By Rick Assad

Quick starts by the offense and a ferocious defense have helped the Burroughs High football team get early leads and remain undefeated through three games, including Thursday night’s 41-24 nonleague victory over Kennedy at Handel Stadium on the campus of Western High in Anaheim.

This was the first road game for the Indians, who came in having scored 105 points while allowing 30.

“We had to play the second half. So that was new,” said Burroughs coach Rand Holdren of being challenged over the last 24 minutes. “But we’re like everybody in the state of California, we’re thin. We’ve got some guys banged up. They need to get healthy. It all boils down to efficiency. We need that perfect game. We need to play and execute at the level that we can. We show flashes of it.”

Burroughs senior quarterback Nicholas Garcia had four scoring passes and a pair of rushing scores in Thursday’s 41-24 win over host Kennedy. (Photo by Steve Garden)

The Indians came out and found the end zone on their first series as senior quarterback Nicholas Garcia capped the 80-yard, 12-play trek with a 15-yard strike on fourth and goal to senior wide receiver Carson Cardenaz, who grabbed three scoring passes, as 6:46 remained in the opening quarter.

Garcia finished his work by throwing four touchdown passes and adding two rushing scores, but was intercepted twice, the first time he has been picked off this season.

The Fighting Irish (1-2) cut the lead to four points on a 35-yard field goal with 3:23 left on the clock in the initial period.

Garcia’s second scoring toss went to Cardenaz (85 yards on six receptions) and covered 14 yards as the Indians’ lead became 14-3 and 1:59 remaining in the second quarter.

The five-play drive began after junior wide receiver/cornerback John Alajijian recovered a fumble at the Kennedy 45-yard line.

Sophomore running back Jon English had a solid outing for the Indians. (Photo by Steve Garden)

Burroughs (3-0) spurted ahead by 18 points just before halftime when Garcia burrowed into the end zone from one yard out.

This march commenced at the Burroughs 45-yard line and saw the Indians use only four plays.

Kennedy then drew within 21-10 when Garcia (19 of 39 for 237 yards) was intercepted by junior defensive lineman Jequen Bedgood, who raced eight yards for the score with 11:32 left in the third quarter.

The Indians took control 28-10 when Garcia orchestrated a 12-play, 72-yard drive and eventually drilled Cardenaz on a five-yard strike and 7:12 showing in the third period.

“Pressure-wise, I don’t feel like it’s that bad,” said Cardenaz of trying to improve each week. “Coaches are hammering us and hammering us. That’s the only way we’re going to get better. Every week we’re going to come out in practice and try harder. As the weeks go on, we do have to get better. I feel like our team’s got this. We’ve got the confidence. Just focus and grind it.”

Cardenaz didn’t play football last season. Why did he return to the team this season? “I decided to come back because last year, when I took it off, I came to the games, of course to support my guys,” he said. “It was kind of hard watching them play without me. I realized how much I missed the games. I focused on hoops, and then I decided to come back.”

Junior Michael Pentland makes the tackle. (Photo by Steve Garden)

Burroughs extended its lead to 34-10 when Garcia’s four-yard laser found Alajijian with 2:44 left on the ticker in the same stanza.

The Indians capped their offensive output for the evening with a one-yard keeper from Garcia and 1:38 remaining in the game on a 40-yard march that consumed six plays as the advantage became 41-10.

Kennedy rallied for two scores in the fourth quarter when senior field general Ryan Cathcart zig-zaged his way 49 yards to make it 41-17 as 10:05 was left.

Cathcart’s 65-yard pass to senior wide receiver Aidan Frieson with 5:40 left made it a 17-point deficit.

Burroughs will once again be on the road next week for a nonleague match on Friday against Harvard-Westlake.

The post Burroughs Remains Undefeated After Beating Host Kennedy 41-24 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Matt Hill will address the March 2020 ballot parcel tax initiative at the first Burbank Arts For All Foundation Community Exchange on Wednesday, September 11, at L.A. Castle Studios in Burbank.

According to Burbank Arts For All Executive Director Trena Pitchford, Hill “will be discussing the needs of Burbank Unified and most likely share information about why a parcel tax is needed.”

“Matt will also be touching on BUSD Resolution 35 and explaining how it will be implemented this school year,” she continued. “This impacts all school sites because it restricts fundraising for new programming.”

BUSD’s has a webpage available for more information on the parcel tax initiative here.

Information on BUSD Resolution 35 can be found here.

BUSD Arts and CTE Coordinator Peggy Flynn will also “provide inspiration about the impact of BUSD arts education and highlight just a few of the diverse arts programming at different school sites through pivotal moments,” added Pitchford.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation’s Arts Advocacy Leaders, who are also volunteer parents, Brenda Etterbeek, Jennie Ford and Erin Clendenin will also speak about Community Outreach programs.

“Arts Advocacy Leaders will [talk about] how parents can be solution partners with the schools to help during this time of increased need,” explained Pitchford. “We will offer actionable steps that are pro-active. The Foundation has updated its parent tool kit to explain the ecosystem and help.”

Pitchford noted that the Foundation has its parent tool kit online here.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation holds Community Exchanges each semester as a way to connect and educate Burbank community members on programs, progress and needs of Burbank public schools and to advocate for increased support of arts program in BUSD by the community.

(Image Courtesy Burbank Arts For All Foundation)

“Burbank Arts for All Foundation is thrilled to partner with Americans for the Arts and join our national colleagues during National Arts In Education Week,” said Pitchford, Executive Director of Burbank Arts for All Foundation.

“This Community Exchange is an important part of the Foundation’s work in providing an opportunity to come together, address awesome challenges, and identify solutions for this school year,” she also said. “We remain committed to supporting Burbank Unified’s arts plans and programs through its impending budget crisis and we recognize and celebrate the transformative power of arts education in the lives of students. Join us to find out how you can help the cause.”

The Fall 2019 Community Exchange runs from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and will be held at L.A. Castle Studios, located at 154 S. Victory Boulevard in Burbank. To RSVP for the event and for more information, visit the Burbank Arts For All Foundation Fall 2019 Community Exchange webpage.

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By Damaris Duran

The Burbank High football team didn’t have the best of times getting to its football game Friday night in Perris against Orange Vista High.

The Bulldogs’ bus broke down en route to the Riverside County school, causing the contest to start late.

But the Bulldogs didn’t let a minor setback before the whistle interfere with the plans they had for on the field.
With elevated spirit and energy that the team brought with them onto the field, the Bulldogs pulled off a surprising 35-21 come-from-behind victory to earn their first victory of the season.

“Control what you can control. Just lock in mentally, start visualizing and you’re ready to go,” Coach Adam Colman said about what he told his team.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

The night started in Orange Vista’s favor when junior Randy Wilkins scored the game’s first touchdown in the first quarter.

