The Burbank Elks honored four people for their outstanding service Wednesday evening, January 8, at the Fifth Annual Community Service Awards. City Employee of the Year Kreigh Hampel, Police Officer of the Year Christian Diaz, School Teacher of the Year Jill Tobin and Firefighter of the Year Eric Rowley were all recognized for their dedication and commitment to Burbank.

Elk’s Community Service Award recipients BPD Officer Christian Diaz, City Employee Kreigh Hampel, Teacher of the Year Jill Tobin, and Firefighter of the year Eric Rowley. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Officer Christian Diaz, who’s been with the Burbank Police Department for four years as a patrol officer, graduated Burbank High School in 2005. He joined the Burbank Cadet program at age 20 in 2008. He also graduated from Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. In 2009 he was hired by BPD as a patrol officer, after graduating as the number one academic recruit in his class at the LASD Academy. Currently, Diaz is a Field Training Officer, so every six months he trains an officer for work in the field.

“I work hard every day. I graduated from Burbank High and still have family that live here and that motivates me to work hard to protect them and the people in this city,” commented Diaz. “It really was a surprise to be named Officer of the Year. Everyone else works hard in the department, and has been so helpful to me since the beginning, so to be recognized like this is a big surprise.”

“Officer Diaz’ dedication, integrity and strong work ethic are qualities that exemplify the high standards that we are looking for in our officers,” Police Chief Scott LaChasse stated. “Officer Diaz represents the police department in a positive manner while partnering with the community during his daily assignments in patrol. As a Field Training Officer, Officer Diaz remains focused on achieving the goals and objectives of his supervisors while mentoring our new officers in training.”

Police Officer of the Year Christian Diaz with the BPD Command Staff along with BPOA members. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Diaz has been very instrumental in reducing the number of DUI crashes in the city, as he has worked tirelessly to make DUI arrests before accidents could occur, according to Sgt. Darin Ryburn, Burbank Police Department Public Information Officer. Last year, he made 58 felony arrests and 52 DUI arrests.

In addition to Chief LaChasse, members of the BPD Command Staff attended the dinner, including Deputy Chief Tom Angel, Patrol Capt. Michael Albanese, Investigations Capt. Denis Cremins, Support Services Capt. Ron Caruso and Police Administrator Josephine Wilson. Lt. Jay Hawver, Sgt. Ryburn, Det. Peter Erich and Officer Todd Burns of the Burbank Police Officers’ Association were also present.

Firefighter Eric Rowley, BFD Firefighter of the Year for 2014, has worked for the department for nine years. After taking a Fire Cadet course through Ventura County Fire Department his senior year of high school in 2001, he found his path. He worked for Beverly Hills Fire Department right after high school and then was then hired by the Burbank Fire Department in 2005.

“I greatly appreciate being named Firefighter of the Year. I take on a lot of technical aspects for the department and it’s good to be recognized for my contributions,” Rowley commented in an interview before the awards ceremony. He talked about some of the recent and upcoming technology projects putting Burbank Fire Department on the leading edge of firefighting in the 21st century.

Burbank Firefighter of the Year Eric Rowley with fellow firefighters. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Rowley’s latest project for the Fire Department deployed 25 iPads to each engine, truck and ambulance for patient care reports. His next project over the coming year is the introduction of FireHouse Mobile software on each rig that will allow the firefighters to get information more quickly on businesses and properties in the field.

“Firefighters will be able to access records and pre-plan information on how to better strategically manage resources and get into buildings,” explained Rowley. “We have all this valuable information and need to get it on site to use right away.”

Firefighter of the Year Eric Rowley, with Elks’ Exalted Ruler and former Burbank Fire Capt. Bob Ramsey. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Firefighter Eric Rowley has demonstrated a high level of dedication to our organization throughout his career. His firefighting skills, technological expertise and willingness to take on various projects make him a valuable asset to our department,” Fire Chief Tom Lenahan said in his speech at the dinner. “In addition to his technological expertise, Firefighter Rowley maintains his skills as a solid Firefighter and Hazardous Materials Specialist taking an active role in training the probationary firefighters assigned to Station 12.”

Rowley’s wife Tara and mother and father, Debra and Capt. Brian Rowley, also attended the awards dinner. Reached for comment before the dinner, Capt. Rowley said with audible emotion in his voice, “I get choked up but I’m just so proud of him. He is everything you could ask for in a son. He’s always there for everybody and he’s always been this way. He has always tried to do the right thing.”

Capt. Rowley, retired from BFD for one year, also mentioned that Firefighter Rowley’s grandfather and uncles were firefighters. “We thought he was going to be a computer programmer when he was in school,” Capt. Rowley added. “After one week at his Fire Cadet course in high school, he came home and told us he thought he wanted to be a firefighter.”

“Being able to work with my son for six to seven years on a professional level was really incredible,” Capt. Rowley also mentioned. “Eric loves his work and goes above and beyond to do his most for the department. He spends his time off working on tech projects for the department.”

Burbank Firefighter of the Year Eric Rowley with his parents Brian & Debra Rowley. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Teacher of the Year for 2013-14, Jill Tobin teaches 9th grade Honors Biology and Earth Science and 10th grade Biology at Burroughs High. She was first selected by her peers at Burroughs and after interviews was chosen to represent BUSD. After writing nine essays for the L.A. County level of the competition, she was picked as the County’s Teacher of the Year and finished as a semi-finalist in the State competition. The mother of Lola, a 3 1/2 year old girl and Harlo, a 8 1/2-month-old boy, Tobin is in her tenth year of teaching at Burroughs.

“Burbank is an amazing city and I look forward to raising my family in Burbank. It is completely humbling to be put in the spotlight as one of the educators in this district, ” commented Tobin. “There are so many incredible teachers that I look up to in the community, and to be able to represent them and all of Burbank’s fine teachers is an amazing honor.”

