Downtown Burbank’s most festive holiday tradition returns for eight weeks of outdoor ice skating, themed nights and special performances at The Rink in Downtown Burbank. The fun begins Friday, November 28 and runs through January 19, 2015.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Transforming the corner of North Third Street and East Orange Grove Avenue into a magical winter wonderland, skaters of all ages can enjoy 90-minute sessions on the ice with friends and family.

A great way to celebrate the holidays, The Rink in Downtown Burbank is just steps away from hundreds of shops and restaurants decked out for the holiday season, making it a joyful family outing and memorable getaway. Admission is $10.00, skate rentals are $3.0, and Bobby the Seal rentals are $6.00.  Season passes are available for $159 and are valid for unlimited skating every day from Friday, November 28 through January 19, 2015.

Special events at The Rink in Downtown Burbank include:

• Ugly Sweater Mondays, ’80s Night Wednesdays, and Thursday Night Fever, where skaters are encouraged to get into the spirit, dress up, and have fun on the ice from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• The Mayor’s Tree-lighting Ceremony in front of City Hall on Friday, December 5 at 6:30 p.m. – stop by and skate before and after event!
• Santa Claus will be making an appearance on Saturday, December 13, and kids of all ages are invited to skate with the big man himself from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m.
• The Rink will be filled with Santas and Elves during Skating Santas Night, an event where everyone is welcome to arrive in costume on Saturday, December 20 from 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m..
• Performances by the Los Angeles Ice Theater are scheduled for every Saturday in December at 5:45 p.m.
• For those wanting to brush up on their skating skills, classes by professional instructors from Pickwick Gardens Ice Skating Rink are offered starting Saturday, December 20 at 9:00 a.m. and 9:25 a.m., and for adults on Tuesdays at 7:50 p.m.

All season, the KCET Community Kiosk will be on-site giving Rink attendees the opportunity to play an active part in KCET’s 50th anniversary. The interactive kiosk visually displays historical KCET touch points, and prompts community members to answer the question: “How do you envision a better state?”  Visitors are encouraged to participate in this unique community experience.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

On Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., be sure to visit Downtown Burbank’s weekly Farmer’s Market in the parking lot behind the Community Services building.

Free parking is available at numerous structures in Downtown Burbank. For details, please visit www.DTNBUR.com. For further information, the public is asked to please call (818) 238-5180, or visit www.DTNBUR.com.

The post Burbank Ice Rink Returns With Eight Weeks Of Winter Fun appeared first on myBurbank.com.

As we begin this holiday season, I have been reflecting on the things I am most grateful for;
family, friends and good neighbors.

I am thankful to live in a community where we have so many residents who volunteer their time
to make wonderful things happen in our city.

– To all our volunteers- thanks to you for your time and commitment.

-To all the non-profit organizations who are involved in offering services and assistance to those
in need, you make our city great!

Wishing everyone in our city a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

Bob Frutos

The post Holiday Message from Councilman Bob Frutos appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Football-

CIF Southeast Division Playoffs:

Quarterfinals-

Salesian 48 Burbank 27 (see story) Bulldogs end season 8-4 overall

First round-

Burbank 38 El Rancho 34 (see story)

Burbank 16 Burroughs 10 (see story) Bulldogs improve to 7-3 overall, 5-2 in league (3rd place). Burroughs falls to 6-4, 4-3 (4th place). Burbank gains two points in the “myBurbank CUP” race.

Burroughs 38 Glendale 0 (see story)

Burbank 56 Arcadia 14 (see story)

Boys Water Polo-

CIF Division IV Playoffs

(first round) Cerritos 21 Burbank 2. Bulldogs end the season 9-17 overall.

(wild card) Burbank 11 Culver City 10

Pacific League tournament

Hoover 19 Burbank 5 (3rd place)

Glendale 21 Burbank 8 (semifinals)

Burbank 16 Burroughs 8 (see story) Bulldogs gain two points in the “myBurbank CUP” standings.

Girls Volleyball-

CIF Division II-A Playoffs

Quarterfinals-

Windward 3 Burbank 0 (25-15, 25-16, 25-14). Bulldogs end season with a 22-6 overall record.

Second round-

Burbank 3 Serrano 0 (25-12, 25-21, 29-27) see story

First round-

Burbank 3 Xavier Prep 1 (25-19, 25-21, 20-25, 25-11)

Glendora 3 Burroughs 0 (25-23, 25-17, 25-18) Indians end the season 10-18 overall.

Burbank 3 Burroughs 0 (26-24, 25-20, 25-17) see story. Bulldogs gain three points in the “myBurbank CUP” race for the season series sweep.

Burbank 3 Glendale 0 (25-19, 25-20, 28-26) Bulldogs improve to 20-5 overall and 11-2 in league.

Burbank 3 Hoover 0 (25-15, 25-8, 25-21)

Burroughs 3 Pasadena 2 (25-16, 25-14, 19-25, 19-25, 15-6) Indians improve to 10-16 overall and 9-4 in league.

Arcadia 3 Burroughs 1 (16-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-16)

Girls Golf- 

Burbank’s Irene Maemura’s spectacular season and high school career came to an end at the CIF Regional State Qualifier at Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino. Maemura finished 47th out of 110 golfers after shooting a four-over-par 76. She has committed to play at the University of Wisconsin in the fall of 2015.

Burbank’s Irene Maemura shot a two-over-par 74 at the CIF Southern Section Individual Championship at Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills. She now advances to the Regional State Qualifier which will be held Thursday at Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino.

CIF Southern Section Girls Golf- Northern Individual Regional Tournament at River Ridge G.C. in Oxnard (par 72)

Burbank’s Irene Maemura shot a six-over par 78 to advance to the CIF-SS Individual Finals on November 6 at Western Hills C.C in Chino Hills.

Girls Tennis-

CIF Division II Playoffs

Santa Monica 9 Burbank 9 (SM wins on games, 87-76). Bulldogs end season 12-5 overall.

Pacific League individual finals

(Singles)

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Glendale’s Natalie Shamma 6-3, 6-2 to win the singles championship for the second consecutive year.

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Arcadia’s Anna Qui, 6-2, 6-0 (semifinals)

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Vivian Wang of Arcadia 6-0, 6-2; d.  Alyssa Kim of Crescenta Valley 6-0, 6-0.

Burbank’s Alice Avedikian d. Natalie Kelechian of Hoover 6-2, 6-0; l. to Anna Qiu of Arcadia 6-2, 6-2

Burroughs’ Alicia Singhanate l. to Alyssa Kim of Crescenta Valley 4-6, 6-2, 10-6

(Doubles)

Burbank’s Nicole Merritt and Yana Paryniuk d.Tina Yueh and Mintra Janopus of Arcadia 6-2, 6-7 (1-7), 11-9 to win the doubles championship.

Burbank’s Nicole Merritt and Yana Paryniuk d. Arcadia’s Aubrie Weissbach and Sydney Tran 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 (semifinals)

Burbank’s Nicole Merrit and Yana Paryniuk d Apolonia Iezza and Erica Whiting of Pasadena 6-3, 6-0; d. Imani Story and Rouzana Hakobyan of Glendale 6-0, 6-2

Cross Country-

CIF State Championships: coming soon

CIF Finals:

Burroughs boys Div. 1 CIF CHAMPIONS! see story

Burbank’s Candela Fernandez placed 3rd overall in Div. 1 with a time of 17:32

CIF Prelims:

Burroughs-

Varsity Boys (125) – 1st in heat

Garrett Boulais (4)                              15:21

Elias Hoxsie (5)                                   15:29

Shane Thompson (6)                           15:30

Andrew Barrondo (7)                          15:37

Justin Villagran (12)                            15:43

Evan Thomas (27)                               16:18

Jack Howe (60)                                    16:51

Varsity Girls (125) – 12th in heat

Heidi Eligio (43)                                  19:55

Emily Virtue (47)                                 19:56

Valerie Monroy (54)                           20:12

Molly Stapelfeldt (61)                         20:22

Bailey Harrison (105)                          22:41

Lili Hooshivar (112)                             23:16

Boys – Fastest Time of the Day (77:40)

Boys – Qualify for CIF Southern Section Division 1 Finals – First Time Since 2011

Burbank-

Varsity Girls (4th)

Candela Fernandez (1st in heat) 17:33

Kira Bochard (15th, 18:52)

Caroline Adams (23rd, 19:00)

Varsity Boys (12th)

Enrique Vizcaino (21st, 16:07)

Pacific League Finals; Nov. 6 at Crescenta Valley Park

Burroughs boys cross country won the meet and captured the league championship for the first time since 2005 when the Indians were a part of the Foothill League! Burroughs dominated placing runners in the second through the sixth positions. Final scores were Burroughs (20 points), CV 57, Arcadia 62 and Burbank with 110.

