) and Commercial.

Committee members look for entries that not only have a lot of heart, but have skill, technique, animation, creativity and use of lights, Vincent said.

Youngsters who enter their homes in the contest are not going to have the money and experience that adults have in installing holiday decorations, so they are judged on how much creativity and heart go into it.

“A couple years ago, there was a youth entry that was hard to believe he had not received adult assistance because it was so spectacular,” Vincent said. “We are much more critical of the adults because they have the wherewithal, the knowledge and, most of the time, have been saving up over the year to buy the lights.”

Last year’s Adult category winner who lives on the corner of Sparks and Oak streets had so many intricate things going on, that’s what made it stand out, he said. Years ago a house on Grinnell had windows filled with hundreds of bears, dolls and other toys and lots of animation going on.

“It takes them weeks to set these things up,” he said.

Some folks who enter the contest have simply one string of lights. Vincent doesn’t know why they enter.

“But there are more people who don’t enter that have really marvelous displays,” he said.

To encourage more people to enter the contest, Vincent has been driving around and passing out applications to homeowners who have decorated their homes.

While judging Commercial entries, the committee looks for creativity, Vincent said, it is not about dollars spend, it’s about business owners who put their heart and soul into their displays.

Two years ago the Holiday Inn won because along with their decorations they had people caroling, employees passing out hot chocolate and cookies and a machine creating snow flurries.

“It was just a beautiful scene,” Vincent said. “Last year none of that happened or else we missed it and we moved to the bank on Alameda that had beautiful decorations all the way around the building.”

To be judged, lights need to be kept on from dusk to 11:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. Decorations must be visible from the street. Residents and business owners must submit a printed copy of the  entry form, which is posted on the City of Burbank website www.burbankca.gov/.

Entry forms are also available at the Community Services Building, 150 N. Third St.; City Clerk’s office at City Hall, 275 E. Olive Ave., all the libraries and Park Community Centers (Ovrom, McCambridge, Joslyn, Olive, Tuttle, Verdugo) and via the City’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BurbankCA.

The post Burbank’s Holiday Decorating Contest Looking for Entries appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Police, acting on a tip from an observant citizen, arrested two men yesterday, December 5, at 3:05 p.m. near the Empire Center for commercial burglary. The citizen had flagged down the police officers, who were in the area on retail theft prevention detail, pointing out the men who had walked out of the Target store with fully loaded shopping carts and were heading away from the Empire Center.

Officers caught up with the men and detained them at Empire Ave. and Valpreda St. The officers contacted Target and their loss prevention department. Upon reviewing surveillance video, Target security determined the two men had walked out of the store without paying for the merchandise in the carts. Over 70 items of men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, boots and jackets, worth about $1500, were stuffed in a large black bag and a large red bag in the two carts. The men had brought the black and red bags into the store with them and filled the bags with the merchandise.

Burbank Police arrested Luis Izales, a 33-year-old male resident of Los Angeles, and Luis Alberto Cruz, a 37-year-old resident of Los Angeles, for commercial burglary, due to the higher value of the loss. Each man was booked into the Burbank Jail with a $20,000 bail. Both men are currently under an ICE hold while their immigration status is being confirmed.

During the holiday season, Burbank Police increase the number of officers on patrol in shopping areas such as the Empire Center, Downtown Burbank and the Town Center Mall. The additional officers increase police visibility and help prevent retail crime.

“We’ve added extra officers to insure residents and those who shop here are safe,” commented Sergeant Darin Ryburn of the Burbank Police Department. “And, so our businesses in Burbank have these additional resources from our department to help combat retail theft and loss.”

The post Burbank Police Increase Patrols, Arrest Two For Commercial Burglary From Target appeared first on myBurbank.com.

PizzaRev, a Los Angeles-based custom-assembly artisanal pizza concept, has completed construction on its sixth location and is set to open in Burbank, CA this Thursday, December 12th. With the recent installation of PizzaRev’s custom-built 9,600 pound stone-bed “Fire-Deck” oven, guests in Burbank will soon “Craft Their Own” artisanal-quality pizza and have it served piping hot to them in less than three minutes. “We are incredibly excited to be opening our newest location this week in the ‘media capital of the world.’ We think PizzaRev will be a great addition to the innovative Burbank restaurant scene” said Irv Zuckerman, Co-CEO of PizzaRev. The location sits conveniently nearby the AMC Movie Theaters in the Palm Plaza at 175 E. Palm Ave.  (at N. San Fernando Blvd).

Two “Grand Opening” promotions have been announced in celebration of the new Burbank location. First, PizzaRev – Burbank has launched a free-to-enter sweepstakes where 5 lucky guests will win “Free Pizza for a Year!” To enter, simply fill out an entry form at the Burbank location or visit www.pizzarev.com/freepizza/burbank . Five lucky guests will be chosen at random to win! Full sweepstakes rules available here; must enter by January 31, 2014. The second promotion is a “Facebook Fan Appreciation Night.” To participate, simply “Like” PizzaRev – Burbank’s Facebook page  and show your Facebook status via phone or print-out to a claim a FREE PIZZA on Sunday night, December 15th, 5pm to 10pm only at PizzaRev’s Burbank location!

