Burbank vs. Burroughs: a one-of-a-kind cross-town rivalry since 1949

By Dick Dornan
myBurbank Sports Emeritus

“BIG GAME”

69 Meetings

1949 – 2017

Burroughs leads Burbank, 42-27

1949 – Burbank 12, Burroughs 7.  The “Big Game” made its debut in 1949. Former junior high and first year high school, John Burroughs, made what was supposed to be an easy Burbank victory a hard fought battle. The stronger Bulldog team prevailed, however, paced by Pete LiPera who later became head coach at Burbank, and Paul Cameron, who later starred at UCLA.

1950 – Burroughs 6, Burbank 0.  Burroughs avenged the previous year’s loss on a rain drenched field as Louie Elias went 41 yards through “Lake Memorial” for the only score of the game. He later recalled that the rivalry was already intense even though it was only two years old.

1951 – Burbank 28, Burroughs 12. Having already won the Foothill League Championship, the Bulldogs could have let down and been upset; but showing true championship caliber, overpowered the Indians.

1952 – Burbank 33, Burroughs 0.  The Bulldogs were led by Bob McCalmont and shut out the Indians for their second straight series win.

1953 – Burroughs 7, Burbank 0.  Paced by a 44 yard touchdown run by Maurice Elias, brother of Louie, Burroughs returned the previous year’s favor, scoring their second series shutout.

1954- Burroughs 49, Burbank 0.  Again paced by Maurice Elias, who set a then single game school record of 162 yards rushing, the Indians recorded their second straight and third overall series shutout. This stands as the most one-sided victory in the series.

1955 – Burbank 20, Burroughs 14.  On their way to a probable playoff berth, the Indians overlooked the Bulldogs and were knocked out of the playoffs. Steve Searock and Bill Reed led the Bulldogs who were under the guidance of rookie coach Ham Lloyd, whose squad included John Lockwood who later became head coach at Burbank.

1956 – Burbank 18, Burroughs 0.  The Bulldogs scored their second shutout of the series in a battle for the Foothill League title (first time in the series). Played before an estimated crowd of 11,000 people, the Bulldogs were quarterbacked by Bob Alfred and paced by Fred Tunnicliffe, whose nephew, Tom, would later start at both schools, winning CIF Player of the Year as a senior at Burroughs.

1957 – Burroughs 28, Burbank 19.  In another rookie coaching victory, Leon Shortenhaus guided the Indians, led by Bob Hand, to the victory. Playing for Burroughs was Pete Lubisich, who would later go on to play at USC.

1958 – Burbank 32, Burroughs 0.  Posting their third series shutout the Bulldogs were led by the three touchdown performance of Tom Pulford. Tom, whose son, Darrin, also played for the Bulldogs, is one of the many players to have relatives also compete in the series.

1959 – Burroughs 19, Burbank 0.  Trading shutouts again, the Indians scored their fourth win with an assist from Burbank, who was forced to use many J.V. players after having 19 of the varsity members declared ineligible for the game for “egging” the mural over the Burroughs Auditorium. Conde Lick and Brent Vance led the Indians with a TD each.

1960 – Burroughs 19, Burbank 7.  Indian coach Leon Shortenhaus closed out his coaching career at Burroughs with a 3-1 record in the “Big Game”, beginning and ending with a victory.

1961 – Burbank 25, Burroughs 13.  In the fourth of his 22 seasons as a coach at Burroughs, and first as Head Coach, Bob Dunivant watched his Indians and the Bulldogs battle to a 7-7 tie into the third quarter, only to see the Tribe fumble three times in the second half, helping Burbank to the victory.

1962 – Burbank 34, Burroughs 0.  Also beginning and ending his coaching career with a victory, Ham Lloyd posted a 5-3 “Big Game” record with this win in his final game. Phil Culotta scored three touchdowns to pace the Bulldogs to their fourth series shutout and came up just points short of the CIF scoring championship, losing to Steve Grady of Loyola who scored five touchdowns the same evening.

1963 – Burbank 14, Burroughs 7.  Burroughs finally ended a string of seven straight shutout losses since the second game of the season but were unable to contain the Bulldogs’ Gerry Altman, whose 100 yards helped Burbank to its third straight series win.

1964 – Burroughs 27, Burbank 7.  The Bulldogs’ Tom Paggi set a school record with a 74 yard run from scrimmage for one of his two touchdowns on the night but Burroughs snapped a three game losing streak to Burbank.

1965 – Burroughs 19, Burbank 0.  The Indians notched their fifth series shutout.  Bob McCorkle, who passed or ran for a then school record 17 touchdowns on the year, hit Mike Erickson for one touchdown and while playing defense, picked off a Bulldog aerial and returned it 78 yards (also a school record) for another score.

1966 – Burroughs 19, Burbank 0.  Posting its sixth series and fourth season shutout, Burroughs coasted to its favorite score in the rivalry (the Indians have won three 19-0 “Big Games”), and third consecutive series victory.

1967 – Burbank 20, Burroughs 19.  Undefeated going into the game, the Indians again scored 19 points. Burbank, however, on the 173 yard passing of Dale Cirscione and the 85 yard fumble recovery of Randy Ivie for a touchdown, scored 20 for one of the biggest upsets in the series. The win prevented Burroughs from going ahead, for the first time, in the rivalry.

1968 – Burbank 20, Burroughs 13.  The Bulldogs again scored 20 points, led by Bill Johnson who scored all three touchdowns and rushed for 100 yards.

1969 – Burbank 44, Burroughs 8.  Dan Flavin passed for four touchdowns and John Minor rushed for 91 yards for the Bulldogs. The game was so dominated by Burbank that the only Indian score came on a 95 yard kickoff return by Jess Talamantes which remained a school record until 1978. Burbank again won three in a row versus Burroughs.

1970 – Burroughs 15, Burbank 12.  In a well played game, Bulldog star John Minor scored both touchdowns and rushed for 152 yards, only to see his heavily favored team lose to a fired up Indian squad. Burroughs was led by QB Tim Molina who passed for 113 yards and threw two touchdowns to Bruce Wallace. Jess Talamantes rushed for 111 yards.

1971 – Burroughs 17, Burbank 13.  Jeff Budrick and John Funk scored the two Indian touchdowns. Quarterback Tom Lawson completed 19 passes, 10 to Scott Nelson for 117 yards, all of which were single game Indian records at the time. Bob Mendoza booted a 29 yard field goal to seal the victory.

1972 – Burbank 14, Burroughs 0.  Burbank notched their fifth shutout in the series as quarterback Leo Orange and Kenny Walker scored the two Bulldog touchdowns. The game was played for the Foothill League title, and with the victory, Burbank knocked the Indians out of a playoff berth.  Jim Galbraith caught seven passes in a fine effort for the Indians, who went on to shut out Burbank the next three games. The Bulldogs won their fourth league title and would not win another one for the next 37 years (2009).

1973 – Burroughs 6, Burbank 0.  Burroughs tied Crescenta Valley for the league title with their seventh series shutout and went into the CIF Playoffs for only the second time in school history.  Jerry Howell scored the games only touchdown played in pouring rain at “Lake Memorial”.  Indians’ quarterback Curtis Ilhe and wide receiver Randy Simmrin were the inspirational leaders on the team. Simmrin later starred for USC and played for Buffalo and Tampa Bay in the NFL.

1974 – Burroughs 36, Burbank 0.  A boisterous crowd of 12,000 fans came to Memorial Field to witness Burroughs dominate the helpless Bulldogs. Burbank could have tied the Indians for first place in the Foothill League with a win, but were dominated as Burroughs recorded their second consecutive and eighth series shutout, holding the Bulldogs to 36 total yards. All-CIF quarterback Tom Miller passed for three touchdowns and 179 yards, mostly to wide receivers Bob Frishette, Hans Anderson and Kirk Morales. Tony De Felicis, Joe Mersola, Mike McDonald and Ron Wollard all contributed in the convincing win. The Indians went on to post an 11-1 record, tied with the 1979 team for the best record ever, and advanced to the CIF Quarterfinals.

1975 – Burroughs 40, Burbank 0.  Burroughs took the series lead for the first time ever, 14-13, with their ninth series shutout and third consecutive over Burbank. The game also marked Bulldog coach Pete LiPera’s last contest. The rout was highlighted by All-CIF linebacker Mike McDonald, who later played at USC and for the Rams, returning an interception for 67 yards as the Indians finished their first regular season under Craig Bell at 8-1.

1976 – Burbank 17, Burroughs 14.  Burbank avoided a fourth consecutive Burroughs win by upsetting the Indians on a 41-yard field goal by George Florez on the last play of the game. The kick was set up by an interception with 17 seconds left by Rich Good who ran it back 46 yards to the 24-yard line. This was Good’s second pick of the night, both of which set up two Burbank scores for the game. Al Penaranda and George Williams, both of whom had brothers who later played for Burroughs, scored the two Indian touchdowns, while the Bulldogs were paced by Denny Caira.

