Note: All suspects arrested are presumed innocent until found guilty by a court of law. The following are official public records being redistributed by myBurbank.com Inc. and is protected by constitutional, publishing, and other legal rights. These official records were collected in 2020. The person(s) named in these listings have only been arrested on suspicion of the crime indicated and are presumed innocent. Original Police Logs can be found on the Burbank Police Department’s website where this information was obtained from.

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Being a police officer is an extremely demanding job and it often calls for them to make arrests.

On Wednesday, September 30, it included security worker Nelson DeLeon, who was apprehended at 00:30 a.m.

The charges against DeLeon are being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and spousal abuse.

Burbank caterer Arin Aghajany was taken into custody at Olive Ave. and Glenoaks Blvd. It happened at 3:35 a.m. and the charge is 11351 HS.

Luis Padilla resides in North Hollywood and was handcuffed at 2900 North San Fernando Blvd. The charge is being in possession of a controlled substance. It occurred at 11:45 a.m.

Brenda Julia Rogers was arrested at 2900 North San Fernando Blvd. The charge is being in possession of a controlled substance and the time is 3:10 p.m.

Chris Rojas lives in San Fernando and was handcuffed at Magnolia Blvd. and Varney St. It occurred at 3:10 p.m. and the charge is vandalism of $400 or more.

Martin Kelly Womack lives in Columbus, Ohio, and is a landscaper. Womack was nabbed at Empire Ave. at the 15 freeway. The charge is resisting arrest and the time is 8:30 p.m.

Telemarketer Matthew Dale Beavers lives in Los Angeles and was cuffed at 9:05 p.m. It happened at West Olive Ave. and the charges are vandalism of $400 or more and disorderly conduct.

On Tuesday, September 29, North Hollywood resident and construction worker Paul Steven Lara Carabajal was arrested at the Travelodge.

It happened at 4:10 a.m. The charges are 484 E (D) and being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mina A. Rezk lives in Inglewood and is a laborer. Rezk was arrested at 1515 Glenoaks Blvd. at 5:20 p.m. and the charge is 314.1.

Crystal Navarrete is a housekeeper who resides in Los Angeles and was apprehended at Burbank Blvd. and Victory Blvd.

It happened at 9:25 p.m. and the charges are possession of heroin/cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

Shane Halligan lives in Studio City and was nabbed at 1000 San Fernando Blvd. It occurred at 11:10 p.m. and the charges are outstanding warrants and grand theft.

Lakita Elizabeth Washington, who was on parole, was handcuffed at 1000 San Fernando Blvd.

Washington was apprehended at 11:10 p.m. and the charges are being in possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

On Monday, September 28, Ryan James Guevara, a resident of Canyon Country and a construction worker was arrested at San Fernando Blvd. and Tulare Ave.

It happened at 00:22 a.m. and the charges are being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of heroin/cocaine and being in possession of a controlled substance.

Burbank resident Danielle Victoria Butch works in sales and was nabbed at 2611 West Olive Ave.

It happened at 3:50 a.m. and the charges are being in possession of credit cards that didn’t belong to her, possession of burglary tools, narcotics and two warrants.

Earl Suyoung Lee lives in Los Angeles and is an embroiderer. Lee was taken into custody at 1800 Empire Ave. and the charges are being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. It happened at 8:40 a.m.

Antonio Patricio resides in North Hollywood and is a warehouse employee. Patricio was handcuffed at Victory Blvd. and Spazier Ave. at 9:15 p.m. The charge is 594.2 (A).

North Hollywood resident Victor Guillermo Martinez is a construction worker. Martinez was apprehended at 9:15 p.m. and the site was Victory Blvd. and Alameda Ave. The charges are being in possession of vandalism tools, 594.2 (A) and 14601.5 A.

Alexander Echeveria lives in Burbank, works as a cleaner and was taken into custody at Hood Ave. and Rose St.

The time was 11:21 p.m. and the charges are driving under the influence, an outstanding warrant and 23152 (A).

On Sunday, September 27, Quinton Victor Klein Garrett, who lives in Burbank, was arrested after being drunk in public. It occurred at Verdugo Ave. and Sixth St. and it happened at 4:17 a.m.

Burbank resident and trader Sheikh Farhath Rahman was nabbed at 4:35 p.m. The charge is spousal abuse.

Vahe William Avetyan works in fire safety and lives in North Hollywood. Avetyan was arrested at Magnolia Blvd. and Moss St.

The charges are identity theft, 484 E (D), possession of heroin/cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and 4573. It occurred at 8:50 p.m.

Los Angeles resident Kyle Alijah Kavroma was apprehended at Alameda Ave [The Gateway]. It happened at 10:50 p.m. and the charge is disorderly conduct.

On Saturday, September 26, Robert Hakop Kaldjian, a resident of Glendale and supervisor, was arrested at the Glendale police department. It happened at 1:00 a.m. and the charges are identity theft and narcotics.

Van Nuys resident Joseph Paul Barragan Jr. works in security. Barragan was taken into custody at Glenoaks Blvd. and Eton Drive. The time is 00:05 a.m. and the charge is 23153 (B).

Lincoln Douglas Jeanes lives in Granada Hills and is a paralegal. Jeanes was arrested at 4:20 a.m.

It happened at 265 West Flower St. and the charges are being in possession of methamphetamines, drug paraphernalia and burglary tools.

Monterey Park resident Jin Mustafa is a manager and was nabbed at the Extended Stay. The charges are outstanding warrants and being in possession of narcotics and the time is 8:03 a.m.

Raquel Alexa Momjian lives in Burbank and is a manager. The time, the site and the charges are the same.

Joseph Reynolds is unemployed and lives in North Hollywood. Reynolds was arrested at 2900 North San Fernando Blvd. and the time is 12:45 p.m. The charges are being in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Van Nuys resident Nathaniel Anthony Christian is a hair stylist. Christian was nabbed at the Ramada Inn and it occurred at 12:45 p.m.

The charges are 4463 (A) (1), being in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Andrew Edwin Karapetian lives in Sun Valley. Karapetian, a welder, was handcuffed at 2900 North San Fernando Blvd. and it happened at 7:15 p.m.

The charges are 484 E (D), being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sunland resident Aryan Hambarsonpour works in construction and was arrested at the same site.

The time was the same and the charges are being in possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Music producer Christopher Idown Kuyoro is a Los Angeles resident and was taken into custody at Barham Blvd. and Lakeside Terrace. The charge is 484 E (D). It happened at 7:50 p.m.

Hans Deleon Tavares is a salesman, who lives in Norwalk. Tavares was nabbed at the same time, at the same site and the same charge.

On Friday, September 25, Romeo James Cockrell, who works in retail, was apprehended at 4123 West Olive Ave.

The time was 00:45 a.m. The charges are being in possession of access cards and fraud. Panorama City resident and property manager.

Justin Ezra Klause, was nabbed at 1:45 a.m. The charges are having two bank cards and 484 E (D). It occurred at Lake St. and Elmwood Ave.

Tony Javier Garcia lives in Los Angeles and works as a mechanic. Garcia was handcuffed at Buena Vista St., south of Burbank Blvd. on an outstanding warrant. It happened at 1:45 a.m.

North Hollywood resident Yvette Michelle Giron is a therapist. Giron was taken into custody at 2:40 a.m. and it occurred at Burbank Blvd. and Ontario St.

The charges are being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of heroin/cocaine.

Karina Lizeth Cedillo was arrested at Buena Vista St. and Thornton Ave. The time is 3:00 a.m.

The charges are drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, being in possession of drug paraphernalia, 14601.1 (A) and 10851 (A).

Pacoima resident Tony Ramirez is a recycler. Ramirez was handcuffed at Buena Vista St. and Thornton Ave. and the charges are being in possession of drug paraphernalia and 1551 (A).

Andranik Jamkotchan lives in Glendale, is an Uber driver, and was arrested at 2500 Hollywood Way. The charge is 11351 HS and the time is 8:07 a.m.

Donald George Curtin Jr. is unemployed and lives in Sun Valley. Curtin was nabbed at 1301 North Victory Place and the charge is criminal threats.

