Award-winning Actor, Producer and Casting Executive GERALD WEBB isn’t one to beat around the bush. “I don’t subscribe to the idea that you have an unlimited time to have a career in Hollywood. You don’t have an unlimited amount of resources. You guys don’t have unlimited time and I don’t want to BS you because too many industry people already do.”

GERALD WEBB

Gerald’s made good use of his time and resources. He’s been one of the country’s most innovative DJ’s, having created the first method for DJ’s to scratch a CD like a record. By the late 90’s he “fully embraced his love of performance and began seriously acting.” In other words, he did a zillion auditions. Fast forward ten years, and Webb had garnered 100+ TV and film credits. In ’09, he cast his first movie, so impressing the studio that they hired him as their in-house casting director and later casting executive. In 2011, he became a successful producer, now the owner of two award-winning production companies.

Since the 2014 conference, Gerald has just finished producing Minutes to Midnight starring William Baldwin.

Gerald’s walked the talk about taking charge and working hard. And he once again brought a lot of hot food to the table at the Burbank International Film Festival’s day of free industry seminars. Here are some highlights of Gerald Webb casting pearls of hard-won wisdom along with some oldies-but-goodies from last year.

Webb’s Word on Acting Before the Audition

• Know your stereotype. “The secret to success in Hollywood is this: What stereotype will they let me play?” And once you master that stereotype, then they realize you can act. Only then do you get to play other roles. So ask yourself what people see you as. Have friends and actors tell you. Then make the head shot conform to it.

• The two essential shots. Actors need to have at least two shots: a great commercial shot and a great theatrical shot. Get these two right and you’ll be fine.

• Attitude Adjustment. The #1 reason to win the audition: “It’s all about the work.” Oh, and “It doesn’t matter if me or my assistant likes you. It matters that you’re professional and that you do the work at the level I expect. When you’re done, say ‘thank you’ and leave.”

• On juggling schedules. Gerald realizes that juggling work, personal obligations and unexpected audition opportunities can be challenge. But, “You need to figure it out. It’s not our burden. I have no problem if you try in advance to reschedule. But don’t make your problem casting’s or production’s problem. ”

• (OBG) Be professional. Show up on time. Have your head shot. Bring the sides. Fix your hair. Don’t look at the floor. Listen. A lot of would-be actors neglect these basics, and they don’t have the excuse of being rank beginners. Don’t be in that crowd.

• (OBG) Learn the lost art of script analysis. Strong choices aren’t just making up stuff. They are justified by the So read the script. (And don’t answer yes to the director if you haven’t. You’ll be found out.) Then analyze the whole script, not just your character’s lines.

• (OBG) Know thyself. You have to be really honest with yourself and where you are as an actor and as a person. Acting is not faking. It’s embodying the truth of your character and their situation. You can’t embody the truth if you don’t acknowledge where you are in your journey.

• (OBG) Don’t play it safe. If you’re an actor and you haven’t blown an audition, you’re doing something wrong. Maybe you aren’t taking the kind of chances that would bring out the full range of your talent. Take them! Be willing to lose the audition battle to win the career war.

Webb’s Word on Acting During the Audition

• Heads up. At least for your first line of dialogue, don’t look down at the page. Look at the person you’re addressing.

• Ask smart questions or don’t ask at all. If you have a question, don’t ask, “What are you looking for?” Make sure the question is specific and informs your performance.

• This actually happens. Don’t pronounce names wrong.

• A common mistake. For auditions on tape, don’t play to the corners of a room. If you do, you’ll be in profile to camera. Shrink your performance to accommodate the camera not the room.

• Another common mistake. Make sure any gesture is a choice, not just nervous energy or indicating due to lack of good preparation. This is part of knowing yourself and your instrument.

Webb’s Word on After the Audition

• Avoid this fate. If you blow it with less-than-professional conduct or deliver, it can really cost you. “Once that happens we’re not calling you in for a long while; in some cases, maybe years. So when you send in your postcard saying ‘remember me,’ you’re reminding us that when we gave you an opportunity YOU WEREN’T READY”

• Whether or not you get the role, get respect. “There are a million reasons why you don’t get a call-back and the majority have nothing to do with you.” Parts get rewritten, directors and producers often change their minds or hire friends, etc. But whether or not you get the role, being a prepared professional will get you respect and future auditions.

• (OBG) Not all feedback is verbal. Not getting callbacks is part of your feedback. Notice that “feedback” is not spelled “f-l-a-t-t-e-r-y.”

Webb’s Word on Producing

• Don’t forget who brought you to the dance. “My first duty as a producer is the fiduciary responsibility I have to get my investors their money back.”

• (OBG) Embrace the Low-Budget University. You can learn a lot on low-budget films if you’re willing to do the work, wearing multiple hats.

• (OBG) Get the money up front from distributors. Get as much of it as you can, and then be prepared to be content with it. Because chances are, you’ll never see any of the other money.

The post Webb Casting Pearls, Scene II appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Shane Black is the kind of filmmaker that writers envy because he directs as well as writes (so the smart blondes date him.) Iron Man 3, the Lethal Weapon series and The Long Kiss Goodnight are among his credits. Shane was recently in back-to-the-future mode, doing the follow-up film to Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang, his first film as director. He’s currently in post-production on his newest film The Nice Guys starring, among others, Ryan Gosling, Russel Crowe, Kim Basinger and Matt Bomer. Shane is also working on a reboot of the Predator franchise and is developing the DC Comic Book Doc Savage for the big screen.

At the BIFF Screenwriting Panel, Shane was a nice guy to his audience, sharing great stories along with the straight talk about succeeding in Hollywood.

But sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind. SHANE BLACK didn’t mince words:

“You’re lunatics all of you, trying to make it in the film business. There’s 93% unemployment. The good news: talent scoots you past the odds. The bad news: most of you don’t have the talent.”

The laughter from the audience was of a knowing kind. Shane’s words are all too true. But there’s hope that talent can sometimes be awakened. Maybe the bad news can be softened to, “Most of you don’t have the talent yet.” So how do you find out if that “yet” really applies to you? Shane’s advice: “Assume you have the talent and just forge ahead.”

In Shane’s early days, he’d pal along with “a unified group of misfits—who were friends first—with a common sense of isolation and a love of movies.” They helped each other as opportunities came along.

SHANE BLACK started out in acting (Predator). And he found out that he could act a little better after drinking. His self-judgment was unsparing. ”At best my acting was passable. At worst it was unwatchable.” But it has given him perspective on the acting craft. “When you’re young, you say to yourself, ‘I wish I could cry.’ Now, crying is no problem.”

Shane observed “with some actors you have to make the door bigger to accommodate their head.” But Shane’s ability to look at his own efforts without the rose-colored glasses has served him well as he went on to hone his writing and directorial skills.

The penchant for writing came early in boyhood. “I’d make up monster stories like ‘Frankenstein Meets Sand Monster’ and I made sure it fit on both sides of the lined paper.” Nowadays, Shane advises using a bit more white space. “If you have a 120-page script, make it 119 pages and spread it out a bit.” (However, the “grab ‘em by page ten” rule still applies.)

Only recently has Shane been able to write “with comfort, with neither fear nor obsession.” It used to be that he’d finish a script and it felt like it had the last funny lines that he’d ever write. On a new script, he’d start out staring at the blank page. “But then I’d say to myself, well if this guy says this, then that character says that, and the next thing you know, I’ve dived in.”

Someone from the audience asked Shane how to make characters come alive. “Characters are defined by their decision points,” he responded. He went on to say, “Illuminate your characters through action. What are the characters afraid of? What is the wound?” Once you make that decision, you’re characters will be more interesting. If you don’t care about the characters, you won’t care about the film.”

Shane advises his audience not to take script notes literally. If you do, you’re likely to get a response like, “That’s not what we wanted. We want you to fix this.” Remember, that you’re the writer and many people won’t recognize what they really want in a script until they actually see the specific words on the page.

Shane notes that even directors aren’t always sure what will work. “Film is like shopping. You get some celery and, what the heck, strawberries. Then you make the film in the editing room and thank goodness you got those strawberries.”

Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang, Shane’s directorial debut, “started out as a romantic comedy but became a thriller.” Back then, his longtime friend Robert Downey Jr. was uninsurable and Val Kilmer was rumored to be a nightmare to work with—which turned out to be decidedly not the case for Shane. “People ask me, ‘what made you have faith in Kilmer?’ “ And Shane tells them, “I didn’t! I just wanted to make the @#** movie!”

Shane also echoed one of the main themes of the seminar: loving the work more than its presumed rewards. The guys who always get the gals hanging on their arm “are not the Scorceses or the Spielbergs. It’s always the guy who did ‘Leprechaun 6.’“ That guy directed ‘Leprechaun 6’ to be a player, while the others directed their movies because they loved the work.

So for those of us who want to focus on the work, particularly the work of screenwriting, Shane offers several guidelines:

1. “You gotta start.” Look ahead at the rock, keep moving your feet. Even knowing that all that hard work may be cut out.

2. Make every day the same. Try to write the same time each day, and for the same length of time. Distraction is a constant danger.

3. “I never know how the story’s going to end. Instead I have a feel for what the end should be like.”

For writers and directors alike the challenge is how to make the film live up to the trailer. Shane points out that when we you see a trailer “we form this ideal, Platonic image of the film.” Making the actual film reasonably close to that ideal is “making the specific as good as the general.”

Shane is one of the few who has consistently met that challenge. But Hollywood’s memory is sometimes short. After a hiatus from moviemaking, Shane was making the rounds at the studios and one 25-year-old told Shane “he had a great future in the business.”

But the suit was right. The sun is still rising for Shane Black.

The post Shane Black Rides Off To The Sunrise appeared first on myBurbank.com.

The artistic and business battlefield that is Hollywood is not for the unprepared. But those who heeded the industry pros at Burbank International Film Festival’s second annual offering of free, straight-talking seminars got a leg up. They walked away with ammo and armor for the struggle to gain and hold a precious piece of cinematic territory. High tech can also be an empowering weapon, but only if you know where to aim.

Listen to MICK GARRIS, who directed all the Stephen King miniseries from pilot to network, as he sets forth the dilemma of DIY-meets-Hollywood: “The great thing about this technology is that everyone can make a movie. The awful thing about this technology is that everyone can make a movie.”

But only a few make movies that many others want to see.

Some of those cinematic gems are waiting for the other side of summer, September 9 to 13, when the Burbank International Film Festival will return to the AMC Theatres in downtown Burbank.

BIFF’s upcoming film fest will be a nice counterpoint to BIFF’s industry “boot camp” at Woodbury University last April. And whether you were listening to a panel on producing that film or winning that role or writing that smash screenplay, the industry veterans made it clear that “suffering for one’s art” is not just fancy talk. It’s the hard tinsel town truth.

Mick again: “There’s nothing greater for a creative project than fear and trepidation and feeling like you’re still 25 with a lot to prove.” But even then, you’re not off the hook. “You can’t do the best suspense when you’re interrupted by a conversation about incontinence. ‘Scare the crap out of you’ is supposed to be a metaphor.”

Or heed Director/Producer CHRIS OLEN RAY, who has 53 movies under his belt including Megashark and Sharknado: “Making film is hard. Working 20-hour days for week after week is commonplace. You have to love it or you’re crazy.”

There’s more good news/bad news. On the one hand, Mick observes that “we’re in a more calcified world of comic book sequels” when it comes to big budget films. On the other hand, indie filmmakers have more control than ever.

According to LINDA NELSON, who started her production company in 2000 and is on her fourth feature film, “Now is the best opportunity filmmakers have ever had to make and distribute movies. Even films of $20,000 can be successful. That was the budget of Fray, a great film about a troubled soldier. And you don’t have to make 15 to 20 shorts before making a feature.”

Linda started her own studio because the distribution contracts were “awful,” so she started her own studio. (Even with honest contracts, expect around 20% to go to the producer.) Mick became a producer “just to protect myself.” Tweet to indie filmmakers: you can release your own movie. But if you do rely on a distributor, then do your homework and go to Iamdbpro. Check out the distributor’s past clients. And above all, don’t let yourself be kept in the dark. Insist on getting a quarterly report.

But however much you prepare, you eventually just have to dive into the water. As Chris put it, “You’re going to learn the answer to all your questions on your first film.”

Actors have their own daunting odds to deal with. BIFF President and panelist JEFF RECTOR offered the following example. Say you’re auditioning for a five-line role, perhaps as a police officer. The casting director will get a thousand submissions, out of which 30 will be selected for an audition, out of which six-eight will be called back. Six-eight out of a thousand.

The elimination of the other 992 begins with the head shot. Casting Executive GERALD WEBB (who also acts and owns two production companies) looks at the head shots first, then the resume. He showed the audience what he typically confronts when picking out headshots, about 16 of them on his screen at a time. “You have a millisecond for me to click ‘yes’ or ‘no’ period. Scroll your own head shots like this to see what pops out.”

At Gerald’s invitation, several dozen in the audience submitted their own headshots for his quick evaluation. :“You’d be shocked how many headshots are slightly out of focus,” said Gerald. And indeed, some were. Other headshots did not make the actor’s face the most important thing. About 25% of the head shots that Gerald evaluated were of professional quality.

So, with the help of your headshot and resume (and maybe a website, which needs to be better than your Facebook or other social media site) you’ve been called for an audition. You’re now among the 30 out of that initial 1000. How do you make it to the charmed eight out of a 1000 that are called back?

Jeff advises, “Train. Go in. Do the best you can. Forget about it.” The panelists had cold reads done by several audience members to make “the best they can” better. (To learn what helpful hints they received, along with other pithy advice, please see the feature article on Gerald Webb.)

The panelists discussing actors and managers affirmed the great importance of having a great demo reel. KATHYRN BOOLE, Literary Agent at STG Literary, offered this rule of thumb: a minute and a half of an actor’s best work without any other actor in it. The best of the best work should appear at the beginning and the end of the reel. Jeff used his own demo trailer as an example of how to, in a short period of time, convey the range and depth of your acting work.

Jeff champions the specific over the general. “You’re a brand. You’re unique. You’re not just a 30-year-old guy who’s a character actor.”

PHIL BROCK, Theatrical Agent and Manager at Studio Talent Group, pointed out that that “we managers are your non-paid, on-spec employees.” And how should actors keep their managers up-to-date? Kathryn says, “Be persistent but not annoyingly persistent. KARIM MUHAMMAD at The Polygon Group adds, “I’d rather have actors say ‘I’m in this play’ rather than sending me picture after picture.”

Storyboarder JAKE TODD ANDERSON observes “everyone seems to have to shoot in 30 days with less than five million.” And while it’s not his job to direct the film, Jake says he can definitely help. From someone who has storyboarded most, if not all, of the Coen brothers’ films, that’s an understatement.

Jake goes into the minds of the directors “with a flashlight, sort of trips on the furniture and asks them, ‘is it like this or that?’” He envies the “comic book guys who can do the fine art.” Jake, like hopefully the directors he works with, has “always got to be thinking toward the image.”

Jake notes that “the fire-breathing dragon” is the schedule. The challenge is to not let the schedule shove aside “the creative prize.” Filmmakers can easily fall “under the spell”. You’ll do anything to get your movie made.

Notes Jake, “All you can do is make new mistakes.” Here’s some old ones to avoid: “Stick to fundamental coverage. Not every shot can be an overhead shot.” And be sure to tame the schedule dragon before it torches the quality of your work.

“Storyboarding makes the lighting and camera people feel safe,” adds writer/director Shane Black. And he should know: Jack is storyboarding his latest film, Nice Guys. (To learn more about Shane and his thoughts on writing and directing, please see the feature article.)