PizzaRev is a Los Angeles-based fast casual Pizza chain that has re-invented the way America eats its favorite food by presenting a truly interactive dining experience where customers craft their own pizzas choosing from a wide variety of high-quality ingredients, in any amount, for one price. PizzaRev fires its pizzas in a stone-hearth oven which produces a delicious, crispy Roman-style thin pizza in just 3 minutes.

PizzaRev was founded in 2012 by longtime entertainment industry executives Irv Zuckerman and Rodney Eckerman, who bring Fortune 500 executive operating experience along with their Management team of highly experienced and long-tenured restaurant operators.

The post PizzaRev Opening in Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

On Thursday, December 5, the Burbank Association of Realtors (BAOR) held their annual holiday luncheon, party and installation of new officials at Lakeside Golf Club. Businessman and Consultant Ray Adams was on hand to install the new Board of Directors. Attendees all brought new, unwrapped toys to be donated to the Burbank Temporary Aid Center “Santa’s Room.”

Incoming Burbank Association of Realtors as they take the oath of office. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Julian Munoz, of Oak Tree Realty, was installed as the 2014 President of BAOR by his daughter Christina Munoz. “I never could have imagined, when I first started doing Real Estate, that I could end up as president of this wonderful association, since I consider myself a shy and private person by nature,” Mr. Munoz said after the event.

“The mission values of service to the profession of real estate, home ownership rights and community service were the attractions for me to get involved and I hope to be able to live up to the expectation of excellence that this association deserves,” continued Mr. Munoz. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve and hope I can make a positive impact on our great community.”

Incoming President Julian Munoz takes the oath of office from his daughter Christina. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Several awards were presented as well, including Realtor of the Year to Chris Rizzotti of Rizzotti Realty. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Mario Iacobellis of Dilbeck Realty.

“What I am most proud of is to call myself a Burbank Realtor. I know of no other group of Realtors who care more about their city, their clients and their fellow Realtors than the group I stand before today,” commented outgoing 2013 President Eric Benz, of Dilbeck Realtors, in remarks to the gathering. “You are a very special group and you are the reason this is such an amazing organization.”

Major Award Winners from yesterdays installation. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Marion Chase of Chase Realty received the Mary L. Vaughn Leadership Award, Karen Volpei of Keller Williams was honored with the Cunningham Community Service Award and Affiliate of the Year Award was presented to Melissa Misner of Old Republic Home Warranty.

The post Burbank Assn. Of Realtors Installs New President & Board, Presents Honors appeared first on myBurbank.com.

In the midst of the annual Spark of Love Toy Drive, the Burbank Fire Department asks members of the community to bring a new unwrapped toy or gift to donate at the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 7, at 6:00 p.m. on the front steps of City Hall, located at 275 E. Olive Ave. Burbank firefighters and Little Squirt will collect unwrapped toys, gifts and sporting goods from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Santa will arrive at the party on Burbank Fire Truck 11. Entertainment at the event includes Mickey and Minnie Mouse, dancers, singers and more. After the ceremony, photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available between 7:00 and 8:30 p.m.

“Everything collected is distributed to our local families within Burbank,” commented Captain Peter Hendrickson of the Fire Prevention Bureau. “Toys are distributed through the Burbank Temporary Aid Center and the Family Service Agency of Burbank.”

Burbank Firefighters L/R Engineer John Freeborn, Captain Mark Hatch, and Firefighter Clint Coe, prepare for this years ‘Spark of Love Toy Drive’. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Burbank Bob Hope Airport Police and Fire Departments are also accepting donations for Spark of Love, with collection boxes in the main terminal Police substation and at the airport Fire Department.

“We get a lot of toys for younger children, ” commented Capt. Chad Peterson of the Airport Fire Department. “but are always short on teen and infant items.”

Suggested items for teens include:  MP3s, cameras, watches, jewelry, sunglasses, earbuds, cell phone cases, skateboards, Razor scooters, sports equipment, purses, bags, make-up brushes, blow dryers, flat irons and hot iron tools.

The Burbank Fire Department continues to collect toys and gifts for children and teens in the community of Burbank at every Fire Station through December 24. The Spark of Love is a Southern California toy collection campaign and partnership between ABC7 and local fire departments to provide holiday cheer for underserved area children and teens.

The post Fire Dept. Calls For Toy & Gift Donations At City Tree Lighting Ceremony appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The City of Burbank and Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy invite people to attend the annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony today, Saturday December 7, at 6:00 p.m. on the front steps of City Hall. Santa Claus will make a special entrance on Fire Engine 11 and entertainment will be provided by the RC Dance Center Rockettes, Reach Dance Academy and Burbank High School’s Gentlemen’s Octet. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new toy or gift for the Burbank Fire Department’s Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Workers prep City Hall for Saturday’s event. (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

Jeff Hopkins will emcee the ceremony and Mickey and Minnie Mouse and special guests from Disney studios will help celebrate. After the lighting of the tree, visitors can take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. People can write letters of support to American troops overseas, enjoy music and an evening ice skating session.