Running Springs resident Gregory Lee Love is a welder. Love was taken into custody at Burbank Blvd. and Buena Vista St.

The charges are being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ebrima Solomon Jobe is an engineer who lives in Los Angeles. Jobe was arrested at Olive Ave. and Pass Ave. The time is 9:15 p.m. and the charge is 484 (D).

Donovan Evans Downing resides in Torrance and is a videographer. Downing was taken in custody at 4123 West Olive Ave. at 9:15 p.m. and the charge is 484 E (D).

Toriseju Onyeka Igbene lives in Bowie, Maryland, and is a developer. Igbene was nabbed at the same time, the same address and the same charge.

Trucker Levon Mayilvan is a resident of Van Nuys and was handcuffed at 2100 West Empire Ave. The time is 9:00 p.m. The charges are being in possession of a controlled substance and being in possession of heroin/cocaine.

Construction worker Margar Simonyan lives in Glendale. Simonyan was arrested at 10:20 p.m. and it happened at 4123 West Olive Ave. The charges are 484 E (D), forgery and possession of heroin/cocaine.

Roland Markeeth Williams is an entrepreneur and a resident of Studio City. Williams was arrested at the same site and it happened at 11:05 p.m. The charges are 484 E (D) and 25850 (A).

Baseball umpire and Oakland resident, Kemper A. Hardy, was also nabbed at the same site and the time was 11:23 p.m. The charges are 484 (D) and 25850 (A).

The post Weekly Burbank Police Log: September 25 – September 30 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The City of Burbank has selected Dawn Roth Lindell as the new General Manager for Burbank Water and Power, replacing Jorge Somoano who is retiring this month. Ms. Roth Lindell has more than 25 years of experience in leadership and has worked in executive positions for utilities based in both Colorado and California. She was named as one of Colorado’s Top Women in Energy this past year.

Dawn Roth Lindell

Most recently, Roth Lindell served as the Senior Vice President and Rocky Mountain Regional Manager for the Western Area Power Administration in Lakewood, Colorado where she has worked since 2013. There, she set strategic direction for more than 400 federal and contract employees of the Rocky Mountain Region for power marketing in 4 states, grid maintenance in 6 states and grid operation in 10 states with a $400 million+ annual budget.

“We are sad to see Jorge leave and wish him well in his retirement. He has served the community of Burbank well,” said City Manager Justin Hess. “At the same time, we are extremely excited to have enticed Ms. Roth Lindell to come to Burbank. Her credentials are impeccable, and we believe she will be a great fit for BWP and lead them to further success.”

“I look forward to becoming part of the Burbank family and continuing the BWP legacy of providing incredible service along with low rates to our customers,” says Roth Lindell.

Roth Lindell will start on November 9, 2020.

The post City of Burbank Selects Dawn Roth Lindell as New General Manager for Burbank Water and Power appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

I just want to let you know that I endorse Tamala Takahashi for Burbank City Council. She would make a great addition to the council because she is not backed by any corporate interest or developers. She lives in Burbank and she really cares about our city and wants to improve it. She understands how to deal with difficult people while also listening to their issues and allowing them to feel heard. She is open to hearing all sides of the issues before deciding on her stance. She’s smart, competent, compassionate, articulate, patient and has a great work ethic. She will be a great asset to the council. Please vote for Tamala.

Laura Sadler

The post Letter to the Editor: Support for Council Candidate appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

I have known and admired Tamala Takahashi since we met around 2001, when our children were small. We were regulars at the Western Bagel on Verdugo. At the time, Tamala was writing and editing a newsletter for parents in Burbank called Kidsize Connections, so from the first time we met, she was already proving her commitment to the families of Burbank.

When her kids were older, she homeschooled and wrote books about it. She volunteered all over the city for causes and organizations she believed in, and took up leadership positions with Toastmasters and her Knitting Guild of which I am a member. I was always hearing about her activities on social media. 

In more recent years, while Tamala’s daughters have been attending Burroughs, she has participated even more fully in leadership roles in our lovely city and it is only right that she be elected to our City Council. Tammy has demonstrated consistent and committed leadership for many years and in many contexts. She is an outstanding listener and, in my opinion, exemplifies the attributes of a servant leader who sees her role as support and encouragement, rather than as authority. 

Tamala Takahashi will be getting my vote for Burbank City Council. 

Wendy Stackhouse

The post Letter to the Editor: Resident Supports Council Candidate appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

The Burbank Human Relations Council stands in solidarity with our Armenian friends and neighbors. Together we stand for human rights, freedom and democracy. Together we stand up against hate and authoritarian rule.

On September 27, 2020 Azerbaijan launched an attack on innocent people in the independent region of Artsakh. This is a region with over 2000 years of rich Armenian history and culture. Azerbaijan has a long-standing history of constant human rights violations. The current violent aggression toward Artsakh is aided by the Turkish government who has provided arms and mercenaries to fight from Libya and the Turkish Syrian border. These attacks have decimated the fragile peace agreements that had been in place for three decades. Turkey, the successor to the Ottoman Empire, has a long history of violence against the Armenian people. This unprovoked violent attack of the Armenian people is perceived as a continuation of the hatred and atrocious crimes that Turkey committed against the Armenian people during the genocide of 1915.

Sadly, this international conflict has expanded beyond Artsakh and into the Armenian community in here in California. Last week we read news of hate crimes against the Armenian community in San Francisco. Hate filled messages were sprayed across an Armenian school which was later riddled with gun fire from a drive by shooting, and St. Gregory’s Armenian Apostolic Church was a victim of an arson attack.

The Armenian community has raised local awareness, and urge all people of good will to come together to ask our government officials to hold Azerbaijan and Turkey accountable. We join our Armenian friends and neighbors in condemning the attacks, especially the targeting of churches and schools. We call for an end to all military actions and support ongoing dialogues to secure a cease-fire and a lasting peace agreement. Additionally, we extend our sympathy for the loss of lives, and for the suffering endured by the children and families impacted by this violence.  

Marsha Ramos
Vice President, Burbank Human Relations Council

The post Letter to the Editor: Burbank Human Relations Council Stands in Solidarity with Armenia appeared first on myBurbank.com.

While the Burbank City Council contest receives the most press coverage nowadays, it is arguable that the race for City Treasurer is just as important in determining the future of our city. Burbank’s Treasurer is responsible for managing our city’s $450+ million investment portfolio and making sure the city has adequate cash on a day-to-day basis to pay for city services. Safekeeping our public funds is the office’s primary mission, and it is in this context that we believe Krystle Palmer is the right choice for Burbank City Treasurer. Since being appointed by the City Council, where she was selected over several other qualified applicants, Krystle has managed the city’s finances with a steady hand, earning the trust and respect of Burbank officials and other community leaders. She is the only candidate endorsed by the Burbank Mayor, Vice Mayor, Council Members, the Burbank School Board President, as well as the Glendale and Pasadena City Treasurers.

Krystle’s record speaks for itself. Despite the extraordinary circumstances we have faced with the current global pandemic and the resulting tumultuous markets, she was able to increase the City’s year-to-date returns from 2.03% at the end of FY 2019 to 2.18% at the end of FY 2020. The City portfolio’s investment market value also increased $10 million during that period. When the financial markets went haywire in March this year, Krystle drew from her extensive financial experience and invested in $50 million worth of low-risk, highly rated corporate and municipal bonds that paid 2.5% on average. Those same bonds currently only yield 0.5% on average in our present low rate environment, and her decisions have collectively gained Burbank millions of dollars in excess returns. Her accomplishments consistently reflect her accomplished investment background, having previously worked for a $10 billion New York City hedge fund and a top management consulting firm, Booz Allen Hamilton. She also holds a Master’s degree in Financial Engineering from Columbia University.

