The construction activities and closures listed below will occur during the week of August 3-8, 2014, as part of the I-5 Empire Project in Burbank, a series of freeway improvements between Magnolia Boulevard and Buena Vista Street. More information about the project is here. Construction activities and closures are subject to change.

Major Construction Activities for the Week of August 3-8, 2014

Day Work

• Fill placement between the San Fernando Boulevard tunnel and the Lincoln Street/Victory Place intersection.

• Removal of vegetation along southbound I-5 between Scott Road and Burbank Boulevard.

• Construction of a boring pit at Victory Place and Wilson Avenue.

• Removal of concrete pavement between Burbank Boulevard and Buena Vista Street on southbound I-5.

• Manhole work at Victory Place and Empire Center Drive (the signaled intersection near Wendy’s and Catherine’s).

• Gas Company work: utility removal/relocation near the intersection of Empire Avenue and Victory Place.

Night Work

• Anchoring concrete barriers on southbound I-5.

• Material delivery to and near the (closed) southbound I-5 Scott Road off-ramp.

• Gas Company work: utility removal/relocation on San Fernando Boulevard between the northbound I-5 Scott Road off-ramp and Grismer Avenue.

Please be attentive to closures, slow down, and watch for workers in construction zones.

What to Expect: Residents and businesses close to the freeway may notice vibration and construction noise, but it will not exceed levels permitted by state, federal and local regulations. Also, the contractor is using approved dust-control measures to minimize airborne particles, but some dust is expected. Additionally, motorists should be attentive to new traffic patterns created by restriping of travel lanes and concrete barriers. Please proceed cautiously and watch for workers.

Closures for the Week of August 3-8, 2014

Lane Closures

• Up to two lanes will be closed on southbound I-5 between Hollywood Way and Olive Avenue from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Street Closures (near Empire Center)

• Between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., Victory Place will be reduced to one lane north of Empire Avenue. Empire Avenue at Victory Place will be left turn only.

• Empire Avenue will have one travel lane in each direction at all times. Parking will be restricted on the north side of Empire Avenue.

Permanent I-5 Ramp Closures

• Northbound Burbank Boulevard/Walnut Avenue on-ramp

• Southbound Scott Road off-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

• Southbound Victory Place/Lincoln Street on-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

Resources for Motorists

§  Project Information: Information about the project is here.

§  Closure Information: Closure information for this and other freeway projects is also available on the Caltrans website and the I-5 website.

§  Real-Time traffic Information: Visit quickmap.dot.ca.gov, go511.com, or call 5-1-1.

For the safety of the construction crew and motorists, please be attentive to closures, slow for the cone zone, and move over one lane where possible.

Caltrans thanks motorists for their patience and understanding during construction. For more information, visit I-5info.com.

The post New Construction Detours and Closers for Empire Project appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Auctions America, one of the largest auto auction companies, held their yearly auction this past weekend at the Burbank Airport Marriott. Hundreds of cars, trucks, tractors, and almost anything that has tires and an engine were auctioned off.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Celebrities such as Jay Leno and a handful of others were seen at this years auction. Leno, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award the previous week at the Burbank Classic Car Show and an owner of more than 100 classic cars, stores them in a warehouse a rocks throw from the Burbank Marriott.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Some of the auctions started in the hundreds and quickly rose to the thousands and even a couple were sold in the millions.

People from all walks of life strolled alongside the rows of cars, with some real unusual beauties shined and groomed with sales tags in the window.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank resident and car collector, Ed Levitt, known as “Burbank’s Car Guy” and a Road Kings member, had a car on the auction block. He was selling a 1968 Ford Mustang hardtop that was in perfect condition. He even had service records with receipts for every service the car had, plus pictures of him and Leno with the Mustang. The car was eventually sold for $19,000.

This was the second year Auctions America was held at the Burbank Airport Marriott. The auction was televised on NBC Sports Channel all last weekend.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post Going Going Gone! Auctions America Comes and Goes appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Water and Power’s (BWP) proposed electric-vehicle (EV) “Charge N’ Go” program is back in the fast lane with the help of Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Burbank). In February, Gatto formally requested support for the project from the California Energy Commission, which offers grants to fund certain infrastructure that helps increase the availability, stability, and sustainability of energy in the California. With a strong application and the support of community leaders like Gatto, Burbank Water and Power was awarded $163,802 in grant funding to support the project.

In his letter of support, Assemblyman Gatto cited the environmental benefits among the reasons he supports the project: “BWP’s EV Charge N’ Go project helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions while improving air quality in one of the most polluted air basins in the United States.”

Underscoring the importance and support for this and similar projects, Gatto cited Governor Brown’s Executive Order B-16-2012, which establishes an ambitious goal of 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles on California roads by 2025. “In order to meet this goal,” said Gatto, “it is critical that California accelerates funding for electric-vehicle charging infrastructure – both public and private.”

The post Gatto’s Support Lands Burbank Grant appeared first on myBurbank.com.

BLAST- Burbank Los Angeles Swim Team (Photos by Dick Dornan)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

Splashes of excitement and enthusiasm have been echoing from the distance every afternoon at the Verdugo Aquatic Center. The Burbank Los Angeles Swim Team, also known as BLAST, is proud to call the pool its home.

The newly formed swim program established itself in September of 2013 as a full-service swim club designed to serve the city of Burbank.

Coach Peter Lambert and Meg Patrick

More than 60 young boys and girls ranging in age from six to 18 have joined the program since its inception 11 months ago. Novice, age group and senior teams are available. To be eligible to join, swimmers must be able to swim (continuously) two lengths of the pool freestyle and two lengths of the pool backstroke. They should also have experience with the four swim strokes.

With more than 20 years of experience in coaching and training, Peter Lambert was hired as head coach to oversee the program. A graduate and collegiate swimmer at the University of Wisconsin, Lambert is a member of American Swim Coaches Association and is an accredited swim coach with USA Swimming.