1977 – Burroughs 40, Burbank 10.  Burbank surprised everyone by taking a 10-7 lead into the locker room at halftime but the Indians roared back in the second half with a fine passing performance by quarterback Dean Townsend.  Mike Pate intercepted a pass for the Indians for a touchdown. George Williams, Lupe Yanez and Reuben Torres also scored for the Indians. The defense was sparked by the play of linebacker Jeff Fitzgerald. The game marked the return of Bob Dunivant as head coach of Burroughs.

1978 – Burroughs 28, Burbank 16.  Burbank, led by Tom Tunnicliffe who passed for 182 yards, again came out on the short end of the score. Lincoln Simonds scored three Indian touchdowns and the defense, led by Nick Manocchia, held the Bulldogs to six yards rushing and sacked Tunnicliffe seven times for a loss of 67 yards.

1979 – Burroughs 33, Burbank 12.  In a unique twist of events, Burroughs, now quarterbacked by Tom Tunnicliffe, who transferred from Burbank, the Indians went into the game rated the number one team in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, Southern California, the State and the Nation. The Bulldogs put up a strong fight, scoring 12 points against a team that had badly beaten the previous #1 team, St. Paul, 27-12, and allowed only one touchdown to four previous Foothill League opponents, outscoring them 152-7. The Indians were paced by the 191 yards rushing of Edgar Penaranda and Tunnicliffe’s 123 yards passing while the defense held Burbank to 90 total yards.  Burroughs finished the season 11-1 (tied with the 1974 team for the best record ever) and advanced to the CIF Quarterfinals.  Head Coach Bob Dunivant would later step aside from his coaching duties.

1980 – Burroughs 25, Burbank 17.  Taking a four game lead with their fourth consecutive win in the “Big Game” series, a first for either school, the Indians also knocked the Bulldogs out of a playoff berth while recording their fourth consecutive Foothill League Title, also unprecedented in the history of the league. Led by the rushing of Edgar Penaranda and Rick Williams, plus the passing of Gary English, the Indians managed to hold off a stubborn Burbank team, led by the rushing of Eric Burcham. The Indians went on to the CIF Semifinals.

1981 – Burroughs 44, Burbank 21.  Burroughs jumped out to a 30-7 halftime lead on the passing and rushing of quarterback Rich Strasser (34 and 87 yard touchdown completions) and the rushing of Paul Kibala and Joe D’Alessio. The Indians would advance to their first-ever CIF Finals and finish as runner-ups while winning their fifth consecutive league title.

1982 – Burroughs 42, Burbank 6.  Burbank took to an early lead, going 55 yards on 11 plays to take a 6-0 advantage midway through the first quarter. The Indians, behind the rushing of Bret Mersola, Jeff Markland and Eli Montemayor, finally got on track and cruised to a rather easy victory. It was Burroughs’ sixth consecutive win over Burbank.

1983 – Burbank 24, Burroughs 21.  In one of the more exciting games of the series, the Bulldogs opened the scoring with a one yard run by Derek Trabilcy.  The lead changed hands several times in the game until late in the fourth quarter when Burroughs tied the score on a 61 yard pass from Sean Spring to Bret Mersola. Burbank, led by QB Gary Lotka, took their last possession of the game and marched down the field to the Indian 10, and lined up for a field goal with less than 10 seconds on the clock. The first Bulldog attempt was deflected and went wide, but the Indians were called for defensive holding on the play. After the penalty was assessed, Alfredo Velasco nailed his second attempt from 21 yards out with no time showing on the clock for a dramatic, upset victory for the Bulldogs. The win snapped the six “Big Game” winning streak of the Indians.

1984 – Burbank 28, Burroughs 0.  Quarterback Gary Lotka threw for 315 yards and four touchdowns on 18 of 23 passing and led the Bulldogs to their second consecutive victory in the series and their first playoff berth since 1977.  It is Burbank’s first shutout of the Indians since 1972 and sixth in the series. Lotka’s efforts cement his name in “Big Game” lore and he went on to win the Most Valuable Player of the Foothill League.

1985 – Burbank 14, Burroughs 10.  For the first time since 1967-69, the Bulldogs win their third straight “Big Game” behind the leadership of quarterback Sal Velasco.  Burbank overcame a 10-7 deficit as Velasco hit wide receiver Robert Jarrin with what proved to be the game winning pass on the first possession of the second half. The Bulldogs marched 69 yards in seven plays and the defense shut out the Indians the rest of the way.

1986 – Burroughs 33, Burbank 26.  In his return to the sideline for the first time since he left coaching in 1979, Bob Dunivant led the Indians to victory and snapped the three-game winning streak of the Bulldogs in the rivalry.  After trailing 14-12 at the half, the Indians took the lead at 19-14 entering the fourth. The Indians’ Danny Cusumano scored from two yards out to make it 26-14. Quarterback Jeff Barrett led the Indians with 177 yards and two touchdowns.

1987 – Burroughs 41, Burbank 0.  Quarterback Jeff Barrett shined on offense as he completed 11 of 16 passes for 122 yards and three touchdowns. He even rushed for two more touchdowns.  Burbank’s Gabe Jimenez ran for 118 yards on 24 carries and was the lone bright spot for the Bulldogs. Burroughs won their tenth series shutout and first vs. the Bulldogs since 1975. The Indians would eventually reach the CIF Finals and finish as runner-ups as they did in 1981.

1988 – Burroughs 31, Burbank 15.  The magic of former head coach Bob Dunivant was evident again as he helped head coach Butch McElwee lead the Indians to victory.  Having the headsets on again for only the third time in the season, Dunivant surprised Burbank by calling a reverse, flea-flicker for a 65 yard completion early in the game to spark the victory.

1989 – Burroughs 23, Burbank 19.  The Indians were led by a trio of running backs in the win.  Andre Banks rushed for 33 yards in 12 carries, Lionel Portugal ran for 31 yards on eight carries and Danny Suarez added 33 yards in eight carries as Burroughs defeated Burbank yet again.

1990 – Burroughs 20, Burbank 7.  Sean McDermott rushed for 183 yards on 23 carries and scored a touchdown as the Indians defeated the Bulldogs for the fifth consecutive year.  Ben Goldwasser added a touchdown and Eddie Gavilan had an interception for Burroughs.

1991 – Burbank 14, Burroughs 12.  The Brenes brothers led the Bulldogs to victory and halted the Indians winning streak in the series at five games. Steve carried 19 times for 123 yards and Frank scored both Burbank touchdowns en route to 72 yards on 14 attempts.  DB Mike Lyneis made a diving interception of a Marco Esquivel pass at the Bulldog 15 to clinch the win.

1992 – Burbank 21, Burroughs 17.  Down 17-14, Bulldog quarterback Brian Casey completed a 30 yard touchdown strike to wide receiver Kendricks Lewis with 53 seconds left to give Burbank the four point victory. Bulldog running back Hector Valencia, who later would become head coach at Burbank, scored on a 56 yard run up the left sideline to put Burbank up 7-3 late in the first quarter.  Burbank increased their lead to 14-3 only to see the Indians come back and take the lead. Burbank wouldn’t be denied as they took their second straight “Big Game”.

1993 – Burroughs 31, Burbank 6.  After finishing 0-10 a year ago, the Indians completed their turn around with a decisive win that sent them to the playoffs for the first time since 1989. Eddie Melgar rushed for 115 yards and scored three touchdowns as Indian head coach Gary Bernardi earned his first win in the “Big Game” and snapped the brief two game winning streak for Burbank in the series. This win began a run of 10 consecutive victories for Burroughs over their hated rivals.

1994 – Burroughs 17, Burbank 13.  The Indians scored the winning touchdown on a four yard pass from Mike Barrett to Tony Listro with 7:05 left in the game. Carlos Moreno ran for 134 yards on 28 carries as Burroughs stormed back from a 13-3 halftime deficit. Burbank’s Carlos Baker rushed for 121 yards on 21 carries.

1995 – Burroughs 21, Burbank 0.  In a game that will be remembered for ending early due to a brawl with 3:21 left, Indians quarterback J.K. Scott led the way completing 9 of 15 passes for 166 yards. Wide receiver Glenn Adriatico caught three passes for 69 yards, including a 23 yard pass from Scott that gave Burroughs their final touchdown.  Burbank was last shut out in the “Big Game” in 1987 and it marked Burroughs’ eleventh series shutout. The Indians defeated the Bulldogs for the third straight time.

1996 – Burroughs 35, Burbank 6.  Quarterback J.K. Scott completed 16 of 29 passes for 202 yards and three touchdowns as the offense continued to put up big numbers and the defense was led by Danny Kang who had two interceptions, two sacks and a forced fumble. Scott would later take his talents to the University of Washington.

1997 – Burroughs 29, Burbank 14.  Glenn Adriatico finished his illustrious prep career catching an 89 yard TD pass from quarterback Chris Santoyo and added an 11 yard TD run too as Burroughs won their fifth straight in the series. Adriatico completed his career with 199 receptions for 3,069 yards. The Indians jumped out to a 14-0 first quarter lead and never looked back in Bulldogs alum Keith Knoop’s first “Big Game” as head coach for Burroughs.