Burroughs girls cross country finished fourth in the meet and fourth overall.

Varsity Boys (48) – 1^st (1^st in League overall)

$Elias Hoxsie (2)                                 15:44

$Garrett Boulais (3)                            15:44

$Shane Thompson (4)                         15:49

$Andrew Barrondo (5)                        15:50

$Alexander Hirsch (6)                         15:50

%Justin Villagran (11)                         16:13

Jack Howe (21)                                   16:42

Varsity Girls (48) – 4^th (4^th in League overall)

%Emily Virtue (8)                                19:47

%Heidi Eligio (10)                               19:53

Molly Stapelfeldt (16)                         20:26

Valerie Monroy (22)                           21:04

Bailey Harrison (32)                            23:01

Lili Hooshivar (35)                               23:27

Ignatia Teresa (42)                             25:07

$ – 1^st Team All-Pacific League

% – 2^nd Team All-Pacific League

Enrique Vizcaino of Burbank ran a 15:59 to place seventh as the Bulldogs finished fourth in the race and fourth overall.

Burbank girls cross country placed second in the meet but tied for the league title for the first time since 1978! Crescenta Valley tallied 40 points, Burbank had 57, Arcadia 60 and Burroughs with 88.

The Lady Bulldogs were led by league champion Candela Fernandez who ran a 17:57 to capture the individual title. Kira Bochard (19:20) and Caroline Adams (19:24) finished in fifth and sixth, respectively, for Burbank.

67th annual Mt. San Antonio College Invitational

Burbank-

Lady Bulldogs take 4th place in Division I.

Candela Fernandez set a school-record at the Mt. SAC course running a 17:13 to finish second in the girls’ Division I and II individual sweepstakes. Kira Bochard (19:04) and Caroline Adams (19:05) placed 17th and 18th, respectively.

Burroughs-

The Indians, ranked No. 2 in the recent boys Division I poll, placed 4th overall in the Division I and II sweepstakes. Elias Hoxsie (6th) and Garrett Boulais (8th) ran incredible times of 15:08 and 15:15, respectively.

Boys-

Elias Hoxsie (6)                                   15:08

Garrett Boulais (8)                              15:15

Shane Thompson (27)                         15:31

Alexander Hirsch (36)                         15:40

Justin Villagran (56)                            15:59

Andrew Barrondo (76)                        16:18

Jack Howe (102)                                  17:01

Girls-

Valerie Monroy (79)                           20:50

Betsy Ramirez (117)                           22:01

Miranda Acosta (127)                         22:24

Bailey Harrison (133)                          22:56

Deanna Fierro (135)                           23:11

Lili Hooshivar (136)                             23:17

The post Sports Ticker- HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND! appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Coach Le’Von Davis and his Run Hungry Project take a holistic approach to training young runners for track and cross-country events, which won him the support and praise of Burbank area track team members and parents alike.

“Along with track and cross-country training, he provides the kids with health, nutritional and educational advice,” commented Lucy Green, whose daughter Maisy runs with Run Hungry and for the Luther Burbank Middle School Track team.

The Mile Eaters running group with Run Hungry Project coach Le’Von Davis. (Photo Courtesy of Lucy Green)

“One of the main goals is to get young athletes ready for their running career at college and teaching them how to manage their studies with the rigorous training schedule,” Green said.

Currently an assistant track and cross-country coach at John Burroughs High School, Davis began the Run Hungry Project in the past year. The group trains out of two separate locations, in Burbank and Santa Monica, with plans to expand to more locations in the future.

Two freshman runners on the Burroughs track and cross-country teams, Alexander Hirsch and Emily Virtue, started training with Le’Von several years ago when they were students at Luther Middle and joined a North Hollywood track club.

“I first started working with a few Burbank students with the North Hollywood Hawks Track Club – a great program run by Molletta Hawkins,” explained Davis. “We just had a great vibe together.”

John Burroughs Track team member Alexander Hirsch at the Junior Olympics in summer 2014. (Photo Courtesy of Charles Hirsch)

“As interested gained with the local athletes, I branched off and wanted to do something that has more of an educational stance to it,” continued Davis. “I think being well-rounded and having life experience is very important for young athletes.”

Hirsch and Virtue have posted numerous wins over the years in their race categories. Hirsch even competed in the Junior Olympics this past summer.

“Practicing with Le’Von has been a wonderful opportunity,” commented Hirsch. “Over the years, I have learned that anything could be a risk to my training. When I was much younger, I was very careless about going onto a trampoline, trying a friend’s skateboard and other acts that could hurt me.”

“As I developed my ability, I started to see how dangerous everyday life could be,” added Hirsch. “I had to be more responsible to weigh the consequences of my actions.”

Hirsch started running with the Los Angeles Hawks Track Club while attending Roosevelt Elementary. He began working with Davis in 2013. Hirsch’s specialty is distance events, including the 3000 meters, 1500 meters and 5K cross country.

Emily Virtue, representing Luther Burbank Middle School, and Coach Le’Von Davis of the Run Hungry Project at the All City Meet April 13, 2013. Virtue placed first in the mile race. (Photo Courtesy Alima Virtue)

“Le’Von’s attention to detail in the training leading up to the Junior Olympics built up Alexander’s level of performance to compete on a national stage,” commented Charles Hirsch, Alexander’s father.

Virtue has trained with Davis for the past three years. The freshman competes in cross-country in the fall and middle distance events in the spring. Her favorite event is the 1600 meters.

“LeVon taught me a lot about how there is more to running than just the training,” said Virtue. “There is also eating correctly, having the right form and getting yourself prepared for the race with ice and rest.”

“I’m really happy that Coach Le’Von was my coach because he put a lot of time into making specific workouts so that we could get faster,” the fourteen-year-old added.

Twelve-year-old Green trains in Burbank three to four times per week with Davis, and has attended a few Santa Monica beach runs.

Luther Burbank Middle School’s Maisy Green runs a 3K. (Photo Courtesy of Lucy Green)

“I have always loved running but training with Coach Le’Von has made me understand the different ways my body works which is making me faster,” Green commented. “Competing at events is exciting.”

“We do lots of fun stuff too, like watching college races, touring UCLA and having beach days,” she went on to say. “All of us on the team are good friends.”

The Run Hungry Project stands out from other track and field clubs with its variety of programs including college preparation, understanding sports nutrition, participation in community events and helping out with Run Hungry digital media projects.

“I have seen a lot of growth in many different areas with our runners,” continued Davis. “Not just athletically. Everyone of our runners become faster, while enjoying a healthy social environment.”

“The things our athletes struggle with are typical to any student at their age,” he added. “Self identity, peer pressure, time management, proper social behavior and future planning. The Run Hungry Project is a great atmosphere for growth in all these things.”

The Run Hungry Project just completed cross country season and will start training in January for an indoor track meet that will be held in Fresno, California. Their outdoor track season begins in March.

“We had a great group of 13-14 year old girls who really showed a lot of character and skill set,” said Davis about the recent cross-country season. “It is all growing and very exciting to see these kids dig into something that will improve their future.”

The post Run Hungry Project Prepares Young Runners For Success appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The construction activities and closures listed below will occur December 1-5, 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 Dec. 1-5, 2014  (all day work)

• Leland Way Channel Cap: Excavation for piles. Concrete removals. Equipment delivery for drilling operation will begin Dec. 8.