Lambert is joined at BLAST by fellow coaches Meg Patrick and David Wilson.

BLAST is a member of both United States Swimming (USAS) and Southern California Swimming (SCS). The team currently competes in the silver division of the Pacific Committee League and has already reaped the rewards of hard work by winning several meets.

Ian Flinchbaugh, in the butterfly, and BLAST are swimming full force in the right direction (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“At first many of our swimmers were hesitant in competing at the club level,” Lambert said. “Now they are doing well. We have some hidden gems here. I’m super proud of them.”

In addition to his duties for BLAST, he is currently the swim coach at Marlborough High School where he won a CIF championship in 2010. Lambert relishes the challenge to build a program from scratch into a thriving organization that he hopes one day will compete at the national level.

“This group is so fantastic. We have great parents and great kids,” Lambert said. “They are smiling and they are happy. I really want to build a quality team. I want to be practicing at the National level.”

Tina Melkonian in the breaststroke (Photo by Dick Dornan)

Lambert brings not only a wealth of experience in the pool to the position, but also an abundance of knowledge as a fitness expert. He founded Streamline Fitness, Inc. and is the Aquatics and Fitness Director at the LA Tennis Club and Aquatics Director at the Brentwood Country Club.

Since the inception of BLAST, Lambert has focused in on technique and attention to detail to help the growth of each swimmer. He now includes dry land workouts to build and strengthen the core muscles.

Swimmers are improving by the day under Lambert (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“For the first two months we worked on technique only. They didn’t know how to swim basically. Then we started to build an endurance base. By the time we got into the winter break, they were getting into shape with good form,” Lambert said. “Now we are starting to see their times plummet which is great for us. They are practicing completely different. We gradually eased them in and they are now responding. Everyone is very happy.”

Practices are held daily from 5 to 7 p.m. preparing athletes to maximize their aquatic potential. Members include kids as young as six-years-old (novice), middle school (age group) to experienced swimmers (senior) such as Dexter Brown and Madigan Roll, seniors at John Burroughs and Burbank High School, respectively.

“I really like the club here. It’s more fun than any other club I’ve been associated with,” Brown said. “There are greater benefits than any other club I’ve been associated with. The training style is much different and much better than another coach would be. He switches the stroke up every single day and it really works your body and makes you stronger and faster in the water.”

Madigan Roll of Burbank High has benefitted from the close proximity of the Verdugo Aquatics Center (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“I enjoy it because it’s close to home. It was too hard to juggle school and family at the same time while driving far away. So having this in Burbank really helped me focus on my school work as well as my swimming,” said Roll, 16, who used to swim for the San Fernando Rattlers and at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center. “The coaching is not just high intensity training but it also works on technique.”

Roll has been a part of a Burbank High swim team that broke five school records this past season.

Brown, 16, excelled this past year as he won the Pacific League title in the 100 freestyle (48.41- Burroughs record) and took second in the 200 free (1:48.41). He advanced to the CIF Division 2 Finals where he finished 17th overall in the 100 freestyle.

Brown credits Lambert as the reason for his success.

Burroughs’ Dexter Brown has flourished in the freestyle (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“I swam throughout high school under Coach Peter. I was dropping time at every meet which is always a good thing,” he said. “But when I started to drop major time through my taper (rest before big meets), that was all because of Coach Peter. He would plan out how much yardage to do every day. It was exactly what I needed to do well at league finals and CIF.”

Liz Roll, mother of Madigan, and Alexandra Helfrich have seen first-hand the maturation and development of BLAST and how it has benefitted their daughters.

“He has taken a lot of kids who were good swimmers and made them into great swimmers. Peter talks about building character and quality. He stresses the importance of not only academics and athletics but being a steward of the community,” Liz said. “My daughter wants to swim competitively in college and this will give her a leg up to do that.

Dorian Andrei enjoys another day of practice (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“A lot of kids are intrigued by it and are coming over. What I really think will help the high schools are the younger kids who are in the novice age group or are in middle school now. In a couple of years, we will have stellar high school programs.”

“This is a terrific opportunity right here in town to excel at swim. Kyra, my 15-year-old junior at Burroughs, is training there and has greatly improved,” Helfrich added. “She will likely have a strong high school record with the extra coaching support. I think BLAST has better coaches, more individual instruction and a better team spirit. It’s a real gem right here in town. And one of the coolest aspects is that both JBHS and BHS athletes are training and competing together. We’re starting to see a difference in the high school swimmers who train there.”

Lambert is looking for kids of high standard (in and out of the pool) who possess good character, dedication, and a hard work ethic.

Mikayla Gardner, 13, is one of a handful of middle school kids who continues to improve daily under the tutelage of Lambert.

“I like it because we get a good workout and we get better. He’s taught us a lot of technique and ways to work together,” said Gardner, who attends Jordan Middle School. “It also gives you self-esteem to join other activities because it makes you feel more athletic and gives you a chance to socialize with your friends. It’s not all work. We have fun at the same time.”

Swimmers work on the backstroke (Photo by Dick Dornan)

The swimmers, parents and staff at Verdugo Aquatics Center enjoy each other’s company and are very excited for the future of the program. Lambert has created a family atmosphere where swimming goes hand-in-hand with activities such as laser tag and bowling which in turn builds team camaraderie and strengthens relationships.

“I’m an advocate of the sport because of the discipline and hard work involved. It’s a solitary sport- it’s kind of you and your bubbles,” Lambert said. “But we try to create some great opportunities for them to function as a family. We want to cultivate that family feel.”

Recently, BLAST held a “swimathon” fundraiser that brought in more than $10,000 which will help purchase new equipment and bring state-of-the-art technology to Verdugo.

Five-time Olympian Dana Torres, owner of 12 Olympic medals (four gold, four silver and four bronze), visited with BLAST back in May. She shared valuable insight into her journey as a swimmer.