“I became a science teacher because I have always been fascinated with how the world works, and I’ve always enjoyed sharing my fascination of all things science with others. The best compliment I’ve ever received from a student was a few years ago when a student wrote me a letter and said, ‘Thanks for making me wonder about things.’ For me, there is no greater contribution to education; there is no nobler accomplishment than to make your students wonder about things,” Tobin added. “This feeling of wonderment, and the need to share that feeling, is what drew me to education in the first place. For me, there is no greater feeling. And knowing that I am able to give that feeling to others… well, I honestly don’t think I could be happier doing any other job in the entire world.”

Elk Ken Pajan, BUSD Superintendent Dr. Jan Britz, Teacher of the Year Jill Tobin, and former Teacher of the Year Rebecca Mieliwocki. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Out of 75,000 eligible educators, John Burroughs High School teacher Jill Tobin stands out among the 16 chosen as Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year, ” Burbank Unified Superintendent Dr. Jan Britz said at the awards dinner. “Her principal, Mr. Paramo, states that Jill is the kind of teacher that a student gets once in a lifetime. Jill has certainly made a significant impact on the teaching staff at Burroughs. She is equally adored and respected by both parents and students.”

Recycling Coordinator Kreigh Hampel was selected by City Manager Mark Scott as City Employee of the Year and introduced at the event by Bonnie Teaford, Public Works Supervisor. He’s been with the Public Works Department for over 10 years and is known for his omni-presence at events throughout the community and his continued efforts towards the City’s zero waste goal. He is one of the founder’s of Bike Angels and gives annual seminars for Leadership Burbank.

“He has a deep understanding of sustainability issues and what individuals can do to make their impact on the world less harmful,” Teaford mentioned in a pre-award interview. “He’s a terrific example of a public servant who gives and gives. He’s at every event in the City and will talk to anyone and answer any question. And, he is such a humble person, too.”

“It’s an honor and it’s humbling to be recognized. I could turn any direction and point to so many other people doing so much more,” commented Hampel. “It’s a privilege to work for the City – I love the people, the challenges of the recycling office and working with the community. Because I think like a biologist and farmer, I appreciate regenerative designs that balance living systems and industrial appetites. My motto is plant more and manufacture less.”

City Employee of the Year Kreigh Hampel. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The program followed a cocktail reception and a roast beef dinner prepared by Burroughs High School graduate Chef Jim Ewart and served by Boy Scout Troop 210. Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy made the opening remarks and guest speaker Rebecca Mieliwocki, the National School Teacher of the Year in 2012 and Luther Middle School English teacher, entertained the audience with tales of meeting the President of the United States Barack Obama and her experiences as National Teacher of the Year.

Mieliwocki traveled to nine countries and 30 states as a representative and spokesperson for America’s 3.2 million public school teachers and gave speeches, guest taught and toured teacher prep programs.

“The U.S. and their education system remains the envy of the world. Everyone is amazed at how much we accomplish with all of our kids, how creative, communicative, collaborative and engaged our students are and how much they go off and do once they leave us,” Mieliwocki stated when reached for comment after the awards event. “We have much to celebrate and be proud of and I was honored to get to share that with the audience at the Elks Community Service Awards.”

Certificates were presented by Elks Lodge #1497 Co-Chairman Ken Pajan and the awards were given out by Co-Chairman Harvey Ryun. Elks’ Exalted Ruler and retired Burbank Fire Capt. Bob Ramsay made the flag presentation.

Special guests at the event included City Council members Dr. David Gordon, Bob Frutos and Jess Talamantes, BUSD School Board members Dave Kemp and Charlene Tabet and representatives from L.A. County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich and Assemblyman Mike Gatto’s offices. Elks Lodge officers and members, family of the honorees and members of the community also attended.

The post Elks Honor Four People For Outstanding Community Service appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A special Board meeting was held to discuss program reinstatement priorities and hear public comments from teachers, administrators, parents and community members after the announcement from Governor Jerry Brown’s office that significantly more money would be provided to California public schools in the coming years. Burbank Unified Board Members and administrators heard concerns and input in a long public comment session and then discussed items in a public study session held in the BUSD Board Room on Thursday afternoon, January 9.

Superintendent Dr. Jan Britz also emphasized the special session was the beginning of a process for the district to come up with a priority list, after hearing from all the stakeholders who wish to comment on the reinstatement of programs that had been cut since 2007. Many school principals, staff and teachers spoke and underlined the need for full-time curriculum specialists and nurses, more custodial and English Language Development support, class size reduction, more counselors at the high school level, assistant principals at the elementary level, librarians and more.

“Last time we had money it was 2006-7. It’s been all cuts since then,” Board Member Larry Applebaum commented at the session. He admitted, “There are a lot of needs in this district and a lot has been cut and we have to be very prudent in what we add. Many employees haven’t had raises in years and we have a responsibility to pay them and thank them for sticking with us.”

Applebaum also mentioned his deep support for bringing back the World Language program and for foreign language classes beginning in seventh grade throughout the district. Applebaum stated, “A middle school language program is very important.”

Dr. Britz again emphasized that the initial priority list information published for the special meeting mentions services and programs that have been cut and that any movement forward will depend on accountability, transparency and the input of all stakeholders, from parents and teachers, to principals, administrators, directors and community groups. She mentioned reaching out to school site PTAs and Booster clubs as a way of getting that input.

“We plan to go slow and make the priority list and work from that and get input on what might be restored,” Britz commented, adding, “We want to capture the interest of parents and students and offer those programs that will pique their interest and keep them in Burbank.”

Currently, there are no costs or timelines for reinstatement of programs, just discussion of ideas and information gathering. A March Board Meeting is planned to discuss the Local Control Funding Formula and its impact on the budget, in addition to a review of budget cuts since 2007 and the development of a priority list. The District welcomes input from all stakeholders and contact information can be found here and information to contact BUSD Board Members here.

The post Special Board Meeting Discusses Program Reinstatement Priorities And Calls For Stakeholder Input appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Thursday evening, January 9, Burbank Fire Department used the Jaws of Life to extricate the driver of a white Honda Civic from his vehicle after it was badly damaged by loose car wheel on the 5 Freeway. At 10:40 p.m., Engine 11 was dispatched to the scene, along with Paramedics and a Battalion Chief, according to Capt. Peter Hendrickson of the Burbank Fire Department. He added the car looked like it had been struck by a very large object.