But Bulldog junior Jarren Flowers helped even things up as his 45-yard interception return with 2:57 left made it 7-7. By the end of the first quarter, Orange Vista had scored again to take a 14-7 lead. Both teams demonstrated strong defenses that the scoreboard remained intact throughout the second quarter.

Burbank drew even again late in the third quarter as quarterback Aram Araradian completed a 57-yard touchdown pass to junior Brandon Pena.

It was anybody’s game at that point going into the fourth quarter before Burbank stepped up and took over.

With less than seven minutes remaining, once again, Araradian completed a 12-yard touchdown pass to Pena to give Burbank a 21-14 lead. On Orange Vista’s ensuing drive, senior Vincent Vang intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown, the Bulldogs’ second pick-six of the night.

Orange Vista was not finished, however, as it rallied quickly to score, cutting the difference to 28-21.

To finish the night off, senior Ian Miller scored returned an onsides kick attempt by Orange Vista all the way with just 31 seconds left to play.

“[We’ll] get home, get some sleep, wake up tomorrow, watch some film and get back to work,” said Coach Colman. “We got Hart next week and it’s a great program, great team, so we’ve got to get back to work.”

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The Next “Cars and Jets” event is supposed to take place in December, for the exact date follow @carsandjetsofficial on instagram.

All photos by Connor McCrory

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By Rick Assad

Often times a tennis match or even a scrimmage can be very useful because it allows an individual to know just what to expect the next time they’re on the court.

Entering Tuesday’s Pacific League girls’ tennis match, Burroughs High hadn’t played in a match or scrimmage, while Glendale notched two nonleague victories.

The Indians’ No. 1 doubles player, senior Alice Weber, is about to serve in a match against Glendale. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

This clearly helped the visiting Nitros settle down and play with confidence and at a high level as they grabbed six points in singles and doubles action and came away with a 12-6 victory.

“If we would have had some practices, I think they would have been a little more into it,” said longtime Burroughs coach Roy Bernhardt of his team. “They were nervous. I’ve got ninth graders and they were nervous.”

Bernhardt said he was satisfied with two of his three doubles teams.

“I was very pleased with my No. 1 doubles and my No. 3 doubles was okay,” he noted. “But my No. 2 doubles, what happened there?”

Bernhardt added: “We were supposed to play Saugus and I think Hart and Alhambra and it just didn’t come off,” he pointed out.

Junior Celine Khachiki, the No. 1 singles player for the Nitros, went 6-1, 6-0, 6-0.

The Indians are a young team, but are steadily improving. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“I was definitely expecting closer set scores,” Khachiki said of the improved Burroughs squad. “We’ve played well these other past two years so we want to continue our reputation. I don’t think there’s a limit to how well we can play so hopefully we continue to improve.”

Khachiki continued. “I think we’re playing a lot more competitive each match and we’re learning from each match,” she said.

Tom Gossard is Glendale’s coach and said in his opinion, Khachiki is the team’s Most Valuable Player the last two years.

“It gives me a lot of confidence, but it’s also a lot of pressure to uphold,” she said of Gossard’s assertion. “I just try to play my game each time and not worry about what’s going on off the court.”

Khachiki’s opponents were No. 1 sophomore Isabella Harris-Bermudez, No. 2 sophomore Valerie Lentine (substitute) and No. 3 freshman Elane Shane.

Alice Weber is a senior and a leader for the Indians. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Three played at No. 2 for Glendale, which captured the only girls’ title in the school’s long history, a CIF Southern Section Division IV championship in 2017, and they included junior Annette Petrosyan, senior Sara Rahimi and junior Suzanna Poghosyan.

Only Rahimi managed to pull out a win, 6-1, over Harris-Bermudez, while sophomore Lauren Pieri prevailed 6-1 over Petrosyan and Shane won 6-1 against Poghosyan.

At No. 3 for Glendale was sophomore Ani Harutyunyan, who defeated Harris-Bermudez 6-3 and Shane 6-1, while Pieri was victorious 6-3.

Glendale’s No. 1 doubles tandem of senior Nicole Avakian and junior Karen “Momo” Guzman won two points after beating No. 2 sophomore Vanessa Muga and junior Keili Brahms 6-2 and No. 3 Isabella Munguia and Kaitlyn Glaim 6-2.

The Indians No. 1 team of senior Alice Weber and senior Suzy Kim prevailed 7-6 (7-3) over Avakian/Guzman.

At No. 2 for Glendale, senior Karen Enriquez and junior Eleen Garemanian garnered two points by beating Muga/Brahms 6-0 and Munguia/Glaim 6-4, while Weber/Kim knocked off Avakian/Guzman 6-2.

Glendale’s No. 3 squad of senior Janet Louie and senior Anna Sarookhanian nabbed two points as they held off Muga/Brahms 6-4 and Munguia/Glaim 6-4, while Weber/Kim won 6-0.

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Burbank police responded to a call on Riverside Drive for a suspicious vehicle. As officers approached the car, the driver fled and used his vehicle as a weapon and threatened the officers.

Burbank police initiated a pursuit at 10:51 pm that took them to the I-5 freeway southbound and down through the Los Angeles area. Speeds reached over 90 mph during the pursuit that lasted about 45 minutes.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

Burbank asked for CHP for assistance while on the freeway and they took over the pursuit while Burbank followed behind.  The suspect made it back on the I-5 freeway into Burbank when he slowed on the freeway, coming to a stop just before the Olive off-ramp.

Once the suspect stopped, he exited the car and did not comply with the officer’s command to surrender and started walking around and away from officers and it appeared he was possibly smoking a cigarette.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

Officers used A non-lethal weapon to bring the man down to the ground and officers took him into custody immediately.

The I-5 N/B was completely closed for about 20 minutes until they were to get the vehicle off the freeway.

Burbank Police conducted a search of the vehicle as it sat in The Black Angus parking lot, they located open alcoholic containers.

The suspect was taken into custody on a battery of charges and his car impounded.

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The Southern San Fernando Valley Airplane Noise Task Force (Task Force) – a group formed to collaboratively address community concerns regarding aircraft noise resulting from planes departing from Van Nuys Airport (VNY) and Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) – heard from a community group and community members on minimizing noise from the airports. The Task Force’s objective is to provide the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with recommendations on aircraft operations and suggestions to alleviate noise based off the community and industry experts’ proposals.

Meeting Highlights

• UproarLA, a Los Angeles community group, presented their recommendations to establish immediate changes to flight departure operations. Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Koretz (CD5) asked to move a presentation by the Encino Neighborhood Council to the next meeting.
• Task Force members asked the FAA clarifying questions. The FAA will give a presentation on airspace in the Los Angeles region at a future meeting.  