A big kudos to BIFF for once again having given Hollywood hopefuls a chance to get real information from real industry pros. Here’s the roster

1st panel 

Phil Brock, Theatrical Agent and Manager at Studio Talent Group

Kathryn Boole, Literary Agent at STG Literary

Monique Strong at Power Talent Group

Karim Muhammad at The Polygon Group

2nd panel 

Gerald Webb, Writer/Producer/Casting Executive

Jeff Rector, Actor and BIFF President

3rd panel 

Mick Garris, Writer/Director/Producer 

Chris Olen Ray, Director/Producer

Gerald Webb, Writer/Producer/Casting Director

Linda Nelson , Distributor at Indie Rights Distribution

4th panel

ShaneBlack,Writer/Director
J.Todd Anderson, Actor/Director/Storyboard Artist

Moderated by Steve Wilder, Actor/Writer

For questions or more information email BIFF at info@burbankfilmfest.com or visit the website www.burbankfilmfest.org

The post Thanks to B.I.F.F., Industry Pros Conduct Second Boot Camp at Woodbury appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Monterey High seniors graduated during ceremonies this week. They are:

Photography by Ross A. Benson

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Abilez, Eddie

Abdul Nour, Tony

Acedo, Christopher

Arce, Jasmine

Arzumanyan, Syuzanna

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Bagdoian, Matthew

Barrett, Ashley

Beaver, Jordan

Beckett, Jason

Benitez Avelar, Desire

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Camarillo, Pedro

Cates, Brenden

Chopuryan, Narek

Chubarov, Artem

Covarrubias, Fernando

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Dagliyan, Stella

Dalley, Kimberly

DeCamp, Kayla

Duarte, Louis

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Essaei, Demi

Flores, Brandon

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Gallegos, Luis

Garcia, Brianna

Gharabigi, Celin

Gonzales, Michael Scottie

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Kossoian, Hakop

Kuhn, Kathleen

Lane, Jason

Lewis, Ariahnah

Lim, Charleston

Lopez, Tyler

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Marquez, Gerardo

Martinez, Bertha

Martinez, Lauren

Martinez, Saul

McPhee, Kaylee

Medina, Adrian

Miller, Alan

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Orozco, Ruben

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Park, Jung

Parreno, Paolo Miguel

Perez, Yohanna

Piloyan, Anahit

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Quinones, Martha

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Ramirez Cisneros, Marline

Rebolledo, James

Reyes, Priscilla

Rivera-Gonzalez, Arely

Rodriguez, Edwin

Rodriguez Castaneda, Shawn

BUSD Monterrey High School Graduation 6-10-15=

Sandoval, Manuel

Segura, Denisse

Simonian, Matthew

Solis, Emmanuel

Soto Guevara, Luis

Taylor, Zachary

Valdez, Nancy

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Yaghobian, Christopher

Yucamco, Kassandra Denisse

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Zepeda Ortega, Daniel

The post Monterey Graduates Receive Diplomas appeared first on myBurbank.com.

West Coast Customs — the world-renowned auto customizer to the stars — received a welcome to Burbank from the Road Kings car club at Bob’s Big Boy Toluca Lake on Saturday afternoon.

The Road Kings are taking a year off from hosting the annual June car show because Johnny Carson Park is under renovation, so members and friends celebrated the club’s 63rd year in town by packing Bob’s parking lot and car-hop area with about 100 classic vehicles.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Road Kings President “Fast Eddie” Salvatore and car show chairman Don Baldaseroni conducted a brief ceremony congratulating West Coast Customs officials for moving the business from Corona to Burbank. It specializes in customizing new cars and restoring classic cars.

“It’s really nice to have another automotive-related hot rod shop in Burbank,” Salvatore said. “We have a few but this is really great for the company, the city and the Road Kings and that’s why we are honoring them today.”

Burbank Mayor Bob Frutos, who drove up in his sapphire 2014 re-introduced Corvette Stingray, came out to lend his support. Having West Coast Customs move to Burbank is good for the local economy, he said.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“There’s a market for it with the studios and everything,” he said, adding that bringing a business of this caliber here provides more jobs in Burbank. “We’re the media capital of the world, whether it’s Comcast-NBC-Universal, Warner Bros., there’s a demand for these fast and furious-type vehicles.”

The car show was also a way to bring together those who love classic cars and fans of modern vehicles, like those that can be seen at West Coast Customs.

“We have a younger generation that maybe doesn’t appreciate the very classic cars like my friends here who like the futuristic cars,” Frutos said. “We’ve always been a very traditional classic car town but now it’s also looking at the younger generation folks — the millenniums — and their passion for exotic vehicles. So I think this is great for our city and it’s great that the Road Kings put this event together to bring the old but also the new — it’s all inclusive and that’s why I’m here.”

West Coast Customs was founded in 1993 by Ryan Friedlinghaus, chief executive officer. Its new location is at 2101 W. Empire Ave. They have lots of events planned, such as a car show on the first Saturday of the month.

Plaques were presented to officials with West Coast Customs from the Road Kings by President Salvatore and Leo Matias, day manager at Bob’s Toluca Lake. Matias also presented the auto customizer with a trophy from both Bob’s Big Boy and the Road Kings.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“I want to dedicate this plaque to West Coast Customs and thank you guys for letting us have this event here at Bob’s Big Boy,” Matias said. “We support all the car clubs like the Road Kings. This is where we have the best car shows in the world.”

President Salvatore presented a plaque that reads “Welcome to Burbank West Coast Customs!”

It was the second time Frutos welcomed the company to the city, he said.

“I know we had the event a year ago but we want to make sure we cement our relationship and appreciate having you here because we are a car city,” he said. “Remember cruising started here in the San Fernando Valley and so for me to be here as the mayor of Burbank and basically being honored here with you together for our city is awesome. To the Road Kings — thank you so much Don and Fast Eddie … for what you do for the different nonprofit organizations in our city and all the club members who are here. You guys are awesome. This is a rare opportunity for me to thank you for what you do and I support the car culture in our city.”

Cheryl Lynch, chief marketing officer with West Coast Customs, thanked everyone for the recognition.

“Super super thank you so much to everybody on behalf of West Coast Customs,” she said. “The shop is really something to see. For any of you who are car aficionados or just want to come and look at some really different stuff we have a 60,000-square-foot facility, tours every day. Come on by. We are going to display these [awards] right in our lobby. When you come in, you will be able to see them. Thank you all so much again!”

Burbank has been a perfect fit for West Coast Customs, said Hunter Clancey, who is in charge of client relations.

“Burbank is such a car and TV-based city and that is essentially our company in a nutshell,” he said. “TV is what we’ve been doing for years now so it goes hand in hand — cars and entertainment.”

Having Bob’s Big Boy and the Road Kings welcome the company to Burbank gives it a great big stamp of legitimacy, Lynch said.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Right? Like OK, they are here, they’re cool, they’ve arrived!” she said. “The Road Kings have been super supportive and the mayor was at our opening in December. And kind of our first little foray. I know Ryan [Friedlinghaus] has come here for the car shows on a couple of Friday nights, so it is all working seamlessly.”

The car show culminated with Bob’s Big Boy Manager Leo Matias presenting trophies to the owners of the best cars in six categories. Winners were Larry Tadlock, Manager’s Choice; Frank Pucio, Best Cruiser; Ismael Ruvalcaba, Best Classic; Sal Moncibais, Best Custom; Ed Tucker, Best Truck; and Donald Lo Bue, Best Hot Rod.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post Road Kings and Bob’s Big Boy Welcome West Coast Customs to Town appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

After leading their team to new heights never seen before in the boys volleyball program, Burroughs’ Max Chamberlain and Ryan Van Loo were chosen as the Pacific League Players of the Year.

For the first time in school history, the Indians advanced to the CIF semifinals. A loss to Valencia derailed their hopes of reaching the CIF Finals but winning a sixth straight Pacific League championship soothed any wounds left behind from the semifinals.

Max Chamberlain (left) and Ryan Van Loo (right)

Chamberlain finished with 344 kills (new record for kills in a season), 92 digs, 39 aces and 24 blocks. His total of 511 kills in two years on varsity places him fifth all-time in the JBHS volleyball annals.

Van Loo dished out 974 assists (new record for a season) as the team’s setter including 145 digs, 54 blocks, 43 kills and 14 aces.

Burroughs (30-4, 12-0) was also represented by Andrew Dalmada, Matt Kim and Cameron Capili on the first team. Bailey Carter earned second-team honors and Scott McHorney was named honorable mention.