More information on BLAST can be found at www.hancockparkswimclub.com or you can email Coach Peter Lambert at Peter@hancockparkswimclub.com or call 818-445-5188.

The post Burbank Los Angeles Swim Team a Splash Hit for the Community appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Author Craig S. Harwood visits the Burbank Central Library Thursday evening to talk about aviation pioneer John J. Montgomery, the subject of his book Quest for Flight. Montgomery and a group of Californians turned their ideas and dreams into reality with the first flight of a heavier-than-air craft in 1883 near San Diego.

While the Wright Brothers have collected much of the fame and recognition for the first flight, the true story of Montgomery and his associates has been largely ignored, even though the story was made into the 1946 historical movie Gallant Journey. The movie, starring Glen Ford and Janet Blair, followed the aviation pioneer’s efforts to build and fly gliders from childhood through his death in 1911.

Quest for Flight compiles historical fact and context to bring the truth of the earliest American aviation pioneers to light.

“Our purpose in writing this book was 1) to define John J. Montgomery in history, and 2) redirect the focus of traditional American aviation historical narratives (geographically speaking) from the east to the west to show that California based men and women made pioneering contributions in the aerial fields (aeroplanes, ballooning and airships) around the turn of the nineteenth century,” Harwood commented.

“Another intriguing aspect of the narrative of Quest For Flight is how it draws out of obscurity the role that women played in this visionary field of aeronautics and the resulting impact it had on societal attitudes toward women engaged in a male dominated and high risk field,” he added.

Co-written with author Gary Fogel, Quest for Flight has won a number of prizes and awards and garnered acclaim from reviewers. Harwood, a distant relative of Montgomery, will also sign copies of the book after the program.

The Central Library is located at 110 N. Glenoaks Boulevard and the program runs from 7 to 8:00 p.m. Copies of Quest For Flight will be available for purchase.

The post Author Discusses California Aviation Pioneer appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police and Fire Departments participated in “National Night Out” again this year, with events being held at Burbank Police & Fire Headquarters along with 18 different neighborhoods across town.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

National Night Out was started back in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch and held yearly on the first Tuesday of August. Burbank Police and several other city departments used to formally hold a gathering on Chandler Blvd. near Keystone.

This year the Police Department moved the operation to BPD headquarters where several hundred citizens came out to meet members of the Burbank Police Departments’ swat team, K9 officers, traffic officers, cadets, animal control and other city departments.

The Bike Angels had an obstacle course set up for young kids to ride and learn safety. The event is meant to increase awareness about police programs in communities such as drug prevention, neighborhood watch, and other anti-crime efforts.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

In addition to the gathering at Police headquarters, several citizens held block parties across town and handed out material that was provided by the Burbank Police Department’s Community Outreach and Personnel Services Bureau (COPS). A couple of the block parties served food, drinks and shared stories and had live music playing. One group even met at Bob’s Big Boy on Riverside Drive.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Here in Burbank, the Burbank Fire Department got involved and sent a fire company to each of the neighborhood events, making them the hit of the event with their big shiney engines and trucks.

Burbank Police command staff along with members of the Burbank Police commissioners attended most of the neighborhood events stopping by briefly to answer residents’ questions and thanking the hosts for being involved and having a block party.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post National Night Out Brings the Community Together with Police & Fire Departments appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Unified’s Board of Education approved agreements with Glendale Community College (GCC) and L.A. Valley College (LAVC) for specific courses at Burbank and Burroughs High Schools to qualify for college course credit. The classes would also count towards high school graduation requirements.

“This is actually pretty exciting,” commented Sharon Cuseo, Director of Instruction and Accountability for the district, as she explained ways the agreements fulfill Common Core emphasis on college and career readiness for graduating high school students.

Courses at Burbank High School that will garner college credit at GCC include Regional Occupational Program (ROP) Professional Film and Stagecraft Technology. Burroughs High School ROP classes for Video Production, Stagecraft Technology and Video Production & Film are accepted in the articulation agreement.

Two classes – JBHS’ ROP Aircraft & Small Engines and BHS’ ROP Popenomics – were approved for the agreement with LAVC. The Popenomics course at BHS will examine the social and cultural impact of film and it is expected to begin at BHS in the future, according to Cuseo.

Students in ROP Professional Film “learn enough in that course that it takes the place of an entry-level course at the community college,” Cuseo added.

After students take the end of course exam, they will receive credit for the class.

When the students go on to enroll in either GCC or LAVC after high school, the college level course they took in high school is transferred and students may then take high levels courses earlier in their college career.

Cuseo noted and thanked Diana Dysthe, the district’s ROP Counselor, for her efforts in connecting high school teachers with GCC and LAVC professors to discuss the course content and develop the program.

This agreement is a first step towards a possible dual enrollment program between BUSD and local colleges, she went on to say.

“We’ve always wanted this for our students,” Cuseo said. She attributed financial incentives from the state as an impetus for colleges now seeking to develop these sorts of programs with local high schools.

The articulation agreement was approved unanimously by the Board of Education Thursday evening, August 7, and will be reviewed annually.

The post Board of Education Approves Classes For College And High School Credit appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Magnolia Park Movie Nights continue with an outdoor screening of Grease Friday evening, August 8. Towns Burr Gallery hosts a full schedule of events for Second Saturdays on August 9, including a meet and greet with featured artist Katie Runnerstrom, live music and refreshments.

Friday’s Movie Night kicks off at 7:00 p.m. with food and treats available from Baby’s Badass Burgers, Rockin’ Ice, Hula Pop Kettle Korn, Rocket Fizz, The Jelly Bean Factory and Mikey Melts Grilled Cheeses. Grease begins at approximately 8:00 p.m. at the UMe Credit Union parking lot.

Walk Bike Burbank offers a free bicycle valet to help encourage people to ride to the event. Frenchy’s Beauty Parlor, named for the Grease character, will also be set up at the Friday night event.

