The David Starr Jordan Middle School community has drawn together to raise funds towards the school’s planned auditorium renovation, creating JordanARTS – the Jordan Auditorium Renovation Tribute Show. The group presents a fundraising show on January 8, 2015, at the school auditorium.

The ARTS event, hosted by Jordan parent and actor Johnny Dowers (The Bridge), will bring together current Jordan students, Jordan alumni, performers from John Burroughs High School and the Burbank-based alternative funk/rock band Attic Empire, which includes JBHS alumnus Tyler Connaghan.

Vocal music teacher Christine DeMore and instrumental music teacher Dr. John Whitener will take the stage, along with JBHS graduates who continue to work with the middle and high school Vocal Music Association programs such as Dominic Matas, Amanda Richardson and Corey Hildago.

JBHS graduates attending college are also returning to perform, including Nevada Brandt, Nia Johnson, Joe Leone, Jordan Booker, Grace McCarney, Veronica Sanchez, Melanie Spore and Allie Adkins.

“We’re thrilled that the community is coming together in support of our auditorium,” said Jordan Principal Stacy Cashman. “Our award-winning music students deserve to learn and perform in a space that is worthy of their talents and inspires them to continue growing as musicians and artists.”

“Jordan’s auditorium has been the center of the Jordan community since it was built in 1948,” commented JordanARTS member Suzanne Weerts. “Through the years, the space has been used by the public for meetings, presentations and as a polling site.”

“It is a place for Jordan’s families to share in their children’s successes at honors assemblies, parent meetings as well as instrumental music, choir and theatrical performances,” she also said.

A VIP reception will precede the show at 5:30 p.m. on January 8, with live salsa music, a silent auction, “mocktails” and food catered by California Pizza Kitchen. The show begins at 7:00 p.m. Reserved tickets for the show and VIP reception are available at jordanarts.org.

Entitled “ACROBATS,” this Fritz Freleng hand-painted celluloid features Tweety, Sylvester, Daffy and Bugs Bunny, characters Freleng drew for Warner Bros. Studios.

The JordanARTS team is currently conducting an online auction through December 16, with items such as tickets to the L.A. Kings and Magic Castle, a WiiU game console and framed pizza box art from California Pizza Kitchen.

A limited edition Warner Bros. Studios animation cellulioid, hand-painted and signed by artist Fritz Freleng, is also available for bids. Visit the online auction site here to check out the offerings.

For those who may not be able to attend the show but would still like to support the JordanARTS cause, donations can be accepted on the booster organization’s website.

The JordanARTS team aims to raise $100,000 to upgrade the flooring and seating, construct a new sound booth, acquire lighting trusses and updated lighting equipment, build new storage for instruments and production materials and revitalize the lobby foyer with monitors and trophy cases.

While some funds from the Measure S Bond were spent on new air-conditioning, the rest of the auditorium upgrades cannot be paid for out of bond funds. John Muir Middle School held a successful auditorium renovation benefit show in February 2014.

The post JordanARTS Presents Auditorium Benefit And Online Auction appeared first on myBurbank.com.

A program that was formally known as ‘Shop with a Cop’ now recognized as ‘Heroes and Helpers,’ teamed with Burbank police officers, cadets, explorers and even command staff members into Santa helpers as they stopped by Target in the Empire Center Wednesday evening.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Burbank Boys and Girls Club chose 25 kids who were given the special opportunity to join police officers along with Burbank noon rotary members to go on a shopping spree. Kids were provided $100.00 gift cards and were encouraged to look for gifts for their siblings and parents as well as a gift for themselves.

Members of Noon Rotary Club that helped a couple of the kids shopping. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Following the shopping spree the kids and their parents were invited back to the Burbank police station for dinner where they enjoyed pizza and pasta which was prepared by Ciao Cristina Restaurant.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post Burbank Police Officers Bring Smiles to 25 Kids appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
myBurbank Sports Editor

Twenty-four teams began the prestigious Burroughs Magnolia Park Optimist Tournament this past Monday. Only two are left standing.

Burroughs advanced to the championship game with a thrilling 55-50 win over perennial power Ventura. The Indians will battle Harvard-Westlake tonight at 7:30 pm for the title. The Wolverines knocked off Valencia, 69-59, in the other semifinal.

Trailing 41-37 early in the fourth quarter, Burroughs went on a 10-1 run to take a 47-42 lead with 4:05 remaining and held on for the victory. It was a total team effort for the scrappy and gritty Indians.

Delaney Nicol sparked the Indians with her steady play at point guard (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Delaney Nicol added 10 points in her best effort of the young season while Abbey Ibarra contributed 14 points and four steals and Sienna Brown chipped in with nine points. Davina Del Castillo grabbed 15 rebounds to go along with seven points and four steals.

