Ryan Dellutri wasn’t sure he would be able to run in the Burbank All-City Middle School Track Meet at Burroughs High Friday night.

The seventh grader at Jordan Middle School came into the meet having not done much in the two previous weeks.

“I pulled my right quad two weeks ago and I haven’t done much training since,” Dellutri said.

Dellutri not only ran, but won three events and set a meet record in the boys’ 400 meters, finishing in 58.1 seconds.

“Today I put it all out there and all the training before the injury paid off,” Dellutri said.

Dellutri also won the 100 (12.9) and the 200 (26.4). He is the son of former Burroughs and USC wide receiver Todd Dellutri, who also later coached football and track at Burroughs.

Fellow Jordan seventh grader Nathan Perez also set a meet record in winning the long jump with a best of 18 feet.

Muir seventh grader Sattwik Banerjee set a meet record in the seventh grade boys’ shot put with a best of 44-4.

Aubrey Eaton set a meet record in the elementary girls 800, running 2:48.

See the full results below.

6th Grade Boys

Sixth Grade Girls

Seventh Grade Boys

Seventh Grade Girls

Eighth Grade Boys

Eighth Grade Girls

Scoring by School

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The Burbank Arts For All Foundation held its “Party for the Arts” gala fundraiser last Friday at the Globe Theatre at Universal Studios Hollywood, honoring NBCUniversal, Guy Myers, and Penny & Michael Zambrano.

The Burbank Arts For All Foundation’s Board of Directors. (Photo by © Ross A Benson)

It was also a celebration, and the capacity crowd of 450 had much to cheer about.  Since the Foundation’s founding in 2006, 19 Burbank school campuses have received 290 Foundation grants totaling more than $482,000.  More recently, the Foundation has partnered with BUSD to support BUSD’s schoolyear-long “Music Is Instrumental” campaign to repair or replace musical instruments in BUSD’s middle and high schools. “Music is Instrumental” has garnered wide community support, including the “1,000 for $100”, fundraising effort led by Linda Walmsley, Michael Cusumano and Michael Hastings.

A highlight of the night was the announcement from BUSD Board of Education Clerk, Dr. Armond Aghakhanian, that Fifth District LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger will make a $25,000 contribution to BUSD’s “Music Is Instrumental Campaign.”  With this contribution, the campaign is just $8,000 shy of its fundraising target of $120,000.  BAFA asked all the guests to save the date for BUSD’s “Music Is Instrumental” benefit concert at Burbank High on May 11th.

Since the beginning of BUSD’s Arts for All plan adoption, the opportunities for students to learn in creative and innovative ways has increased. In the last few years, Burbank Unified School District secured a $1.6 million State grant to support career technical education programs in areas like hospitality, nursing, finance, digital media and digital technology and theater and studio technical support—all areas offering plenty of job opportunities in the Southern California markets. Indeed, students have gone on to professional careers as studio technicians, after having run sound and light for high school productions on state-of-the-art equipment.

At the Gala, NBC4’s popular weathercaster and Master of Ceremonies Fritz Coleman opened with his trademark quipping about the Southern California weather.  “It’s in the sixties. We call it the polar vortex.”  Shifting to a more serious note he said, “In many schools, one of the first budgets to get trimmed is the arts budget.”  So Coleman was offering more than pro forma gratitude when he thanked the entertainment industry for making the Foundation gala “one of the most inspirational events of the year.” And small wonder.  According to the 2016 Otis report, one in four jobs in Los Angeles County is in the creative industries. 

(Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Foundation Board of Director Co-Chairs Jill Vander Borght and Tom Vice added their thanks and, in memory of the late Mayor Will Rogers, invited the audience “to think of a moment that makes you smile.” (They noted that Mayor Rogers had created more than his share of those moments.)

Stevenson 5th Grader Audrey Contreras ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

The SPLASH party band added to the gala’s festive atmosphere, and, post-ceremonies, encouraged more than a few guests to dance away the evening.  But SPLASH was upstaged by two very special performers. Burroughs High student and composer Yoni Fogelman performed his original jazz piece “Free Trade”.  “I like to compose for film, so Burbank’s a good place to be,” said Fogelman, responding to Coleman’s question about his future plans. Stevenson Elementary student and songbird Audrey Contreras made the melodies soar.  She told Coleman that she had no favorite performer as yet. But it was already clear to him she was well on her way to finding her own voice.

Fogelman’s and Contreras’ performances reminded the audience of the ultimate reason for arts education: human flourishing rather than withering, talent blossoming rather than remaining undiscovered. Dedicated parents, teachers and corporate sponsors leverage each dollar a thousand fold with their countless hours of volunteer effort; hence, the Foundation’s annual tradition of honoring them.

Trena Pitchford presents Penny and Michael Zambrano The Champion of the Arts Award. ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Penny and Michael Zambrano are the Champion of the Arts Honorees for being constant, active arts education volunteers for over 15 years. “We love these kids and the arts,” said Penny. “And that’s why we volunteer,” added Michael.  Another impetus to volunteer came from their son and daughter, who loved participating in show choirs and dance teams.  (Next month their son will earn a CalArts BFA in dance and choreography.)

Early on, Michael and Penny promised themselves that they would support arts education for all Burbank students.  And so they held volunteer leadership roles in various fundraising and arts education programs for BUSD schools including Thomas Jefferson Elementary, John Muir Middle School, and Burbank High.  They routinely go the extra mile to support the Foundation, be it lending a hand or raising funds. As a family team, they’ve been a caring cheer squad for countless students. And the kids love them back.

Trena Pitchford presents Guy Myers his award (Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Guy Myers was the Arts for All Educator Honoree for the life-changing impact he has had on his Burroughs High theater students both personally and through his award-winning program. The California Educational Theatre Association awarded his program with Top Honors for “The Crucible” (2010), “Flowers for Algernon” (2015) and “The Laramie Project” (2018) as well as an Artistic Merit Award for “Peter and the Starcatcher” (2017).  Many of Myers’ students have received regional and national acting and production awards and have moved on to prestigious collegiate theatrical programs around the world. Recently, Myers has been instrumental in creating a musical theater program at Burroughs.

Myers wants his students “to be comfortable in their own skin.”  When people ask him how he connects with his students, he says that he “shows them that they have a unique and powerful story to share.”  He supports “students exploring and expressing their creativity that gives back to the world in a magical way,” A touch of magic was involved in Myers’ selection of Burroughs High.  After years of freelance work in high school and colleges as a guest artist, he drove past Burroughs one day and “decided that’s where he was going to teach drama.”