NOTE: Leland Way is now a ONE-WAY STREET (temporarily). Motorists may travel in a northerly direction only, as directed by signage. Also, parking restrictions are now in effect. More info is here.

• Retaining wall work near the southbound I-5 Buena Vista Street off-ramp and the southbound I-5 Burbank Boulevard off-ramp, and south of Hollywood Way.

• Excavation for MSE (mechanically stabilized earth) wall east of the railroad tracks between Hollywood Way and Buena Vista Street.

• Utility removal/relocation on San Fernando Boulevard near the Grismer Avenue intersection.

• Placement of conduit (for pump station) on Victory Place north of Empire 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 Dec. 1-5, 2014

• A short stretch of San Fernando Boulevard near Grismer Avenue will be reduced to one lane during the day.

The post I-5 Empire Project Update: Upcoming Construction Activities and Closures appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Back by popular demand, the 3^rd annual community event, the Burbank Nativity Festival, will be held December 6^th and 7^th, 2014. This event is open to the public and admission is free.

To help capture the spirit of giving this Christmas season, we are teaming up with the Burbank Temporary Aid Center (BTAC).  BTAC is dedicated to providing the poor, working poor, and homeless of our local community with basic services they need to live with dignity, and to serve citizens of the city in times of emergency and disaster.  Those attending are asked to bring any non-perishable food items or a new unwrapped gift.

The Burbank Nativity Festival is a great way to kick off the Christmas season. Catch the Christmas spirit as you marvel at 100’s of nativities from around the world, including 15 nativities from the private collection of Bob and Dolores Hope. This year, a special section is dedicated for nativities of current and past leaders in the community. One highlight of the festival is the Live Nativity. Step back in time and experience the birth of Christ.

Choirs and Soloists from the community will be performing at different times throughout the festival (see attached performance schedule). Performances include, the Hollytones, featuring BTAC’s CEO Barbara Howell, Walter Reed Middle School, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, and St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church Children’s Choir, and various acts from the Burbank community.

Over the past 2 years, we’ve had approximately 5000 spectators viewing more than 300 nativities. It takes approximately 145 volunteers to make this event happen. We anticipate this year’s participation and attendance to be even higher.

The Festival will take place Saturday, December 6^th from 4:00-9:00 pm, and Sunday, December 7^th from 5:00-8:00 pm. The location is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 136 N. Sunset Canyon Drive, Burbank, CA 91501. This event is hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Music Program 2014

Saturday, December 6^th

4:00        Nativi-Dads Acapella Men’s Chorus

4:30       Fenton Primary Chorus

5:00        Karen Hernandez Cervantes, pianist

6:00        St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church Children’s Choir

6:30        Emerson Elementary School Chorus

7:00        Sun Valley Spanish Children’s Choir

7:30        Delanie Finnigan, youth classical guitarist

8:30        Hallelujah Chorus and Community Sing-Along

Sunday, December 7^th

5:00        Gretchen and Margaret English, pianist and violinist

5:30        Thomas Jefferson Elementary School Choir

6:00        Walter Reed Middle School Choir

6:30       LDS Burbank Community Choir

7:00         Hollytones featuring Sunny Cannon, Barbara Howell,

Teresa Marasek, and Stephanie Marks

7:30        Hallelujah Chorus and Community Sing-Along

The post Burbank Nativity Festival Returnes This Weekend appeared first on myBurbank.com.

People seem to like to play games and for four people, their attempt to get games from Target landing them in the Burbank Jail.

This past weekend, Burbank Police were called out to Target in Burbank four different times by store security after two people from Los Angeles, one from North Hollywood and one from Glendale were caught trying to steal merchandise.

The following accounts were told to Burbank Police by Target security personnel:

Friday, November 28:

Daaron Cowan, (20) of Los Angeles was turned over to Burbank Police after the man entered the store and selected a Play station 4 game console worth approximately $400.00.  The suspect then exited the store without paying for the item.  He was stopped by store security and was detained.  A citizens arrest was completed and the suspected was arrested for petty theft.

About two hours later, Hayk Gabrielyn (28) of Los Angeles was taken into custody after he  entered the store empty handed and selected a Play Station 4 Game console.  He proceeded to customer service to return the Play Station 4 for cash using a receipt form a previous purchase for such a console.  The suspect was given a refund in the amount of $434.91 for the Play Station 4.   Gabrielyn was detained upon exiting for theft since he had not purchased the play station he returned.  He was arrested for theft by BPD per a Citizen’s Arrest.

Saturday, November 29:

Kenny Garcia (21) of Glendale was observed by store security selecting a Nintendo DS game console that did not have a security sensor.  The suspect exited the store without paying for the item, and was detained. He was arrested for theft by BPD per a Citizen’s Arrest.

Sunday, November 30:

Luis  Resendiz (21) of North Hollywood became the fourth person to grab a game unit.  The suspect was observed by store security selecting a Play Station 4 game console and exiting the store without paying for the item.  The suspect was detained by store security for theft.  They signed a Citizen’s Arrest form and the suspect was arrested for the theft by BPD.

The post Shoplifting Spree Hits Burbank’s Target appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A key reform was introduced by Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Burbank) today – AB 10, which would increase financial-disclosure requirements and modernize the forms used by government officials to report their interests.

“Increased transparency is essential to protecting public resources, preventing corruption, and restoring public trust,” said Gatto.  “This legislation will bring disclosure requirements into the 21st century.  These reforms will shed light on business dealings of political insiders and give Californian’s greater access to the information they deserve.”

Concerns over the “Form 700” documents required by the Fair Political Practices Commission were brought to light by the Bay Area News Group, which noted that “California hasn’t significantly updated its financial disclosure laws for elected officials in decades, and the forms that officials must fill out require only the vaguest information… Elected officials also need not disclose exactly what their businesses do or who their partners are.”

Gatto’s legislation would address these concerns by modernizing the Form 700 disclosure document in four specific ways:

(1) Clarifying the reporting ranges for investments, property, and income to be less broad, and more specific, providing tax payers a better picture of the financial interests of an elected official;

(2) Requiring elected officials to disclose who their business partners are;

(3) Requiring elected officials to disclose what exactly their businesses do; and

(4) Requiring elected officials to report the number of times they excused themselves from a vote because of a conflict of interest.

“AB 10 will increase transparency by making the financial disclosure of elected officials more clear and comprehensive,” said Gatto.

The post Gatto Calls for Greater Transparency and Disclosure for Government Officials appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Holiday Fever! sleighs audiences with a tasty smorgasbord of seasoned comedy. For 85 wonderful minutes, there are platefuls of fun: Heaping helpings of inspired holiday skits, vaudeville routines, and Broadway musical send-ups! With plenty of room for dancing, prancing and dashing, plus a few vixens! (With one of them blitzen!) Scoops of singing that tickle the funny bone and warm the spirits! And some tasty side dishes of audience participation.

Chris Emerson and Dagney Kerr in sketch ‘Greensleeves’

It didn’t feel like watching a show. It was more like being at a really great holiday party, the kind that casts a nice glow over the whole season. The kind of party with that rare chemistry of camaraderie that has no need of beer or bud.

Holiday Fever is the love child of husband-and-wife team DAGNEY KERR (“Director-Choreographer-Pisces”) and CHRIS EMERSON (“Producer-Lyricist-Gemini.”) They got the fever from the classics of TV comedy. “We were inspired by Carol Burnett,” remarked Chris. “We wanted to capture the fantastic fun she had on her variety show.” In that regard, Dagney and Chris succeeded as performers as well as creators, with a great sense of comedic timing.

Comedic talent was also evident in the performances of ERIK MARION (“AKA ‘Snuggles’ – Aquarius,”) MATT KELLEY (“Has never stolen lunch money – Leo,”) and MICHAEL MIRANDA (“Favorite Number is ‘7’ –Aquarius.”) MISSY DOTY (“Loves Steak – Loves Softball – Leo”) shines in “Santa Baby” and HOLLY RIDDLE (“Humanitarian – Hand Model – Capricorn”) has a great turn as the one-too-many gal at the holiday office party, then U-turns and belts out great “Hard Candy Christmas.”

