Approximately 75 elementary-aged children and their families attended the Burbank Community Read-In Day at The Burbank Town Center on Saturday morning, June 8.

Organized by the Burbank Teachers Association and their president, Diana Abasta, the Burbank Community Read-In Day featured members of the community reading books aloud and high school drama students performing short skits, to further “emphasize the importance and joy of reading,” according to Linda Walmsley who helped organize and coordinate the event.

Congressman Adam Schiff of Burbank reads during Community Read-In Day held Saturday at The Burbank Town Center. ( Photo by Ross A Benson)

“It was wonderful to see so many children enjoy reading outside of the classroom,” commented Walmsley. “They not only enjoyed a story, but learned that reading is a necessary part of success in any career.”

“I am so grateful for the community leaders that gave their time to this event and hope that it becomes even bigger in the future.”

Battalion Chief Mark Hatch, Diana Abasta, Adam Schiff, Sharon Springer, Chief Scott LaChasse and BUSD Superintendent Matt Hill. ( Photo by Ross A Benson)

Congressman Adam Schiff, Vice-Mayor Sharon Springer, Police Chief Scott LaChasse, Battalion Chief Mark Hatch, Library Director Elizabeth Goldman, Dr. Christian Herrera, nurse Debbie Buffham and teacher Dug Guiterrez read to the children who assembled on the third floor patio of the Burbank Town Center.

Burbank Unified Board of Education members Steve Ferguson and Steve Fritner attended the event along with BUSD Superintendent Matt Hill with his wife Karen and his sons Aidan and Emerson.

The post Burbank Community Read-In Day Highlights “Importance And Joy Of Reading” appeared first on myBurbank.com.

One of the most respected resources in the travel industry has named Hollywood Burbank Airport the “Best U.S. Airport” in the first ever Fodor’s Travel Awards.

“All of us at Hollywood Burbank Airport are honored to have received such recognition on a national level,” says Frank Miller, Executive Director. “We strive to maintain what our travelers value most about their airport, and will continue to pursue what will only enhance their travel experience.”

Fodor’s editors find that guests enjoy a “straightforward, shenanigan-free experience” at Hollywood Burbank Airport.

“Hollywood Burbank is an airport free of most of the hassles that take the fun out of travel plans,” says Fodor’s managing editor Rachael Levitt. “It’s an agreeable airport in a perfect location, which is why it’s at the top of our list of airports to love.”

The company’s travel experts highlight the airport’s affordable parking, quick shuttle access and easy-to-navigate terminals. Positive notes also include the airport’s convenient access to a Metrolink Station, its dining options and its prime location.

“If you’re visiting the L.A. region [via BUR], you’re probably in closer proximity to the stuff you actually want to see,” Fodor’s tells travelers. “Downtown L.A., Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Universal Studios, and more of the city’s best attractions are all easier to reach from Burbank than its neighbor LAX.”

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is owned and operated by the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority, a joint powers agency created in 1977 between the Cities of Burbank, Glendale and Pasadena. The airport serves over 5.2 million passengers annually and reaches 17 nonstop destinations in the United States.

The Fodor’s name has been synonymous with travel for 80 years. Its award-winning guidebooks, website, eBooks, and mobile apps provide today’s traveler with up-to-the-minute information to over 7,500 worldwide destinations. Its vast team of global correspondents offers highly curated, expert advice on how to travel smarter, from the best arts and culture offerings, to tips and strategies for an authentic and immersive experience, and the right hotels and restaurants for every taste and budget.

The post Hollywood Burbank Airport Named Best Airport in the United States appeared first on myBurbank.com.

At their June 4 meeting, the Burbank Noon Rotary club awarded two $1,000 Woodburn Engineering Scholarships to Burbank High School senior Erik Harutyunyan and Burroughs High School senior Anika Maskara.  As well, the club awarded a $1,000 Monterey Scholarship to Monterey High School senior Ashley Rios. 

Those applying for a Woodburn Engineering Scholarship must be college-bound engineering students who have above-average grades and demonstrate leadership and good citizenship.  The Monterey Scholarship award helps motivated students to overcome obstacles and continue their education, be it in college or in a vocational training program.

“It’s a testament to our school district that we have such fine students,” remarked Burbank Noon Scholarship Committee Chair Paul Herman.  Burbank Noon members Carole Collins and Cynthia Wagner also served on the Scholarship Committee, which oversaw the selection of the award recipients.  

Woodburn Engineering Scholarship Recipients Harutyunyan and Maskara

Scholar-athlete-entrepreneur Harutyunyan has earned a 4.34 GPA and is a finalist for the National Football Foundation Scholarship.  With a team of other engineering students, he designed and built from scratch a solar-powered racing boat.   

Harutyunyan is the founder and CEO of Something Different, LLC, an Amazon retail company that conducts research on trending products, and contacts foreign manufacturers to produce similar products under its own private label.  The products are then sold on Amazon’s marketplace.

He is also a CEO with a heart.  He volunteered on the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Student of the Year Campaign, serving as the campaign manager for Team Burbank.  Under his leadership, Team Burbank raised over $40,000.

Harutyunyan will be attending UC Berkeley, where he plans to double major in engineering and business economics…and give the NFL a shot.

Burbank High Assistant Principal Steven Hubell was on hand to congratulate Harutyunyan.

Anika Maskara is 3^rd in her graduating class with a 4.45 GPA.  She volunteered over 150 hours on behalf of the City’s libraries, having served as President of the Burbank Public Library Teen Advisory Board.  She also worked as a paid intern at Burbank Water and Power, working with employees in energy conservation, water services, and electrical services.

Anika will be attending Princeton, where she plans to major in engineering with an eye to having a career in aerospace.

Anika was in India at the time of the Rotary Noon scholarship award presentations.

Monterey Scholarship Recipient Rios

In spite of having dealt with many obstacles on the home front, Ashley Rios is on track to receiving her GED this October.  She intends to begin the Certified Nursing Assistant program at the Burbank Adult School next February.  She impresses everyone who meets her as “sincere and hardworking, someone who will carve out a bright future for herself.”  Assistant Monterey High principal David Guyer was on hand to congratulate Rios.