The car had stopped on the right shoulder of the northbound 5 Freeway near the Buena Vista exit. CHP officers also responded and stopped all lanes of traffic so the Fire Department could work. The driver and sole occupant of the Honda Civic sustained serious injuries, according to Officer Tom Miller of the California Highway Patrol.

The driver was taken to Holy Cross Trauma Center and the last BFD unit cleared the scene at 11:13 p.m. No further information on the accident or the condition of the driver is available at this time.

The post Jaws Of Life Used To Remove Driver Of Car Struck By Loose Wheel On Freeway appeared first on myBurbank.com.

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Second Saturdays debuts at the Towns Burr Gallery in Magnolia Park Saturday, January 11. The event will bring together live jazz, great art and tasty hors d’oeuvres as a backdrop for a fun and relaxing night out.

Second Saturdays are planned as a regular monthly occurrence, and there has been some discussion amongst the Magnolia Park merchants for the event to become a larger party involving more of the area’s shops and cafes.

People are looking for an evening out with the same casual vibe as the successful Magnolia Park Ladies Night Out and are often too tired to get out on a Friday night after a long week at work, Connie Towns Burr said recently. To this end, she and her husband, photographer Bruce Burr, have come up with the Second Saturdays event, which their gallery will host.

The Towns Burr Gallery is located at 3609 W. Magnolia Blvd. and Second Saturdays runs from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., with regular gallery hours on Saturdays opening at 10:00 a.m. More information on the gallery can be found on their website www.townsburrgallery.com.

The post Second Saturdays Debuts At Towns Burr Gallery appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Magnolia Park merchants met Wednesday evening, January 8, to discuss ideas for the continued transformation of the celebrated shopping and dining district and the formation of the Magnolia Park Merchants Association. About 50 shop owners from the area of Magnolia Blvd. and Hollywood Way convened at local cafe Romancing the Bean to discuss their concerns and thoughts for growing the eclectic area’s visibility and offerings.

Magnolia Park merchants and agenda speakers gather to talk about plans for the coming year. (Photo By Ross Benson & Lisa Paredes)

Led by Ashley Erikson, who does media relations, social media, advertising and event coordinating for Magnolia Park, the meeting touched on several ideas, including beautifying the walking experience by redoing planters and tree bases, hanging ‘Magnolia Park’ banners along the streets and getting signs put up by the city designating the area’s borders, among other topics. Also known as “Miss Magnolia Park”, Erikson and local real estate agent Bryce DeVincenzi, also known as “Mr. Magnolia Park,” engaged all the attendees, drawing out comments and questions from the shop owners.

Several themed ideas for upcoming Ladies Night Out events, held on the last Friday of every month, were also discussed. Get ready for a scavenger hunt, car show, ‘Taste of Magnolia Park’, summer fun fair and an art walk in the coming months. A possible district-wide Second Saturdays monthly event is also being discussed as another option for people to come out and enjoy the area’s festive spirit. Towns Burr Gallery debuts the Second Saturdays event January 11 at their art gallery on Magnolia Boulevard, with live music and small bites.

Representatives from Belly Card showed merchants how the company’s universal and customizable reward card and app would work in the area and throughout the country. Burbank Recycling Specialist Ferris Kawar talked about recycling bins and services and launching Magnolia Park as a “green district” in the city.

Burbank Police Sgt. Darin Ryburn talks with Magnolia Park shop owners as Councilmember Bob Frutos looks on. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Sgt. Darin Ryburn discussed theft prevention and scams affecting business owners and handed out informational packets to the group. Ross Benson from myBurbank.com demonstrated the recently-launched Magnolia Park page on the locally-focused website. Council member Bob Frutos stopped by to hear merchants’ concerns and talk about his support of the newly-formed Association and his continued enjoyment of the shopping and eating area. He also complimented the group on the recent success of the Holiday in the Park event held in November 2013.

A few years ago, property owners in the district paid a small tax that funded a P-BID (property-based business improvement district), which paid for city services, media relations and special events throughout the year. However, the majority of property owners voted against continuing the P-BID at the end of 2011, and since 2012, the area’s merchants have been on their own. Basically, most city services like cleaning the sidewalks and closing the streets for big events disappeared. While the area struggled during 2012 with major loss of foot traffic, revenue and special events, the merchants have banded together and turned the monthly Ladies Night Out events into a major draw for the area during 2013.

New City Manager Mark Scott and Councilmember Frutos visited with merchants in late 2013 and encouraged the group of just a few merchants at that time to create an association and communicate with the City Council about the area’s needs and ideas. The buzz that has been created by the monthly final Friday events has re-vitalized the area and hundreds of people visit regularly throughout the week. New stores and eateries continue to open, and Magnolia Park has become a desirable destination to shop and hang out.

Shop owners in the Magnolia Park area of Hollywood Way and Magnolia Blvd. interested in joining the Magnolia Park Merchants Association should contact Erikson, who will also serve as the Association President, via email at amerikson@yahoo.com or at 818-632-6888. The association plans to continue to grow Magnolia Park and provide funding for more events and services from which the entire district can benefit.

Sgt. Ryburn talks about scams and theft prevention with Magnolia Park merchants. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post Magnolia Park Merchants Association Energizes For 2014 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The emergency call went out and Burbank Police & Fire Departments responded for the umpteenth time that a car had hit the house at Vanowen & Buena Vista Streets.

Actually it was close but a car didn’t hit the house this time as the barriers that have been installed to prevent that from happening did what they were supposed to. The car with two female occupants attempted to catch the light at a higher speed than intended for the road and missed the turn from eastbound Vanowen Street and the driver fearing the car would overturn and went straight and hit a concrete barrier in the driveway.

Burbank Fire Firefighters & Paramedics render aid to the driver that missed the turn at Vanowen St. & Buena Vista Street. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Police were only a block and half away arrived on scene within seconds. Burbank Paramedics responded and treated both patients, who complained of pain from seat-belts and were transported to a local hospital to be checked out.