“Everyone played unbelievable with great energy and toughness. We just kind of grinded it out,” Burroughs coach Vicky Oganyan said. “That’s our identity. We condition like that and we practice the same way. We always tell the kids in the fourth quarter, ‘This is why we do this. The fourth quarter can pay off for us against the good teams.’ It shows we had enough in the tank in the end to make a run.”

The Indians have run the table thus far in their own tournament defeating Simi Valley (67-15), Agoura (46-42), Granada Hills (54-33) and now the Cougars from Ventura High School.

Sienna Brown, shown here vs. Granada Hills, scored all nine of her points in the second half against Ventura (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Relying on full-court defensive pressure along with an intense half-court man-to-man defense, Burroughs forced 15 turnovers against Ventura forcing the Cougars to take quick shots and stay out of rhythm.

The game was tight throughout with the Indians leading 12-11 after the first quarter, Ventura up 23-22 at the half, and the Cougars entering the final period up one, 38-37.

The stage was set for the do-or-die fourth quarter; a quarter where the Indians make their mark because of their intense conditioning and rigorous off-season workouts.

Nicol, who scored six of her 10 points in the fourth quarter, jump-started the Indians offense with a three-pointer from the top of the key to cut Ventura’s lead to 41-40. Del Castillo followed with a floater in the key and Ibarra converted a steal into a layup. After a Ventura free throw, Ibarra rebounded her own miss and finished a three-point play the old fashioned way to go up 47-42.

“We’ve always been a fourth quarter team. I think we work the hardest out of all the teams. We push ourselves more than anyone else,” Nicol said. “We have a lot of energy so even if we are down at the beginning of the game, we try to find a way to get back into it. We end up pushing ourselves and coming back because we know we won’t give up.”

Davina Del Castillo looks for a shot against Granada Hills (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The momentum had shifted in favor of Burroughs who maintained the lead until the final buzzer. The Indians defeated a program that won the CIF Southern Section Division IA championship last year.

“It was definitely a fun game to coach and I’m sure a fun game to play,” said Oganyan. “It did feel like a playoff atmosphere. They are one of the best schools out there.”

Brown came through in the third quarter with six consecutive points; two coming on jump shots and the other on a power layup through traffic.

“We were in need of some shots so I took it to the basket and tried to help my team out and get the win,” she said.

Del Castillo stepped up in the fourth quarter ripping down rebounds and preventing the Cougars from mounting a comeback.

“They were pushing us around early and being physical so we had to step up our game,” Del Castillo said. “I just tried to do my best and get the rebounds. We picked up our defense and energy.”

For Nicol, it concluded a special day in her life. The senior point guard was officially accepted to Hamilton College in Clinton, New York. She will be playing softball for the Continentals, a member of the NESCAC, while pursuing a degree from one of the elite liberal arts colleges in the country.

“It’s the best moment ever,” said Nicol. “I don’t think there is any better opportunity than that. It’s been a great day overall.”

Now the table is set for Burroughs as they look to win the tournament championship on its home court.

“We can’t have a letdown. We need the same type of energy,” Oganyan said. “We haven’t won anything. We need to keep getting better every day.”

The post Burroughs Girls Basketball Advances to Tournament Final appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Boys Basketball

Beverly Hills Tournament-

Burroughs 41 Birmingham 32

Steven Hubbell finished with 12 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Angelo Solis added eight points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. David Schwer contributed nine points as the Indians went 2-2 in the tourney.

Burroughs 51 Hamilton 47

The Indians jumped out to a 14-3 lead and rode the hot shooting of Steven Hubbell who scored 17 of his 22 points in the second half.

East Bakersfield 57 Burroughs 47

David Schwer scored 15 points and Eric Allen added 10 off the bench.

Loyola 79 Burroughs 54

The Indians played very well and the final score was not indicative of their effort against a perennial Mission League power. Burroughs trailed 20-18 after the 1st qtr, 38-32 at the half and 42-40 midway through the third quarter. The talented Cubs finished the quarter on a 14-4 run and took over in the fourth quarter to pull away. Steven Hubbell scored 14 points and Jacob Davis and David Schwer each had 11 for the Indians.

San Dimas Tournament-

Ayala 78 Burroughs 73 (championship)

The Indians fell short in the title game as poor free throw shooting was their own worst enemy (13-28). In contrast, Ayala shot 26 for 28. The Bulldogs seized control of the game with a 15-0 spurt late third and into the fourth quarter.