Host Fritz Coleman, NBC Vice President Scott Strobel is awarded by Trena Pitchford. ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Senior Vice President Operations Universal Studios Hollywood, Scott Strobl accepted the Patron of the Arts Award on behalf of NBCUniversal, which has a corporate commitment to giving back to the communities where their employees live and work. “This is our lifeblood!” exclaims Strobl, referring to the industry’s ongoing need for creative talent. “And a quality arts education truly changes these kids’ lives.” And Strobl knows this first hand as a Burbank resident with school-age children.

As one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies, NBCUniversal has been a source of tremendous support to the Foundation and to the Burbank community. It offers internship and other work-study programs for high school and college students, the better to nurture that crucial supply of talented people combining skill, imagination and a heaping measure of artistic talent.

Coleman continued to cajole contributions from the more-than-willing Foundation guests and egged on the competitive bidding for vacation getaways “Reba Las Vegas!”, ”Bourbon, Baseball, and Bluegrass”, “Escaping to the Big Easy” and more locally, the Geffen Playhouse and Hotel Bel-Air.  (There were dozens of tables’ worth of silent auction items as well.) Though the shekels are still being tallied, it’s clear the fundraising was successful. It needs to be.  About 60% of the Foundation’s revenue comes from its annual gala. The Foundation hopes to grow its fundraising in the next year with planned giving and donations from appreciated stock.

The BUSD School Board and Burbank City Council have supported the Foundation from its inception.  The County became a fan early on. The Foundation has allies at the State level as well.  “I love Burbank Arts For All!” proclaims State Senator Anthony Portatino. “We’re at a time when the State has failed to fully embrace arts funding. To see the community rallying behind the children and these arts programs is just awesome!” State Assembly Member Laura Friedman shares State Senator Portatino’s admiration for the Burbank community’s proactive stance. “Our economy is based on the arts, so investing in the arts is economic development,” she states. “But arts education transcends the economic,” she adds. “It gives young people the tools to deal with their emotions in a healthy way.”

One way or another, the Foundation and the Burbank community will maintain a vibrant arts education. “We want to serve the kids in Burbank even more and inspire Burbank to build the finest arts education program in California,” says Foundation Executive Director Trena Pitchford. That may well mean that Burbank will have one of the finest arts programs in the nation.

Want to learn more? Contact Trena Pitchford, Executive Director, at 818.736.5269 or trena@burbankartsforall.org.

To View additional pictures from this event go to this link:http://goo.gl/cNdrxn

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On Thursday Burbank leadership, residents, business people, and friends gathered at the Pickwick Gardens to celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of Burbank Police Department and our citizens at the 4th Annual Burbank Police Awards Luncheon.  The event, well-attended by both law enforcement and the community, is hosted by the Burbank Police Foundation. 

Burbank Police Honor Guard. (Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse emphasized that “all officers are exceptional and get the job done,” there are some notable achievements by both on and off-duty police officers, as well as community members which deserved special recognition at the event.

The luncheon kicked off with an honor guard and exceptional a cappella rendition of the National Anthem by John Burroughs High School student Grace Sessinghaus.  Rabbi Mark Sobel read an invocation, and Chief LaChasse introduced the Police Command Staff.  Chief LaChasse also provided additional motivation for thought, quoting from Sir Robert Peel’s “Principles of Law Enforcement (1829):”

“The basic mission for which police exist is to prevent crime and disorder as an alternative to the repression of crime and disorder by military force and severity of legal punishment.”

Chief LaChasse further set the stage for the awards presentation by noting that citizen involvement with the Law Enforcement community is reinforced by groups such as the Community (Police) Academy, engaging individuals to familiarize themselves with a variety of topics related to policing, ethics, rule of law, and open up opportunities for volunteers to assist the police in the police station.

Elaine Stevens is awarded her award by the Command Staff of the Burbank Police Dept. ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

The ceremony was briefly disrupted news of Burbank Mayor Will Rogers’ passing. Following a moment of silence, the luncheon continued with soft side conversations celebrating his life and remembering the fun, light-hearted memories showing the love all Burbankers felt for our mayor and friend.

The Awards Ceremony

The awards were given in 6 separate categories, including:

·        Lifesaving Medal

·        Professional Esteem Award

·        Citizen Award

·        Volunteer of the Year Award

·        Non-Sworn Employee of the Year Award

·        Officer of the Year

In addition, recognition was given to Burbank Police Department Volunteers who gave freely to the police and community.

While all awards were given based on very compelling and inspiring acts of valor and commitment to the safety of our citizens, several stood out.

Officer Josh Kendrick and Sgt Cindy Guillen receiving the Life Saving award. (Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Life-Saving Medal

On 5 January 2017, Sgt. Cindy Guillen and Detective Joshua Kendrick responded to a call that a distressed individual was threatening to jump from an overpass on Interstate 5 at Olive Ave. in Burbank. Sgt. Guillen and Det. Kendrick coordinated a quick response with both Burbank Police, the California Highway Patrol, and other agencies to secure the freeway and halt traffic, while keeping contact with the individual. The gentleman finally chose life, encouraged by the humanity and negotiation skills provided by the officers.  A human life saved.

Citizen Award

In Jan 2018 Miguel Vasconcellos noticed a suspicious car in his driveway.  Vasconcellos called the police, who responded and captured a criminal responsible for several robberies in the area.  Citizen awareness and engagement resulted in taking a criminal off the streets and making our Burbank community a safer and better place to live.

Volunteer of the Year

Elaine Stevens is a 2013 graduate of the Community Academy.  Since joining the ranks of Burbank Police Volunteers, she has served in several positions, most notably in 2017 when she took on the task of enhancing department reports, adding sophisticated analytics, performance measurements and management to improve decision making at all levels of the department.  To accomplish this enormous achievement, Ms. Stevens logged more than 1200 volunteer hours during the year.

Non-Sworn Employee of the Year

Forensic Specialist Carly Lott joined the Burbank Police in 2002 as a Police Technician. Since then Ms. Lott has continued her education, developing exceptional skills in forensic sciences, with a concentration on finger printing and biometrics.  Her dedication to master the field of finger printing and biometrics has landed her the esteem of her peers as a critical member of the department’s forensic team, and the Non-Sworn Employee of the Year.