Burbank Noon’s Ongoing Commitment to Burbank Students

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Matt Hill praised Burbank Noon’s “first-backpack-to-scholarship” support for students.  Burbank Noon’s traditional funding from scholarships comes from its long-established Burbank Foundation, which enables the club to give out Monterey Scholarship awards, as well as to support other community programs.  

More recently, the late Jim Woodburn, who had been a longtime Burbank Noon member and BWP’s Chief Engineer for two decades, had bequeathed to the Burbank Foundation a generous, additional endowment for scholarships intended to encourage careers in science and engineering. 

The post Burbank Noon Rotary Awards Scholarships to High School Seniors appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Following press release sent from Caltrans:

From 9 p.m. Friday, June 14, to 6 a.m. Monday, June 17 (dates and times are subject to change) Buena Vista Street will be closed in both directions between Winona Avenue and San Fernando Boulevard, and San Fernando Boulevard will be closed in both directions at the intersection at Buena Vista Street. Detours are posted.

Work will occur during daytime hours unless otherwise noted. The schedule is weather-permitting and subject to change.

SR-134 to Magnolia Boulevard 

 

Los Angeles River Bridge: Crews continue working in the I-5 median to widen the bridge.

Providencia Avenue: Crews are installing fence barriers on the pedestrian bridge and painting.

I-5 Median: Crews are constructing the median concrete barrier. 

 

 

Magnolia Boulevard to Buena Vista Street

  

I-5 at Buena Vista Street: Crews are constructing freeway bridge approach and departure slabs.

Buena Vista Street: Crews are constructing street improvements during the daytime and at night on Buena Vista Street between San Fernando Boulevard and the on- and off-ramps at Winona Avenue.

I-5 at Empire Avenue: Crews are backfilling footings and erecting falsework.

‘Old’ Empire Avenue/Victory Place/Wilson Avenue/Maria Street: Crews are constructing street improvements.

Northbound San Fernando Boulevard On-Ramp: Crews are constructing the on-ramp shoulder pavement.

Closures and Detours

SR-134 to Magnolia Boulevard

 

Northbound and Southbound I-5 Lane Closures:

Intermittent northbound and southbound lane closures between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., at times reducing I-5 to one or two lanes in either direction.

Alameda Avenue, Sonora Avenue, Western Avenue and South Flower Street Lane Closures:

Intermittent daytime and nighttime street, ramp and lane closures on Alameda Avenue, Sonora Avenue, Western Avenue and South Flower Street through late 2019. Detours are posted. 

South Flower Street:

Parking is not allowed during the daytime on South Flower Street at the Providencia Avenue Bridge where crews are painting. 

 

Magnolia Boulevard to Buena Vista Street

Northbound and Southbound I-5 Lane Closures:

Intermittent nighttime northbound and southbound lane closures reducing I-5 to one or two lanes in either direction between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. 

Full Closure of Buena Vista Street and San Fernando Boulevard:

From 9 p.m. Friday, June 14, to 6 a.m. Monday, June 17 (dates and times are subject to change) Buena Vista Street will be closed in both directions between Winona Avenue and San Fernando Boulevard, and San Fernando Boulevard will be closed in both directions at the intersection at Buena Vista Street. These closures are for construction including paving. Detours are posted. The schedule is weather-permitting and subject to change.

Ongoing: Intermittent daytime and nighttime closures of Buena Vista Street, in both directions, between San Fernando Boulevard and Winona Avenue. A detour is posted.

On- and Off-Ramp Closures:

Intermittent on- and off-ramp closures at Buena Vista Street, San Fernando Boulevard and Burbank Boulevard from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Detours are posted.  

The post Latest Update From Caltrans – Closures and Detours on I-5 Project appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A pursuit that started in the hills of Burbank ended up in North Hollywood Friday night with the arrest of a woman who officers wanted originally to pull over for suspicion of driving under the influence.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

The pursuit took officers up in the hills of Burbank along Scott and Kenneth at speeds close to 60 mph. The suspect then traveled down Glenoaks at a high rate of speed and went over the Magnolia Overpass into the valley section of Burbank.

Once she got into the valley she picked up speeds reported up to 70 mph down Magnolia although she did slow down at major intersections before running the lights. Once down at Hollywood Way she went to Verdugo and back up to Buena Vista before heading back down Magnolia toward North Hollywood.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

She continued on Magnolia before going northbound on Laurel Canyon. She ultimately wound up in the parking lot of the Regency Valley Plaza 6 Theaters in the 12100 block of Victory where she proceeded to start doing doughnuts in her truck in the large parking lot. Officers decided the block all the exits and she eventually stopped in the lot.

Burbank police broke out the passenger window to get the woman out of the car since she did not comply with their orders immediately. Paramedics were called to check her over and took her to a local hospital for treatment. A pet in the truck was taken to the Burbank Animal Shelter.

Police have not released the name of the suspect.

There were no accidents during the pursuit and no injuries to officers.

The post Wild High Speed Pursuit in Burbank Ends in Arrest of Woman appeared first on myBurbank.com.

This time of year Rotary service clubs across the world are roasting their outgoing club presidents while saluting their achievements over the past year.  Burbank Noon Rotary observed this time-honored tradition last Saturday at a cozy corner of Market City Caffe, ribbing outgoing club president Albert Hernandez with the help of some regrettable photos.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

But the club’s “demotion party” was also the occasion to celebrate an outstanding year of fundraising while having fun.  A highlight of the event was making another $5,000 donation to the Providence St. Joseph Foundation in support of its “Minutes Matters” campaign to add a new Emergency Department as well as an Urgent Care facility.

Check presented to Angela Khurdajian Development Officer of the St. Joesph Foundation from Karen Volpe, Albert Hernandez, Barry Gussow, Nat, and Alama Rubenfield. ( Photo by Ross A Benson)

Hernandez “had made health and wellness the focus of our giving this year,” explained Barry Gussow, who chairs the Burbank Noon Foundation and who made the club aware of PSJ’s goals.  “Our club committed to donating a total of $25,000 to PSJ over the next five years.”  With the club’s blessing, the better-than-expected fundraising allowed Hernandez to accelerate the schedule of giving, with last Saturday’s $5,000 donation bringing the total donated this past year to $15,000.