David Schwer scored 31 points to cap off an impressive four games to earn All-Tournament honors. Chris Hovasapian had 19 in the effort and was also named All-Tournament.

Burroughs 54 Alta Loma 47 (semifinals)

David Schwer and Steven Hubbell each had 13 points, Chris Hovasapian added 12 as the Indians improved to 3-0 to begin the season.

Burroughs 72 Corona Roosevelt 70

David Schwer scored 24 points (6 three’s) while Steven Hubbell added 16 (4 three’s) and Chris Hovasapian 14 as the Indians pulled out a back-and-forth affair.

Burroughs 77 Barstow 48

David Schwer pumped in 21 points, Chris Hovasapian and Angelo Solis each had 14 in the opening game of the season for the Indians. JBHS jumped out to a 25-8 first quarter lead and coasted the rest of the way.

Burbank Tournament-

Agoura 57 Burbank 43

Burbank 55 Hollywood 35

Burbank 55 Chatsworth 46

Roosevelt 70 Burbank 50

Girls Basketball

Burroughs Magnolia Park Optimist Tournament-

Harvard Westlake 38 Burroughs 28 (championship)

Brooke Radcliff scored eight points but the Indians’ offense was stuck in neutral in the loss. Davina Del Castillo and Sienna Brown were named All-Tournament.

Granada Hills 42 Burbank 27

Burroughs 55 Ventura 50 (semifinals) see story

Canyon 52 Burbank 36

Anastasia Tsybaeva scored 15 points and Yazzy Sa’ Dullah added 10

Burroughs 54 Granada Hills 33

The Indians jumped out to a 25-8 lead at halftime and cruised to the win. Davina Del Castillo finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and eight steals and Brooke Radcliff had 12 points and four steals.

Burbank 43 Fairfax 37

The Bulldogs knocked off the Div.1 City Section champ of a year ago with an impressive performance. Burbank outscored Fairfax, 19-2, in the third quarter to propel to the win. Yazzy Sa’ Dullah scored 17 points, dished out eight assists and grabbed five rebounds. Anastasia Tsybaeva added 13 points and seven rebounds.

Burroughs 46 Agoura 42

Davina Del Castillo scored 15 points, Sienna Brown added nine and Abbey Ibarra sparked the defensive effort with a game-high five steals

Valencia 66 Burbank 43

Yazzy Sa’ Dullah scored 20 points and Abby Troy added 11 for the Bulldogs

Burroughs 67 Simi Valley 15

Jordan Meltzer scored 17 points and Davina Del Castillo recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds

Burbank 59 Canoga Park 10

Anastasia Tsybaeva scored 15 points to lead the Bulldogs

San Marino Tournament-

West Virginia-commit Yazzy Sa’Dullah averaged 21.5 ppg, 6.3 apg, 5.3 spg and 4.3 rpg en route to All-Tournament honors. Anastasia Tsybaeva averaged 14.5 ppg and 7.0 rpg. The Bulldogs went 2-2 in the tourney.

Ribet Academy 62 Burbank 50

South Pasadena 79 Burbank 60

Burbank 66 Pasadena Poly 23

Burbank 61 Corona Santiago 29

Boys Soccer

Ralph Brandt Tournament-

Burroughs 2 San Fernando 1

Diego Galaviz and Hunter Guerin scored first half goals for the Indians and Jordan Morgan made 12 saves including two great saves at the end of the game.

Burroughs 0 Thousand Oaks 0

Granada Hills 2 Burroughs 1

Non-League

Burroughs 2 Chaminade 2

On a rainy and wet field, Burroughs came from two goals down to score two goals and tie Chaminade, 2 – 2. The Indians (0-0-1) had a shaky first half and were outplayed all over the field, giving up two goals while adjusting to the weather conditions.

In the second half, the Indians came back. ‎In the middle of the half, sophomore‎ Diego Galaviz scored to cut the Eagles lead and start the comeback. Ten minutes later, David Campos scored on a header to tie the game.

The Indians had plenty of chances to win the game in the second half. Scoring chances by Marcos Arana, David Campos and VJ Salazar were stopped by good goalkeeping. A late chance by Cade Borland from 50 yards barely missed the goal.‎ Goalie Jordan Morgan made some big saves to preserve the tie.