Flappers Comedy Club hosts a performance at 7:30 p.m. and will give away free tickets to their shows. The Burbank Police Department will also be on hand with their vintage police car for photo ops.

Magnolia Park Movie Nights debuted July 11 with a screening of The Goonies. Organizers suggest low chairs and blankets for the audience. Picnic baskets are also welcomed. UMe Credit Union is located at 3000 W. Magnolia Boulevard.

Towns Burr Gallery has a big night planned for Saturday evening, August 9, and the growing Second Saturdays monthly event.

The gallery exhibition includes recent works from Runnerstrom. Live music from Dr. Blues American Roots Revival Band, food and drinks are planned for the party.

“The world around us is ever-changing, infinitely expanding, and rearranging. Whether on a macro- or micro-scale, entities that are not recognizable,crawl and squeeze their way through space and time,” Runnerstrom commented. “Inspired by saprophytes, the wildlife of the deep sea, and voyages across inner and outer space, my work comes to life through different tools and mediums.”

“Trapezium” by Katie Runnerstrom, 48″ by 48″ acrylic on canvas. (Courtesy of Towns Burr Gallery)

“Studying the vast world of nature puts into perspective how large and rich the Earth and the universe really are; it reminds us where we really lie in the scheme of the universe, takes us out of our comfort zone mentally, and opens up our minds intellectually,” she added. “My work means to remind people of where they are, and inspire them to pay closer attention to the beautiful details in life.”

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

The post Magnolia Park Antes Up The Weekend appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police Department Community Academy is held throughout the year for those who live or work in the City of Burbank. The academy is conducted in English, Spanish, Armenian, and for the deaf/hard of hearing. The academy is a terrific opportunity for the Burbank Police Department to reach out to its diverse community and allow individuals to get a behind-the-scenes look at the personnel and operations of the department.

For nine weeks, participants interact with officers from the various bureaus and assignments in the department. Presentation topics include the criminal justice system, training, traffic control, animal control, reserve program, patrol and detective functions, air support unit, Special Weapons and Tactics team, police K-9s, and much more. Participants who graduate from the community academy may be eligible to become a Burbank Police Department volunteer.

The fall/winter Community Academy takes place on Thursday evenings, and will begin on Thursday, September 18, 2014, and concluding on November 13, 2014. Meetings start at 6:30 p.m. and conclude at approximately 9:00 p.m., at the Burbank Police Station. There is no charge for the Community Academy. Applicants are subject to a background check.

Applications may be picked up at the Police Department, or downloaded from the Police Department website (www.BurbankPD.org), and should be returned no later than Friday, September 12, 2014. Please indicate on the application which class you would prefer (English, Spanish, Armenian, deaf/hard of hearing). Space is limited. Applying early is recommended.

Questions regarding the Community Academy may be directed to Community Resource Officer Joshua Kendrick @ 818-238-3223

The post Burbank Police Looking for Community Members for New Fall/Winter Academy appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The construction activities and closures listed below will occur during the week of August 10-15, 2014, as part of the I-5 Empire Project in Burbank, a series of freeway improvements between Magnolia Boulevard and Buena Vista Street. More information about the project is here. Construction activities and closures are subject to change.

Major Construction Activities for the Week of August 10-15, 2014

 Day Work

§  Excavation for a retaining wall near the southbound I-5 Buena Vista Street off-ramp. (See photo at left.)

§  Excavation for a retaining wall north of the southbound I-5 Burbank Boulevard off-ramp.

§  Excavation for the new southbound I-5 Empire Avenue off-ramp. (Work will occur between the railroad tracks and southbound I-5.)

§  Construction of a boring pit at Victory Place and Wilson Avenue.

§  Manhole work at Victory Place and Empire Center Drive (the signaled intersection near Wendy’s and Catherine’s).

§  Gas Company work: utility removal/relocation near the intersection of Empire Avenue and Victory Place.

Night Work

§  Gas Company work: utility removal/relocation on San Fernando Boulevard between the northbound I-5 Scott Road off-ramp and Grismer Avenue.

Please be attentive to closures, slow down, and watch for workers in construction zones.

What to Expect: Residents and businesses close to the freeway may notice vibration and construction noise, but it will not exceed levels permitted by state, federal and local regulations. Also, the contractor is using approved dust-control measures to minimize airborne particles, but some dust is expected. Additionally, motorists should be attentive to new traffic patterns created by restriping of travel lanes and concrete barriers. Please proceed cautiously and watch for workers.

Closures for the Week of August 10-15, 2014

Ramp Closures

• One lane of the southbound I-5 Buena Vista Street off-ramp may be closed during daytime hours (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Motorists WILL be able to use the ramp during the closure.

Street Closures (near Empire Center)

• Between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., Victory Place will be reduced to one lane north of Empire Avenue. Empire Avenue at Victory Place will be left turn only.

• Empire Avenue will have one travel lane in each direction at all times. Parking will be restricted on the north side of Empire Avenue.

Permanent I-5 Ramp Closures

• Northbound Burbank Boulevard/Walnut Avenue on-ramp

• Southbound Scott Road off-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

• Southbound Victory Place/Lincoln Street on-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

The post New Empire Project Construction Information and Closures appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

BURBANK STUDENT HAS STRONG PERFORMANCE AT USA TRACK AND FIELD JUNIOR OLYMPICS

Alexander Hirsch, an incoming freshman at Burroughs High School, recently competed at the USA Track and Field (USATF) Junior Olympics event in Houston, Texas. He ran as part of the USATF – affiliated “Run Hungry Project” team.

Alexander Hirsch competes at the Junior Olympics (Photo courtesy of Charles Hirsch)

In the 1,500 meter run, Hirsch posted a time of 4:10.83, the 11th fastest mark in the preliminary races, missing the finals by .32 seconds. In the 3,000 meter race, he recorded a 9:10.20 to take 5th place overall. He set personal records in both events by 13 and 23 seconds, respectively.