“The Task Force forum allows us to work together in a transparent, respectful and collaborative way,” said Task Force Chair, Burbank Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy. “We are committed to continuing to hold these Task Force meetings and working together with community members, industry experts and other entities to ensure we collectively come to a reasonable solution.”

“This Task Force will work hard to propose feasible community-based solutions that disperse the noise generated from the airports,” said Task Force Vice Chair, Councilmember Paul Krekorian (CD2). “My top priority is to ensure community members are being heard by the FAA, that they’re getting answers to their questions about the changes to the flight path and that we begin implementing changes to mitigate the impacts that are so adversely affecting the East San Fernando Valley.”

The official bylaws document and agenda items from this meeting can be found on the BUR website or on VNY website. The third Task Force meeting will be held on October 17, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. at Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport.

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The Victory Theatre Center is proud to present the west premiere of Elijah by Judith Leora, directed by Maria Gobetti. Opening November 1 in Burbank, Elijah is a very human dramedy by the critically acclaimed writer of The Victory Theatre Center’s Showpony, telling the story of a brave young woman who wants to reconcile with her past so she can free her future.

Hurricane Elijah has closed down all the roads in a small town in Texas. A disparate group of people take refuge in a TGIFridays restaurant, while, weather permitting, a high-profile execution is scheduled in a nearby prison. The restaurant is low on staff, low on food, but loaded with revelatory exchanges between both intimates and strangers who are impacted by the hurricane, the execution, and the difficulty of reconciling mercy and violence in this little corner of the world. 

“As a playwright, it’s a godsend to find a theatre that is not just deeply invested in developing new work, but also in producing it,” says playwright Judith Leora. “To do so twice at the same theater, which consistently attracts an incredible team of designers and actors and produces high quality productions, is an extremely valuable gift. I’m thrilled to be returning to the Victory with the West Coast premiere of Elijah. “

“This play is a funny, poignant revelation of secrets ruling lives, of opinions becoming battles and of the need to find freedom from one’s past. The histories we carry, both from our own background and generationally, demand scrutiny and reflection,” says director Maria Gobetti. “The shadows of these events affect our decisions and relationships. They can limit our successes and blind our perceptions.”

“We try to pick material that reflects our complicated times and still entertains,” says Artistic Director and producer Tom Ormeny. “Judith Leora is a wonderfully funny and deeply impactful playwright. Her love of the humanity of our mistakes drives her comedy and the laughs are always rooted in significant social and political concerns.” 

The West Coast Premiere of Elijah opens for press on November 1, 2, & 3 and runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 4 p.m. through Dec 15. Three low-priced preview performances take place on October 25, 26, & 27. Tickets range from $28-$40, except previews which are $17. Senior & group rates are available. The Victory Theatre Center is located at 3326 W. Victory Blvd in Burbank, CA 91505. For information and to purchase tickets, call 818-841-5421 or go to www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org.

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It has been more than three decades since the Burbank High football team last defeated Hart High.

The Bulldogs will have to wait to attempt the feat against one of the top programs in California history.

Friday night Burbank showed it has improved vastly from the days of the Foothill League when it was frequently dominated by Hart.

But the host Indians still had too much in a 31-13 win over the Bulldogs at College of the Canyons.

“A couple of crucial mistakes got us down at half but we battled,’’ Burbank coach Adam Colman said. “A lot of mental mistakes cost us. We just didn’t execute in crucial spots. That’s a good team and you can’t make mistakes against Hart.”

Hart (1-2) didn’t get on the board until 15 seconds remained in the first half when running back Taden Littleford scored on a 3-yard run.

Hart took advantage of a Burbank turnover to set up its second touchdown. Littleford added a 12-yard touchdown run with 6:17 left in the first half to double the Indians’ lead to 14-0.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

Burbank (1-3) did answer back, however. Junior quarterback Aram Araradian hooked up with Ben Burnham on 49-yard touchdown with 4:29 left in the first half. Araradian finished 14 of 29 for 234 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.

Hart got a break  in the closing seconds of the first half when Burbank appeared to have tackled Littleford, who spun away and gained 52 yards. That set up a field goal with 4 seconds left and Hart kicker Cruz Lopez did not miss from 30 yards out.

Hart quarterback Zach Johnson, who is committed to UC Berkeley, scored on a 26-yard run early in the third quarter to help give his team a 24-7 cushion.

Araradian and Burnham hooked up on another long touchdown with 25 seconds left in the third quarter, helping cut the deficit to 24-13 going into the final quarter.

Littleford scored on a 2-yard run with 2:45 to play to cap the scoring for the Indians.

“We knew what we were getting ourselves into. That’s why we schedule these games,” Colman said. “We’d love to win and felt like we left an opportunity out there. With our nonleague schedule the whole point was to schedule up and go play some top quality opponents. We wanted to win them all, but no matter what happens it prepares you.  Now we’re ready for league. Hopefully we go on a run and get in the playoffs again and be battle tested come playoff time.”

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By Rick Assad

Each week there has been a hurdle for the Burroughs High football team to leap over and each week it’s ended with success.

On Friday night against Harvard-Westlake at Ted Slavin Field on the Studio City campus, the Indians used a 25-point outburst and eventually held off the Wolverines 38-21 in a nonleague game.

Quarterback Nicholas Garcia flips the ball to running back Jon English. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Harvard-Westlake came out early and took command 7-0, only to see Burroughs rally and tally four straight touchdowns.

A season ago, the Wolverines came into Memorial Field and claimed a 24-point victory over the Indians.

The tandem of senior quarterback Nicholas Garcia and senior wide receiver Carson Cardenaz tied it at 7-7 with 6:30 left in the opening quarter when Garcia put together a 73-yard, seven-play march that culminated in a five-yard toss.

“We play everyone better every week throughout the season and everyone gets better,” said Garcia, who passed for 255 yards and connected on 22 of 33 attempts with one interception of the first four teams the Indians have faced. “When we get Glendale, we’re going to get all their sophomores. Once we get CV [Crescenta Valley], everything’s going to get real quick.”

It was physical on both sides of the line of scrimmage. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

A 17-yard strike to Cardenaz from Garcia made it 13-7 with 3:55 remaining in the initial period that capped a 53-yard, eight-play trek.

In short order the Indians’ advantage became 19-7 when Garcia drilled his favorite target, Cardenez (183 yards on 13 receptions) with a 24-yard pass as 7:57 was left in the second quarter, concluding a 43-yard, three-play drive.

With 5:47 showing before halftime, Burroughs (4-0) used a 34-yard, four-play drive and bolted ahead 25-7 after Garcia hit senior running back Aiden Forrester with an eight-yard toss.