“We’re very excited by the results of our fundraising this year,” said PSJ Foundation Development Officer Angela Khurdajian, who received the additional $5,000.  According to Khurdajian, PSJ has so far raised about $58 million of the $78 million needed for the Emergency Department and Urgent Care facilities.  “It’s truly a testament to how strong this Burbank community is,”  she added.

Reflecting on Burbank Noon’s successful teamwork, Hernandez said, “I see you all like family.“

The post Burbank Noon Rotary Donates $15,000 to PSJ Foundation appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police Department recently donated funds for a scholarship to a deserving San Gabriel Valley high school senior at the annual NOBLE Scholarship Breakfast presented by the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.

Josephine Wilson, Burbank Police Administrator, and Rodney Wallace, retired Pasadena Police Lieutenant, served as co-chairs of the event. Wilson is also Treasurer for the San Gabriel Valley chapter of NOBLE.

Twelve scholarships ranging from $750 to $1000 and totaling $11,600 were awarded to graduating seniors in the San Gabriel Valley area for the 2019 NOBLE Scholarships on May 11 at Noor – Paseo Colorado.

(Photo By Ross Benson)

“We were very honored to have District Attorney Jackie Lacey as our keynote speaker,” commented Wilson. “The event was very successful (about 130 in attendance) and we were very proud of Burbank PD’s efforts towards putting the event on.”

“We partnered with members of this community without whose help the event would not have been a success,” Wilson explained. “Funds were raised to fully fund current scholarship recipients with additional seed money for other events next year and beyond.”

“We are also honored this year to have Burbank Police as a scholarship sponsor,” she continued. “The Burbank Police Scholarship is awarded to a high school student who has demonstrated academic achievement, leadership and an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.”

(Photo By Ross Benson)

The recipient of the Burbank Police Scholarship for 2019 was Alexander Placidon, a graduating senior from John Muir High School in Pasadena.

“Alexander is a diligent student who has learned to overcome obstacles. He remains active in sports (Basketball and Baseball) and consistently takes a leadership role in the Mentoring and Partnership for Youth Development Program. As a member of MPYD, he has assisted with several food and toy drives as well, campus beautification projects.”

Placidon also “participated in the US Forestry Service Generation Green program throughout his high school years and is now a ‘key member of the Forestry Service Youth Leadership Camp’ where he teaches and mentors younger children related to the environment. Alexander has a cumulative 3.2 GPA and has been accepted to California State University, Los Angeles.”

(Photo By Ross Benson)

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter of NOBLE, along with the Burbank Police Department and the Pasadena Black Municipal Employees Association (PBMEA), awarded the scholarships to help graduating seniors with their future academic endeavors.

The San Gabriel Valley Chapter of NOBLE was established in 2003 and covers the area from Burbank east to the Inland Empire.

“Over the past six years, SGV NOBLE has overseen the distribution of $20,000 in academic scholarships to 49 worthy high school students from around the region,” according to Wallace and Wilson.

“NOBLE National was founded in September 1976 during a three-day symposium in Washington, D.C., to address crime in urban and low-income areas. NOBLE represents over 3,200 members internationally, primarily African-American chief executive officers of law enforcement agencies at federal, state and municipal levels who are committed to “Justice by Action,'” explained Wallace and Wilson.

The scholarship program for SGV NOBLE began with Wallace and his wife Donnetha in 2008, as Wallace celebrated his 30th year in law enforcement. They used the milestone as an opportunity to start raising funds to help young people with the costs of college education. Since the inaugural year of 2012, the number of NOBLE scholarships given out has increased annually.

Some of the colleges, NOBLE Scholarship winners have gone on to attend include Alabama State, Azusa Pacific, California Baptist, California State (Berkeley) (Los Angeles) (Merced) (Northridge) (San Francisco) (Stanislaus), Citrus, Dillard, Howard, Indiana, Pasadena City, Spellman, Stanford, Syracuse, Tuskegee, UCLA, USC, Westmont and Xavier.

More information on NOBLE and its mission can be found online here.

The post Burbank Police Department Funds NOBLE Scholarship For Graduating Senior appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Students from John Burroughs High School worked together to present a benefit concert on Friday, June 14, for Education Through Music – LA (ETM-LA), which provides music instructions for Title 1 schools throughout the Los Angeles area, including several in the Burbank Unified School District.

Recently graduated JBHS senior Ella Jennings and rising senior Mic Ferrante joined forces to plan an evening of music featuring fellow JHBS vocalists and musicians. Bolstered by their respective families, the event was held at the historic Rock House on Olive Avenue in Burbank, which has hosted the likes of Amelia Earhart, Henry Ford and Will Rogers in times past.

John Burroughs High School students performed at the Garden Music Soirée benefit concert for ETM-LA: (from left to right) Angelina Ferrante, Cate Dobson, Eyén Paredes, Juju Blevins, Alice Dore, Jillian Flynn, Lily Blevins, Ella Jennings, Mic Ferrante and David Hernandez. (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

“Mic and I wanted to put on the benefit concert for ETM-LA to raise funds for putting music in disadvantaged schools as part of ETM-LA’s incredible mission, as well as to showcase the talents of the Burroughs High School performers and bring together the community for a lovely summer event,” commented Jennings.

Garden Music Soirée organizers Ella Jennings and Mic Ferrante perform “Meditation” from “Thais.” (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

“I have a personal connection with ETM-LA since I began learning violin the summer after fifth grade with Victoria Lanier, the Executive Director of ETM-LA, as my teacher, and I studied under her for six years,” she added. “Despite taking a temporary hiatus from violin lessons for two years to pursue art, I missed playing violin so I decided to help put together a final concert before I left for college.”

Lily Blevins performs Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You,” accompanied by Mic Ferrante. (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

“Together with my family and the Ferrantes, we found a large group of young talented performers from Burroughs including singers, pianists and a guitarist to create a diverse program.”