More than just her record as Treasurer, Krystle is the right person to serve Burbank because of her commitment to our City. Krystle is active in the Burbank community, having served as part of the Civic Pride Committee and the Burbank Moms Club. She frequently engages with residents and businesses in local interest groups on social media, such as Magnolia Park Mamas, the Burbank Backyard Food Growers Club, and the Burbank Restaurant Support Group. She lives in Magnolia Park with her husband and their children, 3-year-old twin boys and a 2-month-old daughter. Her husband works at Walt Disney Animation Studios where he has supervised technology on recent beloved films including Moana and Frozen 2. Their children have attended the Burbank Parent Education Program and will be entering Burbank public schools in the next few years.

Krystle’s role as Treasurer is non-partisan and she has gained endorsements and supporters from both sides of the spectrum who ultimately believe in her ability to continue to manage our city’s finances, especially in these uncertain economic times. In our current polarized political environment, her ability to work with colleagues regardless of their political beliefs is an important asset and exactly what the City Treasurer needs to be effective. We sincerely hope that you will take the time to make your voice heard in this vitally important election and that you will join us in putting Krystle back to work as our Treasurer.

The post Sponsored: Why Krystle Palmer is the Right Choice for Burbank City Treasurer appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

If there’s one individual that knows Burroughs High’s athletic culture and also helped create much of it, that person is Keith Knoop.

In one way or another, Knoop, the current co-athletic director and the physical education department chairman, has been on call for an incredible 27 years.

For 19 of those years, Knoop, who graduated from rival Burbank High, was the head coach of the football team.

That title still resonates with him. “Nothing beats being a coach on the sidelines, leading the troops into battle,” said Knoop, who guided the Indians to five Pacific League championships, including most recently 2015. “To watch them execute a game plan together that you have worked on all week. And when you pull it off, wow!”

Keith Knoop coached the Burroughs football team to five Pacific League titles. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Knoop, who knew when it was time to call it quits, continued: “At first, being an athletic director and watching was tough, almost stressful,” he noted. “But I have learned to let go now. Much easier to watch now. In 2016, 2017 and 2018 I was still an assistant, so I got to coach a little.”

Knoop addressed how this long trek began.

“I played football for [former longtime Burroughs athletic director] Marty Garrison when he was the head coach at Burbank High and was on the track team,” he recalled. “I then went to Glendale Community College, where I’m still in the record book for most sacks in a season [top 10] and where I played for my heroes and mentors, Jim Sartoris and John Cicuto.”

Knoop went on: “From there I received a scholarship to play at San Jose State University for Jack Elway [John Elway’s father] and Claude Gilbert,” he said. “When I was done at SJSU, I returned home and had my first coaching job at Chaminade High where we played in the CIF [Southern Section] championship game. I then returned to GCC where I coached for five seasons. When the time came in 1993 and I needed a job, I was able to get on at Burroughs with Gary Bernardi when he was hired for one year. I was at Burbank for three years and Burroughs for 27. So I would say Burroughs is in my blood.”

Knoop, who began his football head coaching duties in 1997 and was inducted into the Burroughs Hall of Fame, acknowledges that any success he has had is the result of having faithful people behind him.

“My wife, Julie, has been my biggest support system and is truly outstanding. I even asked her to be my game filmer which she did until I retired,” he said. “My mother, Marjorie, has been to every game I played and coached in. My brother, Ken, was also on my staff for many years and was a tremendous help running the defense. In the end, it took its toll. Long hours and type-2 diabetes. I just had to stop.”

Celebrating with his team became common place for the Indians under Keith Knoop. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Knoop isn’t the only family member with athletic talent.

Knoop’s brother, Ken, was the Foothill League 100-meter champion for the Indians and his sister, Karin, was also elected to the Burroughs Hall of Fame after starring as a softball player and later competed in volleyball and basketball at Cal State Fullerton.

For many years, the Indians and Bulldogs were members of the Foothill League that included such dynamic squads as Hart, Canyon, Saugus and Valencia.

“It was a chore just to not get our players injured every week. Burroughs and Burbank played each other to not be in last place in the league,” said Knoop, who was also a physical education teacher. “Lockheed had moved to Palmdale and the [Valencia] Vikings were defunct. It was hard to get quality teams to play that loaded Santa Clarita school. In 1997, I became head coach and started to lobby moving to another league or changing the Foothill League. In 2006 after a re-league vote by the CIF, we were put into the Pacific League which demographically was suited for Burroughs.”

It’s national signing day as brothers Keith (top middle) and Ken (far right) share in the excitement. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Knoop added: “The first year we won the league championship undefeated. All those years of playing super tough teams paid off,” he explained. “From there we won four more for a total of five in 10 seasons. I think that stands out. We brought back Burroughs football pride and tradition. We also started getting some great athletes during that time. Success breeds success.”

Using more detail, Knoop broke down why the Indians were able to win at a higher rate in the Pacific League.

“First, we learned to be tough playing in the Foothill League. Next, we were playing students more like us in terms of ability,” he said. “To be honest, sometimes we did not have the biggest or fastest players in the Pacific League, but our kids played tough and we out-coached a lot of the other teams. Our team preparation was second to none.”

Knoop could be a tough taskmaster. “For me, it was about then and now. As a coach and a teacher, I was hard, tough, passionate [some would say too much],” he said. “I pushed players to the limit. I made them raise the bar and put the work in. But I would like to think of myself as fair. I would treat everyone the same. I also would put an arm around a player after practice or a game after I was hard on them and explain why.”

Games are won during summer workouts as Keith Knoop makes a point to his team. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Knoop continued: “I truly loved my players and coaches. I hope I influenced my players to want to be good citizens and contribute to society,” he said. “Now I have mellowed. I do not get fired up about stuff and it has made me much happier.”

With the coronavirus still making life miserable for so many people, Knoop hasn’t been immune.

“COVID-19 has made for a lot of work actually,” he said. “Rescheduling, switching officials, learning about COVID and COVID safety protocols. Just hoping these young student-athletes get to play. I feel bad for those seniors last spring.”

Reflecting on his career highlights, Knoop said winning was paramount. “All of the league championship years [2006, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2015] were memorable,” he said. “I also had some great early years teams [1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2007] that are dear to me. I coached some outstanding young men during that time, so many it would take a page to name them all.”

Though Knoop is five years removed from coaching, he’s pleased the way everything has turned out.

“Burroughs has been a family. I have had great support at Burroughs. The administration and the teachers and my booster club support was amazing over the years,” he noted. “The parents that were part of my booster club over the years is what really made us successful.”

Knoop added: “I have been at Burroughs 27 years,” he said. “I have been a defensive line coach, taught chemistry, been a defensive coordinator, offensive coordinator, head football coach, physical education department chair and now the eighth athletic director for John Burroughs. It’s been a great ride.”

The post Rick’s Sports Corner: Keith Knoop Wears Numerous Hats appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

While we have several good candidates for city council in 2020, one stands above the rest. Linda Bessin. As a long time Burbank resident she has seen the changes and developments – good and bad – that have altered our fair city. 

Linda brings a level-headed, pragmatic approach the city council needs to break out of its current rut. In recent interviews she has taken a critical look at issues which others choose only to look at the surface. She brings her career experience as a claims analyst into her examination of issues and gets to the point.

We know we need to address housing, and Burbank is well past being a bedroom community. Linda supports reasonable and locally responsible development that includes truly affordable units, not just cookie-cutter “luxury” condos that are well out of reach of most local incomes. She understands that development should happen in under-used areas first, such as Front St., rather than opening up blocks of homes to bulldozers, and that developers need to answer to the citizens of Burbank rather than ignore them.

The challenges of infrastructure to support new housing are also on her list. Improved public transport plans, considering the old Ikea space for something like a mixed use community and cultural center, continued support of and coordination with our excellent Burbank Water and Power utilities, these are all things she is thinking of.

Linda Bessin brings a plan to work toward the solving issues that won’t happen overnight. Previous city council members have kicked problems down the road too many times, and Linda is the woman to put them into perspective and make progress. I urge voters to check the box for Linda.