Dalmada recorded 298 kills (second most ever in a season), 156 digs (second on team), 40 aces (led team- fourth most ever in a season) and 29 blocks. Kim led the Indians with 240 digs (third most ever in a season) and 18 aces. Capili had 248 kills (fifth most ever in a season), 142 digs, 21 aces and 16.5 blocks.

Leading the way for Burbank (16-10, 7-5) was Willie Perryman who was named to the All-League first team. The middle blocker had 177 kills and 101 blocks on the season and played a pivotal role in the program’s resurgence and rise in the Pacific League.

The Bulldogs’ were represented by juniors Aram Krakirian and Christian Park on the second team and sophomore Zack Cranmer as an honorable mention recipient.

The post Burroughs and Burbank Boys Volleyball Earn All-League Recognition appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It’s all about art this weekend at the Burbank Town Center.

Members of the SoCal ETSY Guild are back for the quarterly pop-up show displaying their homemade arts and crafts on the first floor of the mall today and tomorrow while an art installation centering on the theme of peace is on the second floor in the Sears wing.

The pop-up show features artists who are members of the SoCal ETSY Guild, a team of more than 2,500 local artists based throughout Southern California, said its founder Stephanie Payan. The purpose is to create consumer awareness of shopping local and buying handmade goods, she said. Guild members participate in pop-up shows in Burbank, San Diego, San Pedro, downtown Los Angeles and Riverside. Burbank is now a quarterly stop on the circuit, Payan said.

New ETSY member Katherine Arion creates portraits of people in pastels.

“I start with the eyes and then I add all these shadows and they clarify by the time I finish the portrait,” she said. “They start very mysterious and become very striking by the end of the session.”

She works fast, painting one person in five minutes and if three are in the portrait, it takes about 20 minutes.

Born in Romania, she completed four years of instruction at an art college and four more years of classes in her home country then continued her art study in Paris. She paints in the style Neo-Fauve, a romantic take on Fauvism with touches of Post-Impressionism. Her subjects are Sequoia trees, landscapes and portraits.

After coming to the United States, she took art classes at Los Angeles Valley College and Los Angeles City College. She learned to draw very fast while studying storyboarding at Otis Parsons. The result was a successful career in storyboarding for TV commercials and print advertising. Her main claim to fame is modernizing the most recent illustration of the little girl on the Morton Salt label.

Veteran ETSY member Marilyn Johnson, of Seadragon Designs, had a new product to show Burbank shoppers in addition to her fused glass and jewelry creations. She just started making message boards and stretched canvas decorative art using whimsical patterned fabrics.

Photographs and postcards can be tucked into ribbon that is crisscrossed on the message board canvas and secured with buttons. Children’s boards hold little hair barrettes that clip right on to the ribbons that are attached to the canvas.

Her stretched canvas decorative art pieces are two canvases attached with the smaller top canvas centered onto the larger bottom canvas that acts like a frame. One artwork featured a bird fabric on the top canvas while the bottom canvas was a floral fabric.

“It has the same color tones, so you get the dimensional effect of the birds on the floral background,” Johnson said.

Another piece had a seashell patterned fabric on the top canvas and the bottom piece was covered in a marine blue solid fabric — a great wall hanging for a beach cottage.

Also continuing until Sunday is an art installation titled “A 100-year Journey from Ararat to America and Back” by Father Vazken Movsesian and artist Gregory Beylerian on the second floor in the mall’s Sears wing.

It is a story of discovery finding treasures of spirituality in Armenia and understanding how those gems of faith have brought tranquility to the soul of a people, reads the art statement.

It is an interactive exhibition of photographs, music and words celebrating peace. The installation’s purpose, the creators said, is to awaken passion in the hearts of all who come to see it.

The post SoCal ETSY Guild At The Burbank Town Center Till Sunday appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank is preparing for another possible “flash mob” style gathering of automobile enthusiasts on Tuesday evening at the Empire Center.  While not sanctioned by Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc., the event has been promoted via social media, including Facebook which has references to the event dating from July 2011.

Back in 2012 during the evening every parking spot was filled with cars or people. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

According Sgt. Adam Cornils, Public Information Office at the Burbank Police Department, “The Burbank Police Department will always respect and recognize the rights of individuals to peacefully and lawfully assemble. We also respect and recognize the need for area residents and businesses to safely utilize city streets and services.”

The Burbank Police also understand the potential of several thousand automobile enthusiasts converging in an informal rally event at the Empire Center could create serious traffic issues, and possible safety issues due to the potential of illegal activities such as street racing, drifting, and burnouts.

Sgt. Cornils continued that the Burbank Police Department will be fully deployed in the area to enforce all applicable laws, including those involving illegal engine/vehicle modifications.

Burbank residents, visitors, and workers should be aware the event is planned, and avoid the area if possible.  If the car rally does occur, then it is possible the Burbank Police Department will set up access controls, possibly blocking roads or direct access to the area as needed to ensure public safety and crowd control.

In the past Burbank Police have been supported by other law enforcement agencies controlling Krispy Kreme Tuesdays, including Glendale PD and the California Highway Patrol.

You can stay informed as Krispy Kreme Tuesdays develops by monitoring the myBurbank Twitter feed @myburbanknews

The post Burbank Mobilizes for “Krispy Kreme Tuesdays” at Empire Center appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Parks and Recreation has several upcoming events this summer for teenagers as well as families. From skateboarding to basketball camp to attending a Dodger game, you can’t go wrong! Here they are so you may enjoy your summer vacation to the fullest!

Be sure to scroll down to see each flyer:

The post City of Burbank/Dodger Night, MVP Summer Basketball Camp and Much More Coming Up appeared first on myBurbank.com.

La Providencia Guild members were blessed with a little help from their friends as they celebrated “That Old Black Magic” at a gala dinner at the Castaway on Sunday.

La Providencia Guild President Joan Chandler, center, is flanked by spring social chair Malena Tappan, left, and co-chair Mary Hurst. (Photos by Joyce Rudolph)

Putting their magic touch on the evening were President Joan Chandler, chair Malena Tappan and co-chair Mary Hurst, all looking elegant in their black cocktail attire.

Master of ceremonies duties were handled expertly by the Black Angus cowboy Brooks Gardner — “Ann’s husband” he quipped, referring to guild member Ann O’Donnell-Gardner. She brought her crystal ball and performed mini seances in hopes of spiriting up a visit by deceased illusionist Harry Houdini.

La Providencia Guild President Joan Chandler, center left, and Noon Kiwanis Club President Diane Cripe surrounded by Kiwanis Club members.

Members’ husbands and the Noon Kiwanis Club helped guild members raise funds for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. The guild’s fundraising is mostly accomplished through its thrift shop on Burbank Boulevard, which is more like a chic boutique. But they also have a fashion show in the fall and a gala in the spring to add to their coffers, while having great fun.

Diane Cripe, president of the Noon Kiwanis Club, led a contingent of members that coordinated the reverse drawing. The grand prize was $5,000. Known as a “fine-giving” president, Cripe challenged her fellow club members to purchase the remaining tickets for the drawing. The Kiwanians — some who were guild husbands — happily complied.

Chris Gargaro and Joan Chandler, left, welcome Burbank Mayor Bob Frutos and his wife, Laura.

Mayor Bob Frutos attended with his wife, Laura. He presented a city proclamation to the guild members for all they do to raise funds for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He knows firsthand about the hospital’s contributions to children through his work as a police officer for 28 years with the city of Los Angeles.

“If it wasn’t for your kindness I can honestly tell you we would be in a whole world of hurt,” he said.

Burbank Mayor Bob Frutos, right, presents a city proclamation to master of ceremonies Brooks Gardner, who accepts the honor for all the women of La Providencia Guild of Los Angeles Children’s Hospital. (Photo by Joyce Rudolph)

Frutos remembers that when he was growing up in West L.A., his mother didn’t have health insurance and they would go by bus to receive care at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Frutos said.

“So I am very appreciative of Children’s Hospital and the work they do,” he said.

President Joan Chandler’s theme this year is “Cherish the Children with Loving Hearts”. The guild’s project is the Associates Rehabilitation Center Caregiver Wing and the Associates Endowed Chair in Sarcoma.

The rehabilitation medicine program is a major pediatric referral center for the most complex cases throughout Southern California and the United States, reads the group’s project statement. It offers custom-designed treatment in the areas of physical, occupational, speech, respiratory and psychological therapies for those suffering from trauma or disease.