Officer of the Year

Officer Dan Turpin joined the department in 1993, distinguishing himself in a variety of roles within the department.  However, he has made his name as a leader and teacher in the Motor unit of the department. Officer Turpin “leads by example,” introducing innovative and challenging ways to improve skills within the motor units operated by the Burbank Police Traffic Bureau.  The result is a safer community, better officer safety, and better agility in enforcing laws.  Officer Turpin will retire in 8 months after a distinguished career with the Police Department and an esteemed member of our community.

The Burbank Police Foundation, sponsor and host of the Awards Luncheon, has the mission to “cultivate a solid partnership between the Burbank Police Department and the residents, businesses, and institutions it serves in order to enrich the community of Burbank and to enhance police services.”

The following lists all awards presented during the event:

Lifesaving Medal

Sergeant Cindy Guillen

Detective Joshua Kendrick

Officer Ashley Burt

Officer Harry Markey

Detective John Voorhis

Professional Esteem Award

Senior Rangemaster Dewayne Wolfer

Range Volunteer Ted Schonlaw

Citizen Award

Jeffrey Takovich

Claudia Gonzalez de Gomez

Jose Luis Martinez

Paul Akard

Robert Nigro

Eric Montoya

Miguel Vasconcellos

Volunteer of the Year Award

Elaine Stevens

Non-Sworn Employee of the Year

Forensic Specialist Carly Lott

Officer of the Year

Officer Dan Turpin

Burbank Police Department Volunteers

Gold (500+ hours of community volunteer service)

Elaine Stevens

Ted Schonlaw

Silver (250-499 hours of community volunteer service)

John Kemmerer

Kaye Norris

Soon Hee Rettig

Bronze (100-249 hours of community volunteer service)

Anne White

Bill Harrold

Connie Lawless

Erin Rettig

Judy Andrews

June Box

Jackie Light

Linda Troncone

Lynn Turner

Patricia Harrold

Sunny Singer

The post Burbank Police Foundation Honors Police and Citizen Achievements During 4th Annual Luncheon appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Since GuildHall’s opening in 2017, the buzz on the esports bar has only grown louder. Known for a rotating selection of carefully chosen draft beer, wine and specialty cocktails, the bar also serves up some pretty good grub.

GuildHall esports bar combines booze, games and food for some low-key fun. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

With a wall cabinet holding more than 150 games such as Exploding Kittens, Settlers of Cataan, Blokus, Checkers, Dominoes and Battleship from which to choose, GuildHall also features flat screens throughout the space showing esports tournaments and players in action.

The food is a step up from a typical bar menu. Offerings include a green salad, a varied and exciting meat and cheese plate, a simple selection of burgers and sandwiches and some delicious nosh including house made potato chips, popcorn, beef jerky and chicken strips.

Crudité of multicolored carrots and celery accompany most plates.

The ever-changing draft beer selection, guided by owner Spencer Cox, always has something for most every beer drinker, from lagers and stouts to IPAs, ciders and ales.

The atmosphere is relaxed and chill. Both patrons and staff are very friendly and social. The bar is 21 and over and everyone is there to have fun, play some games and have a drink.

We’ve enjoyed the beer selection repeatedly over the past several months  – our current favorites are the Craftsman 1903 Lager and the Eagle Rock It’s Not You It’s Me Double IPA.

GuildHall’s grilled steak sandwich. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The food also deserves some attention here. We’ve tried the tasty chicken strips, the excellent chicken sandwich, the yummy Juicy Lucy burger, the terrific meat and cheese board and, my favorite, the flavorful grilled steak sandwich.

GuildHall receives a Tops In Town for nightlife – it’s one of our favorite local spots to relax and grab a beer in Burbank. The food is really good and the atmosphere is absolutely outstanding.

This is not one of those places where bros are posturing and super loud and getting wasted. It’s a really great place for those into esports, gaming and tabletop games, who enjoy a drink and a bite and want to have some low-key fun.

Gamer art and flat screen tvs showing esports adorn the walls at GuildHall. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Restaurant/Bar Info: GuildHall is located at 3516 W. Victory Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91505.
(818) 561-4552. GuildHall is open Monday and Tuesday, 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Wednesday 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Kitchen closes at 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

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

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Assemblywoman 43rd District Laura Friedman presents Janet Diel with a Citation for her dedication to her city. ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Burbank Firefighters from the C Platoon with Battalion Chief Travon White walked this years CareWalk as a team. (Photo by © Ross A Benson)

On Saturday, April 21, the Burbank community filled Johnny Carson Park with compassion, generosity and physical fitness as they took to the paths and over the bridges of the recently renovated park for a 5k power walk or a casual stroll in support of Family Service Agency’s 11th Annual CareWalk. More than 400 teachers, parents, students, counselors, community and business leaders came out to support FSA in their 65th year of service in Burbank.
 
Assemblywoman Laura Friedman joined FSA Executive Director Laurie Bleick, emcee and former Burbank Mayor Anja Reinke and CareWalk honoree Janet Diel on stage as State Senator Anthony Portantino announced that FSA will be honored in the California State Senate as 2018 Non- Profit of the Year. “We are awed by the continuing support of our community,” said Bleick, “And to learn that our work and the importance of mental health care will be recognized in the Senate is icing on the cake of a beautiful day.”
 
Perhaps Bleick should have said syrup on the pancakes. For the 11th year, Command Performance donated the delicious pancake breakfast that greeted walkers as they completed their laps and earned their medals. Committee chair Eric Hansen joined Mickey DePalo, Mary Alvord, Teri Stein, Elise Stearns-Neisen, Chris Krohn, Pat Smola and Ross Benson in putting together the most successful CareWalk to date.
 
For 65 years, Family Service Agency has been dedicated to providing counseling, prevention, education, and advocacy to empower children, adults, and families to achieve psychological, emotional and social wellness.

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The Celebration of Life service for Burbank Mayor Will Rogers was held Monday afternoon, April 23, at Castaways with several hundred guests in attendance. The guests included family, friends, local politicians, department heads from the City and local business leaders.

The event started with a relative reading Will’s request that at his memorial “there shall be laughter and humor” such as Will usually surrounded himself with.

Senator Adam Schiff put smiles on everyone’s face when he joked about the time period when Will was a columnist. Schiff would wake up and look in the Burbank Leader to see if Will ripped him again in his weekly column.