“I just want to push my team forward. I want to get them as far as they can go,” said sophomore wide receiver John Alajijian. “Where ever the coaches need me. I can play all four receiver spots. I’m like a utility guy.”

Nicholas Garcia is a nifty runner and very elusive. The senior has scored a rushing touchdown in every game this season. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

After taking a 7-0 lead on the game’s first series when junior quarterback Evan Roderick drilled junior tight end Jack Weiskopf with a three-yard pass and 11:14 left, the Wolverines (1-3) shaved the advantage to 25-14 when Roderick hit sophomore wide receiver Jason Thompson with an eight-yard toss and 1:53 left before the break.

Harvard-Westlake’s first scoring drive began at its 48-yard line and consumed three plays, while the second touchdown was a 10-play, 59-yard march.

A 65-yard pass play from Roderick (13 of 24 for 210 yards and one pick) to senior wide receiver Brendan Kang (95 yards on five catches) trimmed the Burroughs’ lead to 25-21 with no time left in the third quarter and took two plays.

At this juncture and only 12 minutes left in the game, the Indians knew they were in for a battle and responded by scoring two touchdowns in the final quarter.

With the ball resting at the Burroughs 35-yard line, Garcia methodically moved the team down field.

The key gain was Garcia’s 24-yard scamper that placed the football at the Harvard-Westlake 24-yard line.

Three plays later, Garcia ended the seven-play excursion with a 20-yard burst and 9:13 left that made it 31-21.

The Indians’ lead was extended to 38-21 when sophomore running back Jon English (108 yards on 23 carries) waltzed into the end zone on a nine-yard carry and 3:31 left.

Burroughs will begin its Pacific League schedule next Friday night at 7 p.m. with a game against Glendale at Moyse Field.

The post Burroughs Is Undefeated After 38-21 Triumph Over Harvard-Westlake appeared first on myBurbank.com.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Along with a crowd of local dignitaries and well-wishers, the Burbank City Council saluted City Manager Ronald E. Davis at his retirement reception last Thursday, praising his 20-year Burbank career of “outstanding achievement, leadership and community service.”  Davis had started out as the General Manager of Burbank Water & Power in 1999, before moving to City Hall in 2016.  His last day as City Manager is September 30. 

When Davis took over from a succession of interim City Managers, the City faced severe deficits, with needed capital improvements and popular programs on the chopping block.  Davis quickly streamlined operations, reduced workers compensation outlays and persuaded City employees to pay more into their retirement programs.  But cost savings wasn’t enough, and so Davis and the City Council proposed an increase in the local sales tax (Measure P) together with citizen oversight to make sure the additional revenues were spent responsibly. 

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

In November 2018, Burbank voters passed Measure P.   “We turned around this ship on the path to financial stability,” said Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy, who appreciated Davis’ immediate tackling of the City’s “severe financial issues.”   Vice Mayor Sharon Springer also lauded Davis “for achieving financial stability.”

More than a few Burbank voters supported the sales tax increase because they had witnessed how Davis had transformed BWP.  By late 1998, the beleaguered utility was going broke as deregulation was upending what had been a forgiving business environment.   BWP’s major customers were threatening to purchase their power from Enron, and Southern California Edison was planning to gobble up municipal utilities like BWP.  The vacated General Manager position had to be filled quickly.    

“Fix the utility or we’re going to sell it!” was the challenge posed to candidates for the General Manager position, recalled Council Member Jess Talamantes.  But after speaking with Davis, he stated flatly to his colleagues, “I think we found our guy.” 

Council Member Timothy Murphy agreed. “I know what it was like pre-Ron,” he said, calling to mind his days on the Council back in the ’90s.  He appreciated Davis’ calmness in the midst of crisis, attributing it to his days “driving submarines.”

Council Member Murphy has a point.  Once you’ve been a Cold War Era submariner like Davis, dogging and dodging Russian nuclear subs under the ice-covered Arctic, floundering organizations that are financially underwater don’t seem so daunting.

 “And today BWP’s on anyone’s top ten list of the best public utilities,” adds Council Member Murphy.  Indeed, BWP has become so financially strong that it even fully supports its own retirement liability while delivering some of the lowest water and electricity rates in Southern California. 

The utility industry has also agreed with the City Council, having showered BWP with 29 major industry awards, including the American Public Power Association’s Diamond Level status for outstanding reliability for electric service.  In 2010, Davis received APPA’s James D. Donovan Individual Achievement Award for his “substantial contributions to the electric utility industry, with a special commitment to public power.” 

Anyone comparing photos of the BWP campus in 1999 with those of the campus today will see its striking transformation into one of the Burbank’s signature landmarks, attracting industry visitors from around the world.  As Mayor Gabel-Luddy put it, “Ron at heart is a landscape architect.  He loves to build stuff.”

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Former BWP Board member Bob Olson was also impressed with Davis as an architect of plans that work, hailing him as a “strategic thinker” without equal.

One example of such strategic thinking occurred shortly after 9/11 when first responders from different agencies were urged to develop the ability to communicate with one another over their radios during regional emergencies.  But squabbling over cost-sharing made even cooperation between Glendale and Burbank problematic.    In response, Davis instituted a Joint Powers Authority (“ICI”) supporting first responder radio communications in 2003.  “Today, ICI enables interoperable communications for dozens of first responder agencies,” remarked ICI Executive Director Ray Edey, who presented Davis with a radio-themed appreciation plaque.  

“It tough to say goodbye to Ron,” said Council Member Bob Frutos, especially impressed by Davis’ development of people. “You delivered us a Class A, five-star leadership team.” He credits Davis with transforming Council meetings from ordeals of time-consuming rancor into sessions of civility and focus that now end well before midnight, to the gratitude of staffs and spouses alike.  (Spouse Cheryl Davis nodded in vigorous agreement.)

Several other speakers praised Davis as a master mentor and builder of teams as well as things.  Davis is “a teacher, a mentor, and a great strategist,” said Acting City Manager Justin Hess.  “What really matters to you is the people you have met and helped to grow along the way,” said Community Development Director Patrick Prescott.  “No boss has ever cared as much about my success as you have.”   Current BWP General Manager Jorge Somoano paid tribute to Davis’ guidance, describing him as “a natural leader” who always looked to “the best interests of the customers as a whole.”

A close friend and community leader Barry Gussow added his praise and read aloud from a heartfelt letter from past Assistant Superintendent Tom Kissinger, in which he thanked Davis for his friendship and invaluable career advice.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Davis’ compassionate-but-results-oriented approach extended to his concern for children’s welfare, which Councilmember Murphy especially appreciated.  “I was trying to start a Boys and Girls Club in Burbank, and Ron’s knowledge and financial acumen made it happen.”  Davis has remained a key supporter of the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank and Greater East Valley, now serving over 1000 children, including teens.