Hirsch attended Luther Burbank Middle School where he set the record for the number of laps run for the “Tuesday Run” during his three years of attendance. He also won the mile (1,600 meters) at the Tri-Middle School All-City Track and Field championship this past April. Even more impressive is that Hirsch won the mile for his class level three years in a row and set a meet record of 4:57.00 at this years’ event at Memorial Stadium.

Hirsch’s strong effort helped Luther Burbank win the 8th grade boys division with 105 points. Muir took second with 68 points followed by Jordan with 34.

The long distance standout will join a solid JBHS cross country team in the fall under the leadership of Coach John Peebles.

Alexander Hirsch proudly wears his 5th place medal at JOs (Photo courtesy of Charles Hirsch)

The post Local Youth Excels at USA Track and Field Junior Olympics appeared first on myBurbank.com.

As families and students prepare for the start of another school year, many applications for the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program went home in enrollment packets during the past few week.

Burbank Unified encourages qualifying students apply for the national program to ensure regular access to nutrition.

Children from households whose income is at or below the levels in the attached graphic are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Children who receive Food Stamp (FS), California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payments (Kin-GAP), or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) benefits are automatically eligible for free meals regardless of the income of the household in which they reside, according to a release from the district.

Eligibility for a foster child is based on a separate application and solely on the amount of the child’s personal use income.

Applications can also be obtained at each school in the district.

The post Burbank Unified Announces Free And Reduced Lunch Policy appeared first on myBurbank.com.

United States Men’s National Basketball team (Photo by Dick Dornan)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

We are taking a detour from our Burbank coverage to travel 273 miles northeast to Las Vegas where our sports editor, Dick Dornan, spent a week recently at the USA Basketball men’s national team training camp as a volunteer for the USA Basketball media relations staff.

In the blink of an eye, a triumphant week of basketball was marred by an unfortunate and devastating injury to one of the game’s best young players. Feelings of hurt and pain filled the Thomas and Mack arena on the campus of the University of Nevada Las Vegas as thousands of fans tried to cope with what had just occurred.

The USA Men’s Basketball Showcase on August 1 culminated four days of practice as the team began preparations for the FIBA World Cup of Basketball to be held at the end of this month.

As I sat 15 rows up as a member of the USA Basketball media relations staff, I witnessed the unthinkable and worse yet, the visual that is so hard to even erase from my mind today.

Paul George of the Indiana Pacers dribbles up court moments before the injury (Copyright 2014 NBAE; Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

Fans cheered on every move of their beloved NBA heroes throughout the game as the White and Blue teams battled in an electric intrasquad scrimmage. But what ensued early in the fourth quarter created a hush that silenced everyone in attendance.

With the White team leading the Blue, 81-71, the White team’s James Harden (Oklahoma City Thunder) was driving in for a layup when he was contested by Paul George (Indiana Pacers) of the Blue team. Seconds later, George made awkward contact with the basketball stanchion and crumbled to the floor suffering a gruesome injury.

He sustained an open tibia-fibula fracture in his lower right leg sending shrills to anyone who witnessed the injury up close. Harden walked away and squatted down with his head in the palm of his hands. Kyrie Irving (Cleveland Cavaliers) cried in his fathers’ arms. Other players walked aimlessly around the court with the look of worry and concern etched across their faces.

After 20 minutes of medical attention, George was taken off the court on a stretcher to a chant of “Paul George” that serenaded from the heavens above. Both teams came together for a prayer and the game was cancelled with 9:33 remaining.

As fans filed out of the arena, I walked to the outside of the locker room where USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo and USA coach Mike Krzyzewski were meeting with the team. Moments later, the players exited many of whom had tears in their eyes.

Krzyzewski and Colangelo, clearly distraught with emotion as well, met with the media shortly thereafter.

Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward takes a jumpshot while myBurbank Sports Editor Dick Dornan watches (Copyright 2014 NBAE; Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

“We feel that USA Basketball, and the word is used a lot, is a family,” Krzyzewski said. “It should be a little bit of a safe haven for being yourself, getting better, developing relationships with different guys in the league. There’s a brotherhood in the NBA and to me, in moments like this, a family or a brotherhood shows its heart. It shows its depth. I thought that’s what our players showed during that time.”

On the way to the hospital, George remarkably tweeted, “Thanks everybody for the love and support. I’ll be ok and be back better than ever!!! Love y’all!”

This was my fourth stint with USA Basketball (1992 Dream Team, 2010, 2012, 2014) helping the media relations department in a volunteer capacity at training camp. Never before had I seen the NBA community rally around each other in such an inspiring way.

While they appear to be larger than life figures from afar, these grown men truly care about one another and the horrific injury to George brought a group of NBA players into a closed-knit circle of respect and love.

Players throughout the league took to twitter to express their support and sentiment for George.

In a singularly transformative moment, a group of 20 NBA players representing the United States of America became an instant family that could possibly define this team as it moves forward when the World Cup of Basketball is played August 30 to September 14 in Spain.

Kyrie Irving of the Cleveland Cavaliers had an impressive week of camp (Copyright 2014 NBAE; Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

Though the injury cast a shadow that even the greatest magician in Las Vegas would have a tough time making disappear, there was plenty of superb action during the week. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player, Kevin Durant, 2011 MVP Derrick Rose and Kyrie Irving turned in terrific performances as did George.

Durant unexpectedly decided to step aside recently and not play on Team USA for the remainder of the summer.

That didn’t deter 33-year-old sharpshooter Kyle Korver of the Atlanta Hawks who understands how meaningful it would be to make the team.