Additional speakers included Vice Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy and former City Council Member Dave Golinski, who was a long time friend of Will’s.

Wife Nancie laughs while daughter Sarah wipes a tear during Celebration of Life Service.

Will’s family, including wife Nancie, kids Stephen and Sarah, and several members of the Rogers family were in attendance.

Following the short remembrance, guests mingled on the patio sharing stories.

The post More Laughter Than Tears At Mayor Will Rogers Celebration Of Life Event appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Volunteers from Nickelodeon spent Friday, April 20, brightening the grounds of David Starr Jordan Middle School for their annual Viacom Community Day.

The volunteers painted a mural on the sixth-grade patio which features a cougar and a cub (Jordan’s mascot is the cougar) and the message of “Kindness is Courage,” according to school principal Stacy Cashman.

Nickelodeon volunteers beautified the David Starr Jordan Middle School campus for Viacom Community Day on April 20. (Photo Courtesy David Starr Jordan Middle School)

They also built benches around the trees to provide additional seating for the school’s sixth-graders who eat lunch on the patio area, which did not have much seating to begin with. Volunteers also weeded and trimmed existing gardens throughout the campus and mulched flower beds.

Nickelodeon volunteers paint a mural on the sixth-grade patio. (Photo Courtesy David Starr Jordan Middle School)

“We are so grateful for their ‘Shimmer and Shine’ crew who worked so hard to beautify our campus,” commented Cashman. “The students were so excited today and the pride they felt was obvious in their smiling faces.”

The completed “Kindness is Courage” mural was painted in one day by Nickelodeon volunteers. (Photo Courtesy David Starr Jordan Middle School)

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Much of the talk around Pacific League baseball this season has been about Arcadia High, which has yet to lose a game.

But Tuesday afternoon Burroughs High faced perhaps its toughest league opponent in Crescenta Valley left-handed pitcher Trevor Beer.

Beer dominated the Indians in six innings of work by striking out 13 in a 9-0 road win for the Falcons.

“I can’t make excuses. We lost to the best pitcher in the league,” Burroughs coach Craig Sherwood said of the UC Santa Barbara-bound star. “I’ve seen all the pitchers in this league and by far he’s the best guy.”

Burroughs (10-12, 4-6 in the league) wasn’t completely shut out against Beer but was unable to capitalize on the one big chance it had.

The Indians had back-to-back singles in the second inning from Nicco Chuidian and Nathan Palafox.

Brandon Giraldo then followed with a bloop single to right field. However, Chuidian was thrown out at home plate to end the threat.

Burroughs had just two hits the rest of the way, a single by Jacob Barrera in the fourth inning and a fifth-inning double by Brian Garcia.

Beer credited his team (19-4, 10-0 in the league) for helping make his job easier.

“The offense came out and got some runs early. It makes me more comfortable on the mound and just throw whatever pitches coach Beer calls,” Beer said of his father, Darren, the longtime Falcon pitching coach. “We knew they (Burroughs) always come out and play hard against us.  They are at their home field. We knew they’d come out and try to make a statement.”

CV scored three runs in the first inning, two in the second and one in the third. Burroughs used six pitchers and committed five errors. The Falcons scored once more in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings.

Photo by Ross A Benson

After Beer left, Burroughs was unable to get any runners on against Falcons closer Luke Hempel.

“I want the guys to be aggressive. I watch them in batting practice, the hit the ball to the right side, they hit line drives and when we get in the games and I don’t know what we’re looking for,” said a frustrated Sherwood of his team.

The post Burroughs Baseball No Match for CV’s Beer appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Living in Burbank has many perks, and one of them happens to be that the circus comes to town once a year.  Circus Vargas opened their big top to the public Saturday, April 21st and will be performing shows up until May 7th before packing up and moving off to Woodland Hills.

This year’s theme is “Dreaming of Pirates,” which is conveyed in the performer’s costumes and stage decor.  In one performance, a giant pirate ship is rolled out onto the stage as a group of swashbuckling pirates duel it out while falling and flipping around on a trampoline.  In another, a mermaid gives up her fins for legs and shows off her newly found contortions putting you in awe at what the human body can really do. 

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Circus Vargas is a family friendly show that is appropriate for all ages and does not contain any animals in their acts.  The entire show is run by the performers and their talents whether it be aerial arts, tightrope, juggling, or shooting an arrow at a balloon with their feet.  The “ringmasters” are a few silly clowns, but not the typical clowns we all think of at a circus.  No big red noses, no orange frizzy hair.  Just a couple of silly guys who will make you laugh your socks off.

Parking for the circus is $10 and it is good to remember that you can’t enter Front St. from Burbank Blvd.  The best route if coming from the West side of Burbank is to enter the 5 South freeway and exit Verdugo and then make a right onto Front St. which will bring you right to the entrance of Circus Vargas.

Don’t forget to come 30 minutes early for extra entertainment for the kids.  When entering the big top, there is face painting, light up toys, and a pre-show where kids can come to the middle of the ring and learn circus acts like balancing and juggling with the performers.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Because Circus Vargas is a smaller circus, it feels very intimate and close. There really isn’t a bad seat in the tent as it is a smaller venue than other circus’. The “clowns” interact with the audience, pulling some people into the ring to perform a funny skit, and are often roaming through the stands throughout their acts which gives everyone a chance to feel close to the performers. After the show, all of the performers line up outside the tent to meet their guests and take pictures with them.

Kids and Adults of all ages will love this show! It is definitely an experience worth going to before it’s gone!

Performers from Circus Vargas will be at Magnolia Park’s Ladies & Gents’ Night Out this week in the parking lot next to Blast from the Past 3117 W Magnolia Blvd, they will be offering discount tickets to the Circus

Tickets are available on every day except Tuesdays and Wednesdays and can be purchased at www.circusvargas.com or at the Ticket office located at 777 North Front St.

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Up to this point, the two best softball teams in the Pacific League are Burroughs High and Crescenta Valley.

On Tuesday at Olive Park, the two met and with perhaps the memory of an earlier setback to the Falcons in mind, the Indians were determined to even the score.

One difference from that initial meeting that saw Burroughs lose 9-0, was senior Presley Miraglia wasn’t in the circle.

The Indians managed only four hits, but defeated the Falcons 2-1. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

This time Miraglia was and it mattered as the Indians edged the Falcons 2-1 and snapped their 15-game winning streak as the right-handed ace limited Crescenta Valley to six hits and one run with five strikeouts and one walk across seven innings.