Burbank 5 Temple City 0

Monrovia 3 Burbank 0

Girls Soccer

La Canada 6 Burbank 1

Schurr 2 Burroughs 0

San Marino 4 Burroughs 0

Monrovia 4 Burbank 2

Temple City 2 Burbank 0

Girls Water Polo

Burbank Tournament-

Notre Dame 7 Burbank 6 (3rd place) Bulldogs go 2-2 in tourney

Glendale 5 Burbank 1 (semifinals)

Burbank 11 Mark Keppel 0

Burbank 7 San Marino 4

Burroughs 4 Sacred Heart Academy 3 (OT) Indians go 3-1 in tourney

Burroughs 18 Glendale “B” 4

Notre Dame 9 Burroughs 1

Burroughs 15 Marlborough 0

Non-League

La Canada 12 Burroughs 6

Burbank 5 San Marino 3

Burbank 9 La Salle 2

Burbank 22 Flintridge Prep 1

La Canada 15 Burbank 7

Burroughs 27 Flintridge Prep 2

The post Morning Sports Ticker- December 15 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Dr. Armond Aghakhanian, a local community leader and teacher, announced that he is running for one of three open seats on the Burbank Board of Education.

“I am running for the School Board to guarantee that all of Burbank’s children have access to the best public education leading to a successful career. Together, we can prepare our children for entry-level careers, college, university, and workforce training programs while ensuring the highest level of academic achievement from our schools, small class sizes for individualized learning, and the most professional teachers and staff on all campuses. Furthermore, as a member of the School Board, I will work to implement safe schools for all of our children, technological advancement at all our schools, integrity of the budget process and unite our community through diversity.”

Dr. Aghakhanian has over fifteen years of experience in the field of education & public service, serving on several local non-profit boards, commissions, and teaching. He currently serves on the Burbank School Facilities Oversight Committee & Burbank Parks, Recreation & Community Services Board. He is also a former member of the Burbank Community Development Goals & Civic Pride Committee and the Boys & Girls Club of Burbank and Greater East Valley Board of Directors. Dr. Aghakhanian earned his Doctorate degree in Education and Psychology from Pepperdine University and his MBA degree from Woodbury University.

“Together, we will implement positive changes on the School Board to better our schools and community. Education must help our youth reach their highest potential. I will be honored to serve my community, using my experience and passion for education.” Dr. Aghakhanian stated.

For more information, please visit: www.ArmondforSchoolBoard.com

The post Aghakhanian Announces Candidacy for Burbank School Board appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The construction activities and closures listed below will occur during the week of December 15-19, 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. 15-19, 2014   All day work, unless otherwise specified.

• Leland Way Channel Cap: Drilling operation to begin December 18. Placement of roadway markings (one-way arrows). Flaggers will be on site if needed to ensure street and driveway access at all times. Work may be delayed due to rain.

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 (night work).

• Signage operation at the southbound I-5 Burbank Boulevard off-ramp.

• Utility removal/relocation operation near the closed southbound I-5 Scott Road off-ramp.

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. 15-19, 2014

• Up to two lanes of southbound I-5 between Hollywood Way and Buena Vista Street will be closed between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.

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.

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

The Burbank High School Law Dogs for made it to the quarter finals in Constitutional Rights Foundation (CRF) Mock Trial Competition. Burbank High School placed 6th out of 96 Los Angeles Private and Public Schools and was awarded Finalist ribbons for making the Top Ten.

Outstanding Attorney roles were played by seniors Sharis Manokian, Brooke Haddad (with three perfect scores), Anush Markaryan, Xavier Cook, and Junior Ryan Hyun.

Outstanding Witnesses were played by freshmen Nikki Howell (9), Andrea Amaya (11), Storm Lamoureaux (11), Lyna Moreno (11), Lucy Tatryan, and Bailiff Aryana Jamal (9). Reggie Golightly (9) was the Courtroom Journalist and Gigi Manukyan was the Courtroom Artist.

The judges were actual courtroom judges. All schools are guaranteed 1st and 2nd round then the top schools advance to semi and then quarter finals. The court case this year was an art theft case by an indebted college student.

There were 4th amendment pretrial issues attacked superbly by Anush, Ryan, and Xavier.  Four of the above students were also awarded Honorable Mention Awards for their performances by the judges.

The post Burbank High School “Law Dogs” Excel at Mock Trial Competition appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The Burbank Police Department will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint on Friday, December 19, 2014, between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. This checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The purpose of this operation is to reduce the number of persons killed and seriously injured in alcohol-related traffic collisions and to reduce the amount of property damage caused by impaired drivers. A major focus of these checkpoints is to increase awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and to encourage sober designated drivers.
A DUI checkpoint is a proven, effective method for achieving this goal. By publicizing these enforcement and education efforts, the Burbank Police Department aims to deter motorists from drinking and driving.

Traffic volume and weather permitting, all vehicles may be checked and drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested. Our objective is to send a clear message to those who are considering driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and/or drugs – Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest. The public is encouraged to help keep roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver.