Dagney Kerr in ‘Disco Silver Bells’

So it’s high praise indeed to say that PETER VARVEL (“Astrology is for Squares”) and CHRISTOPHER AGUILAR (“He’s So Young! – Libra”) stole the show with their hilarious, deadpan dancing that had all of us rolling in the aisle. (There’s only one aisle.)

BTW, the cutsey tag lines on the bios have a lot of solid acting experience lines underneath them. Missy Doty was among the cast’s real-life working actors (as in taking orders from directors, not diners.) “The stage was my first love,” said Missy. “And I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to be in this show.”

Which inspired me to add this to my Thanksgiving List: having pros that have loved a delightful show into life in my own backyard. Give yourself an early Christmas gift and see Holiday Fever!

Holiday Fever! continues through November 20 at the Banshee Theatre, 3435 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. Performances are at 8p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and at 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets range from $12.50 to $25.00, group discounts available. Visit holidayfeverlive.com for more information.

Chris Emerson and Dagney Kerr ham it up in Holiday Fever

The post “Holiday Fever!” Heats Up Magnolia Park With Hilarity appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank City Clerk Zezette Mullins goes through the hundreds of papers that a candidate such as incumbent Emily Gabel-Luddy will have to read and pledge to. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

While the deadline is extended for any incumbent wanting to file papers extended to Wednesday, seven have submitted their papers to run for City Council while six are seeking a seat on the School Board.

Burbank City Clerk Zizette Mullins gives the only incumbent Emily Gabel-Luddy who has filed papers the oath of election code of ethics. ( Photo by Ross A. Benson)

For City Council the following have filed and met the December 1 deadline: Emily Gabel-Luddy (incumbent), Elise Stearns-Niesen, Sharon Springer, Christopher John Rizzotti, Juan J. Guillen, David Nos and Will Rogers.

Turning their papers in for School Board are: Roberta Grande Reynolds (incumbent), Steve Ferguson, Armond Aghakhanian, Vahe Hovanessian, Jesse Tangkhpanya and Greg Sousa.

Burbank elections are held primarily via mail-in ballots, though there will be last-minute opportunities to vote in-person at a limited number of polling places. Burbank’s Primary Election will conclude on February 24, 2015, followed by a runoff General Election concluding April 14, 2025. If any candidate gets 50% plus one vote in the primary, he will be elected with facing the runoff.

The post City Council, School Board Candidates File Papers appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
myBurbank Sports Editor

With cross country having come to an end this past weekend, we look back at one of the greatest seasons in Burbank High School history. If you missed the superlative efforts by Candela Fernandez, don’t worry. You are in luck. She’s only a junior with another year to cement herself as one of the State’s top long distance runners and possibly the area’s best of all-time.

As the weeks dwindled down towards the end of the cross country season, Fernandez had four goals in mind:

• Become the Pacific League individual champion
• Finish in the top 3 at the CIF Finals in Division I
• Finish in the top 5 at the CIF State Championships
• Qualify for the Nike Nationals in Portland, Oregon

Fernandez, 16, capped off an amazing season accomplishing the first three goals and falling just short of the fourth.

Candela Fernandez

First, she swept all three league meets in convincing fashion with times of 17:57 (Crescenta Valley Park), 16:37 (Arcadia County Park) and 17:57 (CV Park- League Finals). More importantly, Fernandez led the Lady Bulldogs to a league title, the first for Burbank since 1978.

In addition, Fernandez set a new school record at the Mt. San Antonio Invitational with a blistering time of 17:13. Consider this- her freshman year she ran a 19:59 at Mt. SAC followed by an 18:29 her sophomore year. Imagine what could happen a year from now.

Fernandez’s success continued at the CIF Southern Section Prelims where she coasted to a first place finish in her heat with a time of 17:33. The Bulldogs advanced as a team to the CIF Finals a week later for the first time since 1987.

At the CIF Southern Section finals, Fernandez placed 3rd overall in Division I with a time of 17:32 earning her a spot at the CIF State cross country championships in Fresno.

With the State’s elite runners coming together to compete for cross country’s ultimate prize, Fernandez had one final strong run and placed 4th individually in Division I with a time of 17:42 to earn All-State honors.

“It’s so awesome to compete against the best because they are ranked in the State and are amazing runners,” Fernandez said.

She finished 11th overall among all five divisions narrowly missing the required top-5 placement to advance to the Nationals. You can bet that will be her #1 goal in 2015.

Fernandez’s remarkable season ranks as one of the most decorated in Burbank history. It is safe to say that she has become Burbank’s greatest female runner surpassing McKenzie Paul in 2010. All of Paul’s records have been swept aside by the talented and humble Fernandez.

Candela Fernandez led the Burbank girls to a league title; the first for BHS since 1978 (Photo by Dick Dornan)

Her journey is a unique one in that she never ran long distance prior to coming to BHS. She came out freshman year, gave it a shot, and the rest is history.

“I started off like everyone else not knowing what the sport was and just having to get used to it,” she said. “I began to really fall in love with it and put in the hard work. That’s how I got better.”

By the spring of her sophomore year, Fernandez had made her mark in track with school-record times in the two mile (10:49.60) and mile (4:57.59) while competing at the CIF Track and Field Finals. She became the first female athlete ever at Burbank to break the five-minute barrier in the 1,600.

She credits her hard work ethic and training with the boys track and cross country teams to helping her improve and excel at a high level.

“I began running with the guys last track season during my sophomore year,” Fernandez said. “Having me there pushed them because they don’t want to get beat by a girl and me hanging off of them during speed workouts and long runs definitely pushed me.

“I’ve worked really hard to be where I am at. Sometimes it’s unbelievable when you take a step back and think about all you’ve done. At the same time, I can’t say it’s surprising because of all the work I’ve put in. You put in the work and you get the results.”

Coach Trevor Marca has done a superb job preparing Fernandez for the grind of a cross country season both physically and mentally. Even though he realizes he is witnessing something special, it hasn’t come as a total surprise to him.

“It’s been a lot of fun over the course of the last couple years,” Marca said. “It hasn’t been totally surprising because I felt she had the tools such as the work ethic, the mentality, the discipline to attack the sport the correct way and have the respect and knowledge of the sport to be able to succeed.

“We take it one season at a time and even one meet at a time. She has areas where she can still improve and areas where we will focus for the track season. My brain is already working in overdrive of getting her to the next step.”

And to think she is only 16 years old. We still have track in the spring and the entire 2015-16 school year to truly appreciate Fernandez’s run to greatness.

The post Burbank’s Candela Fernandez Completes Spectacular Cross Country Season appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The smell of warm baked cookies, holiday music, and laughter will fill the air at Burbank City Federal Credit Union this Christmas season. Local children will have the chance to meet the one and only Santa Claus this month when he steps away from the North Pole to visit Burbank City Federal Credit Union.

On December 19, 2014, between 12:00 noon and 6:00 pm, Burbank City is welcoming the community to visit our branch at 1800 West Magnolia Boulevard (between Orchard Dr. and Parish Pl.) to meet the jolliest man around!

Upon arrival, children will be greeted with candy canes and warm baked cookies by a few of Santa’s elves. Children and their families will have the opportunity to meet Santa and enjoy the festivities. We encourage the kids to bring their letters to Santa, and we welcome families to bring cameras or use phones to take pictures.

In addition to all the festivities, Burbank City will also be hosting a social media contest. People who post their “Burbank City Santa” event photos on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BurbankCity) using the hashtag: #BurbankCitySanta will be randomly entered to win a $50 Vons gift card!

This event is completely free, and we welcome the community to join us for all the fun! For more information, please contact Stephanie Murillo at 818-846-1710 x 352 or smurillo@burbankcity.org.

The post Burbank City Federal Credit Union to be Transformed into North Pole appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers have been setting up telescopes every month for more than 10 years along the Chandler Bikeway at Lima Street and Chandler Boulevard in the Magnolia Park district of Burbank. Weather permitting, the group will set up Thursday, December 4, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. for star- and planet-gazing.