Mike Krause

The post Letter to the Editor: Bessin Supporter Spells Out Reasons for Support appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

I first met Tamala at Toastmaster Club* 6 years ago. Having been with the club for many years, Tamala achieved the highest level of educational achievement in Toastmasters. She is not just a good speaker on the surface. I love listening to her speech because of the content, more importantly the logic and critical thinking she put into the content.  She is also a great organizer for the club, serving various functions, and organized leadership events at international toastmaster conferences.  

As I know her better, I am awed that she has homeschooled all her three children while working, done a lot of volunteering works and later on served on boards and commissions in our city.  

Since the beginning of this year, Tamala hold a “Freeway Side Chat” at IKEA, once a week. It was an opportunity to have open dialogues with residents. From these chats, Tamala gathered the concerns and suggestions from Burbank residents for our city. But not only that, she took action right from there, e.g. she helped a senior resident to find where to apply for senior housing, joined the Equity Diversity and Inclusion committee at BUSD after discussion with voters about the importance of equity issues in our schools. The week before school closure due to COVID-19, I stopped by to talk to her about my concern on homeschool, because some schools have already been closed in other parts of the country by that time. She then hosted two zoom seminars on homeschool for parents like me, which provided fundamental suggestions to help us with this crisis.  

During the COVID-19 quarantine, she continued to hold the “Chat” online by posting videos on her Facebook page. In those posts, she continued shared information about things we all cared about, e.g. police policies, Burbank’s rental assistance program, things discussed in city council and school board meetings.  

No matter you make up your mind for any city council candidate or not, I recommend you follow Tamala’s Facebook page. There is rarely a post about “voting for me”, most of the contents are useful information for our life, epically for Burbank residents. For example, you will find business reopening updates, family friendly activities in Burbank, cooling center info during hot waves, Burbank housing survey, etc.  She has communicated discussion on city council or school board meetings, summarized work done by BUSD DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) committee, and held discussion on Burbank measures. As a parent who deeply cares about our children’s future, Tamala also shared sustainability efforts across the country. In another word, while some other candidates using FB to promote themselves, Tamala has used FB as a platform to serve the community and build a bridge for communication. 

Back to the days when we were both at Toastmaster Club, we talked about our favorite quotes and inspirations at several meetings. Tamala’s favorite one is always this: “Be the change you want to see”. And she has truly fulfilled it all these years I have known her. She has a natural sympathy for people and advocates for those who may not have much voice. She not only cares about the critical issues but has taken the time to learn the reasons behind and move forward to tackle the difficulties.  

Tamala has served our city in many ways for a long time. No matter elected or not, I know she will do the same as she has always been doing. However, I do believe she would contribute much more for our city as a leader in the Burbank City Council. 

We need a leader who asks “how can I help”, not the ones repeating “vote for me”. We need a leader who studies the issues in further details, not the ones who simply shout emotionally. We need a leader who solves the problems, not the ones only voice their criticisms. 

Please join me in electing Tamala Takahashi to Burbank City Council. 

*Toastmaster Club: a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs.

Yifan Zhang

The post Letter to the Editor: Resident Throws Support Behind Takahashi appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Volpei Gussow Real Estate Group is proud to announce a new partnership with fellow Keller Williams Realtor, Linda Barnes.  This new partnership will continue to focus on the Rancho Area of Burbank as well as Linda’s extensive list of past clients. 

For the past 18 years husband-wife team, Karen Volpei and Barry Gussow, have been proud to use the tag line “Every step of the Way.” They are committed to stand by their clients through all transactions no matter what the challenges. As long-time residents of Burbank and the San Fernando Valley, Karen and Barry are very connected to the community. 

With over 30 years of experience, Linda Barnes is still is driven as she was when she first started. Linda is known for specializing in the Burbank Rancho area that is zoned for horses. As  a former horse owner herself, Linda is well-versed in the needs of other horse owners. Clients often seek her out specifically for her knowledge in this area. “After spending six months at home I realized, business is going to need to be conducted differently.  The Volpei Gussow team has the systems in place that will allow me to even better serve my clients during these ever-changing times.” -Linda Barnes

When Karen first became a Realtor, she joined the office where Linda worked and immediately respected and learned a good deal from the Real Estate Maven.  Karen, Barry and Linda all share a passion for their community, involvement and over the years they have become more than just respected business associates or colleagues but lifelong friends as well.  Karen, Barry, and Linda are all very like-minded when it comes to business and the first-class customer- service they offer their clients. Volpei Gussow Barnes Real Estate Group clients will be sure to receive the best guidance, knowledge, and professionalism from this dynamic team.  

The post Two Long-time Burbank Real Estate Groups Join Forces to Create a New Partnership appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank has hired an outside company, Willdan Corporation, to begin giving administrative citations to people who refuse to follow the County guidelines for face coverings (masks).

While the Willdan representatives are contracted, civilian employees and carry no police powers, the police department will respond to calls related to face covering violations if the circumstances dictate the need for police presence, or if a suspected crime is committed, according to Sgt. Derek Green of the Burbank Police Department in an email.

Some have asked if they are compelled by law to give their ID to non-sworn personal (not Police Officers). Green said that Police Officers will not be forcing anyone to identify themselves in relation to any administrative enforcement actions on the part of the Willdan Corporation and the police department has not empowered anyone.

The City Council passed the ordinance earlier after getting many complaints about people not wearing masks downtown or other places such as the Chandler Bikeway.

The following came in a press release from the Burbank Police Department:

The City of Burbank recently approved an order authorizing the administrative enforcement of face covering requirements in certain public places.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has released guidance for the use of cloth face coverings to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has affirmed that cloth face coverings are a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19, and that face coverings could reduce the spread of the disease, particularly when used universally within communities.

Since the emergence of COVID-19, the City of Burbank and Burbank Police Department have sought to gain compliance with face covering requirements with an emphasis on education. However, both the City and Police Department are continuing to receive complaints about the lack of face coverings on the Chandler Bikeway, in downtown Burbank, the Magnolia Park business district, and in City parks.

To help remedy this situation, the City of Burbank has entered into an agreement with Willdan Engineering to have primary responsibility for the issuance of administrative citations with accompanying fines for those who still do not wear a face covering where required. Burbank Municipal Code (BMC) Section 1-1-108.1 provides authority for the issuance of administrative citations for persons in violation of City code(s). The fine schedule is $100 for a first citation, $200 for a second citation, and $500 for any subsequent citations issued for violations of the same ordinance within a 12-month period.      

Face covering enforcement will begin on Friday, October 16, 2020, and will focus on areas receiving the majority of complaints, to include the Chandler Bikeway, downtown Burbank, the Magnolia Park business district, and City parks.

Face covering requirements implemented by the County of Los Angeles do apply in the City of Burbank. In addition, and pursuant to the authority vested in the Director of Emergency Services under Burbank Municipal Code Section 5-2-106, the following, more restrictive rules and regulations have been instituted specific to and within the City of Burbank concerning the wearing of face coverings in certain places:

1. Face Coverings, which cover the mouth and nose, shall be worn under the following conditions:

• Persons who are outside on San Fernando Boulevard between Angeleno Avenue and Magnolia Boulevard except when seated at an outdoor dining table and they are eating or drinking.
• Persons queuing in a line outdoors whether on public or private property; regardless if with members of their own household;
• Persons on Chandler Bikeway while stopped at any intersection whether a pedestrian or cyclist;
• Persons on Chandler Bikeway or in a City Park including hiking trails who may be in contact with or walking near or past others who are non-household members; meaning a face covering must be visible and ready to be immediately put on whenever a pedestrian approaches within 10 feet of a non-household member;
• Persons patronizing public transit including waiting or sitting at a bus stop or shelter.

The Burbank Police Department will defer enforcement authority to representatives from Willdan Engineering. Burbank Police will assume a support role and respond to calls related to administrative face covering violations only when circumstances dictate the need for a police presence, or when it is suspected that a crime has been committed.

All citizens are encouraged to wear face coverings when in public or in close proximity of others and to obey face covering requirements.