Allen and Alicia Katz, who worked on reservations for the La Providencia Guild’s “That Old Black Magic” gala.

The purpose of the Sarcoma program within the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases is to improve the outcome for children battling this aggressive form of childhood cancer.

Chandler told about a recent medical milestone accomplished by Children’s Hospital doctors that has touched members’ hearts. Two weeks ago, Henri Ford, M.D., chair of the Department of Surgery at Children’s Hospital, led an 18-member team of clinicians to perform a complex seven-hour surgery to separate conjoined twin girls in Haiti. The surgery was successful and the six-month-old girls are thriving.

Magic Castle magicians, from left, Robert DeLa Guerra, Malena Tappan and Gerald Schiller.

“This is why we do what we do for the children of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles,” Chandler said.

Magicians conjuring up the entertainment were the guild’s own event chair Malena Tappan, as well as Robert DeLa Guerra and Gerald Schiller. They all appear at the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

A glitzy array of silent auction items kept guests checking on their bids while Debra Lee and the Trigger Happy Band played magical tunes.

Winners sharing the $5,000 grand prize, from left, Pam Pouliot, Martin Korn, Nancy Lee Winter, Lorraine Korn and Laureen Endoso and Sue Mackley.

The reverse drawing wound down to five people who had the choice of splitting the $5,000 cash prize and all complied. Happily homeward bound were Sue Mackley, Laureen Endoso, Nancy Lee-Wintering, Pam Pouliot and Lorraine and Martin Korn.

For more information on the thrift shop, joining the guild or making a donation, visit laprovidenciaguild.org.

La Providencia Guild President Joan Chandler, center left, and Noon Kiwanis Club President Diane Cripe surrounded by Kiwanis Club members.

Patricia Taylor, from left, Judy Pierce and Irene Metzger sparkle during the annual spring social.

From left, Rosemarie Witten, Sue Ann Gordon and Sharon Terranova.

Kathryn Kidd dances with Ivan Cregger to music by Debra Lee and the Trigger Happy Band.

Ann O’Donnell-Gardner, center, uses her crystal ball to channel Harry Houdini during La Providencia Guild’s “That Old Black Magic” gala at the Castaway. She’s surrounded by members, from left, Lorelei Kelley, Glenda Jones and Lynn White-Shelby.

The post La Providencia Guild Members Work “That Old Black Magic” appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Following days of media hype, legal threats, and cries of anger from auto enthusiasts, Krispy Kreme Tuesdays is now a simple footnote in Burbank history. According to Burbank Police sources, Empire Center management decided to shut down the main parking lot serving Empire Center, effectively putting an end to the “flash car mob” event. Private security guards put up cones, with signs clearly noting the parking lot was closed.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Burbank Police, with assistance from a number of local mutual aid partners, had a very large and visible presence in the area. One police motorcycle officer monitoring traffic flow, joined by a Glendale Police officer, commented that “we are not bothering anybody here who is not breaking a law.”

Parking lots serving restaurants on the I-5 side of the center remained open until 10 p.m., allowing patrons to continue either patronizing the food establishments, or accessing the stores in Empire Center by foot. One Best Buy employee, wishing to remain anonymous due to restrictions talking with media, noted that their business was about 10% of normal, and that he “was very honored to have patrons coming into the store” in spite of the difficulty getting to the store.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Krispy Kreme itself closed at 4 p.m. In an official statement by Darryl Carr, Senior Director Corporate Communications at Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, “Krispy Kreme has no affiliation with this group or their event. We are not a sponsor nor do we support this group or their gatherings. The Krispy Kreme name has been used without our approval or consent. At this time, we are working with the Burbank Empire Center and the Burbank Police department to protect the Center, its tenants and patrons, as well as the community at large. In doing so, we will be close our store today from 4pm to 5am.”

The Krispy Kreme store did have a number of private security present along the perimeter of their property to ensure no vandalism occurred based on anger from “mob” enthusiasts turned away from the center.

Alex Wraith, a Best Buy patron who took the long walk to do a bit of shopping, noted that in his home town of Edgewater, New Jersey, similar motorcycle flash mobs in his home town had created a lot of problems, including violence. Wraith commented that he was “happy to see the Burbank Police out in force protecting the community resource.”

Others were confused why the parking lot was closed, and were not aware of the background. Most were surprised, with one couple from China finding amusement in the situation, joking “this could only happen in America.”

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

On the Krispy Kreme Tuesdays Facebook page, most comments were focused on the heavy handed Burbank Police approach, without an understanding the closure was really a decision by the Empire Center management.

The “owner” of the Krispy Kreme Tuesdays account on Facebook, and apparent leader of the event, commented “due to the legality of this gathering. We do not condone or permit a Flash Mob Car Show. We do not condone public damages and or road blocking at Krispy Kreme / Empire Center. We will denounce ourselves as ‘hosting this FLASH MOB CAR SHOW according to authorities.’ I will be present at the empire center eating as a patron at one of the empire centers many food vendors. I do not mind if you come and say hello. Any gathering at this point would be at your own individual discretion and owns choice to show up at the empire center and Burbank city.”

Others commented (not accurately) that “It’s technically a direct violation if our first amendment which states “the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Amy Albano, Burbank City Attorney, according to “Krispy Kreme Tuesdays” account on Facebook, sent a letter which threatened legal action, and accountability for the cost of security at Empire Center on Tuesday evening if the event continued. This was, expectedly, responded to on the Facebook page with less than positive comments, although one level-headed participant did note that “Empire Center is private property, and if property management does not support the event…nothing you can do, freedom to assemble or not. The pic makes it simple…. Top – Public Street…Bottom – Private property.”

The Krispy Kreme Tuesdays “mob” attempted to move the event to other locations in the City of Industry, Burbank Airport, and even Gardena, police were ahead of the mob at each move, and no alternate location materialized.

While those prevented from using the Empire Center for their “Flash Mob” car rally used terms such as the “heavy handed response by Burbank Police,” Burbank Police officers also noted that during previous Krispy Kreme Tuesdays events numerous fights broke out between rivals, drivers showed very poor behavior, including burnouts, racing, and “donuts,” and the police had extreme difficulty responding through crowds when problems occurred.

“We simply could not break through the crowds quickly enough to adequately handle the situation” noted one officer, who was more concerned with safety and protection of resources than anything else.

The cost of protecting the Empire Center from potential damage or liabilities from the Krispy Kreme Tuesdays event was high. All stores had a fraction of the patrons expected during the afternoon on a beautiful summer day. Employees were let off early, suffering a loss of income based on either hours or commissions. The center and several stores hired large numbers of additional security for the evening. Police and fire department personnel from Burbank and up to 12 mutual aid contributors come with a high cost, as well as the dilution of assets or resources from the home cities.

Burbank is strong, and will recover, but the cost to individuals, entrepreneurs, and companies was high. Based on previous “flash mob” rallies, the response was justified, and the level of response observed very appropriate.

The post Empire Center Puts the Brakes on Krispy Kreme Tuesdays appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank High School Girls Volleyball Coach Kyle Roach, age 28, was arrested Thursday, June 18, on three felony charges connected to a sexual relationship with a former player and soliciting nude photos of current BHS Volleyball team members, said Sergeant Adam Cornils of the Burbank Police Department.

Burbank High School Girls Volleyball Coach Kyle Roach during a Burbank vs. Burroughs game on November 5, 2014. (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

“It is believed that Roach initiated numerous sexually-related text message communications with current members of the Burbank High School Varsity Girls Volleyball Team,” Cornils announced in a statement released by the BPD just before 6:00 p.m. today.

“Roach used text messages and social media phone applications, anonymously, to solicit nude photos from underage females.”

According to Cornils, two BHS students contacted the police and filed a report when they began to suspect the communications were initiated by Roach, their coach.

The post BHS Girls Volleyball Coach Arrested On Felony Sex Charges Against Underage Team Members appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank City Federal Credit Union celebrated 75 Years of service this week by treating members to an outdoor lunch featuring In-N-Out Burger. Nearly 900 members came out to this annual event which began more than a decade ago.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Every year we celebrate our anniversary as a big member appreciation event to personally thank our customers for their loyalty,” said President/CEO Darin Guggenheimer.