The post DUI Checkpoint Coming This Friday in Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Dolphins (Photos courtesy of Mike Graceffo)

The Burbank Dolphins “A” division team lost a heartbreaking state championship game to host Pasadena, 21-20, taking second place in the SCMAF State tourney. The Dolphins won the San Gabriel Valley SCMAF tournament to advance to the State tourney which was held at Villa and Jackie Robinson Parks in Pasadena.

The Dolphins defeated Downey, Saddleback Valley and Duarte to set up the showdown with Pasadena. The Dolphins finished with an overall record of 21-1. They won the Burbank league championship, won the Burbank tournament championship and won the San Gabriel Valley SCMAF title.

“We had an awesome season and I am so very proud of my players and coaches,” Coach Mike Graceffo said. “They played and coached like true champions all year long.”

##############

The wins keep on coming. After completing an undefeated 15-0 campaign and winning the championship for the Burbank Park and Recreation District, the Burbank Dolphins took their talents to the next level and again came out victorious.

The Burbank Dolphins won the San Gabriel Valley A Division SCMAF (Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation) football title by defeating San Marino, 24-14, in Azusa on Sunday. They defeated Arcadia, 52-6, and Azusa, 30-0, to advance to the championship game.

Led by Coach Mike Graceffo, a clone of Bill Belichick in youth flag football, the Dolphins will now advance to the SCMAF state tourney which will be held in Pasadena starting the weekend of December 6. With the SCMAF tournament title in hand, Burbank improves to 18-0 on the season.

The team is led by quarterback Jonathan Topete, running back Joseph Augustine, defensive end Duncan Smith, receiver Nicco Chuidian, receiver/safety Chance Van Hook, receiver/safety Jake Panikowski, tight end Carter Kessinger, and guard/defensive end Patrick Shashaty.

Will these Dolphins win the state title? We wish them well. Best of luck to our Burbank boys.

The post Burbank Dolphins Finish Runner-Up in SCMAF State Tourney 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.

Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Congressman Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) announced that Congress has included $5 million in FY 2015 funding bill, also known as the CROmnibus, for a West Coast Earthquake Early Warning System, the first time Congress has ever provided funding specifically for the system.  A limited system developed by Caltech, UC-Berkeley and University of Washington, in conjunction with the United State Geological Survey (USGS), has already been deployed and has proven that the early warning technology is sound. This $5 million in funding will allow those developing the statewide system to begin purchasing and installing additional sensors, build new stations, speed up the ShakeAlert system, and come closer to deploying comprehensive early earthquake warning coverage throughout earthquake prone regions of the West Coast.

“An earthquake early-warning system is essential to save lives, reduce property damage and protect critical infrastructure. This five million dollar federal investment is a down payment on building an integrated, state-wide system,” said Senator Feinstein. “These federal dollars are sorely needed, but more funding is still necessary to complete the system. While the state and private sector must contribute their fair share, I will continue to work with West Coast senators and representatives to prioritize federal funds for this life-saving project. We must get it done before the next major earthquake strikes.”

“It’s absolutely critical that the West Coast implement and build out an earthquake early warning system to give us a heads up before the ‘big one’ hits, so we can save lives and protect infrastructure,” said Congressman Schiff. “This funding will help build out additional stations, speed up the ShakeAlert system, and make it more reliable in our highest priority areas – including Los Angeles and the Bay Area – and those critical few seconds or a minute of warning will allow people to seek cover, automatically slow or stop trains, and pause surgeries. This first phase of funding will allow the work to begin expanding the system, and we will continue to work to secure future funding along with our other federal, state and local partners.”

“We at Caltech applaud Congress for approving the impactful initial funding for an earthquake early warning system,” said Thomas F. Rosenbaum, president of the California Institute of Technology. “This vital step toward implementation wouldn’t be possible without the leadership of the California congressional delegation.”

Earlier this year, Schiff led a group of 25 Members from California, Washington and Oregon in organizing a request that the committee fund an early earthquake warning system. Schiff’s letter requested additional funding for the Earthquake Hazards Program in USGS to kickstart the process of building out the early warning system so we can be ready for the next big quake.  The letter can be found here. Senator Feinstein was critical in securing the language in the Senate Appropriations bill.

The text in the bill reads:

Funding for Natural Hazards programs includes $59,503,000 for earthquake hazards, of which $5,000,000 is provided to transition the earthquake early warning demonstration project into an operational capability on the West Coast. A critical component of the earthquake early warning system is maintaining the existing real-time broadband and strong motion seismic networks along with geodetic monitoring networks. As the earthquake early warning system is developed, USGS is directed to collaborate with universities, companies and other Federal agencies with expertise and existing digital seismic observing networks to continue precise observation of critical fault locations.