In recognition of Davis unwavering support and guidance, B&G Club Chief Executive Officer Shanna Warren presented a ceremonial check in the amount of $3,305, representing the donations made to B&G Club on Davis’ behalf.  Warren added that an anonymous donor would match this amount as well.

But the highlight was when Warren announced that in view of “Ron’s devotion to the children,” the facility for teens would now be named the Ron Davis Teen Center.

A visibly moved Davis said, “It has been our true blessing to be here.”

The post City Manager Ron Davis Honored at Retirement Reception appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Unified Superintendent Matt Hill and Arts & CTE Coordinator Peggy Flynn were the featured speakers at the Fall 2019 Burbank Arts For All Foundation Community Exchange. They spoke about the need for additional funding to retain programs the district has supported in recent years, and highlighted the growth of music, digital media and drama/musical theater programs at three schools.

Hosted by L.A. Castle Studios, the event was attended by teachers, principals and school district officials, along with parents, members of the local community, business owners and board members of the Burbank Arts For All Foundation.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation held the Fall 2019 Community Exchange to highlight financial challenges faced by Burbank Unified School District and arts-related programs that have grown at the school in the past decade. (Photo By Ross Benson)

The focus of the Community Exchange was the need for increased funding for the Burbank Unified School District, which needs to cut $1 – 3 million dollars annually for the foreseeable future, due to rising pension, benefits and other costs.

Burbank Unified cut several administrative positions at the district office and at some of the schools, in an attempt to meet the 2019-20 budget $3 million dollar shortfall. The elementary school music program, which had been on the chopping block, was saved for the current school year by donations raised in large part by the Burbank Arts For All Foundation and local business partners.

Hill decried the lack of funding per pupil from the State of California, noting that California spends half the amount many states, such as New Jersey, spend per pupil. California will pay local school districts $11,993 per student for 2019-20, ranking 41st in spending per pupil out of 50 states.

Burbank Unified Superintendent Matt Hill talks about school funding crisis at the Burbank Arts For All Foundation Community Exchange. (Photo By Ross Benson)

The solution to the budget shortfall as Hill and many BUSD officials see it, is a March 2020 parcel tax initiative that aims to raise approximately $9 million dollars annually if passed.

A parcel tax on the November 2018 ballot failed to pass by less than 1000 votes and Hill believes more voters in Burbank can be convinced to support the March 2020 measure which includes a 12-year sunset clause and options for those over 65 to opt out of paying the additional tax.

Hill said the average cost for homeowners in Burbank would amount to $14/per month, if the parcel tax passes in March.

Hill emphasized he is willing to talk to anyone about the reasons for the parcel tax and encouraged attendees and community members to ask questions and discuss the parcel tax initiative often in the coming weeks.

Flynn highlighted three programs that have been nurtured and developed over the past decade: the music program at Providencia Elementary, the digital media program at John Muir Middle School and the drama and musical theater program at John Burroughs High School.

Burbank Unified Arts & CTE Coordinator Peggy Flynn talks about successful music, digital media and theater programs at BUSD schools. (Photo By Ross Benson)

She also noted that in the past decade, the Burbank Board of Education’s support and funding of arts program increased from 1% of the budget to 5%.

Providencia Elementary was able to partner with Education Through Music – Los Angeles to bring an in-school and after school orchestra program to every fourth- and fifth-grader at the school, while expanding the weekly regular music classes to include more grades at the school. Typically, BUSD has supported a weekly music class for grades 2-5 at its elementary schools, and only a few schools have a string orchestra program.

“It’s a beacon of our school,” commented Providencia Principal Jen Culbertson, who highlighted that student excitement for participating in the string orchestra and learning to play a violin, viola or cello was extremely high.

Muir’s digital media program started with one class period and has grown to have its own dedicated teacher and an ongoing mentoring partnership with Nickelodeon Animation Studio. Currently, all three Burbank Unified middle schools have digital media programs with dedicated teachers.

(Photo By Ross Benson)

Muir Principal Greg Miller talked about the growth of the program and noted the three middle schools get together annually for a Tri-School Film Festival at which the students share their films.

Burroughs’ drama and musical theater program has grown as well, from a few class periods daily to support a full day of classes including Drama 1, Drama 2, Play Production and Musical Theater. Flynn noted that Warner Bros. was an early and strong supporter of the program as it grew and changed when teacher Guy Myers took over the drama program several years ago.

Myers, who is the 2019 Burbank Teacher of the Year, spoke about the positive impact participating in drama and musical theater has had on his students, reading some of their poignant comments aloud for the audience.

“I can’t think of a single reason to be open about who you are in high school. It must seem a bit of a played-out trope, hating high school. But it’s a trope I’m guilty of,” wrote one of Myers’ students. “I felt I had to put on an armor every day to get through the day. The armor held all the parts of me that made me individual.”

“I don’t know how Mr. Myers did it. He created a space freeing in a place that is anything but. He nurtured creativity, honesty, self-expression of his students in his classes. He created a space where young people felt safe to try out who they were for an hour of the day. My education comes from the experience of being open in the sight of others.”

(Photo By Ross Benson)

The program concluded with Foundation Community Outreach Chair Brenda Etterbeek and Arts Advocacy Leaders Jennie Ford and Erin Clendenin discussing effective ways for parents to get involved at their respective school sites, by engaging with the school’s PTA, Principal and School Site Council.

A video recording of the 2019 Community Exchange is available for viewing via the Burbank Arts For All Foundation’s Facebook page here.

More information on how California’s education system works and is funded can be found on the Ed 100 site. Hill encouraged all Burbank community members to visit the website to learn more.

The post Burbank Unified Administrators Discuss Need For More Funding, Successful Arts Programs appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Approximately 30 Burbank neighbors raised $7000 to benefit Providence Saint Joseph’s Minutes Matter Emergency Services Campaign for a new ER and Urgent Care facility while attending a party hosted by Linda Walmsley at her home on Thursday, September 12.

“We were thrilled to be among Linda’s friends and neighbors to raise funds for these critical resources last week,” commented Angela Khurdajian, Philanthropic Gift Advisor for Providence Saint Joseph Foundation.

“Linda is a valuable member of Providence Saint Joseph Foundation’s Burbank Committee of the Emergency Services Minutes Matter Campaign – a $78M undertaking to build a state-of-the-art new emergency department and urgent care. We have raised $61M to date and are looking to our heartfelt community to help us raise the rest.”

Jordan (age 2) and Alex (age 5) help collect donations for the Minutes Matter campaign to benefit Providence St. Joseph’s new Emergency and Urgent Care facility. (Photo Courtesy Angela Khurdajian)

Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center has one of the busiest Emergency Services Departments in Los Angeles County.