1998 – Burroughs 26, Burbank 21.  In the 50th meeting of the “Big Game”, wide receiver Kyle Cremarosa caught eight passes for 223 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Indians to victory. Burroughs quarterback Joe Kroells completed 11 of 20 passes for 280 yards and four touchdowns as the Indians took an 18-7 halftime lead and held off Burbank. Alan Gutierrez led the Bulldogs with 161 yards on 32 carries.

1999 – Burroughs 35, Burbank 14.  The Indians won their seventh consecutive game (longest in the series) over the Bulldogs by overpowering them from the very start.  Jonathan Overturf scored on an 83 yard trick play on the first play from scrimmage in the game. Randy Beckmann and Michael Perez added a touchdown apiece and Spencer Steward caught a TD pass from Joe Kroells as Burroughs rolled to victory. The game marked the 1000th point ever scored by the Indians against the Bulldogs in their storied rivalry.

2000 – Burroughs 54, Burbank 36.  The Indians’ Mike Perez rushed for 214 yards on 31 carries including a 57 yard TD run with less than a minute to play. Teammate Lonn Salmon threw for 167 yards and two touchdowns on 6 of 10 passing. Burroughs’ 54 points set a record for most points scored by one team in the “Big Game” and the 90 points combined was also a record.

2001 – Burroughs 38, Burbank 21.  Mike Perez rushed for 84 yards on 12 carries and scored two touchdowns and Gabriel Moise Jr. picked up a fumble and rumbled 88 yards down the field for the clinching touchdown in the fourth quarter. Trailing 26-21, Burbank was driving deep into Indian territory only to have the turnover. Moise’s score made it 32-21 and it ended any hope of a Bulldog win. Perez reached the 1,000 yard mark for the second consecutive season. He also had an 80 yard touchdown reception in the game.

2002 – Burroughs 43, Burbank 31.  The Indians had a commanding 30-7 lead early in the third quarter behind the play of quarterback David Brooks, who rushed for 177 yards and three touchdowns. However, Bulldog signal caller Mike McDonald, son of former Burroughs star Mike McDonald Sr., rallied his team to within 37-31 with 3:51 to play on a TD pass to Rico Clark. Burbank was on the drive again looking for the win when Burroughs’ Darrel Ditri intercepted a pass and returned it 55 yards for a score with 24 seconds to play to cap the win. This marked the tenth consecutive win in the series for Burroughs and the longest such streak in the “Big Game”.

2003 – Burbank 24, Burroughs 18.  Finally! The Bulldogs snapped the 10 game “Big Game” winning streak of Burroughs as Mike McDonald finished 14 of 28 for 203 yards and three touchdowns. McDonald connected with Jesse Ayers on an 11 yard TD pass with 3:28 to play which turned out to be the decisive score.

2004 – Burbank 26, Burroughs 12.  Jason Barbic did it all for Burbank in their second consecutive “Big Game” win over the Indians.  Barbic rushed for 50 yards in six carries and a TD, caught two passes for 108 yards and threw a 13 yard touchdown pass.  Mike McDonald finished his “Big Game” career completing 7 of 11 passes for 166 yards and a touchdown.

2005 – Burroughs 35, Burbank 28.  As Mike Perez did back in 2000, the Indians’ Thomas Kyle put his team on his back and rushed for 249 yards on 32 carries and a pair of touchdowns, including a 62 yarder that put Burroughs ahead 26-14 early in the third quarter. Burbank’s Robert Linda completed 16 of 36 passes for 283 yards and a score. The Indians regained control of the series after Burbank had won back to back contests the previous two years.

2006 – Burroughs 24, Burbank 6.  First Mike Perez, then Thomas Kyle.  Now Joe Wiggan. He did it all in a convincing manner as he rushed for 288 yards on 47 carries and scored two touchdowns.  Wiggan rushed for 178 yards in the second half alone.  The Indians scored 24 unanswered points to defeat the Bulldogs who could have shared the league title with a win. Led by head coach Keith Knoop, Burroughs finished the regular season with a 9-1 mark and 7-0 in Pacific League play, its first league title since 1981.

2007 – Burroughs 30, Burbank 20.  The Indians rallied from a 13-0 first quarter deficit and scored the game’s next 23 points to lead 23-13 late in the third quarter. After a Bulldog touchdown with 4:39 left in the game trimmed the Burroughs lead to 23-20, Indians’ tailback Dominique Barnes scored on a 27 yard run to seal the victory. Barnes finished with 149 yards in 16 carries as Burroughs won their third straight in the series.

2008 – Burroughs 58, Burbank 22.  Following in the legendary footsteps of Indians’ Mike Perez, Thomas Kyle and Joe Wiggan, Dominique Barnes put on a performance of a lifetime in the 60threndition of the “Big Game”. Barnes rushed for 304 yards, a school record, on 23 carries and scored five touchdowns to lead the Indians to the dominating win. The 58 points scored by Burroughs set a “Big Game” scoring record for one team. Barnes scored on touchdowns runs of seven, 20, 48, 85 and nine yards. In the process, Barnes set the school record for most points scored in a season by a player. The Indians won their fourth straight in the series. On a historic note, Burbank made the CIF playoffs and won their first playoff game since 1927, a stretch that lasted 81 years. 1927 also marked the year when Burbank won its first league title.

2009 – Burbank 28, Burroughs 21. The Bulldogs snapped a four game losing streak vs. Burroughs and in the process won their first league title in 37 years! (1972 the last) Before 8,800 fans, these two teams clashed in a thrilling contest. It marked the first time in the 61 year history of competing against each other that both teams finished as co-champions together (each team finished with identical 6-1 records in the Pacific League. For Burbank, it was their fifth league title. Burroughs won their tenth league title the previous week). After Dalton Williams gave the Indians a 21-20 lead on a 79-yard touchdown dash down the Burroughs’ sideline late in the third quarter, Burbank’s Ulises Ochoa scored on a one yard touchdown run with 5:36 remaining in the game to give the Bulldogs a 28-21 advantage that they would not relinquish. Williams led Burroughs with 203 yards rushing while Ochoa ran for 127. Burbank quarterback Adam Colman completed 14 of 23 passes for 174 yards and teammate Jackson Diamond caught 10 passes for 111 yards and was rewarded with the game ball by first-year head coach and Bulldog alum, Hector Valencia. Burbank finished its season with a school-record tying nine wins (9-3) and advanced to the CIF quarterfinals for a second consecutive season.

2010 – Burroughs 38, Burbank 35. In front of a boisterous crowd of 9,000 die-hard Indian and Bulldog fans, Burroughs mounted the greatest comeback in “Big Game” history and defeated arch-rival Burbank, 38-35, on a last-second field goal to win a share of the Pacific League title for the second consecutive season. Amidst an electric atmosphere that only this rivalry could produce, the Indians rallied from a dire 28-0 deficit early in the second quarter and stunned Burbank when junior Cristobal Escobar kicked a 20 yard field goal as time expired to cap off one of the greatest games in “Big Game” annals. Trailing 35-21 early in the fourth quarter, the Indians scored back to back touchdowns to tie the game. After forcing Burbank to punt with 1:15 to play, Burroughs quarterback Lucas Yanez completed three passes to set up Escobar’s game winning field goal. Burroughs fans rushed the field to celebrate as all of us bore witness to the last “Big Game” to be played at venerable Memorial Stadium. Yanez completed 14 of 26 passes for 227 yards and three touchdowns and also rushed for 63 yards while his twin brother Tyler Yanez caught eight passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Burbank’s Ulises Ochoa finished with game-highs of 188 yards on 34 carries and three touchdowns (two rushing, one interception). Burroughs would go on to defeat El Rancho in the first round of the CIF playoffs and advance to the quarterfinals, their first postseason win since 1987.

2011 – Burroughs 34, Burbank 7. In the first-ever “Big Game” played outside the city limits, John Burroughs won their third consecutive Pacific League title with a 34-7 victory over Burbank. Due to the ongoing renovation of Memorial Stadium, the 63^rd “Big Game” was played at Arcadia High School.  More than 5,000 fans traveled to the game to witness a rushing performance like none other in “Big Game” lore. Indians’ star tailback Zander Anding broke the single-game “Big Game” rushing record with 349 yards on 29 carries and four touchdowns. Anding’s 73-yard touchdown run in the second quarter gave Burroughs a 14-7 halftime lead. His 46-yard TD late in the fourth quarter cemented the win and gave the Indians back to back city bragging rights over the rival Bulldogs. It was Anding’s fifth 300 yard-plus effort of the season. He finished the regular season with 2,453 yards rushing which is not only the best single-season mark in the school’s history, but the best single-season mark in Pacific League history as well. He also has scored 25 rushing touchdowns and 29 touchdowns overall heading into the CIF playoffs. Burroughs claimed their fourth league title in the last six years (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011), their twelfth in their storied history and have won three consecutive league titles for the first time since 1977-1981 when they won five straight championships.