“We try to reach the youth and grow interest,” commented Bob Alborzian of the Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers, noting that U.S. college students currently make up a dwindling percentage of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) majors.

Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers’ Bob Alborzian talks about the Dobsonian telescope. (Photo Courtesy of Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers)

In 2003, the City of Burbank removed an unused rail line that had run in between North and South Chandler Boulevards, from Mariposa Street to Clybourn Avenue, where border with the City of North Hollywood lies. On August 20, 2004, the Chandler Bikeway held its grand opening party.

“I started putting up telescopes at night once the bike path was finished,” explained Alborzian, “and the Mayor and the City approached me and asked for me to hold a regular event.”

While the Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers may have been slow to start off, the group has gained a lot of momentum and the monthly stargazing parties in Burbank are a big draw.

“Before, we almost had to beg people to look through telescope and now we go and they are waiting for us,” continued Alborzian. “It’s a delight.”

Alborzian, who has Master’s degrees in both Astronomy and Library Science, met the founder of the international Sidewalk Astronomers group, John Dobson, as a student at UC Berkeley.

Dobson taught Alborzian how to build a telescope at home, something for which members of the Sidewalk Astronomers are known. The Sidewalk Astronomers share their knowledge and their time with interested people in their communities.

Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers set up along Chandler Bikeway. (Photo Courtesy of Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers)

The nonprofit group was formally established in 1976 although Dobson had been sharing his enthusiasm with like-minded individuals for more than a decade previously.

“We teach people how to build telescopes for free,” explained Alborzian. “Your only cost is the build material.”

“Growing up, my mom would often tell me a Persian proverb: ‘seek knowledge and education from the cradle to the grave because one lifetime is not enough,’” he added.

At 69 years young, the retired librarian still takes classes to continue learning about the world around him.

In addition to the monthly stargazing parties at the Chandler Bikeway, the Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers also set up telescopes at the monthly Griffith Observatory Public Star Parties, at area schools and at libraries throughout the region. The group visits Arroyo Seco Academy in Highland Park on Friday, December 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The monthly star parties held by Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers on Chandler Bikeway continue to grow in popularity. (Photo Courtesy of Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers)

Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers close out the year with dates on December 27 at Griffith Observatory and on the 29th at Burbank’s Chandler Bikeway and at the Echo Park Library.

The stargazers also visit Griffith Observatory on January 24, the Fillmore Library on January 26, Chandler Bikeway January 27 and the Silverlake Library on January 28.

More information can be found on Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers website. Monthly Chandler Bikeway Stargazing dates are also posted on myBurbank’s master calendar.

The post Burbank Sidewalk Astronomers Draw Growing Interest appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Football-

CIF Southeast Division Playoffs:

Quarterfinals-

Salesian 48 Burbank 27 (see story) Bulldogs end season 8-4 overall

First round-

Burbank 38 El Rancho 34 (see story)

Burbank 16 Burroughs 10 (see story) Bulldogs improve to 7-3 overall, 5-2 in league (3rd place). Burroughs falls to 6-4, 4-3 (4th place). Burbank gains two points in the “myBurbank CUP” race.

Burroughs 38 Glendale 0 (see story)

Burbank 56 Arcadia 14 (see story)

Boys Water Polo-

CIF Division IV Playoffs

(first round) Cerritos 21 Burbank 2. Bulldogs end the season 9-17 overall.

(wild card) Burbank 11 Culver City 10

Pacific League tournament

Hoover 19 Burbank 5 (3rd place)

Glendale 21 Burbank 8 (semifinals)

Burbank 16 Burroughs 8 (see story) Bulldogs gain two points in the “myBurbank CUP” standings.

Girls Volleyball-

CIF Division II-A Playoffs

Quarterfinals-

Windward 3 Burbank 0 (25-15, 25-16, 25-14). Bulldogs end season with a 22-6 overall record.

Second round-

Burbank 3 Serrano 0 (25-12, 25-21, 29-27) see story

First round-

Burbank 3 Xavier Prep 1 (25-19, 25-21, 20-25, 25-11)

Glendora 3 Burroughs 0 (25-23, 25-17, 25-18) Indians end the season 10-18 overall.

Burbank 3 Burroughs 0 (26-24, 25-20, 25-17) see story. Bulldogs gain three points in the “myBurbank CUP” race for the season series sweep.

Burbank 3 Glendale 0 (25-19, 25-20, 28-26) Bulldogs improve to 20-5 overall and 11-2 in league.

Burbank 3 Hoover 0 (25-15, 25-8, 25-21)

Burroughs 3 Pasadena 2 (25-16, 25-14, 19-25, 19-25, 15-6) Indians improve to 10-16 overall and 9-4 in league.

Arcadia 3 Burroughs 1 (16-25, 25-18, 25-23, 25-16)

Girls Golf- 

Burbank’s Irene Maemura’s spectacular season and high school career came to an end at the CIF Regional State Qualifier at Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino. Maemura finished 47th out of 110 golfers after shooting a four-over-par 76. She has committed to play at the University of Wisconsin in the fall of 2015.

Burbank’s Irene Maemura shot a two-over-par 74 at the CIF Southern Section Individual Championship at Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills. She now advances to the Regional State Qualifier which will be held Thursday at Arrowhead Country Club in San Bernardino.

CIF Southern Section Girls Golf- Northern Individual Regional Tournament at River Ridge G.C. in Oxnard (par 72)

Burbank’s Irene Maemura shot a six-over par 78 to advance to the CIF-SS Individual Finals on November 6 at Western Hills C.C in Chino Hills.

Girls Tennis-

CIF Division II Playoffs

Santa Monica 9 Burbank 9 (SM wins on games, 87-76). Bulldogs end season 12-5 overall.

Pacific League individual finals

(Singles)

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Glendale’s Natalie Shamma 6-3, 6-2 to win the singles championship for the second consecutive year.

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Arcadia’s Anna Qui, 6-2, 6-0 (semifinals)

Burbank’s Lilit Vardanyan d. Vivian Wang of Arcadia 6-0, 6-2; d.  Alyssa Kim of Crescenta Valley 6-0, 6-0.

Burbank’s Alice Avedikian d. Natalie Kelechian of Hoover 6-2, 6-0; l. to Anna Qiu of Arcadia 6-2, 6-2

Burroughs’ Alicia Singhanate l. to Alyssa Kim of Crescenta Valley 4-6, 6-2, 10-6

(Doubles)

Burbank’s Nicole Merritt and Yana Paryniuk d.Tina Yueh and Mintra Janopus of Arcadia 6-2, 6-7 (1-7), 11-9 to win the doubles championship.

Burbank’s Nicole Merritt and Yana Paryniuk d. Arcadia’s Aubrie Weissbach and Sydney Tran 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 (semifinals)

Burbank’s Nicole Merrit and Yana Paryniuk d Apolonia Iezza and Erica Whiting of Pasadena 6-3, 6-0; d. Imani Story and Rouzana Hakobyan of Glendale 6-0, 6-2

Cross Country-

CIF State Championships: 

Burroughs boys finish 4th in Division I just eight points behind the State champion!