The intersection has been redesigned several times, with safety features in mind and guardrails installed along with raised concrete dividers. When drivers proceed eastbound on Vanowen and come to the ‘T’ intersection at Buena Vista, they have to make a decision to go right or left. Drivers who can’t make the turn end up where the safety barrier is installed in the driveway.

Damage to the car was extensive, and the complaints to the City Council will again be heard from the occupant of the house who was not involved but required paramedics to return after they left for a complaint of a breathing problem.

Burbank Fire Firefighters & Paramedics render aid to the driver that missed the turn at Vanowen St. & Buena Vista Street. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

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Burbank Police Officers responded to the area of Winona and Brighton on Sunday morning regarding water coming up near the corner of Winona and Brighton from the roadway.

Water continues to flow from a broken water main at Brighton and Winona )Photo Courtesy of Burbank Police Dept.)

Once on scene, they found that appeared a water main had broken and create a large sinkhole

There is a large hole and the intersection is closed to all traffic.

City of Burbank Public Works personnel are on scene evaluating the damage. Due to the damage, the intersection is expected to be closed for 24-48 hours.

The post Water Main Break Closes Burbank Streets appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Editors Note: We would like to welcome well respected reporter Maria Hsin to myBurbank.  Maria will be concentrating on news and politics in Burbank.  She can be reached at mhsin@myburbank.com

As the Federal Bureau of Investigation continues its probe into alleged civil rights abuses by police in a 2007 bakery robbery, the department is racing to meet a self-imposed deadline to show they meet standards of excellence.

The Burbank Police Department is voluntarily participating in a program through the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, or CALEA, an independent agency with ties to the U.S. Department of Justice.

The Burbank City Council awarded $22,000 in 2011 that will cover the cost of applying and the first three years of accreditation, police said.

The roughly three-year process involves reviewing 480 accreditation standards and comparing those to Burbank’s current policies and practices.

Burbank is completing this self-assessment phase, and if all goes well, accreditation could be awarded this summer, police said.

Burbank Motorcycle Officers Turpin, Hensley, Lloyd and Murphy. Standing is Bureau Commander Lieutenant Jay Hawver. (Photo Courtesy of Burbank Police Dept.)

There are currently five municipal law enforcement agencies in California that are accredited, including the Fresno and Garden Grove police departments, according to the CALEA website.

“It puts us in an elite group of people,” Police Chief Scott LaChasse said. “It should give officers pride to know we’ve been able to elevate ourselves by going through accreditation.”

CALEA accreditation and the almost constant review of policy it requires could be one of the keys to helping the department finally let go of its past.

In addition to peeking the interest of the FBI, the Porto’s Bakery robbery prompted investigations by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

To the city’s credit, it has since brought in professional oversight to train the Police Commission to be better watchdogs of the police department. Oversight also includes the random selection of police cases to ensure police follow proper procedure and that any discipline matches the transgression.

But despite achievements under a new command staff that include the creation of its mental health team, among a handful in Los Angeles County; the debut of a modern website; and making its arrest logs public; lawsuits by former and current police officers filed a few years after the robbery are in various stages of the legal process.

CALEA, founded in 1979 through a grant from the department of justice, was created by four executive law enforcement organizations, including the International Association of Police Chiefs, according to the CALEA website. Riots in the 1960s and 1970s led many to question the professionalism, integrity, training and hiring practices of law enforcement, and resulted in the establishment of a body of standards that police departments could voluntarily subject themselves to.

Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse at his swearing in ceremony (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

LaChasse said the CALEA process is similar to “having a forensic auditor here. It’s very comprehensive.”

He said CALEA accreditation “demonstrates to the public and outside government entities that are looking at us that we’re not afraid of being open or transparent.”

LaChasse added: “The department has come a long way.”

Lt. Armen Dermenjian, an 18-year veteran who LaChasse appointed to the task, has been working on the accreditation process since fall 2011.

Dermenjian said once police  complete the self assessment, an on-site review could take place by April.

Burbank Police Command Staff have worked to make the department more transparent and volunteered for the CALEA accreditation (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The visit by CALEA officials would also include a meeting with residents. The meeting would be publicized and CALEA officials want to not only ensure Burbank police have all the proper policies in place, but want to see how the community view their police department, Dermenjian said.

CALEA requires an organization to annually review all policies for changes or additions, Dermenjian said.

“We may have a 20-year policy, followed for 20 years without review,” Dermenjian said. “In the ever-changing world we live in now, it is crucial to review policy.”

CALEA wants you to have the right policy so you can follow it and wants to see that you are indeed following it, Dermenjian said. The annual estimated cost to maintain accreditation is $5,000.

“There are almost always two parts: do you have the policy and are your people following the policy?” he said.

Dermenjian said he likes doing the work although sometimes it requires a walk to the Starbucks a few blocks away.

“It can drive a person crazy reading policy all day,” he added.

Burbank Police’s Notar Helicopter is constantly visible patrolling the skies (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

“I think it’s important work,” Dermenjian said. “I’m a strong believer in CALEA. It’s not something that’s going to make a bad organization into an exemplary organization by itself. Agencies in the CALEA process have to believe in CALEA.

“Those are the agencies that will benefit. The main reason [to do it] is CALEA forces an organization to look at itself…to ask 480 questions about how and why things are being done.”

Dermenjian said the accreditation process is important even for an exemplary organization.

“The organization might be perfectly healthy,” Dermenjian said, “but that doesn’t mean it should stop living healthy.”

The post Burbank Police Completing CALEA Accreditation Phase appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A sixteen-year-old female was reportedly kidnapped from outside her residence on the hill area of Burbank and dropped off in the area of N. Keystone St. and W. Magnolia Blvd. on the afternoon of Sunday, January 12. A Burbank citizen found the girl and called police to the scene at 6:30 p.m. yesterday.

Burbank Police closed off the street to preserve the location where the victim was reported picked up from, awaiting Forensic Specialist to record evidence. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The sixteen-year-old girl was transported to a local hospital for a medical evaluation and her family was notified and joined the victim at the hospital. Officers and detectives conducted interviews and area checks at two locations the crime was reported to have occurred and the area where the victim had been dropped off, according to Sgt. Darin Ryburn of the Burbank Police Department.