The Indians and Falcons are in a flat-footed tie for the league lead and have five games remaining.

The Falcons led 1-0 on freshman Dee Dee Hernandez’s leadoff homer that found the gap in right center in the fourth inning.

In the bottom of the fourth, the Indians (9-3-1 and 8-1 in league) responded with a two-run frame as junior Mia Storer laced a one-out single to right field.

Burroughs’ defense kept the game close and helped the Indians prevail over Crescenta Valley. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The next batter was sophomore Chloe Bookmyer, who then ripped a hard-hit single to left field off Hernandez that went through freshman Morgan Eng’s legs for a three-base error as Storer and Bookmyer both raced home for a 2-1 lead.

“Considering what she pitched me the first game. She pitched me high inside so I was kind of expecting that inside pitch,” Bookmyer said of her key at-bat. “Inside is not usually my happiest pitch to get, but I buckled down. I turned on it and it ended up being a really good hit.”

Burroughs Coach Wes Tanigawa knew it would be close considering the two tied for first place last season.

Third baseman Memorie Munoz had three outstanding defensive plays including the game-saving catch for the final out. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“They’ve got good hitters in there. So I never counted them out,” he said. “I had in the back of my mind, what if they get a hit? It was going to come down to who made the most errors.”

Tanigawa said the defense, which wasn’t perfect and committed one miscue, was a factor in the win.

“Our defense was spot on. We had a couple of errors here and there,” he said. “We have a good pitcher. They have a good pitcher. It was going to be a pitch-fest. Presley brings a new dimension when she pitches.”

Hernandez took the loss after touring six frames, allowing four hits, fanning two and hitting a batter.

This pitch is high from CV’s Dee Dee Hernandez, who gave up two runs. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Hernandez then nicked Miraglia, but senior Jessica Amaya grounded out and junior Megan Williams lined out to second base.

In the fifth, the Falcons (19-2 and 8-1 in league) had a runner at second base with two out in the form of junior Alyssa Hernandez, who singled to center and later swiped second base.

Miraglia walked sophomore Natalie Bitetti, but induced Dee Dee Hernandez to ground out to third baseman, sophomore Memorie Munoz, who made a terrific stop and gunned the ball over to first baseman Bookmyer.

The sixth inning opened with sophomore Maddie De Leon grounding out to Munoz, who made another spectacular play.

Junior Peyton Hause flied out and junior Kristy Taix reached base on an error. Miraglia then struck out freshman Stephanie Wichman swinging.

The dramatic seventh inning began with freshman Devon Medina grounding out to Bookmyer.

Eng then stuck out swinging, but Alyssa Hernandez tripled to left field and stood at third base as the tying run.

Up stepped Bitetti, who hit a fairly-hard liner that looked like it was destined for left field, but Munoz leaped as high as she could and snared the ball which secured the victory.

“I know I couldn’t let it fall. The game would have been tied,” Munoz said of the game’s final out. “Who knows what would have happened?”

Munoz said the team was determined to come out strong. “We just wanted to play inning by inning,” she noted. “We still have to play our best. We’ve just gotta make our plays. We all just wanted to come out and win this game.”

Miraglia gave up a leadoff infield single to Alyssa Hernandez in the first. Bitetti’s sacrifice bunt moved her to second base, but Dee Dee Hernandez popped up to Munoz and fanned De Leon looking.

Hause opened the second inning with an infield single. Taix sacrificed her to second base, however, Wichman flied out and Medina grounded out.

Miraglia worked a perfect third as she fanned Eng swinging, while Alyssa Hernandez flied out and Bitetti popped up.

“They made the key plays and we didn’t,” Crescenta Valley coach Amanda Peek said. “We played hard. We didn’t have the timely hit and the key plays. The game was won on an error.”

Senior Hannah Talavera had an infield single in the first inning and Miraglia singled to right field in the sixth for the other Indians’ hits.

The post Burroughs Softball Claims 2-1 Win Over Crescenta Valley appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Open through May 13, the Jasper Johns exhibit, “Something Resembling Truth,” provides a thematic look at his development as an artist over his sixty year career. Tickets are still available for the special exhibition at The Broad Museum in downtown Los Angeles.

Born in 1930, Johns first garnered notice in the art world for his painting Flag (1954-55), which the Korean War vet created after having a dream about the American flag.

Jasper Johns’ “Flags” (1968) uses an optical illusion to reproduce the red, white and blue colors of the American flag on the gray field. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Johns’ use of iconic and commonplace symbols such as flags, maps, letters, numbers and targets brought him to the forefront of the neo-Dadaist movement.

His sculptures and collages include everyday items like flashlights, doorknobs, rulers and chalkboards.

The artist still doesn’t like to explain his art. But his comment about focusing on “things the mind already knows” has been included in many an exhibit and profile article over the decades.

According to his own comment on his exhibition of the Flag, Target and Number paintings in 1958, “It all began with my painting a picture of an American flag. Using this design took care of a great deal for me because I didn’t have to design it.”

“So I want on to similar things like the targets, things the mind already knows,” Johns said.

“That gave me room to work on other levels. For instance, I’ve always thought of a painting as a surface; painting it in one color made this very clear… A picture ought to be looked at the same way you look at a radiator.”

“Numbers in Color” (1959) by Jasper Johns is on view at The Broad Museum. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

He uses familiar symbols and objects portrayed through a variety of techniques and styles including encaustic (heated beeswax), painting, sculpture, graphic arts, printmaking and collage.

The Broad exhibit includes recent works by Johns, in additional to many of his iconic works.

Also on view at The Broad are the museum’s regular collection and the selfie-taking favorite, Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away, 2013.

An additional Kusama infinity mirrored room, Longing for Eternity, 2017, is also on view.

Access to The Broad’s permanent collection and the infinity rooms are included with the purchase of the Jasper Johns “Something Resembling Truth” special exhibition ticket.

The rooms require a separate signup to reserve a place in line. Information on the process for viewing the rooms can be found here.

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.

“Target” (1958) by Jasper Johns is one of several recurring images used over the six decades of his artistic life. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The post Get Out Of Town!: Jasper Johns At The Broad appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Press release from City of Burbank:

On April 24, the Burbank City Council established the process to fill the City Council seat vacated by the recent passing of Mayor Will Rogers. The vacated term currently expires on May 1, 2019. Under the City Charter, the Council has 30 days from the occurrence of the vacancy to fill the Council seat.