2012 – Burbank 37, Burroughs 14. After a year hiatus away from the city of Burbank, the 64^th “Big Game” returned to venerable Memorial Stadium which received a facelift in 2011. Before 8,000 die-hard football fans, Burbank won the cross-town matchup with a dominating 37-14 effort for its first win in the series since 2009. It was Burbank’s largest margin of victory against Burroughs since a 28-0 shutout of the Indians in 1984. The Indians avoided what would have been their worst defeat in the history of the Big Game. Burbank pounded Burroughs 44-8 back in 1969. The Bulldogs outgained the Indians, 288 to 148. Burbank held the Burroughs ground game to 75 yards on 24 carries. In contrast, the Bulldogs rushed for 246 yards while controlling the line of scrimmage throughout the night. Sophomore James Williams rushed for 149 yards on 14 carries; including an 89-yard touchdown burst on Burbank’s first play of the second half that gave the Bulldogs a commanding 30-0 lead.

2013 – Burbank 47, Burroughs 21. Before a raucous capacity crowd at Memorial Field, Burbank won its second consecutive game against rival Burroughs, 47-21, in the 65th renewal of the “Big Game.” The Bulldogs had not beaten the Indians in back-to-back years since the 2003 and 2004 seasons. The victory marked the third win in the rivalry over the last five years for Burbank, its best stretch in the cross-town duel since winning three straight from 1983 through 1985. Meanwhile, the 26-point loss marked the worst defeat by Burroughs at the hands of Burbank since suffering a 28-0 loss to Burbank in 1984. It was the most points scored ever by Burbank against Burroughs in the 65-year history of the BIG GAME. The 47 points eclipsed the previous high set in 1969 in which Burbank won, 44-8. The one-two punch of James Williams (173 yards on 23 carries) and Joseph Pendleton (132 yards on 14 carries) was too much to handle for Burroughs as the two talented running backs sliced and diced their way to the tune of 305 combined rushing yards and six touchdowns. Leading 17-14 at halftime, the Bulldogs outscored the Indians, 30-0, in the third quarter en route to the easy victory. Burbank advanced to the CIF semifinals for the second time in its history and won a school-record 10 games on the season.

2014 – Burbank 16, Burroughs 10. For the third consecutive game, the Bulldogs were victorious against their cross-town rivals. The last time that happened was 1983, 1984 and 1985. Burbank quarterback Ryan Meredith completed 16 of 24 passes for 158 yards including a 21-yard touchdown pass to Nick Warren that proved to be the game winner late in the third quarter. Leading 9-7, Burbank’s Kyle Alvarez recovered an Indians fumble and one play later Meredith found Warren on a screen pass that resulted in a touchdown with 23 seconds to play in the third period. Burroughs committed five turnovers to aid the Bulldogs’ effort as BHS clinched third place in the Pacific League and an automatic playoff entry. The loss knocked JBHS from earning a postseason berth.

2015 – Burroughs 47, Burbank 21. The Indians rallied from an early 14-0 deficit to score 40 unanswered points en route to a resounding victory and with it the outright Pacific League championship, their first title since 2011. The win propelled Burroughs to a 10-2 season where the Indians advanced to the CIF quarterfinals and achieved their best season since 2006. Burbank jumped out to a quick 14-point lead only to see its cross-town rivals respond with 19 second quarter points. Junior Chance Bell (164 yards on 20 carries) broke off a nifty 76-yard touchdown run that gave the Indians a 26-14 advantage early in the third quarter. Senior quarterback Steven Hubbell (17 of 28 for 268 yards) threw five touchdowns to four different receivers as JBHS snapped the three game series win streak strung together by the Bulldogs. Burbank has never defeated Burroughs four straight times in the 67 year history of this phenomenal and historical rivalry.

2016 – Burbank 36, Burroughs 7. Behind a dominating effort, the Bulldogs defeated their cross-town rivals for the fourth time in five years, the first time that Burbank has accomplished that feat during the 68-year history of this rivalry. Darnell Williams, younger brother of former BHS star James Williams, scored two touchdowns and rushed for 66 yards on 10 carries. Senior quarterback Guy Gibbs threw for 128 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Burroughs’ offense was stifled throughout the game by a tenacious Bulldogs’ defense that limited Indians’ standout Chance Bell to just 12 yards on 20 carries. The decisive win marked Burbank’s largest margin of victory over Burroughs since 1969 when the Bulldogs won, 44-8. The victory propelled Burbank to historic heights as the Bulldogs advanced to their first-ever CIF championship game only to lose to Yorba Linda, 31-21, in the Division VIII final. Burbank won a school-record 10 games during a magical season and one for the ages.

2017 – Burbank 41, Burroughs 14. The Bulldogs capped off an unbeaten run through league en route to their first Pacific League title since 2009 with a convincing 41-14 win over Burroughs. Burbank won for the fifth time in the last six meetings against its crosstown rivals. Bulldogs quarterback Matthew Porras finished 21 of 32 for 239 yards with four touchdowns. The Bulldogs broke up the scoring as Porras and fellow junior Duncan Smith hooked up on a 7-yard touchdown pass with 43 seconds left in the first half. It was the first of three touchdowns the pair would team up for. Darnell Williams scored the first of his two touchdowns in the third quarter to give Burbank a 28-14 advantage. Williams finished with 152 yards on 30 carries. Burbank (10-3) used the unblemished campaign in league to catapult and win two playoff contests only to fall short in the CIF Division VII semifinals. The year before the Bulldogs reached the CIF championship game. The last two seasons have served as the greatest two-year run in Burbank football history.

2018 – 70^th all-time meeting!!

The post The “BIG GAME!!” 70th All-Time Meeting; Burroughs Leads Burbank, 42-27 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
myBurbank Sports Emeritus

BIG GAME “Facts, Figures & Football”

        DATE:                        October 26, 2018

        SITE:                            Memorial Field

        KICKOFF:            7 p.m.

SERIES FACTS:         This is the 70th meeting between the two schools!!

First game- 1949; Burroughs leads the all-time series, 42-27.  

• Burbank has defeated Burroughs five of the last six years; the first time the Bulldogs have accomplished that feat in the 69-year history of the rivalry.
• Burroughs has won 17 of 25 and 22 of the last 32 contests between the two schools.
• Burbank has won eight of the last 14 clashes.
• Decade of 2000s- Burroughs has won 10 of the 18 meetings.

LAST 18 YEARS:

2017- Burbank 41 Burroughs 14

2016- Burbank 36  Burroughs 7

2015- Burroughs 47  Burbank 21

2014- Burbank 16  Burroughs 10

2013- Burbank 47  Burroughs 21

2012- Burbank 37  Burroughs 14

2011- Burroughs 34  Burbank 7

2010- Burroughs 38  Burbank 35

2009- Burbank 28  Burroughs 21

2008- Burroughs 58  Burbank 22

2007- Burroughs 30  Burbank 20

2006- Burroughs 24  Burbank 6

2005- Burroughs 35  Burbank 28

2004- Burbank 26  Burroughs 12

2003- Burbank 24  Burroughs 18

2002- Burroughs 43  Burbank 31

2001- Burroughs 38  Burbank 21

2000- Burroughs 54  Burbank 36 

TEAM FACTS:

Burbank (6-3, 5-1 in league)

Last League title- 2017 (Pacific League champions: 7-0)

League titles (6): 1927, 1951, 1956, 1972, 2009, 2017

Burroughs (2-7, 2-4 in league)

Last League title- 2015 (Pacific League champions: 7-0)

League titles (13):  1967, 1973, 1974, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2015 

 (Photo By Craig Sherwood)

The post 2018 “BIG GAME” Tale of the Tape- Facts, Figures and Football appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Marine veteran C.J. Chivers talks about his recent book The Fighters: Americans in Combat in Afghanistan and Iraq at the Burbank Public Library on Thursday evening, October 25.

The book follows six members of the military – an Army helicopter pilot, an Army infantryman, an Air Force fighter pilot, a Navy corpsman, a Marine infantry officer and a Special Forces Sergeant – before, during and after their service in the ongoing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Marine veteran C.J. Chivers talks about the U.S. wars in Afghanistan and Iraq in his latest book, “The Fighters.” (Photo Courtesy Simon & Schuster)

Chivers will be interviewed by two veterans, Max Uriarte and Paul Szoldra, for their popular veteran podcast After Action with Max and Paul. They will discuss Chivers’ years as a Marine and more recent work as an award-winning war correspondent.

“After years of covering these wars, one patrol at a time, I wanted to write a fuller account, something that would show what the experience was like for those who fought them,” commented Chivers, a correspondent for The New York Times and a writer-at-large for the New York Times Magazine.

Chivers’ magazine story “The Fighter” won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize in Feature Writing. In 2009, he was part of a team that won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting for coverage from Afghanistan and Pakistan.