“We have a lot of interviews to do and the investigation is active,” commented Ryburn. “We did a canvass of the areas involved and we are asking for anyone in the reported areas who might have noticed something to please contact the Burbank Police at 818-238-3000.”

Burbank Police preserve the location where the victim was reported picked up from, awaiting Forensic Specialist to record evidence. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Police converge on the location where the victim was reported pickup from, to gather information from any witnesses and neighbors. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

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A transient was arrested for assaulting a police officer and narcotics paraphernalia near the southbound 5 Freeway exit ramp at Scott Rd. on Saturday afternoon, January 11. It took three police officers to subdue and arrest George Tristan, age 39, after he started punching and fighting with officers.

Tristan was initially contacted at 12:43 p.m. by officers in the area for possession of a shopping cart. As officers approached, one noticed Tristan lighting a possible narcotic pipe near his face, according to Sgt. Darin Ryburn of the Burbank Police Department. Tristan then admitted he was urinating in the bushes when the officer stopped him.

The officer searched the area where Tristan was standing and recovered a pipe consistent with narcotic use and another officer observed from nearby. As the officer attempted to arrest the supect for possession of the pipe, Tristan swung at the officer with a closed fist. During the following struggle, the officer ended up on the ground with the suspect on top of him.

The suspect continued to throw punches at the officer while on top of him. Additional officers arrived and three officers were eventually able to place Tristan in handcuffs. Although a K-9 unit was on hand, the dog was not deployed. The suspect received facial cuts during the struggle, was treated and booked at the Burbank Jail for assault on a police officer, possession of drug paraphernalia and an LAPD warrant. His bail is set at $25,000 and he is due in court Tuesday, January 14.

One officer sustained injuries from the struggle, including a contusion to his head and abrasions to his right elbow and knees. He was treated at the scene.

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By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

BOYS BASKETBALL:

Burroughs 59 Glendale 54

Amaad Wainright scored 29 pts, grabbed 15 rebounds and had 6 steals. Rashid Ewing added 18 pts

Burroughs 74 Hoover 50

The Indians exploded for a 31-pt fourth quarter in the Pacific League win. Amaad Wainright led the team with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Chris Hovasapian added 16 points and Rashid Ewing scored all 12 of his points in the fourth quarter.

Burbank 64 Arcadia 46

Adam Pasco scored 19 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. Anthony Kardosh scored 18 points.

Pasadena 69 Burbank 52

Adam Pasco scored 17 pts and Mike Woods added 12

GIRLS BASKETBALL:

Burroughs 67 Glendale 30

Sidney Ortega scored 19 points, Brooke Radcliff added 12 points

Burroughs 71 Hoover 29

Paula Galicia had a career high 20 points; Sidney Ortega had 11 points; Jakarra Waddell had 9 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals; Jordan Meltzer had 10 points; Justine Barraza had 8 points

Arcadia 50 Burbank 40

Yazzy Sa’Dullah scored 13 points and had 4 assists and 6 steals

Burbank 63 Pasadena 20 (see story)

BOYS SOCCER:

Burroughs 1 Glendale 0

Milosh Petko scored with 7 minutes left in the game

Burroughs 4 Hoover 0

Milosh Petko had 2 goals and an assist; Ashot Veisyan had 2 goals. Brandon Gerlach had 2 assists.

At 34 minutes, Milosh Petko score‎d off a great cross from Nolberto Alcantar. At 40 minutes, Brandon Gerlach’s corner was perfect for Ashot Veisyan ‎to score and make it 2 to 0.

At 66 minutes, Brandon Gerlach and VJ Salazar worked together on a corner kick to set up Milosh Petko for a back post header in the goal. At 80 minutes, Milosh Petko stole the ball and fed Ashot Veisyan for the 4th goal to seal the win.

Alberto Meir made one save for the shutout.

Arcadia 1 Burbank 0

Pasadena 4 Burbank 0

Burroughs 3 South Pasadena 3

Milosh Petko scored two goals; Ashot Veisyan scored one goal

GIRLS SOCCER:

Burroughs 2 Glendale 0

Goals: Miranda Kaekul, Kelly Arrue; 2nd straight shutout by GK Taylor Bailey; Player of the Game- Kristin Masazumi

Burroughs 6 Hoover 0

Goals scored by Noelle Garcia (2), Danielle Tilton, Miranda Kaekul, Alexsis Hernandez, Bailey Simmons

Arcadia 2 Burbank 1

Goal unassisted by Clarissa Guerrero in the 48 minute

Burbank 3 Pasadena 1

Goals scored by Michelle Morales, Yvette Niwa, and Mireya Gonzalez
Assists by Lauren Brenn, Clarissa Guerrero, Kira Bochard

GIRLS WATER POLO:

Crescenta Valley 15 Burroughs 0

Burroughs 12 Alhambra 3

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God’s Favorite found favor with Saturday night’s large audience, who punched holes in the SFX smoke with their laughter.  The Saint Francis Stage Company stacked the deck when they chose to do a play by no less than Neil Simon, and slipped in a few more aces by creating a superb set with first-rate lighting, effects and sound. An inspired cast brought the rest of the high cards to the stage and delivered a great performance and a winning hand for the company’s 7^th annual production.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Neil Simon loosely bases his Broadway play on the Book of Job. This is the Bible story where Satan bets God that Job, a wealthy man who loves and honors God, will come to curse God if he were to have all his wealth and other blessings taken away from him. God takes the bet. From ancient times, the story of Job has resonated among religious and non-religious alike. And perhaps it is particularly relevant now, as many believers have been caught in their own economic reversals-of-fortune.

The cast of God’s Favorite during Act 1 of the performance. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

God’s Favorite moves the classic Bible tale to a Long Island mansion in the mid-1970s. Joe Benjamin (JIM ROOPE) is our modern-day Job, a God-fearing, honorable and very successful businessman. He and his affable wife Rose (VICKI CONRAD DLUGOLECKI) have three children under their fancy roof: offbeat teenage twins Ben (GRAYSON DUVALL WITTENBARGER) and Sarah (KATIE ELSAESSER), as well as twenty something, alcoholic son David (CHRIS KENNEY.) Butler Morris (STEPHEN O’HARA) and maid Mady (SHARAIN JONES) round out the household.