The Tree Lighting Ceremony ushers in a month of fun-filled and family friendly events in Burbank, including Breakfast with Santa, Skate with Santa and more. Burbank’s outdoor ice skating park, The Rink, will remain open until 11:30 p.m. City Hall is located at 275 E. Olive Ave. and plentiful free parking is available in nearby structures and lots.

Photo By Ross A. Benson

The post Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Kicks Off Month Of Holiday Cheer appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police Department received calls about a large amount of water bubbling from the middle of the street at Niagara Street and Olive Avenue around 1:00 a.m., early this morning, December 7. Officers responded and found what appeared to be a broken water main undermining the street at Olive and Niagara and causing the flood of water.

Tons of mud and debris closed Alameda Street at Niagara Street caused by broken water main. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Alameda St. and Olive Ave. in front of The Burbank Studios were closed in the easterly direction and traffic diverted in case the street would start to collapse and a sinkhole form, for the safety of anyone in the area.

Burbank Water & Power emergency crews were called out to shut off several water mains leading into the grid that supplies the water in the area as Burbank Police provided street closures. Once the flow started to reside, additional crews from BWP responded to clean up the mud that closed Alameda Ave. near Niagara St.

While some crews cleared mud, additional crews from BWP excavated the area where the main seemed to be broken.

Water flowing like a river under the street at Niagara Street & Olive Ave. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The street was undermined in all directions at the intersection of Olive Ave. and Niagara St. and crews continue to make the necessary repairs throughout the morning today.

Burbank Water & Power worked through the night shutting of water mains till the broken main could be drained, and the street removed for repairs. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Traffic lanes will be reduced in the area as well, while repairs to the 8-inch water main are made.

The post Water Main Break Causes Mud & Water To Flow Like A River appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Magnolia Park’s Playclothes Vintage Fashions invites the public to a holiday event and fashion show featuring gowns and costumes of the late entertainer Edie Adams on Thursday, December 12, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. In addition to the fashion show, a screening will be held of the recently released DVD box set Here’s Edie: The Edie Adams Television Collection. The party also features a live jazz ensemble and wine and cheese served by soon-to-open Luna Vine Wine Bar.

Photo Courtesy of Music Video Distributors

Playclothes owner Wanda Soileau met Ms. Adams’ son Joshua Mills last year and was impressed by the wide-ranging collection of vintage clothes of Ms. Adams. “She had a lot of gowns designed by Galanos and a lot of costumes for her variety show. I’m an ex-dancer, so I loved seeing all those costumes,” commented Ms. Soileau. “One dress that is very interesting has ‘Mrs. Ernie Kovacs’ stitched on the inside.”

Photo Courtesy of Music Video Distributors

Edie Adams and her husband, the legendary comedian Ernie Kovacs, were famous for their television comedy. On the air from 1962-64, Ms. Adams’ variety show guests included Duke Ellington, Sammy Davis Jr, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Andre Previn, Peter Falk, Nancy Wilson and more mid-20th century luminaries. James Galanos was a major American fashion designer and world-famous coutourier in the 20th century.

Playclothes sells vintage fashions, furniture and home items from the 1930s – 1980s. Their specialty is clothes from the 1940s – 1960s and Playclothes sells many items to television shows focusing on that time period, including Mad Men and Masters of Sex. Some of the Edie Adams collection will also be for sale at the December 12 event. Playclothes is located at 3100 W. Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank’s Magnolia Park shopping district.

The post Playclothes Presents Edie Adams Fashion Show & Holiday Party appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Back by popular demand, a community event, Burbank Christmas Nativity Festival, “O Come Let Us Adore Him.”   This event is open to the public and admission is free.  Catch the Christmas spirit as you marvel at over 300 nativities from around the world, including 15 nativities from the private collection of Bob and Dolores Hope.  One highlight of the festival is the Live Nativity.  Step back in time and experience the birth of Christ.

To help capture the spirit of giving, we are teamed up with the Burbank Temporary Aid (BTAC), so please bring non-perishable food items or an unwrapped toy.

The Festivals final night is Sunday, December 8^th from 5:00-8:00 p.m.  The Festival is hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is held at 136 N. Sunset Canyon Drive (at the top of Orange Grove).  For more information go to www.burbanknativity.com

The post Burbank Christmas Nativity Festival is TONIGHT appeared first on myBurbank.com.

On Saturday, December 7, Luther Burbank Middle School held its inaugural 5K Running In The Halls race, raising funds for the school’s Physical Education program. Almost 150 runners and walkers paid the $25 entry fee, including parents, students, teachers, administrators, staff and even some cross-country team members from Burbank and Burroughs High Schools. People from throughout Burbank and other BUSD schools participated as well and others made outright donations to the cause.

Members of the Hawks Track Club and Luther students: Luke Kvarda, Sam Mokracek, Emily Virtue, Sophie Birnbaum and Alexander Hirsch. (Photo Courtesy of Nicole Kvarda)

“We used to do a PTSA Jog-A-Thon and kids would get pledges to do laps to raise funds,” commented race coordinator Traci Fellman, a counselor at Luther Middle. “That was okay, but it gets a little boring doing the same lap over and over.”