The post Earthquake Early Warning System to Become Reality appeared first on myBurbank.com.

An unknown amount of cash was taken during a robbery at the Chase Bank at the corner of San Fernando and Burbank at approximately 1:30 Saturday afternoon.

Burbank police officers responded to the location regarding a robbery investigation.  The unknown suspect (described as Male, Black approximately 50 years of age) entered the bank as a regular customer.

The suspect waited in line and when it was his turn, handed the teller a note.  The suspect was given an undetermined amount of US currency and he left the location.  There was no mention of a weapon and none was seen.

The investigation is on-going in this case.

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Burbank Bob Hope Airport has launched WebTrak, a new online system that allows users of the Airport website to view flight movement, air traffic patterns and noise measurements within the Burbank region. In addition to providing flight and noise information, WebTrak will also be the primary site for anyone who wishes to file online aircraft noise inquiries with the Airport.

WebTrak visitors can use the system to determine individual aircraft type, origin and destination airports, altitude and flight identification for near real-time flights and flights up to 90 days in the past. Individual aircraft are color-coded based on arrival, departure and local airport of origin or destination. Users who wish to file an online noise inquiry do not have to identify an aircraft in order to do so, but may choose to include WebTrak data to provide additional information about the noise event.

WebTrak also shows the noise level measurements and locations of each of the 20 noise monitors around the Airport. Noise levels are shown and the system can distinguish aircraft movement noise from other community noise such as vehicle traffic or ambient noise.

First-time WebTrak users are encouraged to read through the “Start Here,” “Submit Inquiry,” “Legend” and “Help” tabs in the upper left-hand corner to better understand the system’s capabilities.

WebTrak is a product of Brüel & Kjaer, a multi-national firm specializing in sound and vibration. WebTrak replaces AirportMonitor, the Airport’s former online flight information system introduced in 2002, which is no longer supported by its provider.

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Two Burbank Boy Scouts built and donated a manipulative to the Burbank Adult School Parent Ed Program recently for their local Pack 219 project. Daniel Roth and Spencer Solberg, both 10 years old, presented the educational toy to Linda Matsumoto, Parent Ed Program director, on December 11.

The two boys, both Webelos, built the manipulative to fulfill part of the requirements for the Boy Scout Craftsman Activity Badge, which requires members to build two different wooden objects using a coping saw or jigsaw which can be put together with glue, nails, or screws and then finished with paint or stain.

Spencer Solberg and Danny Roth with a manipulative they built for a Boy Scout project. (Photo Courtesy Caroline Solberg)

“I saw it in Arizona at the Phoenix Children’s Museum and I thought the kids in ‘Mommy and Me’ would like it because I saw a ton of kids playing with it,” said Solberg, a fifth grader at Jefferson Elementary School.

Spencer Solberg. (Photo Courtesy Caroline Solberg)

Children use the manipulative by lifting the washers and watching them fall. The washers are different sizes and different weights so they make unique sounds and fall at different rates of speed.

Solberg and Roth met at the BAS Mommy and Me program when they were four years old.

“It was very hard to build but very physically and mentally rewarding,” commented Roth, a fifth-grader at McKinley Elementary School.

“Physically, because I had done something I had never done before. Mentally because I felt good about making something for someone else.”

Building the manipulative “took a lot of work and a lot of time,” Solberg also said. “Sometimes it got frustrating using the drill because my hands got numb when the drill was shaking. But in the end, it was worth it.”

Danny Roth. (Photo Courtesy Caroline Solberg)

One thing Roth learned by making the project, he said, is “wood can be used to build things without names.”

“It was fun to build it,” added Solberg. “Danny and I got to drill and cover it in stain. We also got to sand it and put the washers and rods together.”

“It was fun to see it come together and think how much fun the kids would have.”

Why did Roth want to donate the manipulative to the BAS Parent Ed Program?

“Because that’s where I met my friend, Spencer,” he answered.

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Lifelong Burbank resident and local small business owner Chris Rizzotti received an endorsement from the Burbank Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 761 today in his bid for Burbank City Council.

“The Burbank Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 761 plays an important role in our community and our local economy. It is an honor to receive this endorsement by the men and women who make sure our construction projects are built sound and to proper code. Since 1922 The Burbank Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 761 has delivered the highest quality construction to our Schools, Hospitals, Residential and Commercial Buildings. If elected to City Council, I will look forward to working with these industry professionals who do the good work for our community day in and day out.”