One snowy night an unlikely messenger from God, Sidney Lipton (played by noted character actor DANIEL ROEBUCK) arrives and tells Joe that he’s “God’s favorite” and has therefore become the object of a bet between God and Satan. And then the fun kicks into even higher gear.

God’s Favorite cast having a family talk. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Director GEORGE STRATTAN and his cast nail all the humorous notes in Neil Simon’s inventive play, with a special tip of the hat to the hilarious SHARAIN JONES.

St. Francis Stage Company has proven that a church auditorium can become a star on the map for professional-quality theater.

Joe Benjamin ( Jim Rope) talks to his stage wife Rose Benjamin ( Vicki Conrad Dlugolecki). ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

God’s Favorite continues with a matinee at 2 pm on January 12 and another round of weekend performances January 17 and 18 at 8 pm.  The location is at St. Francis Xavier Church, 3801 Scott Rd. Burbank, CA 91504.  The ticket price for all evening performances is $15.00 per person.  The ticket price for the matinee performance is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children.   For more information call 818-504-4400.

Joe Benjamin ( Jim Roope) gets a kiss from his stage daughter Sara Benjamin ( Katie Elsaesser). ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post ‘God’s Favorite’ Has Audiences Rolling In The Aisles appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A Burbank teen lied about being kidnapped yesterday, January 12, according to the Burbank Police. Officers responded to the area near W. Magnolia Blvd. and N. Keystone St., Sunday evening at 7:30 p.m. after an unidentified citizen made an initial call reporting a sexual assault. The person was waiting with a “visibly distraught sixteen-year-old female victim” when the police arrived, according to a statement made by police today.

The alleged victim was taken to a local hospital for a medical examination and made an allegation of kidnapping. In the past 24 hours, Burbank Police conducted additional investigative work and interviews with the alleged victim and possible witnesses in the areas she named as where the assault and kidnapping occurred.

“The investigation concluded today and it has been determined the teenage victim created the story of the alleged kidnapping,” Burbank Police stated just before 6:00 p.m. today. “The Burbank Police Department takes all reports of this nature seriously and will continue to take all of the necessary steps to ensure the community’s safety. We have determined there is no threat to the community.”

While filing a false police report is a crime, it will be up to investigators and the Juvenile Division if any charges will be filed against the teen, according to Sgt. Darin Ryburn of the Burbank Police Department.

The post Teen Lied About Kidnapping appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Police Department held a Bike Registration event on Saturday, January 11, next to the Chandler Bike Path at N. Keystone Street. Over 300 bicycles were registered at the event and even more people stopped by to learn about the service. Burbank Police often find bikes throughout the city but the challenge is returning them to their rightful owners.

“This is the first time we’ve ever done an event like this,” said Officer Joshua Kendrick of the Burbank Police Department. “There’s been a significant increase in bike thefts recently. With this record of serial numbers, we increase our chances of reuniting found bicycles with their owners.”

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Kendrick acknowledged the large turnout of volunteers from the BPD Cadet and Explorer programs, which helped keep the free bike registration to an average of five minutes per bike. Kendrick came up with the Bicycle Registration event idea, and with the support of Sgt. Darin Ryburn, was able to hold the six-hour-long event and draw hundreds from the community. He cited the location along the Chandler Bike Path as ideal to reach more people who hadn’t heard of the event.

Social media also helped spread the word amongst the community about the event and Kendrick commented, “We had such a great turnout. We didn’t know how successful it would be. Our plan is to hold this as a recurring event every six months, so we plan to have the next one in June or July.”

People of all ages and walks of life turned up. A local Boy Scout Troop made the registration and a bike ride part of their outing for the day. People were even waiting at the beginning of the event while the police were setting up, added Kendrick, with a constant stream of people throughout the day.

The post Bike Registration Event Draws Hundreds To Chandler Bike Path appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Steven Hubbell scores the game-winning layup with 14 seconds left to defeat CV (Photo by Dick Dornan)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

If you are a Burroughs fan and enjoy basketball, then Monday night was your night. If you were in attendance at JBHS, then your visit was worth the price of admission.

In two exciting and highly entertaining games, the Burroughs boys and girls basketball teams swept visiting Crescenta Valley to maintain their holds on to first place in the Pacific League.

Burroughs 82 Crescenta Valley 80

For the first time since February 1, 2008, Burroughs defeated Crescenta Valley. It ended a streak of 10 consecutive wins for the Falcons against the Indians. It also marked the first home win for JBHS against CV since January 29, 2007.

“It was a very good team win. It was a big win to beat CV and protect home court,” Burroughs coach Adam Hochberg said. “We had a lot of guys step up and make big plays for us. I’m just excited and hoping to build on it and get better.”

Amaad Wainright soars in for the layup (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“This was one of the hardest games I have played in so far. It was a good win,” added Amaad Wainright, who scored 19 points, snagged nine rebounds and had seven assists, three steals and two blocks. “I had some type of nervousness in me but I fought through it. We just have to prepare for the next game but I’m just proud of the team right now. We are doing well.”

From start to finish, both teams played at a high level of basketball. Burroughs (11-4, 3-0) broke out to a 15-12 lead after the first quarter and trailed 35-34 at the half after both teams stepped on the gas pedal in the second with a flurry of points.

Back-to-back three pointers by Chris Hovasapian and David Schwer gave the Indians a 44-38 lead early in the third quarter.

Wainright’s driving layup and free throw increased the lead to 53-43 with 2:12 left in the period. After CV’s Eric Patten cut the deficit to 55-51 on a layup, Burroughs pushed the lead to 57-51 after Wainright fed Rashid Ewing with an assist off a 2-on-1 fast break.

Chris Hovasapian scored 14 points in the win (Photo by Dick Dornan)

After forcing a defensive stop, Ewing and Wainright delivered the play of the game. Ewing threw a three-quarter court pass to Wainright who in one motion punched the ball on to a streaking Hovasapian for a layup at the buzzer and an eight-point lead, 59-51, after three quarters.