Joe “Horse” Marando. (Photo Courtesy of Luther Middle School.)

“I am a runner and take part in the Santa Monica 10K every year. It’s a great course, but more importantly, it raises funds for the Santa Monica Schools’ athletic departments. It started out as a very small event, but has grown every year,” explained Ms. Fellman. “I thought it would be a great idea to try that out on a smaller scale to raise funds for our PE department… they could really use new equipment for track and field this spring.”

Ms. Fellman points out that community sponsors Buddy’s All-Stars, Fleet Feet Burbank, The Burn Studio, Ralph’s and Western Bagel were instrumental in helping present the race. The race raised $3800, far more than organizers had hoped, and will pay for the sorely-needed new track and field equipment.

“It was a great event in spite of soggy weather,” added Ms. Fellman. “It was really terrific seeing our families out together for fun and fitness!”

The course began in front of the Luther cafeteria and went around the athletic field, through the bungalows out to Allen St., past the Adult School to Maple St., then along Maple to Jeffries Ave. in front of the middle school. At the office, the course turned back onto campus and wove up and down the hallways all throughout the campus and back out to the field. A second loop completed the 5K course, with the finish line on the field.

Running In The Halls 5K winners are:

Adult Women: 1st: Terri Van Houten (parent), 2nd: Laurie Harmon (Luther teacher), and 3rd: Heidi Soto (Bret Harte teacher)

Adult Men: 1st: Mark McKeighan (parent), 2nd: Scott Ravine (parent), and 3rd: Joe “Horse” Marando (parent, dressed as a USC Trojan horse)

Youth Girls: 1st: Emily Virtue (8th grade), 2nd: Sophie Birnbaum (7th grade), and 3rd: Lakely Nealis (7th grade)

Youth Boys: 1st: Alex Hirsch (8th grade, with a blistering course time of 18:02 and first place overall finisher), 2nd: Asif Chowdhury (8th grade), and 3rd: Cole Workman (6th grade)

Students start the 5K race at Luther Burbank Middle School. (Photo Courtesy of Nicole Kvarda)

The post Big 5K Race Turnout Raises $3800 For Luther Middle PE Program appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The two rivals will fight for city supremacy on Jan. 24 and Feb. 13 (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Rick Assad
Special to MyBurbank

Jerry DeLaurie is the Burbank High boys’ basketball coach, while Adam Hochberg holds the same position at Burroughs, and aside from the close proximity of the rival schools, they both believe the drive to capture a Pacific League title will depend largely on how well each fare during the holiday tournaments.

“We’d like to go 3-1 or at the very least 2-2 in these tournaments,” said DeLaurie, who is in his 19th season as a varsity coach. “We shot 73 percent from the free-throw line last year, and we’re going to have to do that again. If we keep opponents under 50 points, cut down on the turnovers and rebound, we’re going to win. We want to get better each game.”

The Bulldogs hosted the eight-team, five-day Burbank tourney last week and will commence league action at Pasadena on January 7. After two wins to begin their own tournament, Burbank lost its final two games.

Hochberg echoed a similar sentiment and wants his squad to play smart basketball after finishing 15-12, 5-9 in league with a spot in the CIF Southern Section Division 1-A playoffs.

The Indians began their season in the Simi Valley Tip-Off Classic and went 2-2 to claim a fifth place finish. They will kick off league play at Hoover on January 7.

“We will play consistently high-level basketball this season if collectively focused and locked in,” Hochberg said. “We need to focus on defense and keep our opponents off-balance and out of rhythm with different defensive pressure. If we improve our ability to execute in the half court, we will be competitive in the Pacific League.”

Burbank-

Burbank coach Jerry DeLaurie

The Bulldogs, who went 16-13, 7-7 in league for fourth place and lost in the second round of the Division 1-A playoffs to top-seeded Santa Monica by a mere 12 points, will have senior Anthony Kardosh in the post.

A 6-foot-3 center, Kardosh, who averaged five points, six rebounds and two blocks, was a major cog last season and will once again be asked to shine.

“Anthony’s very athletic,” DeLaurie said. “We’re going to count on him to have an even better year.”

Senior Richard Elmoyan (5-11) is a guard and is coming off a campaign in which he scored 10 points with three steals and three assists per outing, and was chosen all-league. “If you need a bucket, Richard’s going to get it for you,” DeLaurie said. “He’s also very athletic.”

Mike Woods (6-0) is a talented first-year guard and poised to be a star. “Mike can dribble and get you a basket,” DeLaurie said. “He’s a good one and could play varsity ball in any league and that’s very rare for a freshman. He’s going to be special and will contribute the next four years.”

Burbank’s front court includes senior Adam Pasco (6-1), who dropped in five points a game, and senior Danny Terrones (6-3), who can handle the ball and also play in the back court.

“Adam’s a very good free-thrower, rebounder and good around the basket,” he said. “Danny can play inside or outside and hit the three-pointer.”