JBHS student David Hernandez performed two classical guitar arrangements of Bach pieces. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

“The concert itself was even more successful than I anticipated, with beautiful music, about seventy people from the community in the audience, and almost $2,000 raised for ETM-LA,” Jennings said. “I’m very much looking forward to the next concert, and excited for any future ETM-LA fundraisers!”

“We are incredibly grateful to Ella and Mic along with their friends and family for coming alongside our mission to keep music in disadvantaged schools,” said Lanier. “It’s so inspiring to see the local community come together to give back in this meaningful way.”

Education Through Music-LA partners with the Burbank Unified School District to help provide yearlong weekly music instruction at Providencia (including a strings orchestra), William McKinley and George Washington Elementary Schools.

ETM-LA also provides additional services and curriculum support at Ralph Waldo Emerson, Elementary School, Horace Mann Child Development Center and Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School.

“Ella and I met months ago with a giant sheet of paper titled ‘Goals,’ in which the ONE produced extraordinary achievements: to collect funds and donations through the hard-working and talented musicians from our John Burroughs High School,” commented Ferrante.

JBHS students Eyén Paredes and Mic Ferrante perform a four-hands arrangement of themes from “La La Land.” (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

“With guidance from the incredible Victoria Lanier, executive director of Education Through Music Los Angeles, we were able to put on a successful and absolutely phenomenal benefits concert right in the heart of Burbank,” he added. “The group holds a special place in our hearts in their [dedication] to enhance the well-roundedness, self-confidence and opportunity for all kids through music education, just like we hopefully achieved through our benefits concert.”

“It was definitely one of those events where you felt like everyone was working hard – Ella and Mic wanted it to be a success and poured in lots of time and talent — the variety of songs really stood out!” commented Ella’s mother Kristen, whose parents Gary and Bette Ann Hubbard own the historic Rock House.

JBHS students Angelina Ferrante, Juju Blevins, Alice Dore and Cate Dobson sing “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” by Meghan Trainor, accompanied by David Hernandez. (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

“While the kids took the lead, Mina and I found such joy working together on the ‘thank you’ area on the concert program, highlighting all those who made contributions,” she added.

“The original goal was to raise $1000 but that night we totaled over $1500 and still have open bidding on piano and voice lessons as well as an original artwork to benefit ETM-LA.”

Eyén Paredes and David Hernandez perform Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

“It took about a month to cultivate this event,” added Mic’s mother Mina, a Burbank-based visual artist, who donated several pieces of art for the event’s silent auction. “The ultimate goal was to give the children a chance to have some fun, to show off their talents in a fun, elegant get-together between friends and family in the community, for a good cause of course.”

“I think we achieved that goal very well. Above all, again and again, I’m so proud of our community who always ready to give and to support!” she also said.

JBHS student Jillian Flynn sings “Gravity” by Sara Bareilles, accompanied by Eyén Paredes who was assisted by David Hernandez turning pages. (Photo Courtesy Amy Stolz)

The post Burroughs Students Raise Nearly $2000 For ETM-LA And Public School Music Education appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Release by the City of Burbank:

The Burbank City Clerk’s Office is accepting applications for the Police Commission beginning June 21, 2019 through July 22, 2019. To apply, please visit www.burbankca.gov/bccapplication or pick up an application in the City Clerk’s Office located in City Hall at 275 East Olive Avenue. Applications may be submitted online. For more information, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (818) 238-5851 or by email at cityclerks@burbankca.gov.

BOARD/COMMISSION/COMMITTEE	TERM	NO. OF VACANCIES	SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS	FORM 700
Police Commission	Unexpired term until 7-31-2021	1	None	Not Required

The deadline for submitting an application to the City Clerk’s Office is Monday, July 22, 2019 by 5:00 p.m. Applications may be submitted online at www.burbankca.gov/bccapplication. The appointment is tentatively scheduled to be made at the July 30, 2019, City Council Regular Meeting. All City Board, Commission, and Committee members serve without compensation from the City. No individual shall serve on more than one Board, Commission, or Committee at the same time. All applicants must be electors of, and actually lives in the City of Burbank, with the exception of the Burbank Cultural Arts Commission and the Sustainable Burbank Commission. (Per BMC Sections 2-1-405, 2-1-406, 2-1-407)

The post Public Submissions Needed for Police Commission Vacancy appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The inside has changed very little in all these years

Sunday, June 23 will mark the last day for the Sizzler that has been a mainstay in Burbank for over 50 years at the corner of Hollywood Way and Chandler.

Longtime employees including manager Ray Lim will soon be out of a job, “We are going to close on Sunday, our lease has expired.” “I, myself, have been here for 17 years”, said Lim, who also said he heard the plans for the property may include a new office building.

Large salad bar was always a lure to customers

Customers inside have also heard of the last Sizzler in Burbank fate and are saddened, “I hate it, it make me sad. It’s all about the bottom line for any landlord or commercial property. I am going to miss the friendliness of the staff, their chitchat and their food is good.” commented customer Candy Ross.

Longtime customer Mike Graceffo has been visiting the last Burbank location on and off for the last 25 years. “I like it. I mean, I have been coming here for a very long time. I like the salad bar and the atmosphere here. It’s a great Burbank place, you run into a lot of people from Burbank.”

There is no timeline or plans on file yet for the property.

Lim said, “We have many good memories and it has been a good job for us, but now we have to go.”

The Sizzler staples, Malibu Chicken and the salad bar

The post Sizzler Saying So Long to Burbank Diners appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Lights Out Xtreme Fighting (LXF) will be bringing the fistic fireworks on Independence Day Weekend when it returns July 6 to The Media City for a full night of MMA action and two championship bouts at the Burbank Marriott Events Center.

First, LXF Heavyweight Champion Jack May (11-6) will defend his belt for the first time against Brazilian brawler Jay Silva (12-12-1). May, a veteran of UFC, Bellator, PFL and K-1, won the heavyweight crown at LXF 1 in a brutal beatdown of Mike Quintero. Silva is riding a two-fight winning streak and has been champing at the bit to test his in-cage pedigree against May.