The Credit Union was formed in June of 1940 by a group of City of Burbank firefighters. From those humble beginnings Burbank City Federal Credit Union now offers personal banking services to more than 16,000 members and their families in Burbank and the surrounding communities.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

On Wednesday  Board Members along with the staff cut a huge cake and had slices for everyone that came by to celebrate. Thursday the In-N-Out truck parked out front and the line formed all the way around the corner.

People waiting in line were entertained by a magician and were able to sign a huge birthday card along with receiving new recyclable shopping bags. The friendly staff worked the line thanking customers and talking to them while their double-doubles were being made to order.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The post Burbank City Federal Credit Union Celebrates 75 Years of Service appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank’s Half Baked Co has been whipping up healthy treats for approximately three years from a small location on Burbank Boulevard. Just a few months ago, the local bakery moved to a larger, more visible, location on the same stretch of Burbank Boulevard.

Word-of-mouth on the creative concoctions continues to spread. Half Baked Burbank’s products contain half the fat, calories and sugar of similar cupcakes and macarons. The bakery also offers several vegan, gluten-free and sugar-free options for its sweet desserts.

Half Baked Co’s colorful display cases show off healthy sweet treats. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

The bakery has developed a reputation for colorful custom-ordered cakes in addition to the sweet treats including cupcakes, macarons and cake pops made fresh every day from ingredients like almond milk, applesauce, unbleached whole wheat flour, herbs and fruit.

For those with a need for chocolate, never fear. Several options for your chocolate fix are prepared daily, along with colorful, fruit and herb flavored tastes. June’s special flavor of the month is Passion Fruit, which lends a bright kick for the eye and the tastebud.

(From left to right) Half Baked Co’s pistachio, chocolate, lemon and lavender macarons provide colorful contrast to the bakery’s Honey Lavender and Passion Fruit cupcakes. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Half Baked Co also makes fresh baquettes and croissants, and serves a variety of coffees, teas and drinks. The new location is very clean, airy and bright, with cafe tables and chairs inside and out.

The macarons are a perfect size for a few bites of sweetness. We enjoyed the pistachio, chocolate, lemon and lavender recently. Our current favorite cupcake, the Honey Lavender was exquisite with its tiny reservoir of liquid honey in the center and lavender frosting.

Half Baked Co earns a Tops In Town for its healthy approach to baking and terrifically delicious sweet treats.

Bakery Info:  Half Baked Co is located at 1206 W. Burbank Blvd., CA 91502 . 818-433-7481. Half Baked Co is open Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.. They are also open Sunday and Monday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Custom orders require 1-2 weeks notice.

Half Baked Co receives: Tops In Town

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

The post Half Baked Burbank Concocts Healthy And Tasty Treats appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Jeanie Buss poses with board members of the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Association (Photo courtesy of Jim Riggio)

By Jim Riggio
Special to MyBurbank

As a tribute to Father’s Day, the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Association, which meets regularly at Lakeside Golf Club in Toluca Lake, invited the sons and daughters of some of those who helped transform the Los Angeles sports landscape to speak to the group Wednesday.

On hand were current Los Angeles Lakers President Jeanie Buss, former Los Angeles Dodgers President Peter O’Malley, current USC Senior Athletic Director for Football J.K. McKay, Bill Boyd, son of former USC basketball coach Bob Boyd and Nan Meuhlhausen, daughter of legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden.

Each had things to share about their respective fathers.

Buss shared a scary moment in her life, when speaking with her father, the late Dr. Jerry Buss.

Jeanie Buss addresses the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Assn. (Photo courtesy of Jim Riggio)

“When my father purchased the Lakers and the Kings and the Forum in May of 1979, I was only 17 years old. His first order of business as the new Lakers owner was to select the number one pick in the draft,” Jeanie Buss said.  “Some suggested to him that he choose a solid four-year college standout from UCLA named David Greenwood. But my father had his eye on a sophomore who had petitioned to turn pro two years early and had dazzled the NCAA Tournament, Earvin Magic Johnson, the first underclassman ever to be drafted with the number one pick.

“The first time I met Magic was shortly after the draft. He came to Los Angeles to meet with my father.  I was there to answer the doorbell.  I opened the door and there is this kid just two years older than I was with a smile that could rival the sun and light up the city. I showed him to the living room and we chatted for a few moments.  He told me as a matter of fact that he appreciated being drafted by the Lakers, but that he’s only going to stay for three years because he wanted to go home and play for the Detroit Pistons.

I did my best to hide my reaction and I excused myself to go upstairs and inform my dad what his number one pick had just said. My heart was pounding.  I told my dad the story. My dad said ‘Jeanie,  the first time he puts on a Laker uniform and walks out on the Forum floor he’s never going to leave.’  And he was right. “

****

Meuhlhausen, who attends all UCLA home games, said she honors her father by leaving an empty seat for him.

Her grandson Tyler Trapani later played for the Bruins and scored the final basket in the history of Pauley Pavilion before it underwent renovations in 2011.

***

Boyd’s father coached USC during its greatest days in the 1970s and said his father was often in the stuck in the shadow of other great coaches at USC and Wooden.

(L to R) Current USC broadcaster Pete Arbogast, retired USC broadcaster Tom Kelly, former USC basketball player Bill Boyd (Photo courtesy of Jim Riggio)

“The kind of career he had was one we only later appreciated. If you look back at his career and some of the great teams he had, I was on a team that was 25-5 and we thought we were awful because the guys across town were 34-0,” Boyd said.

Boyd credited his father for doing whatever he needed to do in order to support the family before becoming an elite collegiate basketball coach.

“He started as a high school basketball coach. In those days you had to support yourself also by working some odd jobs.  He had some of the oddest. He worked for the Southern California Edison Company. He drove a Canada Dry truck. He delivered Canada Dry from Downtown Los Angeles to Laguna Beach when there was no 5 freeway,” Boyd added.

***

McKay’s father, John, won four national championships and five Rose Bowls in his time as the USC head football coach.

“My dad got the job in 1960. The headline in the L.A. Times was ‘McKay Who’. They misspelled McKay. It was a rocky start. He had two bad years. He won four games one year and five the next.  Dr. (Norman H.) Topping who was the president of the university at that time called and said ‘I want to see you, come to my office’. Dad said ‘No, I want you to come to my office.’ So they met at Julie’s, which is pretty much his office. They had a bunch of vodka.  He comes home and his job is on the line. He may be gone. We wake up the next morning and the phone rings and Dr. Topping says ‘John, I have to ask you a question? Did I fire you last night’ and he said ‘No, you offered me a three-year contract.’ ”

McKay, who has been best friends with USC athletic director Pat Haden since the two went to high school together at Bishop Amat High in La Puente, also recalled being recruited by other universities. Haden also lived with the McKays as a senior in high school.

Former Dodgers owner Peter O’Malley (left) speaks with USC’s J.K. McKay (Photo courtesy of Jim Riggio)

“I got recruited to USC by my dad. Pat Haden was living with us. Coaches were coming to the door. It was kind of weird. My dad would answer the door,” McKay recalled. “We got recruited by Bear Bryant. We got recruited at Notre Dame and we seriously thought about as Irish Catholic kids of going to Notre Dame. My dad heard that and called me in by myself and said ‘John, I don’t care where you go to school. I need the quarterback.’ ”

McKay said he has fond memories of playing for his father in college.

“I had a great time at SC. It was absolutely a blast. I got to win a National Championship in 1972 and 1974 with my dad,” he said. “I do want to dispel one rumor. Some people believe I only started at wide receiver USC because dad insisted that I start. That is not true. It was my mother.  She said I had to start.  My dad was only complying with her wishes. “

***

O’Malley discussed how his father, Walter, made the decision to move the Dodgers to Los Angeles from Brooklyn, New York in the late 1950s.

“Going back to 1946, which has been called the ten-year effort, it has been documented that my dad began to realize that Ebbets Field, which was built and opened in 1913 needed to be replaced. He tried for 10 years to find a place to build a stadium in Brooklyn.  He did not want the taxpayers or county to subsidize the facility. He wanted to design it and maintain it. About 1957 he kind of realized he couldn’t get it done in Brooklyn,” O’Malley said.