The following dates were established by the City Council to execute the appointment process.

• Monday, May 7, Noon: Applications must be received by the City Clerk’s Office by noon via email, mail or personal delivery. (No Postmark and No Exceptions for late submittals)
• Thursday, May 10, 5:00 p.m.: Special Council Meeting – Interviews of the candidates by the Council in City Council Chamber
• Monday, May 14, 5:00 p.m.: Special Council Meeting – Continuation of interviews if needed; selection of new Council Member in City Council Chamber
• Tuesday, May 22, 6:00 p.m.: Formal seating of the new Council Member

Qualifications for Candidates:

1. Must be a Burbank resident for at least 29 days prior to applying for position.
2. Must be a registered voter within the City of Burbank at the time the application is issued.

Applications will be available online at www.burbankca.gov/vacancy and in the City Clerk’s Office located in City Hall at 275 E. Olive Avenue, First Floor.

Beginning at the Special Meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 10 at 5:00 p.m., each qualified applicant will be asked to make a three-minute presentation to the City Council. The applicants may then be asked to respond to questions from the Council regarding their presentation or application. Should additional time be needed to complete the interviews, the City Council may elect to continue the interviews on Monday, May 14 beginning at 5:00 p.m.

The order in which the applicants will make their presentations will be determined by a random draw of the applicants’ names prior to the meeting.

The position is part-time with compensation of $1,289.99 per month, plus benefits. Those applying are encouraged to set up individuals meetings with existing Councilmembers by calling (818) 238­5751. For additional information and questions, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (818) 238-5851.

The post Process Announced to Fill Vacant Seat on Burbank City Council appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank High boys’ swim team and the Burroughs High girls’ swim team earned victories Wednesday afternoon when the two rivals squared off in the final dual meet of the Pacific League season at Burbank.

Burroughs won the girls’ varsity competition by a score of 86-75. Burbank took the boys’ competition by a score of 85-60.

David Lee competes in the 100 Freestyle. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

David Lee earned a pair of individual victories for the Burbank boys’ team by winning the 50 and 100 freestyle events.

Ryan Feldman was also impressive for the Bulldogs in taking the 200 freestyle and taking second in the 100 breaststroke.

Burroughs boys’ team was led by Reigh Abaoag, who won the 100 butterfly and the 100 breaststroke.

Nicolai Lazarev also had some solid performances for the Indians, winning the 500 free and finishing second in the 200 free.

Maya Wilson competes in the 100 yd Butterfly. (Photo By Edward Tovmassian)

Maya Wilson led the Burroughs girls’ team. Traditionally a distance swimmer, she won the 50 free and the 100 butterfly.

Burbank was led by Michelle Morlock, who won the 100 free and took second in the 50 free.

See below for varsity results.

The post Burbank Boys, Burroughs Girls Win in Rivalry Dual Meet in Pool appeared first on myBurbank.com.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

Burbank police officers and members of the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run teamed up Wednesday evening, April 25, to help raise funds for Special Olympics. while serving food and drinks at California Pizza Kitchen.

Over a dozen police officers, Cadets and Explorers served as waiters and order takers. Some even worked the beer tap.

The restaurant was packed for the evening and Gerri Davis McCorkle a Special Olympics representative who was a former Burbank Police Cadet, said the tips for the evening were rolling in better than expected.

Here is a photo gallery from the evening, click on any image to see it larger.

The post California Pizza Kitchen Hosts ‘Tip A Cop’ appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The gap between the Burbank and Burroughs boys’ tennis teams clearly got closer when the two teams squared off Thursday in the final Pacific League match for both teams.

But in the end, Burbank showed it could come through under pressure, winning 10-8 on the road against the Indians.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

“The score was tied 8-8 and we knew it was going to come down to us and we had to get the win,” Burbank doubles player Dominick Sumera said. “We put our minds together and thought clearly and gave it our all and were able to pull it off.”

Burbank (11-5, 8-4 in the league), counted on Sumera and partner Parker Katz to earn a 6-3 win over Burroughs team of Kiet Hoang and Andre Fabian. Fabian was a substitute for Luc Thorn. The Bulldogs won the first meeting between the two teams 12-6.

Burbank also got a 6-0 win from the No. 1 doubles team of Luciano Dapuetto and Ethan Lee to beat the Burroughs No. 3 team of Daniel Cho and Rafael Munguia.

Cho and Munguia had won their first two sets.

“I think we’ve improved and our team chemistry has improved,” Munguia said. “I guess the more fun you have with it, the better you do.”

Burbank No. 1 player James Lee swept his sets going 6-1 over Burroughs No. 1 Kendric Marcy, 6-2 over No. 2 Samuel Bernardy and 6-0 over No. 3 player Cameron Flowers.

Burbank No. 2 Nathan Soria lost 6-1 to Marcy, 6-1 to Bernardy and defeated Flowers 6-3.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Burroughs (6-8 overall, 6-6 in the league) swept the Bulldogs in their No. 3 singles spot. Marcy defeated substitute Sid Dendulum 6-0. Bernardy defeated Alex Galstyan 6-3 and Flowers defeated Galstyan, also by a 6-3 score.

In doubles, the Burbank No. 1 team of Dapuetto and Lee went 7-6(7-2) over Burroughs No. 1 Thorn and Hoang. They defeated the Burroughs No. 2 team of Sebastian Muga and Mark Do 6-1.

Katz and Sumera went 7-6 over Muga and Do and lost 7-6(7-5) to Cho and Munguia.

Burbank’s No. 3 team of Abasi Abukusumo and Harout Abgaryan lost 4-6 to Muga and Do and 7-5 to Cho and Munguia. Alex Tsaturyan subbed in for Abgaryan in the 6-1 win over the Burroughs team of Torn and Hoang.

The post Burbank Boys Tennis Still Too Tough for Burroughs appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It wasn’t as lopsided as the first time the Burroughs High boys’ volleyball team faced Burbank.

Still the end result was the same, but instead of a three-game sweep, the Indians needed four games in order to stifle the host Bulldogs on Thursday night.

Behind the overall play of Cole Kaitz, who had a match-best 21 kills, the Indians prevailed 25-15, 20-25, 27-25, 25-22, in a Pacific League match and remain undefeated.