“I know how busy and time-challenged people are, and how difficult and even numbing it can be to try to follow wars that have gone on so long, and had so many phases,” Chivers added. “With this book I hope that readers who take time for one book can have a very rich sense of the rank-and-file experience of these wars, at the human level, set against the national disappointments the wars have been.”

“I thought it was about time that we did an event here that recognized the service of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, and I hope some of those veterans, and other veterans will come to this event,” commented Burbank Librarian Hubert Kozak.

Cpl. Thomas Bourget watches over the mountains surrounding the Korengal Valley, in Afghanistan, during Operation Viper Shake, April 21, 2009. (Photo Courtesy Sgt. Mathew Moeller. U.S. Army)

“But this is not just an event for veterans,” he added. “I want a general public to know about the experience of soldiers who serve these days, this at a time when fewer people than ever really are connected with those who serve in our armed forces.”

“It seems the more distant and complacent and almost blissfully ignorant we become about those we ask to serve on our behalf, the more we are willing to tell a veteran ‘Thank you for your service,'” Kozak also said. “But when you don’t know what that service involved—most don’t and many don’t want to know—that becomes a means of dismissal more than a meaningful appreciation.”

“Chris Chivers has let us all know in a powerful way,” he said. “This book has intimacy and immediacy, and you will see things through the eyes of the soldiers who served.”

The United States’ failed campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq continue to be waged. Since Sept. 11, 2001, the U.S. has spent $1.5 trillion on wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria, according to a recent Department of Defense report.

Thousands of U.S. service members have died in the two wars and, according to a Pentagon estimate, hundreds of thousands of returned troops have suffered traumatic brain injuries. Nearly three million Americans have fought in the campaigns since 2001.

“These wars failed for many reasons, including that our government did not have well-articulated and realistic goals for them, generally did not understand the people they fought or the countries they occupied, and in most every sense tried to fight with too few people,” said Chivers, who served as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps in the Persian Gulf War and on peacekeeping duty during the Los Angeles riots.

A U.S. Army soldier and U.S. Air Force airman scan the Kornegal Valley’s rocky hillside as fellow members return fire at insurgents.(Photo Courtesy Sgt. Mathew Moeller. U.S. Army)

“In the case of Iraq, the invasion itself was wrong-headed, and choosing to invade  Iraq in 2003 diverted all manner of resources from the ongoing campaign in Afghanistan, which in 2002 was already adrift,” he went on to say. “The wars were conceptual failures first, and naturally practical failures followed.”

“The government might do better if there were clear and present checks-and-balances, but whatever checks-and-balances exist in theory have been ceded by those who might apply them, including by Congress and the public, including you and me,” Chivers concluded.

The New York Times has called The Fighters “a classic of war reporting… The author’s stories give heart-rending meaning to the lives and deaths of these men and women, even if policymakers generally have not.”

The event begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Buena Vista branch of the Burbank Public Library, located at 300 N. Buena Vista Street. The author will sign books after the discussion and copies of The Fighters will be available for purchase. Plenty of free parking is available on site.

(Image Courtesy Burbank Public Library)

The post “The Fighters” Author Looks At Six Military Lives Through Lens Of Afghanistan And Iraq Wars appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Joaquin Miller Elementary School PTA hosted a Multicultural Family Festival on Friday evening, October 19, at the school’s Copeland Courtyard. Approximately 300 people attended the event, many bringing dishes to share for a school-wide potluck.

“With over 20 languages spoken in addition to English [in the school population], the audience was treated to a diverse multicultural program that included homemade ethnic foods donated by our families and local businesses and musical and dance performances,” said Principal Judy Hession.

Photo By Ross Benson

The Miller Elementary student chorus sang and Miller students Karine Hukikyan and Dvin Boghosian performed an Armernian dance. Thai dance and Thai long drums were shared by Giong-Yao Wat Thai of Los Angeles. The Xipe Totec Aztec Dance Company were joined by the school’s Spanish Community Liaison Estela Sermeno for their performance.

School parent Alla Ter-Vartanyan performed Armenian folk music on the Kanon stringed instrument. Audiences also heard an Armenian solo song performance and Armenian Dhol (drum) and Duduk (double reed woodwind instrument) by three students from Sonata Music, a local music program.

Photo By Ross Benson

Mexican folk dances by Ballet Folklorico San Fernando led by Nora Villarreal were performed in addition to Armenian folk dances from Lilia Dance Studio with Miller student Celine Najarian and Korean traditional drums and music by Hwarang Youth Foundation.

“Miller Elementary PTA’s hope was that this Multicultural Family Festival would bring our school community together while celebrating the diversity of cultures found at Miller,” commented PTA President Claudia Knoell.

“Thanks to the Multicultural Family Festival chairperson Katharine Moser and parent volunteers, and the overwhelming support of our school administrators and teachers, Miller Elementary had an evening of family engagement and inclusiveness that our families won’t soon forget.”

Photo By Ross Benson

City council member Bob Frutos, City Treasurer Debbie Kutka, Burbank Unified Board of Education Vice President Dr. Armond Aghakhanian and Board of Education member Steve Fritner also attended the event.

“It was a night to celebrate our diversity and how this enriches all of our lives!” said Hession.

The post Miller Multicultural Family Festival Celebrates Diversity appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Halloween is coming up and so is the Annual myBurbank Halloween Decorating Contest.

myBurbank is proud to announce that Tadeh Sayadian will be in charge of this year’s contest and promises that this will be an epic year!

The contest is open to all residence in the City of Burbank.

To enter, please send an email to halloweencontest@myBurbank.com. 

Please make sure to include your address!!

Judging will be held on Monday, October 29, 2018 and Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Winners will be announced on Wednesday, October 31, 2018

The post myBurbank Halloween Contest Signups Begin appeared first on myBurbank.com.

(Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Playing in the quarterfinals of the CIF Southern Section playoffs for the third time in four years, the Burroughs High girls’ volleyball team has certainly set the bar high as a program.

But getting to the semifinal is something the Indians have not done and were looking to do Wednesday night.

At times it looked like the Indians were ready for an upset. In the end, it didn’t happen as top-seeded Village Christian of Sun Valley outlasted the Indians 25-17, 21-25, 22-25, 25-15, 15-11 in a CIF Division 3 contest.

Burroughs coach Edwin Real said he didn’t want his players to have any pressure.

“At the end of the day we were just having fun,” Real said. “We didn’t even talk about that they were the number one seed.”

In the fifth and deciding game, Village Christian jumped out to an early lead.

Sophomore Catie Virtue had a kill to cut the deficit to 8-6.

(Photo by © Ross A Benson)

But the host Crusaders (33-9), which have four players who live in Burbank, would not be denied.

Village star Mackenzie Jensen had five kills in the final game alone.

“We played well in the third game. The ball control was good. We were aggressive with our swings,” Real said. “They (Village) served a little better. We were making too many saves. We were running all over the gym. We made some weird decisions that we don’t normally make.”

Burroughs (27-9) received a fine effort from Juliana Van Loo, who finished with 19 kills. Lydia Grote had 15 kills for the Indians.

(Photo by © Ross A Benson)

The duo helped Burroughs rally from an 11-6 deficit in the second game to turn the match around.

Van Loo had a pair of kills and Burroughs received a key ace from Caitlin Lim.

Burroughs fell behind 11-6 in the third, before storming back to take a 15-12 lead and eventually winning 25-22.

The Indians and Crusaders were tied at 10 in the fourth game when Burroughs went into a slump and was unable to recover.

The post Burroughs Girls Volleyball Stopped by Village Christian appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The school community of Robert Louis Stevenson Elementary enjoyed seasonal fun with the 15th annual Boo Bash event on Friday, October 19, on the school grounds.

“It’s grown from a bake sale to the amazing and fun-filled event that we have today,” commented Stevenson Elementary PTA Historian Jodi Karp, noting the event adds new ideas every year.

Photo By Ross Benson

“This year saw the addition of another new event, the highly-anticipated The Pirates Maze,” she explained. “Our cherished Stevenson garden was transformed in a matter of a few short weeks into an amazing array of lights, fog and (fun) fright.”

“The Fifth-Grade Haunted Hallway returned in the form of the Fifth-Grade Boo Bash Bayou. The hard working fifth-graders, parents and teachers transformed the entrance to the garden into a pirate’s paradise.”

Photo By Ross Benson

The Haunted Hallway is always a popular draw, with over 800 visits during Friday’s Boo Bash. In previous years, the Hallway was inside the school; this year it was set up at the garden entrance.

“The Pirates Maze encompassed the remainder of the garden with all plants, vegetables and trees either incorporated into the maze or left intact,” Karp added.

Photo By Ross Benson

Kids played Halloween-themed games, including Angry Pumpkins, for which they would sling a pumpkin across the Stevenson yard. Monster Mash was also a hit – kids popped balloons and searched for a small piece of paper that indicated their prize.

Stevenson Elementary PTA also set up a Bootique at which students could shop for prizes. Pumpkin bowling and a pumpkin carving contest were also popular with the students.