Finals Results-

Great Oak – 101 – 1st

Dana Hills – 107 – 2nd

Madera South – 109 – 3rd

Burroughs – 109 – 4th

Varsity Boys (193)

Elias Hoxsie (19)                                 15:40

Garrett Boulais (23)                            15:43

Shane Thompson (28)                         15:47

Andrew Barrondo (35)                        15:51

Alexander Hirsch (36)                         15:51

Justin Villagran (78)                            16:24

Timothy Wells (97)                             16:35

*78:52 – 7th fastest team time of the day in all five divisions

Burbank’s Candela Fernandez placed 4th individually in girls Division I with a time of 17:42 to earn All-State honors

CIF Finals:

Burroughs boys Div. 1 CIF CHAMPIONS! see story

Burbank’s Candela Fernandez placed 3rd overall in Div. 1 with a time of 17:32

CIF Prelims:

Burroughs-

Varsity Boys (125) – 1st in heat

Garrett Boulais (4)                              15:21

Elias Hoxsie (5)                                   15:29

Shane Thompson (6)                           15:30

Andrew Barrondo (7)                          15:37

Justin Villagran (12)                            15:43

Evan Thomas (27)                               16:18

Jack Howe (60)                                    16:51

Varsity Girls (125) – 12th in heat

Heidi Eligio (43)                                  19:55

Emily Virtue (47)                                 19:56

Valerie Monroy (54)                           20:12

Molly Stapelfeldt (61)                         20:22

Bailey Harrison (105)                          22:41

Lili Hooshivar (112)                             23:16

Boys – Fastest Time of the Day (77:40)

Boys – Qualify for CIF Southern Section Division 1 Finals – First Time Since 2011

Burbank-

Varsity Girls (4th)

Candela Fernandez (1st in heat) 17:33

Kira Bochard (15th, 18:52)

Caroline Adams (23rd, 19:00)

Varsity Boys (12th)

Enrique Vizcaino (21st, 16:07)

Pacific League Finals; Nov. 6 at Crescenta Valley Park

Burroughs boys cross country won the meet and captured the league championship for the first time since 2005 when the Indians were a part of the Foothill League! Burroughs dominated placing runners in the second through the sixth positions. Final scores were Burroughs (20 points), CV 57, Arcadia 62 and Burbank with 110.

Burroughs girls cross country finished fourth in the meet and fourth overall.

Varsity Boys (48) – 1^st (1^st in League overall)

$Elias Hoxsie (2)                                 15:44

$Garrett Boulais (3)                            15:44

$Shane Thompson (4)                         15:49

$Andrew Barrondo (5)                        15:50

$Alexander Hirsch (6)                         15:50

%Justin Villagran (11)                         16:13

Jack Howe (21)                                   16:42

Varsity Girls (48) – 4^th (4^th in League overall)

%Emily Virtue (8)                                19:47

%Heidi Eligio (10)                               19:53

Molly Stapelfeldt (16)                         20:26

Valerie Monroy (22)                           21:04

Bailey Harrison (32)                            23:01

Lili Hooshivar (35)                               23:27

Ignatia Teresa (42)                             25:07

$ – 1^st Team All-Pacific League

% – 2^nd Team All-Pacific League

Enrique Vizcaino of Burbank ran a 15:59 to place seventh as the Bulldogs finished fourth in the race and fourth overall.

Burbank girls cross country placed second in the meet but tied for the league title for the first time since 1978! Crescenta Valley tallied 40 points, Burbank had 57, Arcadia 60 and Burroughs with 88.

The Lady Bulldogs were led by league champion Candela Fernandez who ran a 17:57 to capture the individual title. Kira Bochard (19:20) and Caroline Adams (19:24) finished in fifth and sixth, respectively, for Burbank.

67th annual Mt. San Antonio College Invitational

Burbank-

Lady Bulldogs take 4th place in Division I.

Candela Fernandez set a school-record at the Mt. SAC course running a 17:13 to finish second in the girls’ Division I and II individual sweepstakes. Kira Bochard (19:04) and Caroline Adams (19:05) placed 17th and 18th, respectively.

Burroughs-

The Indians, ranked No. 2 in the recent boys Division I poll, placed 4th overall in the Division I and II sweepstakes. Elias Hoxsie (6th) and Garrett Boulais (8th) ran incredible times of 15:08 and 15:15, respectively.

Boys-

Elias Hoxsie (6)                                   15:08

Garrett Boulais (8)                              15:15

Shane Thompson (27)                         15:31

Alexander Hirsch (36)                         15:40

Justin Villagran (56)                            15:59

Andrew Barrondo (76)                        16:18

Jack Howe (102)                                  17:01

Girls-

Valerie Monroy (79)                           20:50

Betsy Ramirez (117)                           22:01

Miranda Acosta (127)                         22:24

Bailey Harrison (133)                          22:56

Deanna Fierro (135)                           23:11

Lili Hooshivar (136)                             23:17

The post High School Sports Weekly Recap appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Coordinating Council Holiday Baskets program is underway, with food and toy drives currently being held in local schools. On Saturday, December 6, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., the Burbank Coordinating Council (BCC) conducts its annual December donation drive at 12 stores throughout Burbank.

In addition to donations needed to fulfill over 500 holiday baskets for local families in need, BCC are asking for volunteers to help collect donations on Saturday. For Burbank high school students in need of service hours, volunteering with the BCC is a great way to help out and fulfill graduation requirements, said Janet Diel, BCC President and co-chair of the Holiday Baskets program.

Food donations for Burbank Coordinating Council Holiday Baskets in this photo from December 2013. (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

“You can work a 2, 4, 6, or 8 hour shift collecting food outside one of 12 stores in the city,” Diel said. “So many families would go without food and gifts for their holiday without you! Come and join us and you will always be glad you did.”

BCC began the annual Holiday Baskets program in 1936 as a way of helping local families celebrate the Christmas season with food and gifts.

“It takes everyone working together to make this tremendous project happen each year,” Diel said. “There are so many ways and days to help — pick one or pick all. Don’t miss the chance to come and ‘feel good’ being a donor or volunteer. It is an experience you will always remember.”

On Wednesday, December 10, volunteers gather at the Little White Chapel to pack food bags between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m. On Friday, December 12, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., volunteers are needed to move the food bags from the Little White Chapel to Washington Elementary School.

Firefighters prepare to deliver holiday packages. (Photo Courtesy of Burbank Coordinating Council)

That same day, Friday, December 12, volunteers are needed to build un-adopted baskets at Washington Elementary School in the auditorium from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m.

While many local service groups and businesses adopt entire families and donate pre-packaged baskets, there are still many baskets to be packed for all of the applicant families.

Saturday, December 13, is delivery day for the baskets and the BCC needs help between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

“If you are still wanting to adopt a family or donate to the program, please go to our website at www.burbankcoordinatingcouncil.org for more details and the donor form to fill out and email back to us at ccholidaybaskets@aol.com,” added Diel. “Or, call us anytime at (818) 216-9377 or (818) 238-7647.”

Those wishing to volunteer on Saturday, December 6, for the food drive are asked to call Barbara Salamon (818) 843-7571  for details and a store assignment.

Diel also encourages school children throughout Burbank and their families to turn in donations for classroom food drives, currently being held a schools in the Burbank Unified School District.

The post Burbank Coordinating Council Holiday Baskets Program Asks For Donations And Volunteers appeared first on myBurbank.com.

David Schwer of Burroughs (left) and Burbank’s Mike Woods will play key roles for their teams this season (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Jim Riggio
Special to MyBurbank

The Burroughs and Burbank High boys’ basketball teams have enjoyed success in recent years, having both reached the CIF Southern Section playoffs a year ago. Both teams will be looking to duplicate that success under coaches Adam Hochberg and Jerry DeLaurie, respectively.  If they are to do so, both will have to look for younger players in their programs to make significant contributions.

Burroughs

The Indians went 16-11 last season and have a nice group returning for Hochberg, now in his sixth year as head coach. The Indians do not have any high-profile transfers like they did a year ago when cousins Amaad Wainwight and Rashid Ewing enrolled at the school. Both played a key role, but left the school right before the start of the CIF Southern Section playoffs.

Burroughs point guard Steven Hubbell

One important player back is 6-foot junior point guard Steven Hubbell. He averaged 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists a year ago.

Also returning is senior guard and third-year starter Chris Hovasapian (6-0), who averaged 7.2 points per game a year ago.

Junior guard David Schwer (6-3) is a third returning starter. He averaged 5.7 points per game last year.

Senior guard Steven Sanchez (5-8) played quality minutes in a reserve role last year. Senior forwards Jakob Davis (6-3) and Bernardo Rosales (6-0) are also returning varsity players.

Three key players on last season’s 18-win junior varsity team are junior forwards Angelo Solis (6-4) and Nick Howard (6-0) as well as junior guard Eric Allen (5-7).