“To represent your country is an amazing thing. Being around these guys helps you grow personally. When you are around excellence, your own standard gets raised. Your desire to hang and thrive in an environment like this makes you work harder,” Korver said. “It’s a good thing for me personally. To come here and be around this group of guys is great. People talk about going through the USA process and end up having great years after that. You come here and are not going to slouch around. You are going to bust your butt because you want to compete and do well.”

“It’s all about pulling for one another,” George said earlier in the week. “At the end of the day, we’re all we really have going over to Spain and playing for a gold medal.”

By George, he got it right. Everyone is pulling for one another especially for you, Paul. Here’s to a quick and healthy recovery and to Team USA to win another FIBA gold medal.

The Chicago Bulls’ Derrick Rose explodes to the basket for two points during the intrasquad scrimmage (Copyright 2014 NBAE; Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)

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“Laughter is the best medicine,” so throw away your pills and see the delightful Moon Over Buffalo, presented by Wasatch Theatrical Ventures over at the Grove Theatre Center. There was so much guffawing from the audience that some people were throwing away their canes after the show.

There’s plenty of vigorous physical comedy on stage. People enter and exit through various doors with the exquisite timing that you’d see in a classic Marx Brothers movie. The actors are equally deft in the dialog department.  Their humor grows so effortlessly from their characters’ memorable personalities that we easily forget how much harder it is for actors to master comedy than straight drama.

Kudos also to Director KIFF SCHOLL for maintaining the madcap pacing throughout the play, doing full-moon justice to one of the masterworks of acclaimed Playwright KEN LUDWIG.

The set up: We find ourselves in 1953 Buffalo with Charlotte Hay (KIMBERLY LEWIS) and George Hay (MARK BELNICK.) Once, this acting couple had graced the cover of Time Magazine, but time and television have reduced them to stints in the hinterland.  Their shoestring budget allows for two plays: Cyrano de Bergerac (the “revised, one nostril version”) and Noel Coward’s Private Lives.

Mother-in-law Ethel (CAROL HERMAN) is far from pleased at this turn of events. She’s hard of hearing and hard on George, who probably deserves her sharp tongue. Sometimes, George falls off the wagon and into bed with cutie-patootie ingénues like Eileen (SARAH RANDALL HUNT.) Meanwhile, dashing attorney Richard (PAUL MICHAEL NIEMAN) looks like he might succeed in wooing away Charlotte.

The Hays’ unsuspecting daughter Rosalind (KERI SAFRAN) returns for a family visit, still determined to stay out of show business. She has in tow her boyfriend Howard (CHUCK RAUCCI,) a nerdy TV weatherman. But Rosalind would’ve come at a different time if she had known she’d be bumping into her old boyfriend Paul (PAUL GALLIANO,) who still has the acting bug…and his charm.

Into this all madness drops an once-in-a-lifetime break: the opportunity for George and Charlotte to star in a major movie and revive their fading careers. All they have to do is suitably impress the legendary director Frank Capra, who’s flying to Buffalo to see one of their live performances.

Piece of cake, right?

Moon Over Buffalo continues through September 14. (Dark Labor Day Weekend: August 28, 29 and 30.) Performances Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 3 p.m. Running time is 120 minutes, with one intermission. Buy the $25 General Admission tickets by going to www.plays411.com/moon, or by calling (323) 960-7721. The Grove Theatre Center is at 1111-B West Olive Avenue in George Izay Park. Parking is free on nearby streets and within the parking lot off Clark. For more information, please visit www.wasatchtheatricalventures.com.

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Burbank Police and Fire Departments responded to Hollywood Way and Burbank Blvd. late Tuesday evening for a traffic accident involving two cars.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank firefighters had to use the ‘Jaws of Life’ to help free one of the victims who was trapped. Firefighters removed the door and were able to put the patient on a backboard for transportation to a trauma center.

Burbank paramedics required two rescue ambulances, a truck company along with an engine company to handle the three patients that were injured.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

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Burbank Firefighters responded to an apartment fire at 500 E. Santa Anita, on Tuesday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. While heading to the scene they saw a large column of smoke and knew they had a working fire in progress.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

When the first engine company arrived on scene they had heavy fire showing from the bottom floor windows.

The fire, which turned out to only involve a single condominium, appeared to have started downstairs with smoke and some fire damage on the second floor.

Burbank paramedics treated a 12-year-old boy at the scene and then determined he needed to be taken to the hospital for some smoke inhalation. It appeared he might have been the only family member home at the time of the blaze.

Burbank rolled a second alarm for man power and Glendale responded with an engine company and a battalion chief, while a truck company covered a Burbank fire station on mutual aid.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The fire destroyed the condo, and firefighters rescued a pet from a neighboring apartment.

The cause is under routine investigation, and the damage amount was not reported at this time.

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As school has already begun for other districts and starts on Monday, August 18, for the Burbank Unified School District, the Burbank Police Department has tweeted and posted a safety reminder for parents and people driving in the area.

“Traffic safety at our schools is a priority for the Burbank Police Department,” said Officer Joshua Kendrick of the Burbank Police Department. “Traffic officers are assigned to patrol schools as a visible deterrent to prevent incidents from occurring and to enforce traffic laws.”

“By following a few simple rules, parents can assist us in creating a safe environment around our schools for students, faculty and parents.”

John Burroughs High School students head to school in August 2013. (Photo by Ross A.Benson)

Back to school safety tips include some Do’s:

1. Slow down around the schools; plan ahead and arrive early

2. Use the safe delivery/valet drop – off area

3. Position your children on the right side of the vehicle, so they exit onto the sidewalk, away from any moving vehicles

4. Stay alert; do not operate cell phones or allow other things to distract you

5. Park your car in the appropriate areas; obey posted parking restrictions

6. Obey all traffic laws

And some Don’ts:

1. Stop and park your vehicle in the delivery/valet drop – off area

2. Park and exit your vehicle in the passenger loading/unloading areas

3. Stop your vehicle in the middle of the street to let your child in or out of the vehicle

4. Walk between vehicles in the drop – off and pick – up area

5. Park across the street and direct your child to cross the street outside of the designated crossing area

6. Pass vehicles on the wrong side of the street

7. Leave your vehicle unattended

BPD recommends parents park their vehicles away from the school and walk their children to the school gates and cross at corners and use the crossing guards to assist. Officers encourage parents to plan ahead and arrive early.