Rizzotti announced his intention to run in March and has been working tirelessly ever since, meeting with community members and sharing his vision for a better Burbank. In the Last couple of weeks Rizzotti received the endorsement of Assemblyman Mike Gatto of the 43^rd District, Burbank Police Officers Association and Burbank Firefighters Local 778.

Chris Rizzotti is the current Vice Chair of the City of Burbank Planning Board. Rizzotti was President of the Burbank Association of Realtors in 2012, received the Realtor of the Year Award in 2013, was President of the Community Service Foundation in 2013, was a Core Team Member for the Measure S Ballot Initiative, and received an Outstanding Contribution Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration. He has been active in civic and philanthropic engagement for many years.

More information about Rizzotti, and details on his vision for Burbank, can be found on his campaign website: www.abetterburbank.com.

The post Rizzotti Picks Up Another Endorsement in Council Run appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank police report that they are taking police reports for packages that have been left on doorsteps and then are taken.  They have recommendations for you if you are buying items online and expect them to be delivered to your home.

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Romance was in the air along with the smell of pine on Friday at the Burbank Community YMCA Christmas Tree Lot.

It was the first time the lot served as a backdrop for a marriage proposal, said Chris Nishimura, president of the Burbank Community YMCA Service Club, which has coordinated the fundraising project for 55 consecutive years.

Patrick Keshishzadeh, 33, a Glendale accountant, wanted to propose in December to his girlfriend Angineh Almasi, 32, a Burbank optometrist, who graduated from Burbank High School.

Angineh Almasi and Patrick Keshishzadeh stand beside the decorated Christmas tree at the Burbank Community YMCA Christmas Tree Lot where she accepted his wedding proposal on Friday. (Photo courtesy Arnis Zargarian)

He decided on Friday, Dec. 12 because he could ask his girlfriend to take a day off of work to go Christmas shopping without arousing her suspicion. He called several tree lots but found the Burbank YMCA tree lot supervisor the most accommodating and because the proceeds go to a great cause, serving children and the community, he said.

The couple’s family and friends arrived early and decorated one of the trees at the back of the lot with framed photographs of the couple. The groom-to-be had made decorations that looked like an eye chart spelling out “I love you” and “Will you marry me?” and strung wooden letters onto a ribbon spelling “Will you marry me?”

Then the family and friends hid behind the Christmas trees surrounding their tree. When the couple arrived, they made their way to the back of the lot where the tree was partially hidden, he said.

The special tree (Photo courtesy Arnis Zargarian)

“The first thing she saw was a tree decorated with Christmas ornaments with pictures of us,” he said. “She was confused. She saw the sign ‘Will you marry me?’ and then all our family members and friends jumped out from behind the other trees and surprised her.”

The wedding will be in the summer of 2016, but they plan to make shopping for their Christmas tree at the YMCA tree lot an annual tradition, Keshishzadeh said.

The Burbank YMCA Service Club is a chartered organization of men and women joined together in “Principle of Partnership” with the YMCA to provide leadership for YMCA volunteering programs.

For almost 70 years, the members have assisted the YMCA staff in special projects and events; caring and providing financial support for Y programs, buildings, equipment and grounds; volunteering in community programs to raise awareness for special needs; and contributing funds to the Y’s annual and capital campaigns by fundraising through Christmas tree sales, the annual pancake breakfast and soliciting grants/gifts.

One of the decorations on the special tree (Photo courtesy Arnis Zargarian)

Last year the Christmas tree lot project provided grants of $6,500 for YMCA programs; $48,000 for YMCA capital projects, new external signage and the purchase of another 12-passenger van to transport children from the elementary schools to the Child Development Center; and $1,000 for community programs.

Nishimura thanked service club past president Frank Sakata and his wife, Betty, for continuing the Christmas tree project. Frank Sakata started the project 55 years ago.

The proceeds go to provide youth scholarships to pay for summer camp, Youth in Government and all the youth programs at the YMCA for youth whose families can’t afford it, Nishimura said.

For the past three years, the funds raised by the service club have purchased three, 12-passenger vans to transport youths from the elementary schools to the YMCA Child Development Center, so they can participate in after-school programs. The center’s employees help youth with homework and lead them in arts and crafts, exercise in the gym and other fun things.

Angineh Almasi shows her engagement ring (Photo courtesy Arnis Zargarian)

The YMCA’s mission since inception back in the late 1800s, has been “Developing the individual through programs that build a healthy Mind, Spirit and Body,” Nishimura said. The Burbank Community YMCA has been working to accomplish that for 90 years.

“It’s a lot of fun working at the Christmas tree lot, and the community is very supportive,” he said. “A young couple was looking at our trees and the woman called me over and said she could get a similar tree for 30% less at Lowe’s.”