Indian sharpshooter Chris Hovasapian

“We have an excellent mixture of varsity experience and youth,” Hochberg said. “It will be our chemistry and mental awareness that will guide us this season.  We have a group of guys that play well together and when connected on the court (is) a very competitive group.”

The Indians will hope to have big body to help in the paint in junior Ricardo Herrada, who is 6-6 and weighs 295.  Herrada is currently nursing an ankle injury.

Sophomore Justin Henderson (6-2) is a bright young prospect.

Senior guards Bailey McMurray (5-8), Taylor Bercini (5-9) and Angel Cano (5-4) provide depth for the Indians. Senior Scott Dekker (6-2) gives the Indians support in the front court.

Junior guard Rocky Casolan (5-11) and junior forward Elijah Cain (6-1) are two more underclassmen with a bright future.

The Indians are currently participating in the San Dimas Tournament.

Burbank

Third-year coach Jerry DeLaurie enters this season with a lot of promise for the future. But he warns the outcome of this season will depend on how quickly his young talent comes together as just four players return from last season’s squad.

Burbank Coach Jerry DeLaurie

“We have to be very patient. We have to be the youngest team around. This is definitely my biggest challenge in 20 years of coaching,” De Laurie said. “For us, it is how we deal with growing. We’ll probably have three or four sophomore starters.”

The Bulldogs went 13-14 a year ago and will have seven sophomores on the varsity team, two of which played varsity as freshmen.

DeLaurie says his team in well balanced and he said he can go deep into his bench without a loss in production.

Sophomore Mike Woods (6-2) and junior Ellie Hanno (5-10) are clearly the team leaders, DeLaurie said.

Multi-faceted Mike Woods

“Mike can do a lot of things for us,” DeLaurie said. “He has great anticipation for steals. He will do a lot of things in a lot of categories.”

The Burbank coach said Hanno averaged 12.8 points per game in the summer and will likely be expected to be a key scorer.

Also returning to the varsity are sophomore Ben Chavez (6-1) and senior Adrian Gonzalez (5-6).

Sophomore Cameron Sweeten (5-10) is being looked as possibly the starting point guard. Senior Robert O’Brien (5-11) is a top newcomer.

The Bulldogs will look to seniors Julian Baker (6-3) and Mohammad Kobaissi (6-2) and sophomore Tommy Clark (6-3) to add muscle on the inside.

Junior Levon Galstyan (6-0) could see time as both a guard and forward.

Junior Edgar Reyes (5-8) and sophomores Mekhi George (5-10), Henrik Anassian (5-8) and Abdullah Kobaissi (6-0) offer more depth to the guard positions.

The Bulldogs are currently competing in the Burbank Tournament as they look to make a positive first impression to their fans.

The post Boys Basketball Preview: Burroughs and Burbank Tip-Off New Season appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Marlan Andrew Guiliacci was born to Sesto and Lillian (Johnson) April 5, 1933 in Gillespie, IL. Marlan, his two brothers Ron & Bob & Mother Lillian moved to Burbank in 1946. He has resided her for 68 years. Marlan graduated from Burbank High School in 1951. He joined the Navy, in 1951 during the Korean War and served proudly on the U.S.S. Ticonderoga.

Marlan Andrew Guiliacci

In November, 1974 Marlan married the love of his life, Judy Hurst. They created an amazing partnership, raised an incredible family; He was so proud of all of their accomplishments and was happiest when he had one or all of them with him.

Painting Contractor (Andrews Painting Company) for 35 plus years he made friends on every job. He was truly a caring man and put so much effort into making sure he created a relationship with every client not just completed a project.

Marlan was active in his Church & Community. He has logged thousands of volunteer hours. He volunteered for the Burbank Police Department, Joslyn Adult Center. He also helped the RSVP Program, by picking up pastries and delivering them for the Mary Stoica Café. For the past four years has led the One Warm Coat Drive for Veterans each year. He loved helping at the BCR each Halloween with their carnival. Marlan was Neighborhood Watch Block Captain for 30 years and loved National Night Out. Marlan loved life and was loved by those who knew him.

Marlan is survived by his wife of 40 years – Judy, two daughters: Marla Goodwyn, Tracy Andrews, and two sons: Brian Andrews, Todd Randall. He is the proud Grandfather to 5 Grandsons: Spencer Andrews, Marlan Joshua & Cody Pette, Taylor & Connor Goodwyn. Granddaughter-in-law Brittany Andrews is the mother of his first Great-Grandson: Oliver Andrews.   He is also survived by brother: Ron Randall, and Step-parents: Neda Guiliacci and Rudy Triana. Many Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and countless friends. He is preceded in death by parents and his brother Robert S. Guiliacci.

Video Tribute at http://www.tributes.com/obituary/guestbook/Marlan-A.-Andrews

The post Marlan Andrew Guiliacci appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Zita Lefebvre has made a career of building bridges between Cartoon Network and the Burbank community.

After 23 years, she has taken a voluntary separation package from Turner Broadcasting, a Time Warner Company, and her last day is today.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“The time is right,” she said Thursday morning.

Lefebvre started as Director of Operations with Cartoon Network in 1999, but soon tagged “and Community Relations” on the end of that title when she started doing community outreach projects, originally on her own time, she said.

“I saw a need and I really liked doing it,” she said.

Her time at Cartoon Network has been the best job anyone could ever have, she said.

“I had a wonderful boss — Brian Miller — who when I said ‘I want to start a program at the schools,’ he said ‘OK,'” she said. “And when I said ‘I want to go to the Boys & Girls Club and bring some artists,’ he said ‘if you can round them up, go for it.’ So he was really open to it. He is a resident of Burbank and he really liked my community involvement and championed me on it.”

One recent project she saw to completion was the building of raised planters the disabled students could fill with plants at Stevenson Elementary School. Lefebvre called Lowe’s and asked them to work with her on the project. Lowe’s has continued to partner on two or three other projects since then.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“I just had to think outside of the box, and bring money to the programs and I wrote grants and got money and it was a whole new avenue for me and my kids are grown, I had the time, I did it,” she said.

What got her started in partnering with local nonprofits was the creation of the Garden Club at Stevenson Elementary School.

“I received a check from Turner and we bought gardening books and plants, and I got volunteers from Cartoon Network,” she said. “People were so happy to go to the garden. It was like a mini vacation in the middle of the day. They would dig, cut, plant and work with the kids and it grew every year. We’ve been there for 14 years.”

Last year, an outdoor kitchen was built in the garden, through a grant from the Captain Planet Foundation, founded by Ted Turner. Now students have a place to wash their hands and the produce after it’s harvested.

But Lefebvre has made many more contributions to Stevenson Elementary, Principal Debbie Ginnetti said.

Through her efforts, Cartoon Network provides bottled water for fun runs and healthy snacks for the annual Walk Your Child to School Day. Cartoon Network and Time Warner have been instrumental in funding technology upgrades.

A major program Cartoon Network partnered on a few years ago was the Creative Story Writing project. Fourth- and fifth-graders wrote stories that were judged by teachers and administrators. The winning story was animated by Cartoon Network artists.

“Zita has gone over and beyond — we have been so fortunate to have her as a business partner,” Ginnetti said.

Cartoon Network artists have also been mentors with young members of the Boys & Girls Club, said Shanna Warren, chief executive officer.

(Photo b Ross A. Benson)

They have conducted monthly animation classes for many years, have made a short film with the youth members and made a mural of Cartoon Network shows for one of the walls at the club. They also support the annual Student Showcase, which is a culmination event for all the arts activities the youth members have participated in over the year.

“Zita always been very interested in providing enriching art experiences for our club members, and she does it all year round,” Warren said. “She’s just always been a huge support for us.”

Lefebvre not only really cares about people but works to make life better, make change in this community, said volunteer Barbara Sykes.

“She is a very involved person and doesn’t shy from working hard,” Sykes said. “It’s been very obvious that Zita doesn’t do the work because she is part of Cartoon Network but rather brings her company with her and shows them how to be good partners and part of a community.”

Lefebvre epitomizes the concept of partnerships between businesses and schools in Burbank, said Stacy Cashman, Jordan Middle School principal. She spearheaded a project in which students competed in a storyboarding contest at Jordan and then gave one of the students the opportunity to write and direct a short animated film called, “You Are Special.”