Students and families begin their first day at Roosevelt Elementary in August 2013. (Photo by Lisa Paredes)

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Tucked in amongst towering office buildings between Riverside Drive and Alameda Avenue, Honeydew Cafe builds an impressive sandwich, along with delicious breakfast items and salads. Catering mainly to the workday crowd of this part of Toluca Lake and Burbank, Honeydew Cafe may be a tiny place, yet has grown a large following in the past few years.

The Veggie sub typically comes on a 10″ whole wheat roll. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The cafe is our go-to spot for fresh, creative lunches. We often order sandwiches at 4:00 p.m. for our Hollywood Bowl picnic basket. Add some chips, beverages and dessert, and one delicious Bowl picnic is ready.

Wrapped in clean white paper, the sandwiches are a festival of colors and tastes. We have enjoyed a majority of the cafe’s menu selections including the Roasted Red Pepper Chicken, Turkey Pesto, the divine Grilled 3 Cheese Bacon Avocado, Club Sandwich, Turkey Havarti Melt and Southwest Pepper Jack Chicken.

Honeydew Cafe makes excellent breakfast and lunch sandwiches and salads. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Most recently, we shared a Veggie sub and a Muffaletta for our picnic. Filled with vegetables such as mixed greens, cucumbers, tomato, roasted red peppers, avocado, and red onion, the sub adds aged provolone and hummus for protein and packs it all into a tasty wheat roll.

The Muffaletta always pleases the tastebuds with layers of ham turkey, genoa salami, sharp cheddar cheese, aged provolone cheese, parmesan cheese, tomato, olive tapenade, romaine lettuce and red onion. Dressed with mayonnaise, the sandwich is piled between two slices of toasted sourdough bread.

Honeydew’s Muffaletta layers meats, cheeses, olive tapenade and vegetables in between toasted sourdough bread. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

We like to call in to-go orders ahead of time. Be prepared for a bit of a wait in line if you walk in for lunch. While there are a few small tables with shady umbrellas outside the shop, the interior is tiny. The cafe also offers freshly-made smoothies, soups and coffees. Salads and sandwiches can all be custom ordered and the Build-Your-Own options are very popular.

For consistently making some of the best sandwiches around, Honeydew Cafe gets a Tops In Town. The cafe is only open weekdays, closing at 5:00 p.m. Parking can be a challenge during peak morning and lunch hours.

Restaurant Info: Honeydew Cafe is located at 171A N. Maple Street, Burbank 91505. 818-557-7556. Honeydew Cafe is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.

Honeydew Cafe 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 (Roadkill)

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2014 Burbank Dolphins (Photo courtesy of Mike Graceffo)

By Dick Dornan
myBurbank Sports Editor

NOTE: this story has been revised and updated since it ran in September of 2012.

Hark the days of our childhood when many of us played flag football. Those were the good times. Sure we would find some time to play tackle football without pads and other times a simple game of “two-hand touch.” But there was always something special about playing flag football.At any position on the field, we could be who we wanted to be. Maybe I could be Joe Montana at quarterback or even “Mean” Joe Greene at defensive end? It was a game of simplicity and grace and it brought out a smile in each of us.

Burbank Dolphins listen attentively to coaches’ instruction (Photo courtesy of Mike Graceffo)

High School football might take center stage on a Thursday or Friday evening at Memorial Field and Pop Warner on a Saturday at Burbank High, but it doesn’t get any better than wrapping that flag belt around your waist, inserting your mouthpiece and wearing your jersey with pride.

Flag football is alive and well here in Burbank. It’s thriving and it’s here to stay. One visit to Verdugo Park or Foy Park on any weekday evening and the memories come rushing back. The noise of whistles in the air, enthusiastic yelling by the players, positive encouragement by the coaches and cheering amongst the fans are just a fraction of the sights and sounds reasonating throughout Burbank.

“There is a lot of excitement this year,” said Jason Dyer, the City of Burbank’s Recreation Coordinator. “We’ve also had some free camps and clinics and will continue to have them throughout the season.”

Burbank Dolphins work on passing drills (Photo courtesy of Mike Graceffo)

Burbank Park and Recreation has done a tremendous job in continuing the success, tradition and enjoyment of flag football. Dyer said there are 30 to 40 percent new kids participating this year.

Twenty-four teams are separated into three age brackets (Grades 2 – 4, Grades 5/6, and Grades 7 – 9) and two divisions per bracket (NFL and AFL). Each game features 8-on-8 with every player being eligible on offense. Each player plays the same amount of time. Most importantly for many parents, there isn’t any hard hitting or tackling. The emphasis is on learning the fundamentals of the sport and the rules of the game.

“You get to learn the game without getting hit. You learn how to move your feet and learn how to play each position,” Dyer said. “You want to be able to come out here and play and not worry about an injury that might eliminate your career this young. There is a need for both (tackle and flag football) and I think both can co-exist which is great.”

Coach Mike Graceffo (on the left) is assisted by longtime friend, Ken Bailey (in the middle) Photo by Ross A. Benson

While teams come and go at the youth level, there is one constant in Burbank. The Burbank Dolphins and Coach Mike Graceffo are synonymous with flag football in this city. They have been a fixture of Burbank Park and Recreation for more than 30 years. Graceffo is a pillar of strength in the sports community.

“I love sports and I played all the sports when I was a kid. This is my way of giving back to the community a little bit,” said Graceffo, who has coached in this league since the late 1970’s. “I love flag football because you can open it up. Everyone is eligible to catch a pass. It’s an offensive dream and a defensive nightmare. It’s just a fun game.”