“We have outgrown our facility and are building a new emergency department nearly three times the size of what we have now with an adjacent urgent care to help those who have less critical ailments,” Khurdajian explained. “When you pass by the medical center you’ll see that the construction site is fenced off.”

“Since these new structures are being built from the ground up, our current emergency department will continue to operate until the new facilities open by early 2022. It’s an exciting time for Providence Saint Joseph!”

The new facility will provide more space for critical treatment, tripling in size from 13,800 square feet to 34,500 square feet. Plans are to increase the number of beds from the current 24 plus eight hallway beds to 44 ER beds and 12 Urgent Care beds.

The new Urgent Care space of 8500 square feet will provide an area for treatment of minor injuries and ailments.

Triage will be separated into specialized waiting and treatment areas for different kinds of patients – for those who are ill, injured, pediatric, geriatric or psychiatric.

The new building will house dedicated imaging and labs to provide faster diagnostics and reduced wait times.

All in all, Providence Saint Joseph expects to be able to treat more people, more quickly. They expect the annual number of 72,000 visits to increase to over 93,000 once the new ER and Urgent Care building is open.

(Photo Courtesy Angela Khurdajian)

“This campaign touches the lives of everyone around us,” said Michael Hastings, who co-chairs Providence Saint Joseph’s Minutes Matter Emergency Services Campaign, along with his wife Kathy and Nat and Alma Rubinfeld. “St. Joe’s is an integral part of the fabric of our community and we must step up and support this much needed emergency services facility.”

“The campaign title says it all…’Minutes Matter.’ AND so do the people that the hospital serves,” Hastings added. “It’s time for us all to stretch and assist in the funding of this lifesaving complex.”

“I was was so happy to have community leaders, good friends and of course my very young friends Jordan and Alex join with me to support this exciting new facility that will make Burbank even better for all of us that call it home,” commented Walmsley.

The post Neighborhood Party Raises Funds For New Providence Saint Joseph Emergency & Urgent Care Building appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

It was only the first set and there would be at least two more sets for the Burbank High girls’ volleyball team.

In retrospect, this set proved vital because it helped catapult visiting Crescenta Valley to a 27-25, 18-25, 25-14, 25-18 Pacific League victory on Tuesday.

Hoping to get out quickly, the Bulldogs dashed ahead 23-16 when junior opposite hitter Tamryn Betts (nine kills and five digs) collected a spike.

“It’s a tough one to swallow, but with the mental toughness that we have and the resiliency that we have, we’ll bounce back, go back in the lab and work hard again,” Burbank coach Karl Rojo said of his team’s tough loss.

The Falcons would get to within 23-17 on a winner from junior outside hitter Jamie Santos.

A spike from senior setter/opposite hitter Isabella Doom would make it 23-18, but Burbank would ease in front 24-18 on a stuff from junior middle blocker Bianca Hudson (six kills with five blocks).

Katie Treadway, shown in a match against Providence, had a team-best 11 kills in a four-set loss to Crescenta Valley. Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Crescenta Valley drew within 24-20 on an ace from Santos and 24-21 on a kill from Santos.

When Doom and senior middle blocker/opposite hitter Laine Stubbs combined on a jam, the Falcons were within 24-22.

A tapper from Stubbs saw the visitors get within 24-23 as the Bulldogs (7-9 and 3-2 in league) asked for time.

Doom’s spike evened it at 24-24 and a service winner from Santos pushed the Falcons ahead 25-24.

A kill from senior outside hitter Brandice Hibbard (10 kills and six digs with an ace) leveled it at 25-25.

Crescenta Valley (19-8 and 4-1 in league) would capture the next two points including the set-winner by Santos (15 kills and four aces).

The initial set was close early on and included five ties before a winner from senior middle blocker Leah Tawil (four kills and one block) handed the Bulldogs an 8-6 lead.

A kill from Betts evened it at 10-10 and a spike from Tawil tied it at 12-12.  It would be deadlocked at 14-14 on Doom’s blast.

The Bulldogs would go on a 10-4 spurt and lead 24-18 that included kills from Hudson that made it 16-14 as the Falcons asked for time, and senior outside hitter Katie Treadway’s dagger for a 19-15 edge.

Senior setter Ashley Eskander, shown in a recent nonleague match against Providence, had 40 assists and 22 digs in a loss to the Falcons. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“The first set I thought we were doing good, but we were making little mistakes that kept adding up, so we kind of lost our momentum a little bit and we couldn’t get back into it. In the second set we did a lot better,” said Treadway, a senior outside hitter who had a team-high 11 kills with five aces and 25 digs. “We need to be calm and execute.”

Treadway then added: “For me, I need to remember this game and know what I did wrong and what we can do better,” she noted. “And what I notice that I can talk to the team about. And what we can do better for the next game. How we need to be on the same page mentally and our plays. But after this day, though, we forget about it.”

The second frame saw the Bulldogs bolt ahead 10-0 on a kill from Treadway. “If we lose a set, I try to get their energy up and try to get them excited,” she pointed out. “Me and Ashley [Eskander] try to calm each other down. We also need to know that we need to be more aggressive.”

Eskander is a senior setter and one of the team leaders who finished the match with 40 assists and 22 digs.

The Falcons answered with five straight points that cut the lead to 10-5, but Burbank still held a 14-7 lead when Hibbard added a kill.

A spike from Hudson gave the Bulldogs a 17-11 cushion and it became 19-11 on a service winner from Treadway as the Falcons asked for a halt in the action.

A kill from Betts made it 21-13, Treadway’s bullet pushed the advantage to 24-17 and a spike from Betts evened the match at one set each.

The third game was tied 3-3 on an ace from Burbank junior setter Kassandra Gonzalez, but the Falcons forged a 7-4 lead on a kill from senior middle blocker Ellie Song.

Crescenta Valley darted in front 10-7 on a kill from senior outside hitter Lizzy Kerman (match-best 17 kills with four aces) and 13-8 on a winner from junior libero Emily Boghozian.

“When we started out, we seemed a little rattled, a little nervous. We just kept telling the girls to stay calm. Stay calm. Take a deep breath,” Crescenta Valley coach Matt Simons said. “In that first game, the pressure came off because we were down so much. They stopped making silly mistakes. The girls played with a confidence that they didn’t play with earlier in the set.”

Simons went on: “When we were passing well, we were able to run our offense and the game is so much easier,” he said. “When we pass well, we’re able to run all aspects of the offense. It kind of stabilizes us.”

Doom’s kill made it 14-8 and when Doom (18 assists with four kills and four blocks) tossed in another spike, the Falcons were in front 18-8.

Back-to-back aces by Santos made it 23-11 as the Bulldogs needed time to regroup. A stuff from junior middle blocker Emma Glaza for the Falcons put them ahead 24-11 and a kill from Kerman salted the set.