The post Face Covering Enforcement with Citations to Begin in Burbank October 16 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Note: All suspects arrested are presumed innocent until found guilty by a court of law. The following are official public records being redistributed by myBurbank.com Inc. and is protected by constitutional, publishing, and other legal rights. These official records were collected in 2020. The person(s) named in these listings have only been arrested on suspicion of the crime indicated and are presumed innocent. Original Police Logs can be found on the Burbank Police Department’s website where this information was obtained from.

myBurbank.com will be glad to redact your name upon request. Please click HERE. You MUST include your name as it appears and the exact date that it appeared. Give us 1 to 5 days to redact.

With the aim to keep the peace and the city safe and sound, the Burbank police department was busy on Tuesday, October 6, making several arrests including Zachary Lee Koonce, who lives in North Hollywood and was apprehended at 4:00 a.m.

It occurred at Hollywood Way and Valhalla Drive and the charges are identity theft and being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

North Hollywood resident and tile setter Eric David Shoemaker was nabbed at the same site and the same time.

The charges are being in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Nareh Shamirian lives in Burbank and is employed as a pharmacy technician. Shamirian was arrested at 2255 North Buena Vista St. and it happened at 9:30 a.m. The charge is identity theft.

Glendale truck driver Mkher Alverdian was apprehended at the same site and the same time.

The charges are 22610 (A), being in possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession of heroin/cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and 466.

Brian Marcell Smith lives in Los Angeles and was nabbed at 1301 North Victory Place. It happened at 2:21 p.m. and the charges are having seven outstanding warrants and 484 (A).

Sylmar resident and construction worker Elio Jesus Portillo was taken into custody at 3:30 p.m.

It occurred at 142 East Olive Ave. and the charges are 484 E (D), possession of a controlled substance, drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest and identity theft.

Derek Scott Gray lives in Burbank, is a personal trainer and was arrested at 7:30 p.m.  The charge is domestic battery.

Tujunga resident and driver Hrant Dzhandyan was nabbed at Glenoaks Blvd. and Andover Drive. The charges are 23152 (F) and resisting arrest and it occurred at 7:08 p.m.

Jose Cruz Gomez lives in Los Angeles and was arrested at 11:55 p.m. It happened at Burbank Blvd. and Victory Blvd. and the charge is disorderly conduct.

Los Angeles resident and driver Rigoberto Morales was cuffed at the Burbank Blvd. overpass. The time is the same and the charge is 23152 (A).

On Monday, October 5, bartender Serena Marie Walker of Simi Valley was arrested at Olive Ave. and Reese Place.

It occurred at 2:00 a.m. and the charges are possession of drug paraphernalia, 11375 (B) (2) HS, being under the influence of a controlled substance and disorderly conduct.

Masis Mehrabian lives in Glendale and was also nabbed at the same site and the same time. The charges are driving under the influence and being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

West Hollywood resident Ismael Quintero was taken into custody at Spazier Ave. and San Fernando Blvd and the time is 1:00 p.m.

The charges are criminal threats, possession of drug paraphernalia, 3056 and assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Robert Dale Heck lives in Sun Valley and works in food delivery. Heck was apprehended at 7856 Satsuma Ave. and the time is 11:50 p.m. The charge is DUI.

On Sunday, October 4, Joseph Dagan of Agoura Hills was arrested at Empire Ave. and Valpreda St.

Dagan works in construction and was handcuffed at 4:00 a.m. and the charges are being in possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Maria Elizabeth De La Torre works as a cashier and lives in Van Nuys. De La Torre was cuffed at the same site, but the time is 4:07 a.m. and the charges are the same.

Mechanic and Norwalk resident, Jesus Emmanuel Gutierrez, was arrested at 8:25 p.m. The site is Victory Blvd. and Burbank Blvd. The charges are possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Leonel Nunez Gomez is a mover who lives in Burbank. Gomez was handcuffed at Olive Ave. and Lake St. and the charge is a no-bail parole warrant. The time is 7:10 p.m.

Sun Valley resident Patricia Fanell Rosen is employed as a secretary. Rosen was arrested at the Empire Center and the time is 10:00 p.m.

The charges are being in possession of illegal drugs, an outstanding warrant and being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

On Saturday, October 3, Alex Arbi Zaragarian, a truck driver from Burbank was arrested at 00:45 a.m.

The charges are assault with a deadly weapon [a firearm], criminal threats and domestic battery.

Fontana resident and warehouse employee Evan Roland Bynum was taken into custody at Magnolia Blvd. and Hollywood Way. The time is 2:00 a.m. and the charge is identity theft.

Emilio Gonzalez of Huntington Park is a construction worker who was nabbed at 7:44 a.m. It happened at Jeffries Ave. and Lima St. and the charges are possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Long Beach resident Jesus Reyes Gonzalez works in demolition and was apprehended at the same time and the charge is possession of a controlled substance.

Anthony Weisman resides in Burbank and is unemployed. Weisman was handcuffed at Magnolia Blvd. and Lima St.

It occurred at 1:25 p.m. and the charges are 3000.8 (C) and assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Jonathan Lee Mitchell lives in Burbank and was apprehended at the 2300 block of North Catalina St.

The charges are criminal threats, 69, possession of a controlled substance, grand theft and the time is 7:00 p.m.

Burbank resident and jeweler Andranik Nayapetyan was taken into custody at 259 East Palm Ave. and the charge is 245 (A) (4).

On Friday, October 2, Maria Julia Soto, a caregiver from Van Nuys was arrested at 1:50 a.m.

Soto was handcuffed at Grismer Ave. and San Fernando Blvd. and the charges are being in possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, possession of heroin/cocaine and driving with a suspended driver’s license.

North Hollywood painter Marco Antonio Davila Garay was nabbed at Heffron Drive and Maple St.

It occurred at 3:35 p.m. and the charges are being in possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, grand theft, 487 (A) and resisting arrest.

Roger Donald Kalbus, a commercial technician, resides in Menlo Park. Kalbus was apprehended at 1015 North San Fernando Blvd.

The time is 4:40 a.m. and the charges are 484 E (D), 11355 (A) HS, possession of drug paraphernalia and an outstanding misdemeanor warrant.

Alonzo Sandoval of Sylmar was handcuffed at Alameda Ave. and Flower St. Sandoval, who works in construction, was nabbed at 1:05 p.m.

The charges are identity theft, 484 (A), being in possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Joseph Jeremiah Ibraham is unemployed and lives in Los Angeles. Ibraham was apprehended at 1835 West Empire Ave. and the time is 8:40 a.m. The charges are resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and carjacking.

El Cajon resident Richard Abel Perez is a manager and was taken into custody at 2200 Empire Ave. and it occurred at 8:10 p.m.

The charges are being in possession of burglary tools, identity theft and possession of a controlled substance.

North Hollywood resident Bertha Maria Pletes works as a cleaning woman. Pletes was arrested at 10:50 p.m.

It happened at Burbank Blvd. and Edison Blvd. The charges are being in possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mihran Mike Papazian lives in Van Nuys and works in bail bonds. Papazian was arrested at the same site and the same time.

The charges are identity theft, possession of stolen property, possession of heroin/cocaine and possession of a controlled substance.

On Thursday, October 1, Oscar Amezcua, a laborer from Pacoima was arrested at Empire Ave. and Keystone St.

It happened at 8:30 p.m. and the charges are being in possession of drug paraphernalia and having a suspended driver’s license.

Pacomina resident and side hustler David Alonso Curiel was nabbed at 1638 North San Fernando Blvd. and the time is 10:45 p.m. The charge is 484 (A).

Isahuro De La Cruz Hernandez lives in Pacoima, is a construction worker and was apprehended at the same site and the same time. The charges are 484 (A) and trespassing.

Burbank resident Johnny Silva is employed as a mover. Silva was arrested at 10:45 p.m. and the charges are 245 (A) (4), child endangerment and domestic battery.

The post Weekly Burbank Police Log: October 1 – October 6 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

At a time when members are strapped for cash and stressed about the future, Media City Credit Union is offering some relief in the form of auto loans to help its members and non-members. This not-for-profit, financial cooperative who returns its earnings back to its Member-Owners, is actively promoting relief from payments and interest rates through two programs:

• Members only: Refi your ride – and no payments for 90 days*.