The magnificent play drew an eruption of cheers from the Burroughs faithful.

Crescenta Valley (8-7, 2-1) refused to go away and came back courtesy of the hot shooting from Berj Krikorian who knocked down three three-pointers to give the Falcons the lead at 64-63 with 5:21 remaining.

The next two minutes saw four lead changes capped off when Krikorian connected on another three to extend CV’s lead to 71-67.

Trailing 77-74, Burroughs rallied on a reverse layup from Hovasapian and a three-point play from Jakob Davis to regain the lead 79-77.

Not to be denied, Patten’s fall-away one-handed shot and free throw gave CV the lead again, 80-79, with 29.7 left to play.

On the ensuing possession, Burroughs’ Steven Hubbell broke free from a double team and scored on a baseline layup with 14 seconds left to give the Indians an 81-80 lead.

After a CV missed shot, Ewing made one free throw to complete the high-scoring affair.

Coach Adam Hochberg shouts out instructions (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“It was a great league game and we knew it would be tough from the get-go because of how well they execute and run their stuff,” Hochberg said. “You have to be on your ‘A’ game. I don’t think we were on our ‘A’ game 100 percent. As the season goes on, the process is getting better. We are just trying to build and play a certain relentless style.”

Ewing scored 21 points and collected 10 rebounds and five steals; Hovasapian added 14 and Hubbell contributed with 13. Patten poured in 29 for the Falcons while Krikorian finished with 23.

Burroughs 51 Crescenta Valley 49

In a dramatic turn of events, the Indians rallied from a seven-point fourth quarter deficit to stun the Falcons after trailing for most of the game.

Paula Galicia, #23, scored 22 points to lead the Indians (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“This is the first time this year that we have won after being down the entire game. Fighting back, fighting back,” Burroughs coach Vicky Oganyan said. “This time we finally pulled it through. We always know we are never out of it because we play hard. The girls have good chemistry. Even if we are down 13 we never feel that we are out of it.”

Burroughs (11-6, 3-0) fell behind 14-8 after the first quarter and 29-16 midway through the second quarter. A 7-0 Indians run cut the deficit to 29-23 at the half.

Crescenta Valley (11-6, 2-1) increased the lead back to 10 at 39-29 with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter. Back-to-back three-pointers from Paula Galicia brought the Indians back to within four but the Falcons responded to take a 44-37 lead into the final period.

Delaney Nicol helped facilitate the Indians comeback (Photo by Dick Dornan)

With things looking bleak for JBHS, Galicia sparked the comeback with two fast break layups to cut the lead to one, 48-47, with 2:12 left.

“She’s been playing awesome,” Oganyan said. “It’s the offense we’ve been missing so for her to put points on the board is a huge lift.”

Trailing 49-48, the Indians’ Davina Del Castillo made one of two free throws to tie the game with 42 seconds remaining.

Looking to regain the lead, CV threw an errant cross-court pass that Sidney Ortega intercepted and was immediately fouled. Ortega made the first free throw but missed the second to break the tie.

With 28 seconds showing on the clock, Crescenta Valley ran the clock down when Ella Stepanian took a top-of-the-key three-pointer that missed badly.

Coach Vicky Oganyan shares wisdom during a timeout (Photo by Dick Dornan)

Burroughs’ Jakarra Waddell rebounded the miss with .3 left in the game and made one free throw to cement the two-point comeback victory.

Galicia finished with 22 points while Del Castillo had 11.

“Our motto is ‘Tough Enough’ so we fight until the end,” Galicia said. “Coach is like ‘never give up and fight to the end.’ The crowd was a big part of it and helped us out a lot. They pumped me and the team up.”

This Wednesday Burroughs will host Pasadena. The girls tip-off at 5 p.m. and the boys follow at 6:30 p.m.

The post Burroughs Sweeps Crescenta Valley in Basketball appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

BOYS SOCCER:

Burroughs 2 Crescenta Valley 1

Andres Aguilar and Artur Veisyan scored for the Indians in the road win

GIRLS SOCCER:

Burroughs 1 Crescenta Valley 0

Great defensive effort by the Indians for their third straight shut-out. Noelle Garcia set up the lone goal by Danielle Tilton midway through the second half to break the deadlock.

Burbank 15 Muir 1

BOYS BASKETBALL:

Burroughs 82 Crescenta Valley 80 (see story)

The scoreboard at Burbank tells the story after the Bulldogs lost in 5 overtimes to Muir (Photo courtesy of Trent Welker)

Muir 80 Burbank 78 (5 OT)

Mustangs win at the buzzer in the fifth overtime. Mike Woods scored 19 points, Ellie Hanno added 14, Anthony Kardosh and Cody Boseman each had 10

GIRLS BASKETBALL:

Burroughs 51 Crescenta Valley 49 (see story)

The post Morning Sports Ticker- Jan. 14 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It was only fitting that the most recent column that our beloved Stan Lynch wrote about was on Christmas trees and the joy they bring to all of us.

Like Christmas trees, Stan brought us much joy through the years. He was a wonderful man who lived life to the fullest sharing his kindness and love to the last day that he lived on this earth.

He volunteered his time at so many places including the Christmas tree lot. Much like Frosty the Snowman, Stan brought out the life in all of us.

Stan’s face was always “aglow” when he talked with others. His eyes “twinkled” with kindness and caring towards others. He always saw the goodness in others, especially in his son and two granddaughters who he loved and adored.

He always found time to enrich the lives of others by simply being the person God created him to be. At the “Holiday in the Park” festival on Magnolia Blvd. this past November, Stan sat there at the “myBurbank” booth proudly and with much pride as the managing editor for myBurbank greeting everyone who walked by.

Little did we know that Stan was spreading his love from his heart one final time to all of us.

As Stan so appropriately wrote in his final sentence in the story below- “and that’s just one more neat thing about Christmas trees — they are not only beautiful, but they help spread goodwill.”

Like a Christmas tree, Stan was a beautiful man who spread goodwill his entire life. And for that, we say “Thank you, Stan.”