The PTA held the ubiquitous bake sale and a raffle, while a DJ provided musical entertainment.

The post Stevenson Elementary Enjoys Halloween Fun With Annual Boo Bash appeared first on myBurbank.com.

“Every day Burbank is Broadcast to the World”! began the advertisement for Magnolia Park radio station KELW. Earl L White was the owner, he was the original promoter of the Magnolia Park area of Burbank.

The “K” in the call letters designated a radio station west of the Mississippi and the ELW were Mr White’s initials. In 1927 radio stations could pick their own power and frequency.

The first broadcast from KELW was on February 12^th President Lincoln’s birthday. They broadcast at 250 watts of power but soon increased it to 1000 watts. The station was originally located at 3702 Magnolia Boulevard and was in business until 1937 as its license was deleted. The building that housed the station was demolished in the 1980’s or early 1990’s

The station boasted many fine programs such as their first one that featured speakers from the City of Burbank dignitaries and outdoor concerts were held at the Portal of the Folded Wings at Valhalla Cemetery and were broadcast live!

An early morning program featured Pedro Gonzalez who was an early “Tejano” performer with his band “Los Madrugadores” whos broadcasts were heard as far away as New Zealand when the atmospheric conditions were right. Can you imagine what the people of that country thought about this music? In 1927 people in New Zealand had never heard of Tejano Music much less heard it played!

These early riser programs were sponsored by Folgers Coffee. Other programming included broadcasts by several local churches on Sundays, a Memory Lane program talked about the Pioneer Days, and a Hawaiian baritone gave recitals accompanied by the Times Aloha String Quartet.

Another feature was to stage imitation prize fights in the studio to recreate the feel of listening to it first hand except they included “Duck” sounds for some unknown reason it says.

The advertising for the station included this statement that “KELW is creating good will for Burbank in the minds of people near and far, and such publicity going to them direct cannot help but create a feeling of interest and give them a desire to come and see our city!”

We will never know how many folks were drawn to Burbank through these broadcasts, but it is certain that thousands of people local, nationwide and overseas did hear and listen to KELW BURBANK!

NOW AVAILABLE: “TRUE TALES FROM BURBANK”

From the Authors who brought you “Lost Burbank” & “Growing Up In Burbank” Comes the third exciting installment of the Burbank Trilogy…

                “True Tales From Burbank”  

Stories from Los Angeles’s most surprising suburb!

 Home to the likes of Disney and Warner Bros., Burbank has a fascinating history beyond the glitz and glamor of its entertainment industry. Discover the true story behind the mysterious Night Riders and how the Druids came to visit. Learn about the plans to film biblical epics in town and the how the Crank Conventions came to be. Delve into tales of rodeo queens, Hollywood stars, Mouseketeers and a flying lion cub. Wesley H. Clark and Michael B. McDaniel, take you on a surprising and whimsical tour of the people, places and events of this historic San Fernando Valley city.

The post FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Burbank’s First Radio Station appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Arts for All Foundation hosted its twelfth Creative Circles Forum: The Art of Stagecraft on Wednesday, October 17, at L.A. Castle Studios, a 4K television and feature film studio in Burbank.

Panelists included Tim Pipher (producer and owner of L.A. Castle Studios), Jim Bissell (award-winning art director and production designer), KayDee Lavorin Friel (two-time Emmy nominated set decorator), Lily LaRocco (Vice President of Technical Services for Warner Bros. Studio Facilities) and Karen Broderick (Stage Craft Technology teacher at Burbank High School.)

The panelists talked about traditional stagecraft and the ways emerging technologies are affecting the field.

Panelists KayDee Lavorin Friel (two-time Emmy nominated set decorator), Jim Bissell (award-winning art director and production designer), Karen Broderick (Stage Craft Technology teacher at Burbank High School), Lily LaRocco (Vice President of Technical Services for Warner Bros. Studio Facilities) and Tim Pipher (producer and owner of L.A. Castle Studios) sat on a green screen set for “The Art of Stagecraft” educational forum. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

The approximately 115 audience members, included 30 students from Burbank Unified middle and high schools, watched the panelists’ discussion as it took place on the green screen set. Although the panelists could not see the changes, the green screen provided a changing background for the audience when viewed on monitors.

To see what the changing backgrounds looked like and to watch the forum online, viewers can click this link https://youtu.be/xRpF8CWDcgc.

“It was wonderful to support Burbank Arts for All Foundation, their mission and also host their great group of Burbank donors, artists and students on our stage,” commented Pipher.

The panel of speakers in front of a green screen with a digital background included KayDee Lavorin Friel (two-time Emmy nominated set decorator), Jim Bissell (award-winning art director and production designer), Karen Broderick (Stage Craft Technology teacher at Burbank High School), Lily LaRocco (Vice President of Technical Services for Warner Bros. Studio Facilities) and Tim Pipher (producer and owner of L.A. Castle Studios). (Photo by Ross A Benson)

The panelists talked about their personal stories and gave advice for those interested in a stagecraft career.

“It is really important to keep growing and be willing to take on new initiatives,” said La Rocco. “In this business, you are only as good as your last job.”

“Demonstrate great work ethics and be present on the set. It may not be easy getting in, but you can put your name on lists or start by working in rental houses to get to know the equipment and build your network.”

Shown on a digital monitor is Tim Pipher, owner of LA Castle Studios, and Burbank Arts For All Foundation Executive Director Trena Pitchford during Creative Circles Forum on “The Art of Stagecraft.” ( Photo by Ross A Benson)

Bissell recommended reading books including Anne Holladner’s Moving Pictures and V. S. Ramachandran’s The Tell-Tale Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Quest for What Makes Us Human.

When asked by Stephen James, John Muir Middle School’s Theater Technology teacher, for recommendations regarding how a student might start creating or create with their smart phones, Bissell emphasized that students should learn how to draw first.

“Look at the world around you and draw and keep drawing,” he said. “There’s nothing better because it develops motor skills and a steady hand. Then you are really going to learn how to see.”

“With the world right in front, you have to figure out what about the world do you want to see to tell the story. That right there is the first step in all that we do.”

Panelists and forum attendees talked about the art of stagecraft at the reception. (Photo by Ross A Benson)

Broderick said that the BUSD Career Technical Education (CTE) classes at Burbank High are a “Junior Apprentice Shop.” Students learn the basics of the craft and safety measures for using the specialized equipment then gradually advance to design.

“It is very special to witness a student grow in their skills and cross over to becoming an artist,” she added. “When they understand the work enough that they step up and own it, it is such a beautiful thing to witness.”

“The Foundation’s Creative Circles Forums are just one way they connect K-12 public education with the local industries that make up the creative economy of Burbank,” commented Foundation Executive Director Trena Pitchford. “Each panelist discussed their expertise in creating and building sets for major motion pictures, TV shows or commercials and they also provided professional advice for students interested in exploring these career pathways.”

Brett Pipher, Producer and Tech Director, supervises the control booth during the Creative Circles Forum at L.A. Castle Studio. ( Photo by Ross A Benson)

Among the guests who attended the Creative Circles Forum were BUSD Board of Education President Dr. Roberta Reynolds and Board member Charlene Tabet, Burbank City Councilmember Tim Murphy, Arda Tchakian (District Representative for State Senator Anthony Portantino,) and members of the BUrbank Arts For All Foundation’s Board of Directors including Co-Chairs Tom Vice and Jill Vander Borght, Carrie Brown, Patrick Prescott, Caroline Solberg, Karen Volpei, Suzanne Weerts and panelist Karen Broderick.

For more information about BUSD’s CTE programs, go to www.burbankusd.org/cte.

The post “The Art Of Stagecraft” Forum Draws Burbank Students And Community appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Fifth District, presented the Burbank Human Relations Council (BHRC) with the John Anson Ford Human Relations Award on behalf of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

Accepting the Award to the Board of Supervisors ceremonies was Burbank Human Relations President Mike Chapman and members of the BHRC Board including Janet Diel, Marsha Ramos and City Councilmember Tim Murphy along with Burbank Police Department representatives,Detective Paul Voorhis, Jr. and Captain Eric Deroian.

(Photo Courtesy Burbank Relations Council)

BHRC is celebrating its 60th anniversary of bringing “Togetherhood” to their community. BHRC uses several vehicles to reach the goal of “Building Togetherhood,” including a variety of educational programs, such as intergroup dialogue, forums and presentations and advocacy for equality.

They also work with the Burbank Police Department in monitoring hate crime and incident activity and in offering support to victims of hate incidents and crimes.

When potential hate crimes and hate incidences are identified, one response of the police department is to give the victim(s) the Burbank Human Relations Council contact information. Additionally, if the victim requests to be contacted, a representative follows through with support and/or referrals to counseling and support organizations such as the Family Service Agency of Burbank.

(Photo Courtesy Burbank Human Relations Council)

The importance of having an open line of communication is paramount to any success toward resolving issues, explained Ramos. The relationship between the Burbank Human Relations Council and the Burbank Police Department is an important marker that benefits the victim of a hate crime incidence in a time of need, as well as for the broader community.