Then, the LXF Featherweight Championship Belt will be up for grabs when A.J. Bryant  (10-3) trades fists with Jared Papazian  (19-13-1) in a 145-pound LXF title clash.

The LXF’s mission is to develop the next generation of MMA fighters while also offering athletes from other sports a platform to step into the cage and pursue their dreams, and former NFL defensive lineman Chris McCain will seize the opportunity and crossover into LXF.

McCain, a four-year NFL veteran who’s played 35 career games for the Chargers, Dolphins and Saints, was recruited by LXF co-founder Shawne Merriman to make his MMA debut on July 6. He will fight Jamal Harris (0-2).

The action-packed night of fights will additionally feature Alfred Khashakyan (9-4) returning to the cage after a dominant showing knocking out Albert Morales during LXF 1 when he takes on Keith Carson (7-5) in a 135-pound showdown.

Also, veteran Southern California fan favorite Chad George  (17-8) will be stepping into the cage for the last time in his career for a “retirement fight” against Hector Valenzuela (6-11).

Just like the inaugural LXF 1 show, LXF 2 will later air  on Fox Sports West and Prime Ticket.

Chris McCain feature profile story
May-Silva preview story 
Papazian-Bryant preview story  
Del Rosario-Trinidad preview story

Highlights from LXF 1

Complementing the two title bouts and featured attractions at LXF 2 will be a full card of fights:

• Brian Del Rosario (4-2) will make his second straight LXF appearance and look to continue his winning ways against Alex Trinidad (4-2) in a 150-pound catchweight fight.
• Sergio Perez (4-2) will take on Taylor Alfaro (4-3) as both fighters look to bounce back from defeats in a 140-pound catchweight fight.
• Blake Bilder (2-0-1) will step into the cage against Derion Chapman (5-8-1) for a battle between a pair of 145-pound featherweight contenders.
• Julian Baez (1-3), who suffered a knockout defeat during LXF 1, will look to get back into the win column against Roberto Hernandez (0-0).
• Gilbert Nakatani (1-0) will take on Mykola Aivazian (1-1) as both fighters seek their second career win.
• In a faceoff between two American female fighters, Tiani Valle (2-1) will take on Loveth Young (1-0-1).

Tickets for LXF 2 can be purchased beginning at $65 online at LightsOutXF.com or at the Burbank Marriott Events Center box office during fight night. VIP Dinner and Bottle Service Tables are also available.

Doors open at 6 p.m. PST, and the first bout will take place at 7 p.m. PST. All bouts are subject to change.

For general inquiries, or to apply for press credentials, click here .

For more information, news and developments, visit www.LightsOutXF.com  , and follow along online on the following LXF platforms—Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , YouTube and the LXF  Newsletter .

The post Lights Out Xtreme Fighting Returns Saturday, July 6 in Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Release from Hollywood Burbank Airport :

Hollywood Burbank Airport invites the community to once again participate in an interactive and iterative dialogue, known as a charrette process, with representatives from the Airport. This workshop is the fourth of six public charrette workshops that the Airport is holding in Burbank.

Nearly 350 community members have participated in-person and several more have shared their feedback through our online charrette workshop. Their continued feedback is extremely important to the Airport.

The fourth charrette workshop will focus on: interior materials and finishes, color and lighting; amenities including concessionaires, waiting areas, lounges, meeting spaces, work areas; exterior lighting, road and pathway markers and wayfinding elements; and, art installations, exhibits and storytelling. The workshop will begin with a presentation followed by a series of interactive workshops to collect community ideas for the design of the replacement passenger terminal.

Participants are encouraged to stay for the duration of the charrette workshop. Attendees can RSVP at charrettesworkshops@gmail.com. While all members of the community are encouraged to participate in each charrette workshop, we have created an online version of the design charrette workshop so community members can participate should they not be able to attend in person.

The post Airport Announces Details for Fourth Charrette Workshop for New Terminal appeared first on myBurbank.com.

At the Burbank City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 25, council members were to take up the issue of mobility devises, primarily electric rental scooters on the streets of Burbank.

During the presentation by city staff, there were many issues that came up when it came to storage, usage and policies.

Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy asked that the council wait an additional three months for questions to be answered and the Transportation Commission weigh in on additional rules and how they are handled.

Councilman Bob Frutos wanted the council to wait until the California State Legislature takes up a bill about motorized scooters and other items to see what rules the State may want to enforce.

A poll recently conducted by myBurbank found the following with 1,274 votes cast through Twitter:

34%NO scooters in Burbank
22%Yes, with major rules
28%Yes, with limited rules
16%Yes, no restrictions

The post City Council Not Ready to Hop on Electric Scooters Yet appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It has been 20 years since Ron Davis left the private sector to become the General Manager of the Burbank Water and Power Department. He remained in that role until June of 2016 when the Burbank City Council chose him to become City Manager.

Burbank Manager Ron Davis will step down September 30

September 30 Davis will call it a career.

Burbank’s City Manager is responsible for the day in and day out operation of the City. He only answers to the City Council and has authority on who to promote and which department heads are selected.

According to his bio on the City’s website, during the his 17 years with the BWP,  it evolved into a model organization recognized internationally for innovation and dependability, while delivering some of the lowest water and electricity rates in all of Southern California.

He is married and has two sons.

Davis has appointed Assistant City Manager Justin Hess to work full time as the Acting City Manager while Park and Recreation Director Judie Wilke has been appointed as the Assistant City Manager. An acting Park and Recreation Director will be named later.

The post City Manager Ron Davis Set to Retire September 30 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Football is a very physical game that requires not only brute strength, but also uncommon speed.

There are two types of speed. Straightaway or vertical that wide receivers, free safeties and cornerbacks have and quick bursts that also sometimes demand a change of direction that elite running backs possess.

James Williams, the best tailback in Burbank High’s long football history, had the latter and it was on display during a standout three-year career for the Bulldogs.

James Williams, a former Burbank High tailback and onetime Washington State standout, talks to the campers. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

In his junior season, Williams ran for 1,469 yards in 164 carries and set a school record with 22 touchdowns.

For good measure, Williams added 482 yards on 22 receptions with five scores.