By Stan Lynch, Managing Editor

When we think of Christmas trees, most of us probably see that beautifully decorated tree, all aglow with twinkling lights and shiny ornaments. From giant trees like the National Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. to the small table top trees, they all convey a certain magic when decorated.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Getting from “just a tree” to being a Christmas tree is quite a transformation — as I learned last week when I volunteered to help at my church’s Christmas tree lot. The very first thing I learned is that Christmas trees are heavy.

Some of the 6-7 ft. noble fir trees are probably close to 40 or 50 lbs. in weight. I’m guessing on the weight because I don’t normally pick up anything that weighs 40 or 50 lbs. I also found out that douglas fir trees are lighter than the nobles. They are bushy looking, too. Not at all like the old douglas fir trees we got when I was a kid. And then there are the nordman trees with needles that are light green on the bottom and dark green on the top of each branch.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

It would take one strong person, or me and someone else, to carry one over to the special sawhorses where an inch or two of the trunk would be cut off. Even with a chainsaw, it is a tricky operation. If the trunk isn’t cut straight, the tree will lean.

Once the tree is checked to make sure it is straight, the stand and water bowl are nailed in place. Then it is carried over and placed with the rows of trees for sale. one final touch, adding water.

Now watering may seem like a simple task. As a novice tree lot worker, I was down on my hands and knees lifting up branches to fill the water bowls. On my second time at the lot, a nice lady showed me the trick to watering. You stick the long snout of the water into the branches until you hit the trunk. Then carefully pour the water so it cascades down the tree and into the bowl. With proper watering, a Christmas tree should last three to four weeks

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

It obviously isn’t an easy task to pick the perfect Christmas tree with all the different types and sizes.  When a customer would ask my opinion, I would always go with the safe answer and suggest they get the “green” tree.

All the profits from trees sold at this lot go to help programs for children. Other groups, like the YMCA and Burbank High, do the same, selling trees to benefit their various programs. And that’s just one more neat thing about Christmas trees — they are not only beautiful, but they help spread goodwill.

The post “Oh Christmas Tree”- a Tribute to Stan Lynch appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

Burbank’s James Williams, Oharjee Brown and Sebby Santoro received the highest honor in high school football.

Presented by the LA84 Foundation and selected by the Football Coaches Association, the three Bulldogs were recipients of being named All-CIF in the Southeast Division.

BURBANK BULLDOGS

Burbank (10-3) advanced to the CIF semifinals where they lost to the eventual CIF champions, La Serna High School. The 10 wins were the most in school history.

Williams (running back) and Brown (wide receiver) were key contributors to the high-flying Burbank offense that averaged 43.8 ppg. Santoro (defensive back) was a stalwart on the defensive side where BHS allowed a paltry 15.6 ppg.

Williams rushed for 1,469 yards on 164 carries and scored a school-record 22 rushing touchdowns. He also added 482 yards receiving on 22 catches including five touchdowns.

Williams recorded an amazing 2,307 all-purpose yards (178 per game) and 29 touchdowns total. The junior will be a highly sought recruit next season.

Brown, a senior, caught 55 passes for 976 yards and 16 touchdowns. He was third on the team with 1,076 all-purpose yards.

Santoro, a senior, recorded 80 tackles on the season (37 solo, 43 assisted).

The post All-CIF Football Honors for Three Burbank High Players appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A Propane gas leak from a 10,000 lb. storage tank at Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center prompted the Burbank Fire and Police Departments to shut down part of Buena Vista St. and the neighboring Providence High School gymnasium yesterday, January 14. After a sensor alerted the hospital Facilities Department to a small leak in one of the two 10,000 lb. Propane/Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) storage tanks, the Burbank Fire Department responded to the site at 1:00 p.m. to investigate and monitor the situation, according to Medical Center spokesperson Patrician Aidem.

Burbank Firefighters & Burbank Police stand by as propane is burned off at the entrance to the emergency room at Providence St. Joseph’c Medical Center. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The hospital’s LPG vendor, AmeriGas, also responded with an initial plan to pump out all of the liquid fuel from the affected tank. However, the valve on the storage tank was a bit corroded and fell off, according to Capt. Peter Hendrickson, BFD Public Information Officer. The Fire Department’s Hazardous Material Team put on full protective gear and had to enter a small hole-like space, about four to four-and-one-half feet in height, to beat the valve and turn it to the right position. AmeriGas was then able to pump out all of the liquid Propane in the tank to a waiting tanker truck.

However, a small amount of gaseous Propane remained in the tank, and at approximately 1:00 a.m. this morning, January 15, AmeriGas flamed out the remaining gas, sending plumes of fire 25 to 30 feet into the nighttime sky. The burn off process took about three hours to complete, and the BFD cleared the scene at 4:15 a.m. and reopened Buena Vista St. to auto and foot traffic.

The storage tanks are located near Providence St. Joseph’s emergency room driveway entrance at 501 S. Buena Vista Street. Providence High School’s gym is also located nearby and was evacuated during school hours on Tuesday, just as a precaution. The emergency room remained open while ambulances and cars were diverted to the S. Naomi St. entrance side.

“We train all the time for these types of situations and disasters,” commented Aidem. “We were assured by the Fire Department the patients were never in danger, so we kept the emergency room open.”

Burbank Engine 15 and 3 Firefighters stand by as propane is burned off. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Three fire engines stood by with hoses laid out, to monitor the situation and be at the ready. Burbank Police Department kept the 500 block of S. Buena Vista closed throughout the long process. The hospital’s two 10,000 lb. LPG tanks are an emergency supply to fuel the facility’s boilers which in turn runs the heating and cooling systems. Typically, the hospital uses natural gas, but if that supply is interrupted, the LPG tanks are switched on.

“There was a leak in the same tank twenty years ago after the Northridge earthquake,” commented Capt. Hendrickson. “And, the same driver for the same gas company truck who responded for that leak was there for this leak.”

Buena Vista St. has been reopened and activities at the high school and hospital have returned to usual today, while AmeriGas continues its work on site, repairing the tank’s valve and fixing the leak.

Burbank Firefighters stand by as propane is burned off following a day long Hazmat situation at Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

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