An ace from junior libero Hannah Tanita handed the Falcons a 4-2 lead in the fourth set, but the Bulldogs rallied and moved ahead 7-5 on an ace from Gonzalez.

Crescenta Valley settled down and led 13-9 on a kill from Santos and 16-12 on an ace from Tanita.

“On any given day, a different girl can be the hero,” Simons said. “We don’t have one girl that we rely on. That we lean on. That balanced attack really helps.”

The Falcons darted ahead 19-15 on a kill from Kerman and 21-15 on a service winner from Kerman.

Crescenta Valley inched in front 23-16 on a kill from Santos and Doom’s rocket was the set and match winner.

Senior defensive specialist/libero Morgan Bolger added 25 digs for the Bulldogs, while junior setter Cadie Carlson had 15 assists and two blocks for the Falcons.

The post Burbank Girls Volleyball Lose To Crescenta Valley In Four Sets appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation has announced that Executive Director Trena Pitchford, who’s been with the Foundation for eight years, will resign from her role on Friday, October 11.

Pitchford joined the Foundation in 2011 as Director of Development and became Executive Director in 2014.

“During her tenure, Trena has helped usher in new strategic plans in partnership with the Board of Directors, built new valuable partnerships with donors, parent leaders and businesses, helped improve and stabilize internal operations and organizational processes, among many other accomplishments,” Jill Vander Borght and Tom Vice, Co-Chairs of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, stated in a media release.

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

“Trena leaves Burbank Arts for All Foundation in a strong position for continued growth, and we sincerely thank her for her contribution and leadership in her time here. The Board wishes her the best of luck in her future endeavors.”

“After eight years with Burbank Arts for All Foundation, I recently submitted my resignation to the Board of Directors in order to spend more time with my family and pursue new challenges,” commented Pitchford. “The decision for my transition did not come easily as I am extremely proud of the work that the Foundation’s staff, board, donors and volunteers have accomplished together during the past eight years.”

Pictured from L to R: Ariel Van Pelt (Friends of the LA River), Trena Pitchford (Burbank Arts For All), Barbara Winn (At&t), Assemblymember Mike Gatto, Damian Kevitt (Streets Are For Everyone), JC Holt (Burbank YMCA).
Photo By: Edward Tovmassian

“I give my deepest gratitude to all who have been so supportive of the organization and of me personally over the years. I am honored to have been the leader of this incredible organization and will watch with much excitement and anticipation as it continues to support creative learning opportunities for Burbank Unified’s students.”

In mid-October, Pitchford will become Executive Director of Jane Seymour’s Open Hearts Foundation, “a social impact accelerator with a mission of empowering emerging and growing nonprofit organizations.”

“The Foundation’s board of directors is very sad to see Trena go, but exceptionally proud of everything she has done in support of the students of BUSD,” Vander Borght also said.

Burbank Arts For All Foundation Executive Director Trena Pitchford, Assemblymember Laura Friedman and Foundation Board member Suzanne Weerts celebrate the honor of the 43rd Assembly District’s 2019 Nonprofit of the Year on the floor of the Assembly chamber. (Photo Courtesy Burbank Arts for All Foundation)

“That said, we are currently working with Trena and the board to carry out a transition plan, which will include new leadership,” she added. “Trena leaves big shoes to fill. Thankfully Tom and I have a strong, capable, passionate board behind us committed to ensuring the mission of our organization is carried out without any bumps or gaps.”

The Burbank Arts For All Foundation recently held its 2019 Fall Community Exchange and is currently in the midst of its 24th grant cycle, providing arts-related funding for Burbank Unified School District programs.

The next event, Beers and Bites, is an evening out to benefit the Foundation and will honor Pitchford’s work for the organization. Beers and Bites will be held at Gordon Biersch in downtown Burbank on October 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The post Burbank Arts For All Foundation Executive Director Plans Move To Another Advocacy Group appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Council Parent Teacher Association (PTA) holds a Community Engagement Night featuring former California State PTA President Carol Kocivar, on Wednesday evening, September 25.

While Kocivar has worked as an attorney, journalist and ombudsperson, she currently is an editorial contributor to ed100.org, a free online website that helps users learn about the California education system. She also hosts the “Looking at Education” program on KALW Public Radio.

Former California PTA President Carol Kocivar will speak at Burbank Council PTA’s Community Engagement Night on Wednesday, September 25, about issues facing public education in California, including state funding, teacher salary and pension concerns, current legislation and ways parents can advocate for their children. (Photo Courtesy Burbank Council PTA)

According to the Burbank Council PTA media release, Kocivar will talk about issues focused on the state of public education in California: “how public schools are funded, teacher salaries and the state pension crisis, current legislation that could affect how our schools are funded and how parents and community members can advocate for change for our kids.”

“Among PTA leaders in California, Carol’s reputation as a fierce advocate for children and youth is legendary,” commented Burbank Council PTA President Wendi Harvel.

“Her vast knowledge of California’s education system comes from her many years of work with the PTA and education community and she has inspired countless parents, teachers and community members to get involved in supporting and improving California schools.”

“She is a dynamic and energetic speaker who has an amazing talent to take complex topics and phrase them in a way that is accessible to all. We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to hear her speak.”

“This is not just a PTA event; it’s an event for the whole community,” added Harvel. “It is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get real answers as to how our schools are funded.”

The Burbank Council Community Engagement Night begins at 6:30 p.m. and is free, but seating is limited and will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will be held at Luther Burbank Middle School, which is located at 3700 Jeffries Ave, Burbank, CA 91505.

More information on the Burbank Council PTA can be found here.

The post Former California State PTA President Speaks At Burbank Council PTA Event appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank High senior wide receiver Ben Burnham has played well of late and scored a pair of touchdowns last week in a loss to Hart High.

Thursday night he became the first receiver in school history to gain more than 300 yards in a single game, as he scored three touchdowns in leading the Bulldogs to a 48-7 road win over defending Pacific League champion Arcadia in the league opener.

“I’ve been locked in mentally and I’ve been focused on running my routes. Everything after I catch it just comes naturally,” Burnham said.  “I can’t say enough about my quarterback. He’s a great player, a great teammate, a great leader.”

Junior quarterback Aram Araradian finished 11 of 16 passing for 351 yards with three touchdowns.

Having played a tougher schedule in the first half of the season, Araradian has now passed for 1,387 yards in five games.

Burbank (2-3) jumped on Arcadia quickly and was never under any serious threat.

Araradian and Burnham hooked up on a 32-yard touchdown at the 9:58 mark of the first quarter.

An interception by Austin Blacano helped set up Burbank’s second touchdown, a 1-yard run by Isaac Glover with 5:54 left in the first quarter to make it 14-0.