The Burbank Human Relations Council is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit organization promoting an environment that is open and accepting of every person without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or age. Interested community members are invited to join BHRC, please go to the website at www.BurbankHumanRelationsCouncil.org  for more information.

The post Burbank Human Relations Council Receives John Anson Ford Human Relations Award appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police Foundation held their Family Fun Day on Saturday, October 20, at Johnny Carson Park. The Family Fun Day included K-9 demos, a Road Kings car show, face painting, a pumpkin patch, police vehicles and more.

Here is a photo gallery from the day’s events:

The post Burbank Police Foundation Family Fun Day Provides Fun For All appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Matthew Porras probably shouldn’t have even suited Friday night for Burbank High when the Bulldogs took on Burroughs in ‘The Big Game’ at Memorial Field.

Porras, who said he had been vomiting less than 24 hours earlier, threw a career-high and school record seven touchdown passes in a 54-20 over the Indians.

Burbank High Matthew Porras. Photo by © Ross A Benson

“He threw up three different times at walkthroughs yesterday,” Burbank coach Adam Colman said. “He’s such a warrior. He has meant so much to our program.”

Porras became Burbank’s single game, single season and career touchdown pass leader all in the same contest.

“This morning I threw up at about 5 in the morning. Then I had a bunch of fluids and came to school,” said Porras, who said he only had soup and saltines.

Burbank (7-3, 6-1) will now learn its fate Sunday in the CIF Southern Section playoffs.
“We were working out the day of the CIF championship last year. We talked about going after a ring.

That’s been our goal since day one,” Colman said.”We’ve got hopefully four more weeks to chase that.”

Burroughs (2-8, 2-5) came in as a heavy underdog but gave Burbank everything it had.

Burroughs Aiden Forrester # 17 runs back the opening kickoff. ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

“The journey this team went on was huge,” Burroughs coach Rand Holdren said. “If we were to start the season from today, it is a different story. These kids left it all on the field tonight.”

Burroughs stunned the Bulldogs when junior Aiden Forrester returned the game’s opening kickoff back 90 yards for a touchdown.

Burbank came right back and scored after just four plays from scrimmage.

Porras hooked up with junior Isaac Glover on a 10-yard touchdown pass. Glover also scored Burbank’s lone rushing touchdown, which came at the 10:24 mark of the fourth quarter.

Porras ended up completing 20 of 30 passes for 305 yards with just one interception.
Porras and Erik Harutyunyan hooked up on a 13-yard touchdown with 3:25 left in the first quarter to make it 14-7.

Burbank High’s Erik Harutyuyan #8 turns the corner . ( Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Harutyunyan finished with eight catches for 173 yards and two touchdowns.

Porras and junior Ben Burnham hooked up on a 16-yard touchdown with 34 seconds left in the first quarter. It was the first of two touchdowns he would score.

Burbank, which also received a pair of touchdowns from tight end Duncan Smith, led 27-13 at halftime.

Burroughs quarterback Nathan Piper hooked up with Nick Garcia on a 9-yard touchdown with 3:22 left in the first half. The took would hook up later on a 31-yard touchdown in the third quarter.

Porras broke the single-game touchdown pass record when he hooked up with Burnham with 1:58 left to play.

Burroughs’ Andrew English had seven receptions for 69 yards.

Piper completed 15 of 30 passes for 171 yards in the final game of his career.

The post Porras Lifts Burbank Football Past Burroughs appeared first on myBurbank.com.

As always, it was a battle on the gridiron with Burbank High coming away with a 54-20 victory by the Bulldogs over the Indians in the 70th battle between these two high schools.

Before the game, however, both schools presented their Homecoming Courts.

Photo by © Ross A Benson)

Since Burbank won the BIG GAME, we will announce their court first!

For Burbank High:

Representing the Burbank Senior Class, this year’s 2018 Homecoming

Queen: Regine Buendia and King: Julian Camacho

Photo by Ross A Benson

Representing the Burbank Senior Class are:  

Princess Dani Maurcere and Prince Kris Azizkhani.

Princess Amber Perkins and Prince Chadz Vang.

Princess Ciara Clutario and Prince Karo Kosharyan.

Representing the Burbank Junior Class are:  

Princess Jordan Delgado and Prince Justin Robinson

Representing the Burbank Sophomore Class are:  

Princess Grace Hutchin and Prince Owen Cusumano

Representing the Burbank Freshman Class are:  

Princess ­­­Jasmine Im and Prince Michael Aquirre

For Burroughs High:

Photo by © Ross A Benson

From Burroughs Senior Class, this year’s 2018 Homecoming

Queen: Michelle Tran and King: Sam Tipton

(Photo by © Ross A Benson)

From Burroughs Senior Class are:

Princess Katerina Kojababian and Prince David Solis

From Burroughs Senior Class are:

Princess Emily Gutierrez and Prince Jagger Green

From Burroughs Senior Class are:

Princess Nicole Rojas and Prince Trevor Bates

From Burroughs Senior Class are:

Princess Faith Duston and Prince Andres Salazar

Representing John Burroughs High School 2017 past Homecoming Court are:

King Cerain Baker and Queen Leah Davis

The post Burbank, Burroughs High Present Homecoming Courts appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Arts For All Foundation holds a new twist on their fall fundraiser with the Autumn Art Soiree on Saturday evening, November 3, at the Burbank Town Center. Artists from ACME Archives and the Burbank Art Association have donated originals and limited edition prints, which will be available for purchase at $40 and up.

For several past years, Burbank Arts For All Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises funds specifically for Burbank Unified arts-connected programs, held the Secret Art Show, at which celebrities, local officials, community members and students created mini works of art that were purchased, artist-unknown, for the flat fee of $40.

Art by ACME Archives artists will be available for purchase at the Autumn Art Soiree. (Image Courtesy Burbank Arts For All Foundation)

“We invite the entire community to pop in and enjoy the Autumn Art Soiree!” commented Foundation Executive Director Trena Pitchford. “This year, we have no secrets as there will be a variety of works of art – of all sizes – available from local artists to the most established artists!”

“We are so excited to offer this fun night out to further our mission in supporting creativity in the classroom for public school students in Burbank,” she added.

Art by members of the Burbank Art Association will be available for purchase at the Autumn Art Soiree. (Image Courtesy Burbank Arts For All Foundation)

Live art demonstrations by Adonna Khare (American Master carbon-pencil artist and 2012 ArtPrize Winner), Cliff Cramp (veteran illustrator, painter and storyteller), Michael Hirsch (ceramicist and instructor) and Guy Vasilovich (fine art painter, director and designer) will be ongoing throughout the evening.

A Burbank High jazz trio will open the event. Tickets are $20 for general admission and BUSD student tickets are $15.

More information on tickets and sponsorships can be found online here. A preview of ACME Archives art available can be seen here. A preview of Burbank Art Association artwork can be viewed here.

The Autumn Art Soiree runs from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. The event will be held in the space formerly occupied by Sport Chalet at the Burbank Town Center mall located at 201 E. Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank.

The post Autumn Art Soiree Raises Funds For Burbank Arts For All Foundation appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It isn’t often that high school football coaches stay in place for many years, especially in a public school.
Burroughs High has been fortunate enough that it hasn’t had that problem. Keith Knoop has been part of the Indians’ coaching staff for 26 years, 19 of those as the head coach.
Friday night against his alma mater, Burbank High, Knoop coached in his last game.
Having been an assistant coach the past three seasons, Knoop will now take on a full-time role as the school’s athletic director.

He takes over for Marty Garrison, who retired at the end of the last school year.
“I was at peace with the knowledge I was not going to coach after that game,” Knoop said. “I have been coaching since 1987 and have enough memories to last. So I am good. Plus I am excited to focus on Athletic Director.”

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

For parents who look at their son’s report cards, Knoop said he will still be the teacher of record, since head coach Rand Holdren is a walk-on coach. But aside from that Knoop will be a spectator next season.
Knoop, who coached at Glendale Community College before coming to Burroughs, said the wins and losses were not the most important thing in being a coach and teacher.
“(We have) sent hundreds of fantastic young men and women into society to be productive human (beings) who are great people,” Knoop said. “We also brought back tradition to Burroughs and won a few football games in the process.”
Over the years Knoop has witnessed changes in high school football.
“We have gone from a blue-collar mentality to a don’t hurt my feelings mentality. Everything is out there now with social media,” Knoop said. “We need to teach kids failure is a tool, not an outcome that cannot be overcome. There is no reset button in life. Each of us must continue to dig down deep and fight to get what we want.”
A member of the Burroughs Athletic Hall of Fame, Knoop began coaching at Burroughs in 1993 before the internet even took off. He thinks it has contributed to the change of sports.
“Players today want instant gratification, personal coaches, Division 1 scholarship offers and winning records without the hard work,” he said. “But deep down kids are kids no matter what generation they are from, they just need guidance.”