Former Los Angeles Times reporter Larry Stewart (left) talks with Peter O’Malley (Photo courtesy of Jim Riggio)

“His critics claimed he was going to L.A. all the time. That’s not the case. When he announced the Dodgers were going to come here in the fall of 1957 he had only been here three times in his life. When he makes the announcement, he has no idea where he is going to play. The Rose Bowl was not crazy to have us. The Coliseum was not really crazy to have us. The old Wrigley Field was smaller than Ebbets Field.

“He didn’t do the deal with the Coliseum until January of 1958 and opened the season in April of 1958. He was a visionary who did not mind rolling the dice and he did roll the dice in that move. He was criticized to this day back in Brooklyn.  It was his decision to move the team. In his mind, he knew what he wanted to do. If you couldn’t do it in Brooklyn, he was going to do it here. And the fact that in those days Dodger Stadium cost $22 million to build. That’s a lot of money today. He had to sell some different things to come up with the money. “

O’Malley said his father was a pleasant man.

“Working for him was enjoyable. We got along great. We started out hunting and fishing together. He never really told me what to do. He just said Peter, ‘It’s common sense.  It isn’t that complicated. Keep it pretty simple.’”

The post Sportscasters Luncheon Features Legendary Sports Families appeared first on myBurbank.com.

If you’re looking for a team to sharpen your son or daughters basketball skills, the Burbank Magic Basketball Club is the place to do it. The Burbank Magic is headed by Club Director Jason Buttress, who is a longtime Burbank resident and Burroughs alumni.

When asked what separates the Burbank Magic from other clubs throughout the valley, Buttress answered, “We really strive to create a competitive, intense, but fun environment that really helps to bolster a great learning environment. Our No. 1 rule has always been that the kids are learning and having fun at the same time. We combine the fun with the learning aspect, and everyone is happy.”

Burbank Magic

The Burbank Magic also differs from other clubs in that they are truly non-profit. Coaches are not paid, and every extra penny goes back into the club. All fundraising events done throughout the year go towards creating scholarships for families unable to pay, as well as towards reducing costs for leagues/tournaments and monthly costs.

“This group is doing amazing things with our youth in Burbank and doing it the right way,” said Jason Dyer, Burbank Parks and Recreation Coordinator.

The Burbank Magic also participates in many team building activities throughout the year, including attending a UCLA Women’s Basketball game in Dec.  2014 and participating in fundraising with Team “Fight Like a Girl” for the Relay for Life – Burbank event held on Saturday, May 16, 2015. The players partnered with the Fight Like a Girl Team to help raise over $11,000 towards Cancer Research.

Coach Jason Buttress and the Burbank Magic

A new program now being offered by the Burbank Magic is a Coaching Mentoring Program. This program offers anyone over the age of 16 a chance to come out and assist a Head Coach with the 3^rd/4^th Grade or 5^th/6^th Grade team and learn the ins and outs of coaching, practice planning, running drills, and game management.

As of now, this program is only offered to current high school basketball players, but may change in the future. The Magic have three female high school players currently enrolled (one each at Burroughs, Burbank and Providence). If you are interested, please visit the program’s website www.burbankmagic.com for more information.

The Burbank Magic currently offers teams for Boys 3^rd/4^th Grade and 7^th Grade & 8^th Grade. Girls are offered at 3^rd/4^th Grade, 5^th/6^th Grade, 7^th/8^th Grade, high school – JV & high school – varsity.

If you are interested in attending a practice and/or joining the Burbank Magic, please visit www.burbankmagic.com for more information or see their twitter handle @JButtress. You can also email Club Director Jason Buttress at jbuttress@burbankmagic.com.

The post Burbank Magic Basketball Club a Slam Dunk for Youth appeared first on myBurbank.com.

This past week the Smokehouse Restaurant held a farewell party for outgoing Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge whose district included Toluca Lake. The Smokehouse has been in Burbank since 1946 and is a favorite local watering hole for celebrities and politicians.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The famous Burbank establishment has been the home of many gatherings for LaBonge during his years as a Councilman. Owners Lee and Marti Spencer wanted to  present him with a book of remembrances and a loaf of their world famous garlic bread for their appreciation and thanks.

Several guests of the evening have been regulars such as fellow City Council member and current Council President Herb Wesson who presented LaBonge with a certificate from Mayor Garcetti who was traveling out of state and unable to attend.

Also in attendance was former Burbank school board member and now Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Krekorian. An additional local celebrity in attendance was George Barris whose famous cars include the world reknown Batmobile.

John Lewis, Director of the Los Angeles Zoo, shared jokes and highlights of LaBonge’s close relationship to the zoo and many of its animals. Michael Shull, General Manager of LA’s Parks and Recreation Department, shared stories and highlighted the love that Councilman LaBonge had with his department.

Several community members were present including Mardi Rustam, longtime owner of the Tolucan Times newspaper who presented LaBonge with a front page signed edition of his newspaper. Sherman Oaks Chamber President Pedro Manrique shared stories of his communities love for LaBonge.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank’s largest employer Warner Brothers Studios was represented by Senior Vice President  of Public Affairs Lisa Rawlins who spoke of how much Councilman LaBonge’s love for movies and keeping filming here locally was appreciated. Rawlins stated that more film permits were issued in LaBonge’s district than any other council district in the City of Los Angeles.

Dr. Lee Davis, a board member of the museum of the San Fernando Valley, shared many local tidbits of history.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Sneaking on stage following his latest weather report was Mayor of Toluca Lake  Fritz Coleman who used some of recent comedy attire on LaBonge. It was time to toast and thank Councilman LaBonge for everything he has done locally including Toluca Lake, Burbank and surrounding cities.

Champagne was poured as several toasts were shared, followed by a cake cutting ceremony and pictures of guests in attendance.

The post Smokehouse Hosts Farewell Party For L.A. Councilman Tom LaBonge appeared first on myBurbank.com.

“Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors” rolled through the streets of Burbank recently collecting donations from companies such as Warner Brothers, Bob’s Big Boy, Disney, Pavilion’s Market, the Burbank Fire Department and the Bob Hope Fire Department. It was a collcetive effort to raise thousands of dollars to help burn survivors.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burn injuries are devastating, and the majority take a lifetime to heal. The physical and emotional pain the victims suffer is something firefighters see on a regular basis. As a result, the organization “Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors” was founded in 1996 following the Southern California Malibu Brush Fire in which six firefighters were injured due to burns received while being entrapped in a firestorm.

Glendale Firefighter Bill Jensen, a Burbank Resident and a John Burroughs 1962 graduate, received the most serious life threatening burns sustaining third degree burns to 70% of his body. After three months of surgeries, care, and treatment and the miraculous efforts of those who cared for him, Bill beat the 5% chance of survival and was released from the burn center on his birthday. Today, Bill along with the other firefighters injured that day, are well on their way back to “normal” lives.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Bill and his wife Elaine Sue, a BHS class of 62 graduate, can be seen shopping at Pavilions several days a week as they only a live a couple of blocks from the store. He and store director Tom Fardig have become close friends. Pavilions collected $5,000.00 for this year’s rally.

“Firefighters Quest for Burn Survivors” is a non-profit organization managed by firefighters and civilians who volunteer their services and are dedicated to assist those that have been affected by burn injuries.

The organization hosts several fund raisers throughout each year in which donations are received and distributed on behalf of each donor to local burn centers and foundations as well as burn survivors and their families.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Through Bill’s experience and that of other burn survivors, it has been noted that while the patients care and treatment is being managed and monitored by doctors and nurses, it is usually the families whose lives are thrown into disarray.

Given the efforts of this organization, support ranges from family and patient visits to providing material and/or monetary donations to the patients and/or immediate family to assist during the critical time of recovery.

To find out more about the organization, please call toll free (866) 937-8378 or visit www.firefightersquest.org/index.cfm?Section=1

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

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After just five years at the Burbank Police Department, Deputy Chief Tom Angel has accepted a new appointment as Chief of Staff, Los Angeles County Sheriff. At a recognition ceremony on Tuesday afternoon, police officers, City Council members, firefighters and citizens gathered to wish him well, and remember the contributions DC Angel brought to Burbank.

Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse tells story about Tom Angel (© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“He embodies the true spirit of a public servant” noted Burbank Police Chief, Scott LaChasse. Chief LaChasse recalled that DC Angel had already retired from the LASD, however in the challenging period around 2010, he asked DC Angel to join the Burbank Police in an effort to bring both stability to the department, as well as his wealth of experience and knowledge.

Acknowledging his contributions to Burbank, and new role with the LASD, Burbank City Manager Mark Scott noted that “what you are doing is so noble.” Chief LaChasse agreed, adding that it was “a truly noble decision for (DC Angel) to come here in Burbank’s time of need.”

Mayor Bob Frutos makes a presentation on behalf of the City (© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Following a brief proclamation by Burbank Mayor Bob Frutos, DC Angel almost reluctantly stood up to say a few words. Not a person to bask in the spotlight or go long on words, DC Angel recalled his decision to join BPD. “When one cop asks another cop for help, you help.” Simple.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Asked what really stands out from his experience in Burbank, DC Angel reflected, with visible pride, that in Burbank everybody has a voice. When making large decisions impacting officers, such as the decision to acquire the new Ford Explorer SUVs, everybody, down to the line officers and IT staff, collaborated in designing and deploying the best possible tools for use by the BPD.

“The ideas for the (current) vehicle came from the line officers,” remarked DC Angel. Configuration of the (new) Explorers was developed through extensive discussions and design considerations at the line level, and built into the final product. “The vehicle was entered into the California Peace Officer Association Conference (COPSWEST). We won 1st Place in “Best Cruiser Vehicle Design!”

DC Angel also noted that the entire department contributed to rewriting and customizing the standard police policies and procedures manual, LEXIPOL, which is used as the basic framework for conducting police activities within the city. This brought together line officers with an intimate knowledge of the city, with seasoned leadership contributing many years experience in policing and law enforcement best practices.

(© 2015 Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Pressed for some personal recognition, DC Angel refused to budge, only stating the culture of Burbank police allows for innovation, nurturing creativity and ideas, and empowering all officers to be the best they can, while continuing to develop their potential.

“We need to ensure the citizens know we are on their side” said DC Angel.

The post Burbank Police Deputy Chief Tom Angel Moves Back To L. A. Sheriff’s Department appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

To be recognized as an All-League player is a great honor. To be bestowed as an All-CIF player is simply special. Both Burroughs and Burbank had recipients who made a significant impact upon their team’s success this year in baseball, softball and boys volleyball.

Burroughs’ Thomas Wilson, Danny Bustos, Presley Miraglia, Ryan Van Loo and Andrew Dalmada and Burbank’s Caitlyn Brooks each received All-CIF honors for their outstanding efforts this past spring.

Baseball

Burroughs baseball rode the arms of pitching standouts Thomas Wilson and Danny Bustos to its first league title since 1997.

Wilson, the Pacific League player of the year, finished 9-0 overall with a 0.57 earned run average (five earned runs allowed in 61 innings). In league, he went 5-0 with a 0.82 era.

Bustos went 9-2 overall with a 0.96 era in 80 innings pitched including a 5-0 mark in league with an 0.31 era (two earned runs in 45 innings).

The pitching duo led a staff that had a season era of 1.62 overall and 1.06 in the Pacific League.

“I am very happy for both Danny and Thomas on their All-CIF selections. It is amazing to have a one-two punch like we did this year that no matter who was on the mound, we expected to not only get a great performance, but to also win the game,” Burroughs coach Craig Sherwood said. “To have two pitchers make All-CIF on a team that did not win a title also goes to show just how dominate they were and the respect they have garnered.

“What I think is scary, is that both have still not shown all they have yet and will continue to develop and become stronger. I think Seton Hall got one of the most underrated pitchers and in my opinion it is a crime that four year schools are not breaking down Danny’s door to get him in the fold. They can both dominate.”

Sherwood also gave praise to assistant coach Tony Sandoval who has done a masterful job with the pitching staff since Sherwood’s arrival to Burroughs in fall of 2013.

“I want to give a lot of credit also to our pitching coach guru, Tony Sandoval, who worked with both of these guys to develop them,” said Sherwood. “Our strength has become our pitching and there is no coincidence that Coach Sandoval has a lot to do with that.”

All-CIF players are few and far between nowadays in the ultra-competitive game of baseball. One player resonated in Sherwood’s mind that made a huge impact upon the program nearly 20 years ago.

“I have not seen a turn-around of a team so dramatically at Burroughs since catcher Tim Cates (All-CIF ‘96) roared into the spotlight to dominate the position and game and raise everyone’s levels,” Sherwood said.

The VIBL Indians have continued the winning ways for Burroughs having won six of 10 games thus far this summer.

Softball

Burbank won its third consecutive league title behind the incredible exploits of Notre Dame-bound Caitlyn Brooks. She was named the Pacific League player of the year for three straight seasons, an amazing feat in itself.

The most dominant pitcher to come through the city of Burbank in many, many years leaves behind a legacy where she finished her career with 82 wins, more than 1,000 strikeouts, and a batting average of .481. She was as good at the plate as she was in the circle.

This season Brooks hit .461 and had a record of 18-5 with a 0.66 ERA, 264 strikeouts and only 18 walks.

“It is a well-deserved honor and just validates her career even more. It just goes to show you that hard work and determination pay off,” Burbank coach Mike Delaney said. “Caitlyn has set a new standard for our pitchers to follow.

“Her work ethic has definitely rubbed off on our younger pitchers. They now understand what it takes to be successful. As a coach, it is gratifying to see her pass the torch to our younger players.”

Burroughs clinched a share of its first Pacific League title in three years behind the sparkling play of freshman Presley Miraglia. She led the Indians with a 20-4 record with 119 strikeouts and was a threat at the plate as well with 24 runs batted in.

“I am so proud of Presley and her development as a player and a person. Being one of two freshmen on the All-CIF first team shows how hard it is to make it and how incredible of an honor it is,” Burroughs coach Doug Nicol said. “It is a pretty exclusive club and it did not come without a lot of hard work, dedication, and long hours spent on the softball field.

“It is a very well deserved honor, and the best is yet to come as she has really only scratched the surface of her potential. I am so happy for her.”

Boys Volleyball

The Burroughs boys volleyball team was represented by two players as they rolled to their sixth consecutive league title. Ryan Van Loo and Andrew Dalmada each earned All-CIF honors.

Van Loo, Pacific League co-player of the year, dished out 974 assists (new record for a season) as the team’s setter including 145 digs, 54 blocks, 43 kills and 14 aces.

“Ryan did a tremendous job leading our team this year and of finding a way to distribute the sets to the right attackers based on what was happening in the match,” Burroughs coach Joel Brinton said. “For our hitters to rack up the number of kills they did all season, that is a huge credit to Ryan’s volleyball IQ for making that happen and creating those opportunities for them.”

Dalmada recorded 298 kills (second most ever in a season), 156 digs (second on team), 40 aces (led team- fourth most ever in a season) and 29 blocks.

“The hard work and dedication that this kid puts in to making himself better and his teammates better is above and beyond what we could ask for,” Brinton said. “We all believe that he gets this energy that he puts into others back in return, and that was such a key part of his season. Put that together with his amazing performance throughout CIF Playoffs, he was our MVP for the playoffs, and it’s no wonder that he was selected for this honor.”

“Both of these guys do such a great job of representing JBHS volleyball and what we want our program to be about,” said Brinton.

A glaring omission from the All-CIF team was Pepperdine-bound Max Chamberlain, the Pacific League co-player of the year.

“It is a shame that he was not selected. He is without doubt one of the best players in our Division, but a certain number of spots is typically allocated for each team. I told the CIF committee that he should be honored, but what can you do? It’s out of our control,” Brinton said. “And I don’t think Max needs this to validate what he meant to our program this year and the last four years, I certainly don’t. I have told you and everyone else many times that we DO NOT accomplish what we did this year without Max’s skill and sacrifice. He’s All-CIF in my book.”

Congratulations to each of these recipients!

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