Refinance your current auto loan for a new, low rate and you won’t need to make payments until 2021.

•     Payments do not begin until January 2021
•     Members will need to have direct deposit or a minimum of $1000 in monthly deposits for the last 90 days to their Media City CU account
•     Offer expires October 31, 2020

 Apply online here to explore your new, low rate. 

 *Qualifications based on an assessment of individual creditworthiness and our underwriting standards. Certain restrictions apply. Media City Credit Union is an equal opportunity lender.

 Not a member, not a problem. Join Media City Credit Union and get a new vehicle loan rate as low as 1.95% APR** and no payments for 90 days.

**APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Qualifications based on an assessment of individual creditworthiness and our underwriting standards. Certain restrictions apply. Media City Credit Union is an equal opportunity lender. Now through October 31, 2020.

Contact us today to become a member: (818) 238-2950  |  memberservices@mediacitycu.org

 If you’ve never been a member at a credit union, or even if you have, now is a great time to get an auto loan while becoming a member. And don’t just take our word for it. “Getting a car loan through a credit union can come with a variety of benefits depending on the individual credit union’s practices. As a member, you may find lower interest rates, smaller loan minimums, and maybe even a lender more willing to work with you even if your credit has taken some hits.” writes Jennifer Brozic, a freelance financial services writer for Credit Karma.

The post Media City Credit Union Offers Relief to Members and New Members During Pandemic appeared first on myBurbank.com.

For a few years now, people have wandered by the papered-over window promising BLVD TACO next door to BLVD Cafecito on Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank’s Magnolia Park shopping district. A few weeks ago, the paper came down and the simple and small restaurant front opened up, letting the neighborhood know that BLVD TACO was finally open.

Interest remains high, as the small takeout spot works out the kinks with fulfilling orders and settling on operating hours. We tried several of their tacos recently, and have to admit while they’re not as savory as we’re used to, they were fresh and tasty.

(Photo By Lisa Paredes)

BLVD TACO offers a large variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, taquitos, drinks and sides, for the Magnolia Park crowd.

We tried the carne asada, birria, chicken, potato, mushroom and bean tacos, along with a carne asada quesadilla and the house made guacamole. All the tacos came with salsa, onion and cilantro.

The quesadilla was our favorite bite of the order, particularly when topped with the included side of red salsa.

The guacamole was good, but we prefer a lot more cilantro, onion, lemon and garlic in our guac. The chips were decent.

The carne asada taco was a little on the gristly side for our taste. The potato taco was simply potato, cheese and lettuce in a basic hard shell taco. Out of all the fillings, perhaps the chicken taco was our favorite.

While we appreciate the use of paper packaging, it doesn’t keep food warm enough for a short drive. We recommend eating your tacos as soon as they are ready.

Taquitos aren’t available until after 1:00 p.m. They can be made from the diner’s choice of several fillings, as are the nachos. BLVD TACO offers breakfast burritos in the mornings. We will have to give them a try.

(from left to right) Bean, mushroom and potato tacos at BLVD TACO. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

When we ordered in person on a Saturday around noon, the 15 minute wait indicated for the order to be ready ended up taking about 40 minutes. We expect this will improve over time, particularly with the recent addition of a phone number for ordering.

We realize Magnolia Park is in great need for more food options and are sure BLVD TACO will make most diners very happy. We prefer the flavors and cooking style of more traditional style taquerias, but recognize the huge effort it takes to open a restaurant during a pandemic and look forward to trying BLVD TACO again.

Located in the heart of Magnolia Park, BLVD TACO is a promising new takeout spot.

Restaurant Info: BLVD TACO is located at 3212 W. Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91506. (818) 736-5006. BLVD TACO is open Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

BLVD TACO receives: On The Marquee

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 BLVD TACO Opens To Strong Anticipation In Magnolia Park appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Letter to the Editor:

 

Suzanne Weerts

The post Letter to the Editor: Community Member Endorses Candidate appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce that Los Angeles County has approved the re-opening of playgrounds and fitness equipment. On October 19, 2020, all Park playgrounds and fitness equipment will open. To ensure the health and well-being of the community, staff have been implementing proper infection control practices to prepare for a safe re-opening. The parking lots directly adjacent to playgrounds will be open as facilities open.

Indoor recreation facilities and various outdoor amenities remain closed to the public. This includes, but not limited to: recreation centers, picnic areas, older adult centers, the nature center, ball fields, and basketball courts.

The following facilities and amenities are open:

Verdugo Aquatic Facility Update

Valley Skate Park Update

Tennis and Pickleball Courts Update Trails and Parks Update

DeBell Golf Course

Please adhere to all signage, practice social distancing and wear a face covering. To stay up to date on park and facility information, please visit: www.burbankca.gov/parksandrecreation

The post Burbank Re-opening Playgrounds and Fitness Equipment on October 19 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Unified School District will hold an online Question and Answer Session to discuss current plans for the potential reopening of schools with a hybrid education model on Wednesday, October 21, at 7:00 p.m.

Parents, students, teachers, staff and community members may indicate their interest in attending and/or submit questions in advance using the RSVP form here: https://tinyurl.com/y23t25he.

A link for the Zoom meeting will be emailed to those who RSVP. The deadline to RSVP and/or submit questions is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 20.

The District has released a PowerPoint presentation for those interested in learning more about BUSD protocols for returning to in-person instruction.

The Q&A Session will talk about what a hybrid model for in-person education would look like, with smaller numbers of students on campus and in classrooms.

“Based on the current health conditions and the limitations of the TK-2 waiver process, [I] recommend that schools remain in distance learning through this semester as it would be too disruptive to shift instructional models at this point in the school year,” Superintendent Matt Hill stated in a report given to the Board of Education at the October 15 meeting.

Burbank Unified School District office. (Photo By Ross Benson)

Hill “recommends that (1) staff continue to work on plans that would allow for Special Education students to return to campus for assessments and small group work, (2) that the District continue planning for athletes to return for conditioning, and (3) that District staff continue planning for the potential of distance learning and hybrid instruction when it is safe to do so based on health conditions and guidelines.”

BUSD will be emailing a commitment request to all families to select either a hybrid (some in-person, on campus education) or 100% Distance Learning model for the time when a return to in-person education may become possible.

“Depending on commitment request responses and/or health conditions we may not be able to return to in-person learning,” the District states in the PowerPoint presentation.

Additionally, the District notes that, “Given the fluidity of the COVID-19 situation, we will continue to monitor the situation before making final decisions.”

Special Education teacher, Debbie Gal, who teaches Severely Handicapped and Special Day Class students, spoke at the October 15 Board of Education meeting to express concern that SH/SDC students may be brought back before general education populations. She noted that SH/SDC students often have major behavior control difficulties and challenges with hygiene and following social distancing protocols.

Gal also mentioned that she and her students have developed a new and acceptable routine for 100% Distance Learning this semester and she worries that change in routine will be a major challenge for her students to adapt. She also noted that many of her students’ parents will refuse to return their children to in-person education until an effective vaccine is widely available.

Gal asked the Board of Education to consider this information when discussing how and when to return Severely Handicapped and Special Day Class students to the classroom.

Hill addressed Gal’s concerns during the October 15 meeting.

“We are definitely going to continue to work with our teachers, our staff, all of our employees as well as our families to make sure when we bring students back to campus, we do so in a thoughtful and safe manner,” Hill said.

“There’s a lot to figure out as Miss Gal says, when health conditions change, and we need to be thoughtful about that,” he added. “The safety of our students and our employees is definitely going to be our number one focus.”

Hill has noted in Board of Education meetings previously during the Fall ’20 semester that students who are doing well with 100% Distance Learning will be allowed to remain in that model for the rest of Spring 2021 semester if parents request.

“The Board and I have been talking about this. Let’s plan, let’s look through all the scenarios and let’s make sure health conditions support an appropriate time to implement that plan,” Hill said at the October 15 meeting.

“This is an incredible challenge,” Board member Steve Ferguson said. “It’s critically important that when it is safe to do so we get our kids back in school as soon as possible.”