Tyler Murphy scored on a 1-yard run later in the quarter to make it 20-0.

Araradian and Burnham hooked up on an 89-yard touchdown at the 9:11 mark of the second quarter to make it 27-0. Burnham’s single game record broke the previous school record of Cody Cardenaz, who had 209 yards against Pasadena in 2008.

Arcadia (1-3) took advantage of great field position following a Burbank turnover to help score its lone touchdown.

Glover scored on a 15-yard run with 2:22 left in the first half to make it 34-7.

Araradian and Burnham hooked up again with 58 seconds left in the quarter for their third touchdown. Burnham did not play in the fourth quarter.

Burbank’s lone touchdown in the second half came with 7:14 left in the third quarter as Murphy scored on a 9-yard run.

Bulldog coach Adam Colman was pleased with how his team responded from a tough nonleague schedule in which saw some ups and downs.

“It was nice to get on the board quick and to get to play with a lead. We’ve looked back and some of our losses and we said if we get a lead early it’s a whole different complexion. We really emphasized starting strong,” Colman said. “The defense was awesome and helped give us great field position. It’s nice to start off league with a win, especially against the defending league champs.”
Burbank will host Pasadena High next Thursday at Memorial Field.

The post Burnham Leads Burbank Football Past Arcadia appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Le French Rooster opened quietly a few months ago on Olive Avenue and in that time has built a dedicated fan base for their French pastries, breads, crepes, sandwiches and salads.

The sunny, small storefront serves mainly takeaway, but does have a standing bar for diners to eat, New York style. The owners have plans to add some chairs and perhaps even tables in the future, but there are no seats for sitting down at this time.

Savory buckwheat crepe with goat cheese, pesto and pine nuts topped with arugula, cherry tomatoes and a vinaigrette. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

We’ve enjoyed Le French Rooster several times over the past month. The brioche rolls, both plain and those with a few pieces of large chocolate pieces, are so buttery and soft first thing in the morning when the shop opens up.

Le French Rooster also offers a nice selection of freshly baked pastries including a delectable Kouign Amann, both plain and with almonds and filled with almond paste, a brioche with streusel, Schneck Aux Raisins and choquettes, along with lemon meringue and raspberry tartlettes, Vanilla Choux, almond and pistachio financiers and Paris Brest, which is topped with slivered almonds and filled with a creme.

(clockwise from top left): Brioche Choco, Lemon Meringue Tartlette, Paris Brest and Raspberry Tartlette from Le French Rooster. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The bakery also serves vegetarian quiche, Quiche Lorraine, ham and cheese croissant and groundwork coffee, espresso, cappucino and cafe au laits. Cold soft drinks and water are also available.

After 11:00 a.m., a limited number of freshly made sandwiches are placed in the case and after 12:00 p.m. the kitchen will make sweet and savory crepes and a Croque Monsieur. The restaurant offers a salad of the day as well.

My favorite sandwich so far has been Le Pan Bagnat: tuna, egg, olives, green pepper, onion, tomato and baby lettuces piled in between the softest bread. We’ve also enjoyed L’Italien, with fresh mozzarella, tomato, arugula and pesto inside a crusty ciabatta roll. The Croque Monsieur was spectacular, with crispy cheese on the outside and ham and bechamel inside.

Vegetarian quiche made with eggs, heavy cream, spinach, leek and goat cheese in a pie-pastry crust is served with a side salad. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Le Biquette savory buckwheat crepe was also fabulous, filled with goat cheese, pesto and pine nuts and topped with arugula, cherry tomatoes and a vinaigrette.

Both quiches are flavorful and light and served with a side salad. The crust is flaky and tender. The vegetarian option is made with eggs, heavy cream, spinach, leek and goat cheese. The Quiche Lorraine is made with eggs, heavy cream, lardons, Swiss cheese and nutmeg.

Other sandwiches available include Le Nordique (smoked salmon, Le Boursin, cucumber, dill, capers and mixed greens) and Le Parisien (ham, gruyere cheese, butter and pickles.) They are on our to-try list.

Le Pan Bagnat is tuna, egg, olives, green pepper, onion, tomato and baby lettuces piled in between the softest bread. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

We love the friendly and positive atmosphere of Le French Rooster and its owners, Alex and Cindy. Every time we’ve stopped in – morning, noon or late afternoon – the place has been bustling. Don’t wait til after 2:00 p.m. or your food choices will be limited, because Chef Alex only makes a certain number of pastries and sandwiches daily and when they’re sold out, they’re sold out for the day.

Le French Rooster earns a Tops In Town for excellent, fresh, flavorful food and friendly service. Parking is very easy on that part of Olive Avenue near Buena Vista Street.

Restaurant Info: Le French Rooster is located at 2221 W. Olive Avenue, Burbank, CA 91506. 818-859-7153. Le French Rooster is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and closed on Sunday.

Le French Rooster receives: Tops In Town

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

The post Le French Rooster Hits A High Note With French Pastries, Sandwiches And More appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank police are still investigating a serious accident on Thursday, September 19 at Lake and Alameda that sent a 16-year-old boy to the hospital.

Paramedics were dispatched at 7:19 pm after getting the initial call reporting the accident involving a vehicle and a bicyclist. Upon arriving they found a 16-year-old boy who had been seriously injured in the accident while riding his bike.

The driver involved remained at the scene and has been cooperative with investigators who were dispatched to the scene for major accidents. According to Burbank Police Sergent Derek Green, neither drugs nor alcohol were a factor in the accident.

The boy remains in the trauma center in critical condition.

The post Boy Seriously Injured After Being Struck by Vehicle appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The CIF Southern Section released the playoff division placings for all winter sports teams on Friday.
The placement determines what divisions each sports team will be competing in should they advance to postseason play.

The team with arguably the best chance of winning a CIF title in the winter, the Burroughs boys’ soccer team, was placed in Division 3 and will be one of 55 schools competing for the Division 3 title.

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

The defending league champion Indians return a strong core led by senior midfielder Carlos Rosales and All-CIF junior winger Manny Gonzalez.
The Burbank High boys’ soccer team was placed in Division 5.
The Burroughs girls’ basketball team was one of 34 teams placed in Division 2A.
The Indians are led by junior All-CIF pick Faith Boulanger.
Burbank High’s girls’ team was placed in Division 3A.

The Burroughs girls’ soccer team was placed in Division 4. Burbank High’s girls’ team was placed in Division 5.

In boys basketball, Burbank High is one of 40 schools that will compete for the 2A championship.

The Burroughs boys’ basketball team was placed in Division 3A.

For girls water polo, Burroughs was placed in Division 5 and Burbank High will be in Division 6.

The post CIF Releases Winter Sports Playoff Division Placings appeared first on myBurbank.com.