Senior guard Cody Bosman (5-10) will add an aggressive tone and a long-range jumper. “Cody didn’t play a lot last year, but he’s worked hard on his outside shot,” DeLaurie said.

Senior Raven Caraan (5-8) is a guard who looks to drain shots from deep. “Raven’s a good shooter who can hit the three-pointer,” DeLaurie said.

Senior Gabriel Perez (5-11) is a guard who transferred from Grant. “Gabriel’s a hustler who gets to the hoop,” DeLaurie said.

The back court reserves include junior Quinton Bright (6-1), who is athletic, can locate the hoop and is “flashy” according to DeLaurie, junior Joe Grass (5-7), who is a good defender, junior Adrian Gonzalez (5-7), who is an excellent ball-handler, sophomore Ellie Hanno (5-10), who is a solid shooter who prefers driving to the rim, senior Jose Rios (5-8), a transfer from Grant, and freshman Ben Chavez (5-10).

Burroughs-

Burroughs coach Adam Hochberg

If Burroughs will have an impact this season a pair of seniors from Hogan Prep in Kansas City, Missouri, will do much of the heavy lifting according to Hochberg.

They are combination guard Amaad Wainright and forward Rashid Ewing, and each could be selected all-league.

“Amaad is the most talented individual to wear a Burroughs uniform in a number of years, and can play Division I college basketball,” said Hochberg of his co-captain. “Amaad can play anywhere on the floor because of his size and strength, and he’ll make his teammates better.”

Hochberg also heaped praise on Ewing. “Rashid is a game-changer, an electric player who can create for himself and play above the rim,” he said.

Junior Chris Hovasapian is versatile with high energy. “Chris can play multiple positions on offense and defense,” Hochberg said.

Senior John Cutone is a sharp-shooter who should provide instant offense. “John’s a vocal leader,” said Hochberg of his other co-captain.

Senior Jared Soliman will add points off the bench, while sophomore Steven Hubbell is a combo guard with a high hoop IQ, can dribble the ball in traffic and has terrific court vision.

The rest of the team consists of senior Jordan Bridges, who came over from Bellarmine-Jefferson, senior Eric Gordon, a transfer from Birmingham, junior David Schwer, a transfer from Village Christian, junior Steven Sanchez, junior Angel Cano, who is recovering from an ACL injury and should be back by the summer of 2014, and sophomore Ricardo Herrada, who is coming off an ankle injury.

Burbank and Burroughs will meet January 24 at Burbank and again on February 13 in the regular season finale at Burroughs.

The post Burbank & Burroughs Boys Basketball Preview appeared first on myBurbank.com.

On Monday, December 9, 49-year-old Burbank resident Brett Fritsch was stopped by Sears loss prevention officers at 3:05 p.m. for attempting to take two bottles of cologne from the store at 111 E. Magnolia Blvd. Burbank Police were called, and during the booking process, Vicodin pills were discovered in Mr. Fritsch’s sock, along with other suspected controlled-substance pills. Additionally, a MTA Transit Pass in a different individual’s name was found in Mr. Fritsch’s wallet and BPD also noted Mr. Fritsch had a $10,000 LAPD warrant for misdemeanor hit and run.

Mr. Fritsch was arrested for misdemeanor petty theft and two felony charges for unauthorized use of another person’s identity and possession of narcotics and booked into the Burbank Jail. His bail is set at $50,000 and he is due in court on December 11.

The post Burbank Resident Arrested On Multiple Charges After Petty Theft From Sears appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Loss prevention officers at Target recognized an attempted shoplifter for previous attempts at fraudulent returns. On December 9 at 12:00 p.m., Gustavo Guerrero, a 28-year-old Los Angeles resident, was stopped at the 1800 Empire Avenue. Target store, attempting to leave with almost $300 worth of infant and child clothing. One of the store’s loss prevention officers recognized Mr. Guerrero, because he was wearing the same shirt, from a previous surveillance video a few days earlier, in which he attempted to fraudulently return a flat screen television.

On December 4, Mr. Guerrero went to the television section of the store, opened a box containing a 41″ flat screen and attempted to return it to customer service. When customer service refused to take the return without a receipt, Mr. Guerrero walked out of the store with the television, worth about $400.

On December 6, Mr. Guerrero followed the same approach, opening a box containing an $800 flat screen television and attempting to return it to customer service. Again, when customer service wouldn’t take the return, Mr. Guerrero walked out of the store with the 55″ flat screen.

Mr. Guerrero was arrested by Burbank Police for commercial burglary for a total loss of $1470. During the booking process, Mr. Guerrero was discovered to be in possession of a fraudulent identification card, so he was also arrested on that charge. His bail is set at $20,000 and he is due in court on December 11.

The post Fraudulent Return Attempts Result In Commercial Burglary Charge appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burroughs’ Justine Barraza defends a Golden Valley player (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

GIRLS BASKETBALL:

Burroughs’ girls basketball (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burroughs Magnolia Park Optimist Tournament-

Burroughs 65 Golden Valley 58

Davina Del Castillo had 12 points and 10 rebounds, Brooke Radcliff scored 12 points, Alondra Ramirez added 11 points

Burroughs 80 Monrovia 15

Jordan Meltzer had 13 points, Brooke Radcliff had 12 points and 4 steals, Paula Galicia had 9 points and 5 rebounds, Kamryn Cardenaz had 7 points.  Delaney Nicol had 6 points, 4 assists, and 5 steals.