“I want to continue working with the Superintendent and others to start identifying those populations who are struggling in this learning environment.. developing collapsible interventions that depending on health conditions we can start working with our teachers and staff to get those students the help and support they need.”

“While we all certainly hope that the next semester will bring in-person instruction, the reality is that destiny is up to us in terms of whether or not we continue to socially distance, whether or not we continue to do the work that has gotten the levels down to where they need to be,” Ferguson also said. “We are close. We need to continue to be doing that work.”

The Q&A Session will discuss BUSD plans concerning special populations such as students with disabilities, English Learners and Foster Youth/Homeless, in addition to general education students.

Prospective schedules and protocols, including cleaning and sanitizing procedures, are detailed in the PowerPoint and the online FAQ.

More information can be found on the District’s webpage devoted to re-opening schools here.

Currently, the Board of Education is scheduled to potentially vote on a return to in-person education at the last school board meeting of the year on December 17.

The post Burbank Unified Schedules Q&A Session On Plans To Possibly Reopen Schools appeared first on myBurbank.com.

As the battle against COVID-19 continues nationwide, the Burbank Family Service Agency is creating a space for hope in the community. 

The FSA offers mental health counseling, including domestic violence intervention, individual counseling, and student care to locals, all while providing education and advocacy to the City of Burbank. 

As they give assistance to Burbank clients for either little or no cost when clients can’t afford to make payments, there is always a need for the FSA to conduct fundraisers wherein the community can pay them back for their ongoing support. 

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

An annual FSA event, entitled “Imagine A City Gala – Reimagined Creating a Field of HOPe” is to be conducted on October 24 at Olive Ball Fields. Attendees will remain in their cars to stay safe and maintain social distancing guidelines, and for a fee participants can purchase an event package. These include a personalized cutout placed in a ballpark field seat, a ballpark  box dinner, an event baseball cap, and a “message of HOPe” from the FSA.

 FSA Executive Director Laurie Bleick says through their fundraisers the agency strives to inform the public that they’re not alone in any emotional struggles they face. This message is especially pertinent for everyone looking for togetherness amidst isolating times. 

 “We want to build awareness. So that’s why the field of hope, we’re doing it responsibly and trying to keep everybody safe and healthy,” Bleick said. “And hopefully it’ll be a visual reminder that we are in this together and that there is hope and that despite the fact we can’t get 300, 400 people in a room like we typically do, our spirits are there right now.” 

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

The fundraiser will honor this year’s recipients of the Mary Alice O’Connor Vision Awards, Burbank City Manager Justin Hess, and California State Senator Anthony Portantino. The award is in the late O’Connor’s name in recognition of her contributions to the FSA, which include being a founding member of the agency’s board of directors.

“[O’Connor] honored us with allowing us to name this award in her name,” Bleick said. “And the spirit of the award really is being a visionary of your time…And now you’ve got to put that compassion into action. And she was an example of that for…80 years in this community.”

Along with maintaining the annual fundraiser, the FSA has continued to conduct sessions with clients remotely via Telehealth Services during the pandemic. Bleick says the lengthy period of social distancing has resulted in a surge of stress in the area, making the agency’s work more vital than ever.

“The severity of the cases, the severity of the traumas, and the experiences that young people are having with this isolation and various things that come from these kinds of circumstances get revealed,” Bleick said. “That’s another observation for us and that we’re concerned about and watching and experiencing every day.”

(Photo by Ross A Benson)

Before COVID-19 forced the FSA to shut down their in-person services, the organization conducted on-campus counseling with students at Burbank High School and John Burroughs High School, and participation at both locations revealed a strong student demand for mental health assistance. Bleick hopes the future will hold more opportunities to serve residents who may otherwise not have access to such aid.

“We had, prior to the pandemic, about 100 students coming through those two centers every day…We knew there was a need, but the need was enormous, is enormous, and it will be bigger in our return,” Bleick said. “So to try to create something like that in our community that allows for a broader definition of mental health, …creating those spaces, that would be a dream for me.”

The post Burbank FSA Drive-Through Fundraiser Set for Oct. 24 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Rick Assad

In Philadelphia, the city of “Brotherly Love,” sits what many consider to be the cathedral of college basketball.

It’s called The Palestra and it opened up on January 1, 1927, on the University of Pennsylvania campus and is the oldest major college arena still in use.

Since it unlocked its doors, the arena has played host to more games, more visiting teams and more NCAA tournament matches than any facility in the country.

On the wall of this wonderful building rests a plaque that reads: “To win the game is great. To play the game is greater. But to love the game is the greatest of all.”

Hector Rodriguez played catcher at Burbank High and then added L.A. Valley College and the Road City Explorers to his resume. (Photo courtesy Hector Rodriguez)

It’s simple and succinct, but it says a mouthful, and though Hector Rodriguez didn’t play basketball, the 2013 Burbank High graduate and baseball catcher fits this description perfectly.

“Playing at Burbank taught me a lot about the nuances of the game and about myself,” he said. “In high school, I was overweight and an average player at best. But I’ve always been in love with baseball and gave it everything I had. Coach [Craig] Sherwood really preached about winning and engrained that into our program.”

Sherwood has known Rodriguez for several years and saw the enthusiasm and sheer joy that he played baseball.

“Hector has a passion for the game that is far stronger than most players I’ve ever coached,” said Sherwood, a longtime and successful baseball coach in the city. “There were players with more talent, but not as much passion as Hector has. He understands the romance of baseball.”

Baseball is extremely difficult to master and the challenges are always present. But it’s also what makes the sport so appealing and special.

“Baseball has taught me a lot about life,” Rodriguez admitted. “Baseball is like life in the sense that there are many ups and downs. You’re going to have a successful day at the plate or you may fail every time that day. But it’s okay because it’s what makes baseball great.”

For Hector Rodriguez, there is something magical about the game of baseball. (Photo courtesy Hector Rodriguez)

Even though Rodriguez may not have been the most talented baseball player, he was still able to carve out a two-year stint behind the plate at Los Angeles Valley College.

And most recently, Rodriguez was able to play professionally in 2019 for the Road City Explorers, who are members of the Empire Professional Baseball League.

And to boot, Rodriguez, who was the starting backstop, even had his time in the sun, which he is thankful for and also says a little something about his mental makeup and desire.

“For high school, the highlight of my career was winning the [Pacific] League title my senior year and hitting a home run on the varsity when I got my first official start against Hart,” he said. “In college, it was being named All-Conference twice and being a consistent player. In pro ball, it was getting a base hit in my first professional at-bat and being named to the All-Star team.”

That’s not too bad for a guy who said he was at best an average baseball player at the high school level.

Hector Rodriguez was an All-Star catcher for the Road City Explorers of the Empire Professional Baseball League. (Photo courtesy Hector Rodriguez)

Bob Hart was Rodriguez’s coach at Burbank and saw him get better.

“Hector was a kid who outworked people,” he said. “He was dedicated to the process and I think really started to improve more and more as he got older.”

Hart continued: “Hector was very competitive and driven,” he said. “He was a grinder.”

Rodriguez, who batted a hefty .330 for the Road City Explorers, said there are myriad challenges at each stop.

“The biggest difference between playing levels is the amount of commitment it requires to be successful,” Rodriguez said. “Also, the talent and competition around you is stronger as you climb the ladder.”

Rodriguez played in New York and Puerto Rico a season ago, and said it was a once in a lifetime experience. But it’s far from easy.

“Playing pro ball is a grind. It’s a dream come true, but just when you thought you made it, the hardest journey of your life has just begun,” he said. “There is little to no salary and time away from family and friends is rough.”

Rodriguez then added: “But you definitely get to travel to new places and play in nice stadiums and try different foods,” he said. “It is a huge blessing.”

Being around baseball continues to be in the cards for Rodriguez, who currently is coaching a youth developmental team.

The Road City Explorers played in New York and Puerto Rico. (Photo courtesy Hector Rodriguez)

“We are a new program [SoCal Expos] starting up in the Los Angeles area,” he said. “My buddy from pro ball will be helping me run the team. We are looking for 11 and 12 year-old kids that want to learn the game of baseball. I feel like we need to give back to the kids since we were all once there.”