“We just try to look at every game like it’s the same game,” Kaitz said. “Every game is the same to me. So just because it’s the crosstown rivalry, it doesn’t really mean much to us. It’s just another game. Another opponent. I’ve played these guys already four years in a row.”

Diego Rosal (#4) rises up and unloads a winner for the Indians, who defeated the host Bulldogs in four sets. Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Burroughs won its ninth consecutive league banner, stretched its league match streak to 64 victories and has knocked off Burbank 14 matches in a row.

“Last time we got lucky because they couldn’t pass. We knew it wasn’t going to be the same thing,” Burroughs coach Joel Brinton said. “Trying to convince a group of teenagers of that is hard at times.”

Brinton said the Bulldogs put up a good fight.

“Losing that set probably was a really good thing to wake us up,” he noted. “Getting the battle that we got. It’s what we want our league to become. A slugfest. Burbank made us do that. They passed really well. They played great defense all night.”

The third set was tied on 12 occasions including 24-24 on a kill from Burbank’s senior outside hitter Jonathan Ragheb, who finished with nine kills.

Burbank’s Ryan Rickey (#27) passes during Thursday’s match against Burroughs. Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Senior setter Brian Valmonte (41 assists) served an ace for the Bulldogs that made it 25-24, but his net serve evened it at 25-25.

After a net violation gave the Indians (17-8 and 11-0 in league) a 26-25 cushion, Azael Estrada’s block secured the game for Burroughs.

Valmonte’s spike evened it at 4-4, but the Indians’ Connor Burroughs’ winner made it 8-8.

The Indians, who took out the Bulldogs 25-5, 25-11, 25-18 on March 30, moved in front 14-11 on Kaitz’s hammer and it became 17-15 on another bullet from Kaitz, who added three blocks.

The Bulldogs (15-6 and 9-2 in league) then went on a 6-2 run that made it 21-19 and included a kill from junior outside hitter Ryan Rickey (five kills).

“I wanted them to go out there and be aggressive,” Burbank coach Karl Rojo said. “Not be so timid and shy at the service line or when you’re out there swinging. I think we did a pretty good job of staying aggressive in our attacks and service.”

Burroughs and Burbank passed the ball well in a Pacific League match. Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Despite the setback, Rojo liked what he saw.

“There’s definitely been a lot of improvement shown since we last played them,” he said. “We were able to get more hitters involved.”

The deciding set was tied 16 times including 22-22 on a dagger by Kaitz.

A kill from Kaitz made it 23-22 as the Bulldogs asked for time out.

Kaitz’s stuff pushed the Indians’ advantage to 24-22 and Kaitz then topped off his evening with a smash for the set and match.

Burroughs darted ahead 5-4 on a service ace from Jose Solano (33 assists and 16 digs) and leveled it at 10-10 on Kaitz’s spike.

A block from Jagger Green pushed the Indians’ lead to 12-10, but the Bulldogs outscored Burroughs 5-3 and tied it at 15-15 on Ragheb’s rocket.

The initial set was a bit more one-sided as the Indians took control 3-0 on an ace from Michael Rumfola and were never headed.

Michael Rumfola (#16) and Jagger Green (#20) ready for a block. Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

The advantage became 8-4 on Rumfola’s kill and 14-7 on Diego Rosal’s winner.

Burbank came within 16-10 on a kill from senior middle blocker Rory Rickey (14 kills).

Burroughs seized control 22-13 on Kaitz’s bomb and snatched the set on a spike from Rumfola.

Burbank’s best set was the second as it led 5-2 on an ace from Ryan Rickey.

The Indians evened it at 10-10 on a blast from Rosal (10 kills), but the Bulldogs darted ahead 12-11 on junior opposite hitter Luca Bily’s bomb.

The Indians drew within 16-14 on a service winner from Rosal, but the Bulldogs went on a 5-4 spurt and led 21-18 on a kill from Ryan Rickey as Burroughs asked for a time out.

A 4-2 explosion by the Bulldogs and a kill from Ryan Rickey evened the match at one game apiece.

Sam Tipton contributed 16 digs for the Indians, while senior libero Eddie Curren tossed in 12 digs for the Bulldogs.

The post Burroughs Boys Volleyball Needs Four Sets To Defeat Host Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

On Friday, April 27, popular hillside restaurant Castaway held a fundraiser, which allowed guests to see the newly renovated restaurant for the first time since its $10 million remodel. The restaurant will open to the public this Tuesday, May 1.

Photo by Ross A Benson

From 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the valley was invited to make reservations and experience the completely revitalized Castaway before it officially opens to the public this week. All profit proceeds from the community fundraiser will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank and the Greater East Valley.

“We at Castaway are very lucky to be able to call Burbank our home. Our neighbors and the community in this beautiful neighborhood have always been incredibly supportive of us,” said John Tallichet, owner of Castaway.

“We wanted to do something special and give back to our neighbors as we look ahead to introducing them to the new Castaway. We can’t wait to show Burbank what we’ve cooked up, and we couldn’t think of a better way to support the local community than through the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank and Greater East Valley and the important work they do to help our youth on their path towards a great future.”

Paul Coker Beverage Director stands inside the wine room. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

Along with the renovation, the restaurant now has an entirely revamped menu, with new dishes and cocktails. Food Network’s “Cutthroat Kitchen” winner chef Perry Pollaci will be Castaway’s executive chef while Level III Advanced Sommelier and So Cal’s Restaurant Writers Association’s “Sommelier of the Year” winner Paul Coker will head the drink department.

Castaway was originally built in 1963, premiering as one of Burbank’s first casual fine dining restaurants. After the building was burned down in 1993, it was rebuilt and remained until last year. The renovation which started August 6, 2017, involved the complete teardown and reconstruction of the Polynesian themed restaurant.

Over the years Castaway has been a popular communal space for weddings and other private events. With the building’s several new additions, it is hoped to be an even more welcoming for the community than it has been in the past.

The new seating area includes a fantastic view of the valley. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

New additions include modernized banquet rooms, a catering kitchen space, a chef’s table which is positioned for guests to see into the kitchen, a wraparound bar, a meat dry-aging room, a floor-to-ceiling wine cellar, a multi-level patio, and more. All of the former decors has also been replaced with modernized tables and seating.

The remodel was led by Regional Director Ryan Smith, who has managed several restaurants in Miami Beach and Las Vegas.