Williams helped Burbank finish 10-3 overall and advance to the CIF Southern Section semifinals in the Southeast Division playoffs that campaign.

The ability to change direction on a dime was also evident when Williams, who redshirted as a freshman, played in the Washington State University backfield for three seasons.

For the 11 eager boys ages six through 16 at the first day of the three-day inaugural James Williams Football Camp at Kemp-Kallem Field on Tuesday, they learned how to explode off the ball and change direction.

Williams, an undrafted free agent who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in late April, but was ultimately released, said it’s one of the most important things anyone who wants to play football can learn.

James Williams instructing young campers on the finer points of football. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“I went there for a month,” said Williams of the Chiefs camp. “I was hurt the first three weeks. I pulled my hamstring. The playbook was crazy. But I was getting it. Everybody had the playbook a week before I did. I made the most of it.”

Williams, who is also expecting a baby, said there’s a possibility the Arizona Cardinals or Tampa Bay Buccaneers may call, but if they don’t, he has no regrets.

“I want to keep my options open. I want to finish school. I can’t look back,” he said.

Williams, who was a two-time All-CIF Southeast Division first-team pick, said that when he went to summer football camp, he felt somewhat out of place and a little bit lost because he didn’t know what to expect.

The youngsters are eager to learn about football, especially when it comes from James Williams. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“The reason why I wanted to do it [his camp], I was sitting back and I was thinking about when I was a camper and I didn’t know a lot of the fancy things they were doing at the Notre Dame and Crespi Camp,” Williams said. “I was in the back of the line just trying to figure out what they were doing. I want to do a condensed version of the drills that I did in college and the league.”

Burbank coach Adam Colman, who played quarterback at Burbank, helped out during the day’s activities which began at 11 a.m.

“When James reached out about doing a camp, it was an awesome opportunity for the city and the kids especially,” Colman said. “Growing up here, there’s always a couple of camps here and there, but they’re usually parks and rec camps. And now you get a guy like James, who played at the highest level and has those experiences and someone all the kids look up to.”

James Williams hopes to continue his dream of playing in the NFL despite being released by the Kansas City Chiefs. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Colman continued: “He wanted to make sure to make it happen for them. To see the guys who came up from Burbank and represent the city and being really proud of being from Burbank and going to Burbank schools,” he said. “It’s not every day you get a guy who played at the college level and the pro level and pass on their knowledge and hope it trickles down.”

The three-hour camp commenced with the boys stretching and exercising for 25 minutes.

Williams, who came to Burbank from Toledo, Ohio, finished with 3,090 all-purpose yards for the Cougars, wants to give back and hopes to make his camp and annual event.

“My time here, it was amazing,” he said. “Burbank gave me a lot. So that’s why I’m doing this right now. They treated me like I belonged here. The same with Washington State. They treated me like I was already at home.”

Running drills and sprint drills were next on the agenda. Then four half-rounds were laid out on the field, one yard apart and were used for agility drills.

One of several water breaks followed before the youngsters faced their next challenge.

There were three cones set apart three yards. Williams, who ran for 1,443 yards with 17 touchdowns and tacked on 101 yards on 11 catches as a sophomore at Burbank and was tabbed the Pacific League Offensive Player of the Year, would then yell out a number which corresponded to the shortest distance, the middle distance and the longest distance.

For instance, Williams would say 3, 5 and 7. That meant they would run to the shortest distance and back. The middle distance and back and finally the longest distance and back.

Williams, who had 27 career touchdowns at Washington State, the fourth-most, would then change the numbers to make sure they knew which to run to.

For this drill, Williams said the key to doing it well and for maximum speed is to keep as low to the ground as possible.

The next assignment was to move between an obstacle with the football as they zig-zaged back and forth and then run toward a cone about 10 yards down the field. Again, this would help them with change of direction.

What followed next was one offensive lineman trying to hold off an oncoming defensive lineman who tried to get around his man and knock the football that was atop a tackling dummy.

The final event was a game between three receivers versus three defenders with Williams, who capped his time at Washington State with 1,583 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns along with 202 catches for 1,437 receiving yards and eight scores, dropping back and finding an open receiver. The ball moved down the field and eventually into the end zone.

The post James Williams Inaugural Football Camp Is Success appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Summer concerts at The Hollywood Bowl are one of the quintessential Los Angeles experiences. And the concert schedule for the 2019 summer and fall at The Hollywood Bowl is again a terrific mix of all kinds of music and performers.

Just a hop over the hill from Burbank, The Hollywood Bowl is easily accessible by shuttles from nearby parking lots, rideshare services and personal car. While the musical guests are the main attraction, picnicking ahead of the show on the Bowl grounds is also a huge draw. Lots of public seating for picnickers is available, and many choose to drink and snack in their seats.

The Hollywood Bowl is a quintessential summer experience in Los Angeles. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Fine dining and casual fare are also available for those who opt out of packing a picnic basket.

Programmers have been busy crafting a top notch schedule of performers, that runs all the way until early November.

Saturday, June 29, features The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra conducted by Sarah Hicks performing the score to Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, as the movie is projected in HD on the Bowl’s giant screens.

Th Silk Road Ensemble performs at The Hollywood Bowl in August 2016. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

A mix of classical, jazz, reggae,rock, pop, alternative and new music, along with world artists, film scores, Broadway musicals and more are all slated for the 2019 season. Check out The Hollywood Bowl’s calendar of upcoming concerts here.

Fireworks are a regular feature after the concerts on July 4, 5 and 6, and on weekends through Labor Day.

Ticket prices vary and more information on parking and public transportation to The Hollywood Bowl can be found on their website here.

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

The post Get Out Of Town!: The Hollywood Bowl appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Melissa Sanchez has been named as the next Burbank High girls’ softball coach.

Sanchez replaces Mike Delaney, a longtime softball coach in Southern California, who recently stepped down from the position.

For Sanchez, it’s a homecoming of sorts after playing for the Bulldogs and now stepping in as coach.