Whether being a player or coach, Rodriguez knows what it takes to do both and when asked which is more difficult, he said that the latter is because there is simply more overall responsibility.

“Being a coach is definitely harder,” he offered. “As a player, you only have to worry about yourself. But as a coach, you have to worry about yourself and each of your players.”

Like seemingly every person on earth, this year has been especially challenging because of the worldwide pandemic.

“COVID-19 has affected me personally as it has temporarily put my professional baseball career on hold,” Rodriguez said. “I was trying to go out and play in Mexico (LMB) in March, but the virus cancelled the season out there as well.”

Rodriguez hopes to continue his love affair with the grand old game. “Yes, baseball is my life. I’ve never had a bad day at the yard,” he said. “Of course, I’ve failed and lost games before, but I always try to take the good from that particular day.”

The post Rick’s Sports Corner: Hector Rodriguez Loves Baseball, Coaching appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Board of Education approved the adoption of Resolution 14 – Standing in Solidarity with the People of Armenia and Artsakh to Condemn Azerbaijan and Turkey’s Aggression at their regular meeting held on Thursday, October 15, with a unanimous vote for the resolution.

Approximately 30 members of the Burbank community spoke for more than two hours during Public Comments, with many of the comments being made in support of Burbank Unified School District’s adoption of Resolution 14 and/or the official Anti-Racist Statement crafted by members of the District’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.

Representatives from Assemblymember Laura Friedman and State Senator Anthony Portantino’s offices also spoke in support of  Resolution 14 in particular, applauding BUSD for taking a public stand in support of Artsakh.

Burbank Unified School District office. (Photo By Ross Benson)

“Is it right for a school district to speak on what’s an international issue? I believe it is,” commented Board of Education Vice President Steven Frintner, responding to one of the Public Comment speakers. “As people with a platform, as small as this may be, sometimes you have to use that platform to say the right thing, to call out injustices or support as it needs be.”

“As the same speaker pointed out, this is a local issue because we have so many people in our community that are personally affected by the situation happening right now, that have family members that are involved, that are displaced, that are in physical danger, that may have already lost their lives,” Frintner added. “I’m happy we’re bringing this resolution forward. It’s the right thing to do.”

“This is a critical issue. Let’s be real,” said Board member Steve Ferguson. “When our family members are in danger, it’s hard to learn. So we know, with these conflicts, even though they may seem to be big international issues, they do have at home impacts.”

According to information from the District attached to Resolution 14: “Beginning on September 27, 2020, Azerbaijan has been launching deadly and unprovoked attacks on innocent civilians in Artsakh and Armenia in coordination with Turkey. The Azerbaijan’s aggression puts innocent civilian lives at risk. The Republic of Artsakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, is the historical homeland of Armenians.The Burbank Unified School District supports peace in the region by enforcing the 1994 ceasefire agreement.”

“There are many students, families, and employees of Armenian descent who are valued members of the Burbank Unified School District. Furthermore, BUSD is committed to the teaching of awareness, understanding, the peaceful resolution of problems, and the strength of diversity in our schools as these qualities may help instill in today’s young generation the optimism and hope for a better world.”

“I have heard some concerns from families and students originally from Turkey living here now,” commented BUSD Superintendent Matt Hill. “We won’t tolerate any bullying or abuse about that. This statement tonight is really about the actions of leadership and military powers that are creating a war across the country and we want to make sure we highlight that war and bring peaceful resolution.”

“I do want to stress for all, in Burbank Unified, here in Burbank you are welcome. It goes right along with what we’re talking about with the Anti-Racist Statement,” Hill added. “That hatred, that evil, should not come back here in Burbank. And we will need to work together as an entire Burbank community.”

Board President Dr. Armond Aghakhanian talked about the work he and fellow Board member Ferguson have been doing with the District’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and the crafting of the Anti-Racism Statement and linked it to the events in Artsakh that have resulted in the creation of Resolution 14.

“I think when we talk about the past and the history, all of this intertwines,” he said. “Just imagine how difficult it was, growing up, that little added surname at the end which was not given to you by your father or grandfather or great-grandfather, but was a way of identifying you [as a Christian or ethnic group], where you can be singled out.”

“This is the same story we heard when 1.5 million of my community – Armenians – were marching to their death. It’s happening again, people,” Aghakhanian said. “This is not about attacking families who are of Turkish descent. This is about a dictator who’s sending mercenaries and weapons. This is about oil and blood money. This is about children and churches being hit by rockets and drones.”

“An unprovoked war, breaking every cease fire that was from 1994 to the current United Nations,” he continued. “Today, watching the execution of two soldiers wrapped in their motherland’s flag. Imagine what that does to a student here who has family there.”

“This is about democracy. It’s not just about Armenians and Artsakh…” Aghakhanian also said, about both Resolution 14 and the BUSD Anti-Racism Statement. “Everything we’re talking about tonight is about humanity. And it’s difficult for all of us. It’s a difficult conversation.”

Aghakhanian thanked his fellow Board members for their support and specifically, Reynolds and Ferguson, who marched with him and 100,000 others on Sunday, October 11, condemning the Azerbaijan and Turkish aggression against Artsakh.

The text of the resolution follows, as read by Board member Dr. Roberta Reynolds:

RESOLUTION 14

THE BURBANK UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

STANDING IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE PEOPLE OF ARMENIA AND ARTSAKH TO CONDEMN AZERBAIJIAN AND TURKEY’S AGGRESSION

WHEREAS,on September 27th, 2020, Azerbaijan’s military forces have launched a deadly and unprovoked attack against the Armenian population in Artsakh with help from Turkey; and

WHEREAS,Azerbaijan’s aggression puts innocent children and civilian livesat risk and violates fundamental U.S. ideals and Human Rights teachings; and

WHEREAS,the Republic of Artsakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, is the historical homeland of Armenians, and has been primarily populated by Armenians for thousands of years; and

WHEREAS, Azerbaijan’s renewed aggression is a violation of the United Nations’ call for a worldwide ceasefire amidst the COVID-19 global pandemic and is in violation of its 1994 ceasefire agreement with Armenia; and

WHEREAS,the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Turkey’s increasingly aggressive rhetoric and actions against Artsakh and Armenia pose a threat to human rights, peace,and global security; and

WHEREAS,the Burbank Unified School District celebrates the rich diversity of its community and recognizes the thousands of students, families, and employees of Armenian descent; and

WHEREAS, the city of Burbank has officially recognized the city of “Hadrut” in Artsakh, which is under attack, as a “Friendship” city; and

WHEREAS, in times of unrest, it is important that we come together and support our students and their families as a community showing empathy and kindness to our students, employees, and families who are diasporic Armenians; and

WHEREAS, the Burbank Unified School District reaffirms its commitment to providing a safe learning environment with emotional and mental health support for all students; and

WHEREAS, the Burbank Unified School District recognizes the role of current and historical eventsi n the teaching of awareness and understanding, peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue, and the cause and and strength of diversity; and

WHEREAS, the Burbank Unified School District stands in solidarity with its Armenian students and their families and relatives in Armenia and Artsakh,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Education of the Burbank Unified School District resolves to:

1.Condemn Azerbaijan’s unprovoked aggression against Artsakh;

2.Condemn Turkish assistance and the transport of mercenaries to Azerbaijan;

3.Stand in solidarity with BUSD’s vast Armenian student body and provide physical, emotional, and mental health support to carry them through these difficult times.

THE FOREGOING RESOLUTION was adopted this 15th day of October, 2020, at a meeting of the Burbank Unified School District Board of Education, Los Angeles County, California.

The video and complete agenda of the Burbank Board of Education meeting for October 15 can be found online here.

The Burbank Board of Education is comprised of President Dr. Armond Aghakhanian, Vice President Steve Frintner, Clerk Charlene Tabet, and members Dr. Roberta Reynolds and Steve Ferguson. More information on the Board can be found online here.

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