Burbank 52 Monroe 32

Sharis Ghazeri scored 10 points, Yassemeen Sa’Dullah and Samantha Ainian added nine points each.

BOYS BASKETBALL:

Pasadena Poly Tournament-

Burroughs 87 Pasadena Marshall 50 

Amaad Wainwright scored 23 points, grabbed 15 rebounds, had six assists and four blocks. Steven Sanchez had 20 points including six three-pointers.

Glendora Tournament-

Burbank 74 Sierra Vista 30

Adam Pasco scored 18 points, Anthony Kardosh added 15 points, Cody Bosman had 12 pts.

GIRLS SOCCER:

La Canada 3 Burbank 1

The post Morning Sports Ticker- Dec. 11 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burroughs alum Tim Cates has become one of Los Angeles’ top producers of sports talk radio (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

It wasn’t a matter of time if Tim Cates would be successful; it was a matter of when. From the baseball diamond to the studio, Cates has been a smash hit.

The 1996 Burroughs graduate has risen through the ranks of sports talk radio and become one of the elite producers in the profession. He currently produces one of Los Angeles’ hottest sports talk radio programs, The Petros and Money Show, on AM 570 Fox Sports Radio.

The foundation for Cates’ rise to prominence began during his senior year at John Burroughs High School. He credits playing football under former Burroughs coach Robert Dos Remedios as a major reason for his success. Discipline, focus and hard work were instilled in Cates in the fall and carried over to the spring when he became an All-League and All-CIF performer for the Indians.

As the starting catcher for the Burroughs’ baseball team, Cates batted .489 as a senior and drove in 18 runs. Behind the plate he committed only one error while managing a strong pitching staff. His ability to lead by example and be a reliable battery mate foreshadowed a blossoming sports career on the horizon.

Now 17 years later, Cates oversees a show that lights up the airwaves as much as it does on the fourth floor studio room along Olive Ave. here in Burbank.

(L to R) Tim Cates, Matt “Money” Smith and Petros Papadakis of The Petros and Money Show (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Alongside talk-show hosts Petros Papadakis and Matt “Money” Smith, studio engineer Ronnie Facio and assistant producer Michelle Gonzalez, Cates is enjoying the best time of his young life.

“I love this job. It’s probably the best show I’ve worked with. We just have a good time,” Cates, 35, said. “These guys are great. We all have the same interests and we all like the same sports. They love me and I love them. They are what sports talk radio is about now. They are young, fun and exciting. It’s a tight-knit group.”

Following the lead of their producer, Papadakis and Smith have captured the imagination and interest of the sports world with their energy, enthusiasm and infinite wisdom of sports knowledge.

Just spending an hour up close watching and admiring two of sports talk radio’s most popular icons makes you want to get behind the microphone yourself and share stories and personal opinion.

Tim Cates with studio engineer Ronnie Facio (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Cates, Facio and Gonzalez work behind the scenes with all the bells and whistles of a studio room that truly makes you appreciate the amount of time and attention to detail that goes into the production of a show.

The crew is simply a well-oiled machine that takes Los Angeles by storm from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“The best thing about it is that it’s different every day. The great thing about sports talk radio is that sports are happening at night and the next day we are talking about it,” Cates explained. “It’s constantly changing and it’s never a dull topic. Topics are always changing; guests are always changing. That makes it fun.”

While it takes a team to come together and bring the show to life, there is no question the backbone of The Petros and Money Show is Cates. His ability to organize the show’s daily schedule, set up phone interviews, interact with incoming callers and keep the show running smoothly is a direct reflection of the success of the show itself.

Petros Papadakis

“It’s always quality programming and that’s in most part due to Tim. He’s meant a great deal to the show,” Papadakis said. “When Tim came over, we went to another level. Tim is very organized. He cares deeply about the show. In sports talk radio, it’s important to have a producer that way. Tim is very detailed-oriented who loves the show and takes a great deal of pride in his work. He’s very creative and is a very capable broadcaster in his own right.”

“Tim’s a great producer. He’s great at bringing the show together,” Smith added. “He’s phenomenal at tracking down guests. He’s relentless and will go after anyone. It’s not an easy job. A thankless job to some degree. Petros and I will get celebrated for having a big guest that comes on. It’s really all on him for bringing it all together. He wants to make sure it’s a great show and he’s very good at that.”

Burroughs Years-

The journey for Cates began when he followed in his footsteps of his father and brother and attended Burroughs. He played baseball for four years but it was in the fall of 1995 when Cates took the leap of faith that would transform his life.

After a subpar junior season where he batted a mere .137, Cates joined the football team and dedicated himself to improving the intangibles that have brought him to this point. With a renewed sense of confidence and commitment to self-growth, Cates became the person and player Burroughs coach Jose Valle expected him to be during his senior campaign.