“It was an experience our students, staff, and community will never forget,” Cashman said. “In fact, the film has been entered in several film festivals. She has left a legacy at Jordan Middle School. Zita is passionate, strong and authentic. I consider her a role model for women in leadership and I look forward to seeing what she will do next.”

Helping youth has been a #1 priority with Lefebvre, said Janet Diel, president and Campership chairwoman with the Burbank Coordinating Council.

“Her participation in our Campership program helped children to experience camp and to have the opportunity to grow and develop leadership skills and self-confidence too,” Diel said. “Cartoon Network sponsored 30 children this past summer — all due to Zita.”

Lefebvre’s community outreach is rewarding, she said, because in addition to seeing the projects come together, she watches Cartoon Network employees grow from their participation.

“It is so good to see young people, all of our artists are quite young, get involved. I liked to match the employee to a project so they were happy with it,” she said. “We have a lot more employees invested in the community — people that don’t live in the community will come in on Saturday to work on the garden at Stevenson, or make a drawing for the auction for Family Service Agency or will volunteer time to take pictures for an online auction that we are going to set up for Family Service.”

A youth in the art therapy class at Family Service Agency painted pictures of his house prior to his starting therapy
and after. The first picture had a black cloud hanging over it, the second picture, above, had the sun beaming on it,
indicating how happy he was now that he was away from his abuser. (courtesy of Family Service Agency)

Lefebvre served two years as president of the Family Service board of directors and initiated the first art show fundraiser in town, said Laurie Bleick, executive director of Family Service Agency.

“She raised over $30,000 with the art show 10 years ago — long before other people were doing arts shows as fundraisers,” Bleick said.

Ross Purdy, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, met Lefebvre when they were serving on the board of directors for the Family Service Agency many years ago.

“I saw her give generously to support the agency’s work and I had the chance to see many acts of kindness from her that go unnoticed by many,” he said. “She has a humble spirit and she really cares about enriching people’s lives. Zita is the kind of person that makes this world a better place.”

Julie Larsen, executive director of BCR “a place to grow”, can’t think of a nonprofit organization in Burbank that hasn’t received support from Cartoon Network, thanks to Lefebvre.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“She was always thinking first of what her company could do for others,” Larsen said.

Turner Broadcasting employees worked with BCR clients to replant the garden in front of the BCR center, Larsen said.

Lefebvre worked with the Burbank Police Department last year on the Bike and Walk to School project chaired by Lisa Rawlins, senior vice president, Public Affairs, Warner Bros. Entertainment.

“On behalf of Cartoon Network, Zita has made a significant contribution to the local community,” Rawlins said. “What is truly extraordinary is her deep, personal and genuine commitment to the people of Burbank.”

In addition, Lefebvre has worked with the police and fire departments to bring programs to Cartoon Network for employees. The police have provided security training in the office and fire department representatives have taught CPR instruction.

Police Chief Scott LaChasse called her a “real icon” in terms of partnerships and having the ability to understand the needs of the community.

“We partnered on a lot of different initiatives and she was the consummate team player,” he said.

One event that she consistently organizes at Cartoon Network is on Valentine’s Day. She honors safety personnel as well as other people who provide service to the public whether it be educators or those from other city departments, LaChasse said.

Lefebvre also worked with the city and Burbank Chamber of Commerce to explore ways to encourage other businesses to become community partners, said Joy Forbes, the city’s Community Development director. She attended meetings and wrote letters to businesses telling them that employees want to feel part of the community in which they work, which Lefebvre discovered through her experience with the Cartoon Network’s employees.

“She made business owners understand that getting involved in a partnership makes for a better work environment for their employees and that they will enjoy it and want to stay with that company,” Forbes said.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

One business that became involved in community partnerships through Lefebvre’s encouragement was Nickelodeon, Forbes said.

Lefebvre lives in La Canada but she plans to continue to give time to Burbank nonprofit organizations. She will continue to write grants to raise funds for Family Service Agency as well as work in the Garden Club at Stevenson Elementary, because it’s good exercise and “good for the soul”.

Lefebvre plans to work more in her home garden and she will be taking a master gardening class at the Arboretum. After a couple months of rest, Lefebvre will start looking for a part-time job, she said, adding that she’s not calling her leaving Cartoon Network as “a retirement”.

“I’m just calling it a change of scenery — just moving on,” she said.

Her parting words for her friends in the community are “Thank you for being so generous with your city and sharing it and your schools and your nonprofits, it’s been a joy!” she said.

The post Zita Lefebvre Leaves Cartoon Network, Leaves Burbank Legacy appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Joaquin Miller Elementary Theater Arts Department presented the fourth-grade play Alice in Wonderland on Wednesday evening, December 3. They also put on two shows for the whole school on Thursday, December 4.

Supported by a grant from Burbank Arts For All Foundation and adapted by fourth grade teachers John Ossiff and Melissa Pamperin, Alice in Wonderland involved the entire fourth grade class in the production.

A cast of 29 students were chosen after tryouts in September. An orchestra of seven students and a stage crew of 15 students, who operated lights, sound and video and moved sets, were also created. An additional 40 students painted the scenery used in the play.

Julie Damaryan has something clever to say, as the Mad Hatter in Miller Elementary’s “Alice in Wonderland.” (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Pamperin and Ossiff combined elements of both Lewis Carroll books, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, and added some songs and other elements, according to Ossiff.

“In this story, Alice and her friends are being bullied by her older sister,” explained Ossiff. “Alice follows the White Rabbit into Wonderland. There she meets some unique characters, defeats a Jabberwock and stands up to a Queen who bullies everyone around her into not singing.”

“When Alice returns, she has the strength to stand up to her sister and to inspire her friends to do the same,” he added.

The cast and crew rehearsed the play during lunch time since September, according to Ossiff who also said, “The cast and crew have been very dedicated in giving up their free time at lunch for this work.”

“Over the past few years we have been trying to develop and expand the Miller Theater Arts Program,” commented Ossiff. “For the past three or four years we have presented performances by both fourth and fifth grade classes.”

The cards enact a scene in Miller Elementary’s “Alice in Wonderland.” (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Last year, the school presented The Year Santa Took a Vacation and The Mystery of the Mysterious Missing Thing. In previous years, they have put on Robin Hood The Musical, M.A.D.D. Respect, So . . . You Wanna Be a Fairy Godmother?, A Christmas Carol, Peter Pan and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

“We have been fortunate to have parents with theater training and experience who have come in and provided voice, movement and acting training to the students,” said Ossiff.

“Our future goals are to expand the number of performances, including more performances by third grade classes, and to improve and permanently install lighting and sound equipment in our auditorium,” he continued. “Grants last year and this year from the Burbank Arts for All Program have been a great help.”

Porter Rodriguez, who played Alice, said, “The caterpillar was really cool. I especially liked my scene with the gnat in the train car. I liked talking with giant bugs.”

Joaquin Miller Elementary fourth-graders present “Alice in Wonderland.” (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Overall the cast did a great job in learning their lines,” he also said. “Both the cast and crew demonstrated great responsibility in presenting the play. All of the teachers here are very proud of them.”

Principal Judy Hession was also proud of the production. She pointed to Miller Elementary Theater Arts Department as a contributing element in the school’s recent California Distinguished School Exemplary Art recognition.

The post Miller Elementary Theater Arts Presents “Alice In Wonderland” appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Mayor David Gordon along with Santa and Mrs Claus will be at Burbank City Hall for this evenings official Tree Lighting event.He will be joined by fellow City Council members and Special Guests.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The festivities will kick off with plenty of entertainment at 6:30 tonight with Santa arriving a while later. After the tree lighting kids can stick around to have their pictures with Santa. Tonight the Rink behind City Hall will be open with Special performances.

The City suggest come early as the streets around City Hall will be closed, and parking in available in several parking structures in and around the downtown area.

The post Mayor’s Tree Lighting Planned for Tonight appeared first on myBurbank.com.