“I explained this is a fundraising lot and how the proceeds help children. She was pretty impressed and she and her boyfriend bought a tree and on top of that, gave a $20 additional donation to the YMCA,” Nishimura said.

The lot is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. now through Dec. 24. It is located at Burbank Boulevard and Victory Place with the entrance on Lake Street.

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The streets were wet following a night of rain as morning customers lined up for their normal cup of brew at the Coffee Bean located on San Fernando Blvd.

(Photo Courtesy Burbank Fire Dept)

Around 7:10 a.m. a male driver in his mid teens went driving into the AT&T Phone store at the corner of Magnolia and San Fernando Blvd. He was traveling at such a high rate of speed he went directly through the phone store hitting a adjoining wall with the Coffee Bean next door.

(Photo Courtesy Travont White)

Employees evacuated the store when the wall came crashing in and the front of a BMW appeared.

Burbank Fire responded and requested Burbank building inspectors along with Public Works after a pedestrian walk signal was plowed down in the cars path.

(Photo Courtesy Travont White)

The AT&T store remained closed most of the day following the accident and the Coffee Bean cleared the debris and opened later in the day.

Burbank traffic officers responded to a high number of accidents on Tuesday, and they made recommendations to slow down and travel cautiously in the weather conditions.

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Alan Falkner wowed judges with his technologically savvy holiday lighting while La Providencia Guild’s thrift shop’s window displays were elegant with a touch of humor.

Each took first place in their respective categories in the city’s 32nd annual Holiday Decorating Contest, judged Thursday evening by the Burbank Civic Pride Committee.

First Place Residential Winner located at 1316 Catalina Street (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The committee doesn’t judge on the amount of lights or things people put in their yards, and it’s not about grandeur, committee chairwoman Linda Silvas said.

“Each committee person has their own preference but we look for things that speak to us about the season,” she said. “We are always amazed at how many houses — and businesses — we do drive by that are decorated and don’t enter the contest.”

First Place Commercial Winner. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

It was disappointing, she added, that there were only 17 entries and none in the youth category this year. The committee is trying to find ways to encourage more people to decorate their houses and businesses and to enter the contest.

“We enjoyed what we did see,” she said. “I think the two we chose capture the spirit of the holiday.”

They were honored Tuesday night by the Burbank City Council and received certificates of recognition.

This is Falkner’s second time to win first place in the residential category. Last year he received second place for his intricately designed lighting system that is synchronized with six songs viewers tune into on their car radio via a low-power FM transmitter. The address is 1316 N. Catalina St.

New this year is the RGB (red green blue) pixel star on the roof. The RGB pixel technology allows him to create different shapes and patterns in any color he wishes.

Falkner’s occupation is a field service engineer for a major lighting equipment manufacturer, but he’s been fascinated with lighting since he was a child.

DeeDee Rowlands, Donna Sagona Salant and Sandra Kelley are the creative talents behind the window displays of the La Providencia Guild’s Children’s Hospital Thrift Shop, 3301 W. Burbank Blvd. It won the commercial category.

One window shows a highboy secretary with a long scroll of Christmas wishes draped across the desktop. A Christmas tree is dazzling in white and silver trim.

“It’s very, very exciting for all of us,” said guild President Veronica Chavoor. “We cannot believe it. We are speechless, to be recognized like this. It’s wonderful to know our windows are bringing joy to others in the community.”

The post And the Winners Are… appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank’s Boy Scout Troop 209 is selling mistletoe and taking donations for wrapping holiday gifts from now through Dec. 24 on the third floor near Sears in the Burbank Town Center mall.

Mistletoe will also be available at other locations, including Porto’s, Handy Market, Sheridan Gardens and Pavilions, on weekends in December. For more information, visit www.troop209.org.

Four of the Boy Scouts from Troop 209 wrapping holiday gifts are, from left, Ethan Lucsik, Christopher Coomber, Dylan Gilberto and Hayden Lucsik. ( Photo courtesy John Dlugolecki)

This is the troop’s major fundraiser and helps Boy Scouts pay for camping trips, where they can participate in hiking, river rafting, rock climbing, canoeing and more.

Funds raised have helped Scouts like Christopher Coomber, 15, of Troop 209, go to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, which costs $1,000 for two weeks. Christopher lives in Sunland and is in the 10th grade at Verdugo Hills High School in Tujunga.

It was the best trip of his life, he said.

Christopher has been involved in the holiday gift-wrapping project for three years. The largest gift he has wrapped was a baby stroller in a huge box. It took several rolls of paper and some patch-work, but he finally finished it, he said.

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