Coach Keith Knoop speaks to his team about possessing a blue-collar mentality (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

With many students and parents now looking at various educational options, Knoop said he hopes to keep Burroughs as a school of choice for prospective student-athletes.
“John Burroughs has excellent academics and sports facilities,” Knoop said. “We need to fight every day to keep our local student-athletes in the city of Burbank. We need the students who are supposed to be at Burroughs to have a reason to come here and stay here.”

The post Burroughs’ Keith Knoop Moves Into New Role appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Stretch Yoga, a hot yoga workout studio, celebrated two years in Magnolia Park with a community party on Saturday, October 27.

The 5000 square foot open space welcomed nearly 200 people to share in the celebration. Vendors included Kulae, Harmless Harvest, Better Bootch, Plush Puffs, Yogabela, Shakti,  Lulu Lemon, Bougie Bakes, Doterra Oils, Sojihealth, Moments Tea, Ike’s Sandwiches, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Hoke Poke and Millie’s Cafe.

Hand-made cards by Star Fire Says, jewelry by Maekavera, Jennergy body painting, sketch artist Jingjing Cao and DJ Rolando Calip added to the festivities.

“People got to connect on a different level and see each other outside of doing a rigorous practice of Hatha yoga and it was really nice to see people out of the yoga room, dressed up and celebrating over their passion, food and music,” commented Stretch Yoga owner Liz Baghaei.

Owner Liz Baghaei with Manager Eva Quinonez stands in the main entryway of the Stretch Studio. (Photo By © Ross A Benson)

“I love doing business in Magnolia Park,” she added. “It’s a tight-knit community of very diverse people from all walks of life. Everyone is very supportive of each other.”

“Case in point, everybody showed up and helped in some way to bring a celebration of the studio together for the anniversary. Whether they gave us food, products or came in and helped out physically. Everyone wanted to be a part of honoring stretch as its own entity.”

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

“I think a lot of that has to do with the type of wonderful community of families and people who are striving to find growth, health and balance that live in Magnolia Park,” Baghaei also said.

“Our business has grown, slowly but surely. Due to the type of physical work that we do, it requires a certain level of commitment and openness to be able to practice yoga on a regular basis. So the people who prioritize their well-being, bodies, self-development and growth have stayed with the studio and love it. Our community has flourished with people that are like-minded.”

“I feel proud of this space and how it’s growing authentically and the interconnected web of people that have become part of it.”

The post Stretch Yoga Celebrates Two Years In Magnolia Park appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

Some of your readers may have attended our forum held on Wednesday, October 24th at City Hall. Others may have heard that several audience members seemed intent on disrupting the forum. Their interruptions delayed the forum and caused us to eliminate a number of good questions that we didn’t have time to ask. 

Civil discourse requires humility because we cannot learn if we are 100% certain that we have all the answers. Being open-minded and being willing to listen to someone with whom you disagree could build trust, which is sorely needed is our world today.

Unfortunately, both humility and trust were in short supply in the audience at the Candidates Forum held in the Burbank City Council Chambers and moderated by the League of Women Voters of Glendale/Burbank, this past Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018. Supporters of challengers in the race for the House of Representatives 28^th and 30^th Districts, were so convinced that their candidate is better, or that the “other” guy is so much worse, that they felt entitled to yell and jeer at the incumbents – despite pleas from the League members to stop interrupting the forum. By their own actions, the angry audience members prevented their candidates from engaging in the most fundamental need of a democratic society – civil discourse and debate by candidates for public office.

Many audience members who wanted to listen to the candidates were so upset by the rude and obnoxious behavior they left the forum frustrated by the lack of decorum. League members urged the crowd to let the forum proceed without interruptions. We were not as successful as we would like but appreciate support of Burbank police officers who attended the forum. Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Rita Zwern, Burbank resident, who moderated the forum with grace and conviction to the process.

The League of Women Voters has been educating its members for nearly 100 years and has seen a lot worse, but it is still shocking when adults are unable to control their emotions in a public forum. We can assure the community that it only doubles the motivation of League members to continue our work of voter education. We want people to be passionate about politics but we also want the community to have an opportunity to hear the positions and qualifications of the candidates and to debate important public policy issues.

The forum will be replayed on Burbank Channel 6 (Charter Spectrum cable) and is available on demand on Burbank’s YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcA4SeTAxqU&t=360s  

If you see a snippet in your news feed, we urge you reserve judgment until you watch the entire forum. It is awkward because of the interruptions but you have the right to hear the candidates before you vote. And please do vote!

As we discussed improvements for future forums with the Burbank Police, a League member expressed hope for the future.  She said, “maybe in 2020 we’ll be able to come together and discuss the issues facing our community.”  We hope she is right, but in any event, we pledge to be there with her, trying to make that happen.

 

Mary L. Dickson, President

Joan Hardie, Board Member & Forum Organizer

League of Women Voters of Glendale/Burbank

The post Letter to the Editor: League of Women Voters Speaks Out About Candidate Forum appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Author Susan Orlean stops by the Burbank Public Library for a conversation about her latest New York Times non-fiction bestseller The Library Book on Thursday evening, November 1.

Burbank Library Services Director Elizabeth Goldman will sit in conversation with Orlean, who is the author of The Orchid Thief, Rin Tin Tin and Saturday Night.

Author Susan Orlean speaks at the Burbank Public Library on Thursday, November 1. (Photo By Noak Fecks Courtesy Simon & Schuster)

The Library Book has already been lauded as “exquisitely written, consistently entertaining… A loving tribute not just to a place or an institution but to an idea,” by The New York Times.

The historic Central Library of the L.A. Public Library system was severely damaged from a major fire on April 29, 1986. This is the jumping-off point for Orlean, who then weaves a story of the history of the L.A. Public Library and libraries in general and the communities they serve.

“As a newcomer to L.A. when I started the book, learning the story of the library was also a chance to learn the story of the city – its development and growth and the host of fascinating people who have been drawn to it,” commented Orlean. “It provided me with a deep dive into Southern California history, and ultimately made me fall in love with L.A.”

“There are so many larger-than-life characters who have been part of the library, starting with Charles Lummis, who ran the library for five years and instituted a policy of using a cattle brand to mark books he thought were ‘junk science,’ and all the way to author Ray Bradbury, who couldn’t afford college so he came and read his way through the library instead, and became a lifelong library advocate.”

The Los Angeles Central Public Library in Downtown L.A. burned on April 29, 1986. (Photo Courtesy L.A. Public Library Collection)

“Susan Orlean has combined the intrigue of an unsolved mystery with a meditation on the role of public libraries in Los Angeles and beyond into a compelling work exploring the deep connections people feel with their libraries,” commented Goldman. “We are honored that she made Burbank a stop on her book tour.”

“Readers will see what she describes reflected in their own branch of the Burbank library – the mix of people, the chance for discovery, the staff who thrive on helping and the sense of community.”

Thursday’s program begins at 7:00 p.m. After the conversation, Orlean will sign books, which will be available for purchase on site. The Buena Vista branch of the Burbank Public Library is located at 300 N. Buena Vista Street in Burbank. Plenty of free parking is available.

Image Courtesy Burbank Public Library.

The post Bestselling Author Talks About “The Library Book” appeared first on myBurbank.com.

myBurbank will be breaking down both Measure QS, the school parcel tax and Measure P, the City’s request to raise the sales tax (0.75%).

Both propositions are complicated and involve many elements that we feel the public should know about when making their decision on election day.

We have asked Greg Simay to analyze and break down both propositions for you and hopefully you will take the time to read both of these before making a decision. Both propositions have their positives and well as their negatives. Hopefully we will be able to highlight everything for you in a very understanding way.

Both the Burbank Unified School District and City of Burbank have been very helpful in giving us all of the details we wanted and have answered all of our questions truthfully.

We will post our Measure P analysis on Wednesday and the Measure QS analysis on Thursday.

We will also come out with myBurbank’s recommendations on both propositions on Friday.

The post myBurbank to Break Down Measures P and QS This Week appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A 27-year-old North Hollywood man was arrested by Burbank police Sunday morning, October 28, around 3:30 am after officers were called about a man who was reported to have a gun in his waistband.

Police were called after witnesses reported a man inside the 7-Eleven store located at Naomi and Glenoaks who reportedly showed a handgun that was concealed in his waistband, to patrons and the clerk. Customers rushed out and met police to advise them of what they saw.

Police at the scene had a dispatcher help with communication with the suspect through the telephone and had him set down the gun and exit the front of the 7-Eleven.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

The suspect, identified as Bismark Rivera-Gonzalez, 27, of North Hollywood, exited the store and was immediately taken into custody by police. Police entered the 7-Eleven and found the handgun.

Witnesses had told police that Rivera-Gonzalez brandished the gun in the direction of the store’s clerk while in possession of store merchandise. Police also said he was opening store merchandise inside the business while in possession of the gun.

Rivera-Gonzalez was booked for attempted robbery, carrying a concealed firearm, and an outstanding arrest warrant for public intoxication. He is currently out of custody on bond and is due in court November 20. The case is pending review by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.

Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

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