“I’m so excited for the opportunity,” said Sanchez, who played for East Los Angeles College and then won a scholarship to Cal State University East Bay where she played center field. “I can’t wait to start. This is not a hobby. It’s a full-time job and I’m going to give 110 percent.”

Melissa Sanchez will lead the Burbank softball team. (Photo credit Melissa Sanchez)

At this point, Sanchez, who has been a travel ball coach, is just getting her feet wet, but thinks the future is going to be bright for the Bulldogs.

Under Delaney, the Bulldogs were usually in the top half of the Pacific League standings and more often than not advanced to the CIF Southern Section playoffs.

This is Sanchez’s first head coaching job, but played for Burbank beginning with her freshman season in 2006 and capping it off in 2009 when she graduated.

“My values and philosophy are to push the girls hard in order to be the best players that they can be. They will be confident and will have a winning mentality.”

Sanchez they added: “There’s going to be structure during practice and it’s going to be regimented. I’m going to develop the girls. It begins at the junior varsity level. That’s why you need a good JV coach in order to bring along the young ones.”

Sanchez was asked what’s the main difference between coaching travel ball and high school.

“The difference in travel ball is you can pick and choose the players,” she said. “In high school, you get what you get. But on the softball field, I control the energy level.”

Sanchez said loyalty is a key. “I think it’s important to learn loyalty,” she said. “Loyalty to the program is important. To make that commitment. I’m from Burbank. I want to build the program.”

Sanchez continied: “I know that it takes time to build that trust. But as long as I’m prepared, I think that I’m going to build a solid program that’s going to be good. I want to show that they made the right choice in hiring me.”

Sanchez believes it’s the coaches responsibility to get the team pulling in one direction, as Tom Lasorda, former Dodger and Hall of Fame manager famously once said.

“It’s the coaches job to motivate the girls to play,” she noted. “To explain why it’s important to work hard, to be excited and want to go to practice.”

In Sanchez’s system, everyone on the team will contribute, and that includes the substitutes. “The bench will have a big role,” she explained. “It’s going to be a positive environment.”

The post Melissa Sanchez Chosen As Next Burbank Softball Coach appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Fresh off of a thrilling, championship-winning performance in his Lights Out Xtreme Fighting debut, heavyweight titleholder Jack May will defend his belt for the first time against Brazilian brawler Jay Silva.

The battle between two decorated, 38-year-old heavyweights who have fought in every major fight promotion around the world will be the headlining fight for LXF 2 on July 6 at the Burbank Marriott Events Center.

Jack May Defends LXF Heavyweight Crown Against Jay Silva

May (11-6eran of UFC, Bellator, PFL and K-1, won the heavyweight crown at LXF 1 with a brutal beatdown of Mike Quintero. The American heavyweight’s circuitous life has spanned stints at four colleges and even overseas as a basketball player, and it came to a championship-defining moment when he avenged his controversial 2018 defeat to Quintero earlier this year. 

“I was cheated in the first match, and Mike Quintero paid for it the second time around. I was given a fair shake and a chance to prove that I’m the better fighter, and I left my mark,” said May. “The victory wasn’t fulfilling, but it was expected. The same will be true when it comes to Silva on July 6.”

The 6-foot-8-inch May is an athletic and agile striker who utilizes swift footwork from his days as a basketball player to leverage his kickboxing skills.

He’ll be bringing a six-inch height advantage, and three-inch reach advantage into the cage against Silva come fight night. 

Silva (12-12-1), a veteran of UFC and Bellator himself who has trained under Renzo Gracie in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and earned a purple belt, is riding a two-fight winning streak and has been champing at the bit to test his in-cage pedigree against May. The Huntington Beach, California-resident feels rejuvenated, and believes having a proper training camp—several of his previous losses have come when he’s served as a last-minute replacement for another opponent —will give him the edge that he needs to put on a powerful performance.

“I’m always looking to prove to myself that I still have it by fighting the best. Once I get that belt from Jack, I’ll prove it again,” said Silva. “He’s a good dude. A lot of my friends are friends with him as well. It’s nothing personal, it’s just business, because I want what he has.” 

“The Spider Killer” said that although he prefers to stand up and trade strikes, he’s just as crafty on the ground and he will take the fight there should it come to that because he feels that “The Outlaw” is at his weakest on the mat.

“He doesn’t look too comfortable on his back,” said Silva. “I saw his last fight and that was enough for me. I don’t like to watch too much of my opponent’s fights. I worry about myself. I plan to rip his head off, so let the best man win. I’m sure I will.” 

“Silva’s strongest skill set is his jaw muscle—he likes to yap—and his weakest is his heart,” said May. “He can do all of the talking that he wants. I’ll soon do mine with my fists.”

Tickets for LXF 2 can be purchased beginning at $65 online at LightsOutXF.com or at the Burbank Marriott Events Center box office during fight night. VIP Dinner and Bottle Service Tables are also available.

Doors open at 6 p.m. PST, and the first bout will take place at 7 p.m. PST. All bouts are subject to change.

For more information, news and developments, visit www.LightsOutXF.com, and follow along online on the following LXF platforms—Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the LXF Newsletter.

The post Jack May Defends LXF Heavyweight Crown Against Jay Silva in Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

When John Abdou taught and coached water polo at Burbank High more than a decade ago, he was almost as young as his students and players.
Fast forward more than a decade later and Abdou is now one of the key figures behind the scenes of the success of the United States Water Polo program, as the Chief High Performance Officer. USA Water Polo is based in Irvine.

“The role of Chief High Performance Officer includes overseeing all the national teams, from the Senior Olympic teams all the way through the Olympic Development Programs and Pipeline National Teams,” Abdou said. “I also oversee our growth department which includes coach and referee education and events. I am also the liaison for the organization to the U.S. Olympic Committee, NCAA and CIF.”

Abdou played college water polo at UC Irvine, graduating in 2001. He then got started in education at Burbank High, teaching in the Social Sciences department.