The view is spectacular. (Photo by Ross A Benson

Known for its impressive view of the surrounding valley, guests will notice more seating without any obstructions.

Castaway is located at 1250 E. Harvard Rd. next to the DeBell Golf Course.

The post Castaway Reopens for Boys and Girls Club Fundraiser After $10 Million Renovation appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Airport Commissioners join JetBlue President Robin Hayes in making the announcement of the new nonstop service from Burbank to Boston. ( Photo By Ross A Benson)

During a press conference held this past week at Hollywood Burbank Airport, JetBlue Airways announced that it will launch new nonstop service between Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), beginning September 5, 2018.

JetBlue will also add a second daily nonstop flight to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City, with a scheduled daytime departure. Tickets for the new service became available for purchase on Wednesday morning on www.jetblue.com.

( Photo By Ross A Benson)

The daily flight to Boston will depart BUR at 8:08 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) and
arrive at BOS at 4:40 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) the following day.

The return flight will depart BOS at 3:28 p.m. and arrive at BUR at 6:48 p.m.

The daytime flight to New York City will depart BUR at 11:51 a.m. PDT and arrive at JFK at 8:05 p.m. EDT.

The return flight will depart JFK at 7:43 a.m. EDT and arrive at BUR at 10:51 a.m. PDT.

JetBlue launched service at Hollywood Burbank Airport in 2005 and is currently the only airline to offer cross-country service from Burbank, with one daily nighttime departure to New York City.

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Senior high school students and senior citizens spent the day together on Friday, April 26, for the pilot program Senior For A Day. The seniors shared information about their lives, their experiences and their future plans.

Students at both Burbank and John Burroughs High Schools were paired with local business and airport representatives and seniors active in the community, according to Roosevelt Elementary Kindergarten teacher Linda Walmsley, who created the Senior For A Day program.

Senior Community Members and ASB members pose during a break in the classes at John Burroughs. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

The senior citizens attended classes, toured the campus and learned about “the challenges of being in high school in 2018,” she explained.

“The students [shared] their thoughts about education and their future plans. The senior citizens [shared] their successes and thoughts about living in the complex world that will challenge the students as they move toward adulthood.”

Superintendent Matt Hill and Vice-Mayor Emily Gable-Luddy attended lunches held for the program participants on both campuses and talked “about the importance of working collaboratively to make our city and the schools the best they can be.”

Jailene Arias and “Senior For A Day” Jim O’Neil take notes together in class.
Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

The “Senior For A Day event was a success!” added Walmsley. “Seeing the senior citizens and the high school seniors interacting, talking about the challenges facing our city and our schools and thinking about solutions was a joy for me to observe. The city and school district staff that worked with me to coordinate the day were wonderful.”

“It was so refreshing to spend the day at Burbank High with our future leaders and learn about their aspirations,” said Crown Realty Executive VP Jim O’Neill. “It is evident that BUSD is providing varied academic and social programs in which all students can participate and be involved.”

“Praise to Principal Bertram and his staff for all they do to mold our next generation. Big thanks also to the four Bulldog cheerleaders who provided their time for me to experience high school as a ‘Senior for the Day,’” he also said.

Daniel Azarian, Chris Also, and James Mansour look over a study guide with “Senior For A Day” Don Ludwig, and Barry Gussow. Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

Former BUSD Board of Education member Audrey Hanson thought the program was “a very meaningful morning – learnt a lot about Burroughs from ASB student Jackie Baradosi.”

Hanson was “very impressed with the curriculum at the AP level and the interaction with the teachers. Also impressed with the varied programs offered to meet to-day’s reality.”

“It was great showing Mr. Michael Hastings around campus and having him sit in on my AP Econ and AP Bio classes,” commented Burroughs senior Louis Kahn. “I was intrigued by what he does for a living and the various jobs that he has held in the past.”

“All the seniors within ASB who participated in the event found it to be a worthwhile experience and we will miss not being able to do it again next year!”

The post Senior For A Day Program Brings Together Two Kinds Of Seniors appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Public Library holds a program about “The James Webb Space Telescope: Seeing the End of the Dark Age” on Wednesday evening, May 2. Salem Emara, a JPL volunteer and active member of the NASA JPL Solar System Ambassadors Program, will give the presentation.

Emara will also hold a live demonstration of infrared technology, which is the wavelength the James Webb Space Telescope is designed to pick up.

James Webb Space Telescope (Photo Courtesy NASA)

“I don’t think most people today understand that they are living in a great age of discovery, one as great, if not greater, than the geographical Age of Exploration of the 15^th thorough 18^th centuries,” commented Burbank Librarian Hubert Kozak. “That’s why I wanted to bring this event to the library.”

“Our exploration of the universe will bring us new knowledge that will – as much as did that former age – challenge our ideas about who we are, what our place is in the universe and what the future of our species might be.”

James Webb Space Telescope (Photo Courtesy NASA)

“We continue to learn, at an accelerating rate, new things about the cosmos, not only about its scope and what it contains, but about its history and how it works,” he also said. “The discoveries that will come from The James Webb Space Telescope are going to add a significant chapter to that unfolding story.”

“It is expected that it will work like a time machine, looking back 13.5 billion years, to capture the first light in the universe after the Big Bang, and that we will discover how stars and planets and galaxies were formed.”

James Webb Space Telescope (Photo Courtesy NASA)

Some of the testing and assembly of the JWST is being done by Northrop Grumman in Redondo Beach.

Currently, the telescope, which is touted as the scientific successor to the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for a May 2020 launch. More information can be found about the project on NASA’s site.

“While I suppose the main story about the James Webb Space Telescope is that of what we hope to discover with it, I can’t help but be impressed with what an amazing feat of innovative engineering it is as well,” added Kozak. “That’s why I think we’re lucky at this stage of the project to be getting an overview by an engineer rather than an astrophysicist, someone who can give us details about how the telescope will do its work.”

James Webb Space Telescope (Photo Courtesy NASA)

“In reading about the telescope, you come to realize that building something like this is a project that is incredibly complex. It is a monumental job of both design and assembly, of coordinating and integrating all the components produced by a vast number of individuals and many companies, so that the telescope can be safely launched and deployed and can achieve its purpose.”

The free program begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Buena Vista branch of the Burbank Public Library, located at 300 N. Buena Vista Street. Plenty of free parking is available on site.

James Webb Space Telescope (Photo Courtesy NASA)

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