Graceffo’s love and passion for flag football and youth sports does not go unnoticed. He has gained the admiration of many former players who keep in touch with him to this day as well as coach by his side as an assistant.

“Mike Graceffo is awesome. I’ve been able to play for him and coach with him,” said Kenny Knoop, defensive coordinator for the Burroughs Indians. “I still work with him to this day with our schools and PE. He’s still right there in my life.

Burroughs defensive coordinator Kenny Knoop played for the Burbank Dolphins in 7th and 8th grade (Photo by Dick Dornan)

“I absolutely love the Burbank Dolphins,” Knoop continued. “I still go to games and see Mike (Graceffo) and Ken (Bailey) on the field. I started football with the Burbank Dolphins. That was my introduction to football. They are definitely still in my heart.”

“Mike taught me how to be a competitor, how to love sports and to be a team player,” Burbank Dolphins Orange assistant Mike Mersola said. “He is kind of like the fabric of the city and the Dolphins program is a fabric of the youth. My memories of it were the best times of my youth. Coaching now is really rewarding. It’s an honor and a privilege.”

It’s nice to win but victories are the last thing on the mind of Graceffo and his staff. It’s about teaching his players how to play the game of football properly while making it exciting at the same time.

Knoop played tackle football for the first time in ninth grade at Burroughs High. He credits his flag football experience as a major reason for successfully preparing him for the high school level.

Burbank Dolphins condition during a summer practice (Photo courtesy of Mike Graceffo)

“Flag football helps you with the concepts of moving in space and travelling and attacking a person. Two kids running into each other isn’t what football is all about,” Knoop explained. “As a kid I learned how to attack a target, move lateral, cross the field to get where I was going and learn the angles of the game.

“The basic fundamentals of hand-eye coordination, catching, throwing and blocking were all there without smashing into somebody. I am a true believer that tackling in football is an attitude. You don’t have to have pads on to do that correctly. I am a big advocate of kids in flag football. They are learning all the basics of the game.”

Many kids who played flag football first before tackle during the middle school years later became successful at the high school level and beyond.

Burbank Dolphins: Pride and Tradition for many years

These Burbank Dolphins alumni include Kenny Knoop, Carlos Baker, Todd Dellutri, Ryan Bowne, Dylan Mersola, Joe Cesta, Mike Cesta, Matt Pentecost, Jabbar Craigwell, Brian Kaloustian, Kyle Creamarosa, Keith Jarbo, Richie Ramos, Bobby Machuca, David Machuca, John Jay, John Wagner, Mike Wagner, Ryan Buchanon, Finnbarr Geary, Freddy Keeler, David Escobar, Migual Armendariz, Joe Ungos, Shane Clark, Seth Oseransky, Dillon Disiere, Jake Micioni, Jon McGinley and Josef Topete to name a few.

Approximately 95 percent of these players went on to star in high school football without having played tackle until their freshman year. Thus, flag football is a great way to begin one’s journey on the gridiron. The future of flag football is bright in Burbank.

Burbank Park and Recreation will be hosting a high school night at a Burroughs and Burbank High football game this season and there will be an end of the season finale that includes punt, pass and kick, and a ceremony honoring the champions, runner-ups and sportsmanship winners for this season.

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The construction activities and closures listed below will occur during the week of August 17-22, 2014, as part of the I-5 Empire Project in Burbank, a series of freeway improvements between Magnolia Boulevard and Buena Vista Street. More information about the project is here. Construction activities and closures are subject to change

Major Construction Activities for the Week of August 17-22, 2014

Day Work

• Excavation for a retaining wall near the southbound I-5 Buena Vista Street off-ramp.

• Boring operation along Victory Place north of Empire Avenue. (See photo at right.)

• Fill placement between the San Fernando Boulevard tunnel and the Lincoln Street/Victory Place intersection.

• Manhole work at Victory Place and Empire Avenue by Liberman Broadcasting.

• Gas Company work: utility removal/relocation on San Fernando Boulevard between the northbound I-5 Scott Road off-ramp and Grismer Avenue and at Andover Drive.

Night Work

• Placement of conduit on Victory Place north of the Empire Center entrance and on Victory Place and Empire Avenue by Liberman Broadcasting.

• Striping and delineation work on Victory Place and Empire Avenue near Liberman Broadcasting.

What to Expect: Residents and businesses close to the freeway may notice vibration and construction noise, but it will not exceed levels permitted by state, federal and local regulations. Also, the contractor is using approved dust-control measures to minimize airborne particles, but some dust is expected. Additionally, motorists should be attentive to new traffic patterns created by restriping of travel lanes and concrete barriers. Please proceed cautiously and watch for workers.

Closures for the Week of August 17-22, 2014

Ramp Closures

• One lane of the southbound I-5 Buena Vista Street off-ramp may be closed during daytime hours (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Motorists WILL be able to use the ramp during the closure.

Street Closures (near Empire Center)

• Between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., Victory Place will be reduced to one lane north of Empire Avenue. Empire Avenue at Victory Place will be left turn only.

• Empire Avenue will have one travel lane in each direction at all times. Parking will be restricted on the north side of Empire Avenue.

Permanent I-5 Ramp Closures

• Northbound Burbank Boulevard/Walnut Avenue on-ramp

• Southbound Scott Road off-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

• Southbound Victory Place/Lincoln Street on-ramp: This ramp will be integrated into the Empire interchange, which will open in mid-2016

Resources for Motorists

• Project Information: Information about the project is here.

• Closure Information: Closure information for this and other freeway projects is also available on the Caltrans website and the I-5 website.

• Real-Time traffic Information: Visit quickmap.dot.ca.gov, go511.com, or call 5-1-1.

For the safety of the construction crew and motorists, please be attentive to closures, slow for the cone zone, and move over one lane where possible.

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