“I’ve come a long ways from Burbank. Burbank was a very important start for me.  I was working at the Sport Chalet in Burbank,” Abdou, now 39, recalled. “They told me they needed a water polo coach and I was already commuting to Burbank to work at Sport Chalet.  So I went over and talked to them about the water polo job and the teaching job.”
Abdou worked and coached at Burbank from 2001 to 2005, before returning to school to work on a master’s degree at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania. He was the Senior Adviser for Burbank High’s 2005 Senior Class.
Abdou, who now lives in Orange County, spent six years in Pennsylvania, four as Bucknell’s head coach, before returning to Southern California.

John Abdou (left) celebrates another American victory.

”I’ve been fortunate and blessed that a lot of good fortune has come my way,” Abdou said. “I’m (now) in that general manager role like a professional sports team that is spending most of his time in an administrative (role).  I don’t get to be on deck that much. Every once in a while I’ll get to do a camp or a clinic and when those come up I get pretty excited to do them.”
In returning to California, he joined the coaching staff at UC Santa Barbara, where his wife-to-be Anna was also at.
“She was getting her (doctorate) while I was there. Once she graduated, the U.S. water polo job opened up.  They called me in to talk about it and I accepted almost right away,” Abdou said. “I officially started in January of 2014 with U.S. water polo.”

Abdou said he had done a number of things for USA Water Polo leading up to getting hired into a full-time role.

“I was the men’s National ‘B’ Team coach. I had several leadership positions in the Olympic Development program. I coached a couple of junior and youth national teams.  I had different roles with U.S. Water Polo leading up to that, so it was kind of hiring within,” he said of getting hired.

USA Water Polo Chief Executive Officer Christopher Ramsey praised Abdou for his work.

“John Abdou has really broadened our high performance programming, drastically increasing the number of athletes trained and providing coaches and officials with meaningful professional development opportunities,” Ramsey said. “His work is helping our clubs and members maximize their potential to compete against the best in this country and the world.”

In helping develop water polo, Abdou can often be found at airports.
“If a state or city offers water polo in America, I’ve probably been there,” he said. “We’re excited about the sport growing nationally. We don’t want it to be just California. I’ve put in a lot of frequent flier miles the last five years with this job. It has been a big blessing. I have been able to travel the world because of water polo.”

Abdou, who has two young sons, said he gets the greatest satisfaction out of keeping things operating at a high level.

John Abdou (right) at a USA Water Polo awards ceremony.

“What I’m most proud of in accomplishments is that over the past five years we’ve been able to build a robust pipeline of athletes and coaches that are ready for the next level. That’s what I spend most of my time (doing), trying to make sure that we develop (and) increase the opportunities for athletes and coaches to develop in our pipeline, so that when the time comes they are ready to step in to major roles,” he said.  “If you don’t have a pipeline, you’re in trouble. If you don’t create some sort of pathway for athletes and coaches and even referees to develop in a high performance model, you’re going to be in a lot of trouble when positions open up or athletes retire. It’s not like the NBA where I can go pick up free agents. We now have the infrastructure, a healthy infrastructure and pipeline so that we’re ready for the future. “

Abdou said USA water polo teams will be playing in tournaments in Korea, Peru, Portugal, Kuwait and Trinidad and Tobago this summer. His goal is to be able to be at as many of these events as possible.

“I’m still trying to figure out what I can and can’t make,” he said.

If there is one thing Abdou is certain about, it is that he is grateful to have worked at Burbank High.

“It was my first job in water polo and education from when I graduated college and it set the tone and inspiration for the next steps in my career,” he said.

The post Abdou Moves Up to Lead Role in USA Water Polo appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The LXF featherweight championship will be up for grabs when A.J. Bryant (10-3) trades fists with Jared Papazian (19-13-1) in a 145-pound title clash during LXF 2 on July 6 at the Burbank Marriott Events Center.

Papazian, a former King of the Cage champion and three-time UFC veteran, will be returning to the cage for the first time in over two years and look to regain his his all-action, crowd-pleasing fighting form. Papazian briefly put his career on pause and stepped away from the cage to pursue a new venture in real estate for the second-largest commercial brokerage in the world with Colliers International. His love and passion for the sport and fighting, however, still remained. 

“After I lost my last fight in April 2017, I decided it was time to focus on my future and fighting at the time was not in the cards—but the itch to get back into the cage was always there,” said Papazian, a student of Gokor Chivichyan who was a highly touted prospect earlier in his career. “Fans can still expect fireworks and ‘fight of the night’-like performances from me.”

The 31-year-old Dutch kickboxing combatant noted that his approach to the sport and training has changed since his brief break because he now feels more relaxed. 

“I can enjoy the sport and have fun again,” said Papazian. “Before the pressure was too much because the goal was to make it a career. Now that I’m doing very well in my new venture, I fight for fun and take it one fight at a time. But I still have my killer instinct and want to bring home that belt.”

The “Jackhammer” will face a talented and tough opponent in Bryant, who was the CXF champion and riding an eight-fight winning streak before falling to Evgeniy Ryazanov in April. The strong striker is looking to bounce against the battle-tested Papazian, who like Ryazanov, brings plenty of pedigree into their fight with 36 total fights under his belt of his own. 

“I don’t know too much about Jared. I respect him, but in that cage, I respect no one. I have one job, and that’s to finish the fight,” said Bryant. “I’m a pressure fighter. I come forward and push a very fast pace. I remain extremely calm and like to break people down with beautiful destruction.”

Bryant, 31, said that in his armbar submission defeat to Ryazanov, he learned that sometimes the perfect opportunity may not come during a fight, and when it doesn’t, he must make better adjustments. 

“I’m not looking to score points or trade shots. I’m there to put Jared away,” said Bryant. “I come to entertain the audience and get my hand raised.” 

Tickets for LXF 2 can be purchased beginning at $65 online at LightsOutXF.com or at the Burbank Marriott Events Center box office during fight night. VIP Dinner and Bottle Service Tables are also available.

Doors open at 6 p.m. PST, and the first bout will take place at 7 p.m. PST. All bouts are subject to change.

For more information, news and developments, visit www.LightsOutXF.com, and follow along online on the following LXF platforms—Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and the LXF Newsletter.

The post Jared Papazian Marks MMA Return With LXF Title Clash Against A.J. Bryant appeared first on myBurbank.com.