“It was the greatest improvement from one year to the other for any player that I had here,” said Valle. “The transformation was not just the improvement in his numbers; he came out his senior year as a man.”

Tim Cates credits Burroughs as a major influence in his journey (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Born and raised in Burbank, Cates looked back at his senior year in high school as the defining moment in his career.

“Burroughs taught me the focus and discipline that you need in this profession. Hard work and discipline; putting my nose down and doing a job. It got me focused and disciplined,” Cates said. “In this business, things are always changing. You have to be on top of things.

“Coach Valle and Coach Craig Sherwood were both there and I owe a lot to those guys. I love baseball and I had a great senior year in baseball. When I was done playing, I realized my future wasn’t professionally. I kind of lucked into finding sports talk radio, got an internship and the rest is basically history. It’s been a great ride and I love it.”

Professional Career-

The ride for Cates started as an intern in July of 1997 on AM 1150. Upon graduating from UCLA in 2000, he joined XTRA where he worked as a reporter and weekend update anchor covering Super Bowls, NCAA Final Fours, MLB All-Star Games and NBA Finals.

Does it get any better than that? Yes it does.

Producer Tim Cates at work alongside Assistant Producer Michelle Gonzalez (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

For four years, he worked on the nationally syndicated Tony Bruno Show as Executive Producer. In addition to PMS, Cates also currently hosts the pre-game and post-game show for UCLA football and basketball as well as serving as studio host for the Oakland Raiders broadcast for Compass Media Networks.

But it’s his devotion to The Petros and Money Show, which debuted in 2007, that has garnered the respect of his peers. Cates has been producing PMS for the last two-and-a-half years.

“Tim is a great guy,” said Facio, whose son Julian is a sophomore at Burroughs. “It’s a fun show to work on. We have good relationships. How you hear us on the air is generally how we talk off the air.  We all depend on each other.”

“Tim is a great guy. He is really good at what he does,” added Don MacLean, a weekly basketball contributor on The Petros and Money Show.

Cates’ weekly schedule is as demanding as it was mentoring the JBHS pitching staff in 1996. Even so, the number one priority is his family with wife Lesli, and daughters Ruby (10), Layla (8), and Sadie (5) at the forefront of his life.

“He’s a great father and husband,” Papadakis said. “It’s hard to find somebody I’ve enjoyed working with more than Tim Cates. It’s been a pleasure and a lot of fun.”

The post Tim Cates: Transcending Sports Talk Radio appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Burbank) is seeking applications from local business owners to serve on his 2014 Small Business Advisory Commission.  The Commission will meet several times in the months ahead, with the goal of formulating one or more legislative proposals that will be introduced by Gatto in the upcoming legislative session.

With small businesses employing more than 37% of all workers in the state, Assemblyman Gatto welcomes input from the people working hard to keep our business community strong.   “Small-business owners face the brunt of challenges that affect the economic development of our community.  Incorporating our business members into this dialogue enhances the state’s ability to create a more sensible and less burdensome regulatory environment for our businesses,” said Gatto.

Last year’s Commission voted to ask Gatto to introduce AB 227, momentous legislation which reformed Proposition 65 to protect small businesses from meritless lawsuits.  To the relief of business owners in the 43rd Assembly District and statewide, Governor Brown signed AB 227 into law this year.  The Commission has been an instrumental voice in advising Assemblyman Gatto on challenges facing local small-business owners throughout California.  ”Listening to those who have been shortchanged by the law first-hand is an imperative and sacred duty of lawmakers.  I am proud of the historic achievement of last year’s Commission and look forward to working with the 2014 Commission,” said Gatto.

Individuals interested in participating on the Commission should e-mail Assemblyman Gatto at Assemblymember.Gatto@assembly.ca.gov<mailto:Assemblymember.Gatto@assembly.ca.gov> with the subject line ‘Business Commission.’

The post Assemblyman Mike Gatto Forms 2014 Small Business Advisory Commission appeared first on myBurbank.com.

One of my favorite spots in Burbank for a delicious dinner and a good drink is Wokcano. Not your typical restaurant, this Asian fusion restaurant has normal seating and bar seating, making it the perfect combination of restaurant and nightlife.

I went just before 7 p.m. on a Saturday, so it was still Happy Hour. Happy Hour at Wokcano is really worth it. I had the $4 house Cabernet to drink, and my group picked a few different appetizers, like vegetable egg rolls and garlic brussel sprouts.

Let me start by saying I never used to eat brussel sprouts. Ever. However, since I tried the garlic brussel sprouts at Wokcano, they’ve been a staple at my house. We make them all the time. I try and recreate what Wokcano does, but it is impossible. Wokcano’s brussel sprouts are just so crispy and bursting with flavor.

I never used to think of Wokcano as a typical nightlife spot. However, the last few times I’ve been, the bar has been packed with young clientele. The bar area is always bustling with people, and the drinks are always good. Wokcano is also open until 2 a.m., so that may be the reason for the younger crowd.

Something that really stands out to me is the friendliness of the waiters and waitresses. I’ve only ever sat in the bar area, but the staff is really incredible and they always love to strike up a conversation with the patrons.

As my search for Burbank nightlife continues, I think Wokcano definitely stands out. The food, drinks and friendly conversation make it a nightlife favorite.

For information on their Happy Hour, check out Wokcano at http://www.wokcanorestaurant.com/happy-hour/burbank/.

The post Wokcano Happy Hour Hits the Spot appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Note: All suspects are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law.

Updated:   12/11/13

Three Arrested After Police Find Drugs In House

Narcotics, and identity theft information found in a Burbank home resulted in the arrest of three people November 6.   As part of an ongoing narcotics investigation, Burbank Police served a search warrant on the house at 3206 W. Chandler Blvd. at around 5:30 p.m.  Inside the residence they recovered narcotics, drug paraphernalia, packaging materials, and identity theft information.

The three suspects, Peggie Wilson, 53, Jessica Klein, 25, and Kelly Rolph, 33, were all arrested for possession of a controlled substance.  Wilson and Klein were also arrested for possession of stolen property.

Thief Caught In The Act

A Burbank Police Officer on patrol November 6, in the parking structure at the Burbank Town Center, noticed a man using his cell phone’s flashlight to light up the interior of a car’s trunk.  As the officer approached, the man quickly shut the trunk and bean to walk away.

When the officer stopped him, the man, Sarkis Serob Hovakimyan, 19, of Burbank, said it was his friend’s car, and he was meeting him in the mall.  The friend was contacted, and his story did not match that of the man. Based on items in the trunk, the officer determined that it was not his friend’s car.   After it was discovered that the suspect had attempted to open other parked cars, he was placed under arrest.

A search of the suspect turned up cash, and a search of his car resulted in the recovery of stolen property and prescription narcotics.  One vehicle owner was contacted, and reported that the cash had been stolen from his car.  Another victim identified property stolen from their car.  Hovakimyan was booked into the  Burbank Jail for receiving stolen property, possession of narcotics paraphernalia, drug possession, and taking or damaging parts of a vehicle.

This Guy Went To Hooters For The Food, And Went To Jail For The Bill

A group of friends went to Hooters at 600 N. First St. on December 6, for a late lunch/early dinner.  Apparently utilizing the “dine and dash” method, some of the people left the restaurant, but one man was left behind.  Apparently he was too busy looking at the waitresses and didn’t see everyone leave.

According to police Osvaldo Macias, 18, of Phoenix, Arizona, also attempted to leave, but was spotted by the staff.   When he refused to pay the tab for the $60 worth of food and beverages, he was placed under citizen’s arrest.  Burbank Police transported him to the Burbank Jail where he was booked for defrauding an innkeeper.  His bail was set at $500.  No word if his “friends” bailed him out.

Express Check Out Line To Jail

One shopper must have thought waiting in line to check out wasn’t to his liking, as he simply walked out of the Burbank Target store Wednesday afternoon — with a shopping cart full of merchandise.

According to Burbank Police, Albet Grigorian, 44, of Glendale, a loaded up a shopping cart with everything from cleaning supplies to a small refrigerator. Rather than go through the check out line and pay, Grigorian simply walked out of the store with the merchandise.   He was stopped by store security outside the exit.

Grigorian’s shopping cart contained a basketball hoop set, DVD’s, children’s clothing, toiletries, and an X-Box game system, as well as windex, paper towels, and the refrigerator.  The value of the merchandise totaled $976.  He was placed under arrest for grand theft, and booked into the Burbank Jail.  His bail was set at $20,000.  He is due in court next month.

The post Crime Report for December 2013 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Each year, Nickelodeon holds a Thanksgiving feast at the studio on Olive Ave. for employees, on the Friday before Thanksgiving, in addition to an annual Thanksgiving food drive to benefit the Burbank Temporary Aid Center.

“This year, we donated nearly 9,300 food items, which equates to about five tons of food, which should help out over 1725 local families during the holiday season,” commented Carson Smith, Human Resources Manager at Nickelodeon.

BTAC CEO Barbara Howell smiles with Nickelodeon employees at the company’s annual Thanksgiving celebration and food drive. (Photo Courtesy of Nickelodeon)

“The studio is broken up into teams, usually by production or department, with each team having an equal number of employees,” added Mr. Smith, explaining how the food drive is conducted as a competition. “The winner this year was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles crew.”

Legend of Korra and Dora the Explorer team food donations. (Photo Courtesy of Nickelodeon)

“Each year, the employees at Nickelodeon top their efforts from the year before. I am continually touched by their enthusiasm and generosity,” commented Ms. Howell. “The food will be used to provide holiday groceries for local families. Any excess will go onto BTAC’s shelves to provide groceries in the coming months.”

“This is really important, because January and February are very slow ‘donation’ months at BTAC,” Ms. Howell continued. “Nickelodeon’s help will ensure we are able to help Burbank families both now, and later.”

Nickelodeon employees line up for a meal catered by Dulan’s On Crenshaw restaurant. (Photo Courtesy of Nickelodeon)

The post Nickelodeon Donates Five Tons Of Food To BTAC appeared first on myBurbank.com.