At this point, it is almost expected that the San Marino High girls’ golf team will win, which it did on Tuesday in a Pacific League match at Santa Anita.

The defending league champion Titans (25-0) finished with a 189, followed by Arcadia (19-6), which shot a 199, and Burroughs (19-6), which came in at 216.

The rest of the field included La Canada (6-19), which shot a 218, Crescenta Valley (9-16), which carded a 222 and Burbank’s 291.

The lowest score was turned in by the Spartans’ Rachel Oh, who shot a three-under-par 34, while the Titans’ Bella Setio and Arcadia’s Annie Kong each finished with a 36. San Marino’s Ada Wong ended her day with a 37.

The Indians’ lowest tally was carded by Ashley Phelps at 41, Annie Adachi clubbed a 42, and Bella Nava was next with a 43.

Maddie Riggs capped her afternoon with a 44, Katy Kuoppala followed with a 46, and Raelinn Arnold’s 48 was tossed out.

Pacing the Bulldogs (0-25) was Amy Tran’s 41, while Alexis Poche carded a 46. Olga-Marie Davis shot a 54 and Erin Tanner went to the clubhouse with a 67.

The post Burroughs Places 3rd In Girls’ Golf Match appeared first on myBurbank.com.

With the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets set to square off in the first round of the MLB playoffs – the National League Division Series – Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) and Steve Israel (D-NY) today announced they had placed a friendly wager on the outcome of the series.  The winner of the bet shall receive a local food from their district.

Reps. Adam Schiff (L) and Steve Israel

Schiff, who represents the areas surrounding Dodger Stadium, wagered gourmet popcorn from Pauline’s Premier Sweets in Burbank, befitting his Hollywood district. Israel, who is a Mets fan representing areas surrounding Citi Field, wagered New York bagels, flown in fresh. Additionally, the loser will wear the tie of the winner’s team and deliver a one minute speech on the House floor extolling the virtues of the team moving on to the next playoff round.

“There isn’t any question in my mind that the Boys in Blue will best the Loveable Losers, and I can already taste the delicious New York bagels that will be flown in the day the Mets blow it,” said Schiff.  “I’m looking forward to seeing the Dodgers continue in their hunt for Blue October after the Mets are long vanquished.  Please make sure the lox is fresh, Steve.”

“I hope that Adam will also consider sending a broom so that I can sweep his fancy L.A. popcorn off my floor in the same way my beloved Mets will sweep the Dodgers,” said Israel. “Let’s face it; once his team left New York, it was all downhill from there. Let’s go Mets!”

The last time the New York Mets met the Dodgers in the playoffs was during the 2006 National League Division Series, a meeting the Mets won 3 – 0, and the time before was during the 1988 National League Championship Series, which the Dodgers won 4 – 3.  1988 was the last year the Dodgers won the World Series.  Schiff and Israel are friends in Congress, having both entered the House together in 2001.

The post It’s Dodgers vs. Mets and Schiff vs. Israel appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Memorial Field will be buzzing with excitement as it hosts two high school football games over the next two nights as Burroughs plays Hoover tonight while Burbank faces Muir on Friday.

The Indians enter tonight’s Pacific League match with a 3-1 record, and 1-0 in league after routing Muir at home by 40 points last week.

Burroughs averages just over 41 points per game, while surrendering 18 points per outing.

The Tornadoes are 1-3, 0-1 in league and have a one-dimensional offense that is heavily-tilted toward the run.

Hoover lost to host Hollywood, 41-0, beat Sotomayor, 41-18, at home, fell to South Pasadena, 44-6, on the road, and dropped a 37-0 decision to host Pasadena.

Junior quarterback Quinton Smith has passed for 31 yards, and has been intercepted three times without having tossed a touchdown.

On the plus side, Smith has rushed for 116 yards with one score, while Hoover’s leading ball-carrier is senior fullback Calvin Lopez, who has gained 191 yards and tallied two touchdowns.

Burroughs’ defense will need to stop the run against Hoover. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Sophomore running back Maurice Herrera has 175 yards and one score, and junior running back James Tumbucon has 113 yards with one tally.

Burroughs has a diverse offensive attack that will cause the Tornadoes major problems.

It begins with senior quarterback Steven Hubbell, who has thrown for 10 touchdowns with two interceptions and 656 yards.

Junior running back Chance Bell has rushed for 514 yards, scored 10 touchdowns and has 50 receiving yards.

Senior wide receiver Erick Hernandez has snared 11 passes for 130 yards with four scores and 283 all-purpose yards. Senior wide receiver Cade Borland has 200 yards on 14 receptions and two touchdowns.

Senior wide receiver Torin Harris has two touchdown receptions and five catches for 121 yards. Senior wide receiver Robert Awunganyi has amassed 311 all-purpose yards.

Because Hoover lacks a passing attack, the Indians will need to halt the run so senior linebacker Branden Garcia (22 assists and five solo tackles), defensive back Awunganyi (12 assists and 12 solo tackles), senior linebacker Connor Garden (17 assists and three solo tackles) and senior linebacker Josue Chicas Ortiz (13 assists and seven solo tackles) will be counted upon to deliver the goods.

The Bulldogs are primed for another big performance against the winless Mustangs, who average 10.5 points per game, while allowing just under 48 points.

Burbank has scored at least 35 points twice, and its defense has limited the last two opponents to nine points in wins over Canyon (35-6) and Crescenta Valley (7-3).

BHS Coach Richard Broussard expects strong performance versus Muir. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Junior quarterback Guy Gibbs has thrown five touchdown passes with three picks and 429 yards.

Junior wide receiver Forest Fajardo has nabbed 10 passes for 167 yards and one touchdown, and senior wide receiver Noah Powell has emerged as a weapon after catching two scoring passes. Powell has 106 yards on four receptions.

Sophomore tailback Darnell Williams has 231 rushing yards and 417 all-purpose yards. Junior running back Nick Warren has accounted for two scores, 175 yards on the ground and 203 all-purpose yards.

Junior defensive back Andy Reyes (39 solo tackles and 14 assists), junior defensive back Miguel Vasquez (22 solo tackles and nine assists), junior linebacker Jake Kelley (20 solo tackles with 10 assists), senior defensive back David Medrano (15 solo tackles with 15 assists) and defensive back Fajardo (20 solo tackles with five assists) will lead the defensive effort.

The post Burroughs, Burbank Have Home Dates appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Pet Mania has announced that they are closing after many years in their location at Pass and Oak in the Lakeside Shopping Center.

A sign on their door at 353 N. Pass reads that they will be moving to a ‘bigger location’ although a decision on where that location will be has not been disclosed.

According to their Facebook Page they state, “Our lease is up, rent going sky high! We want to include dog wash, etc and City of Burbank will not allow.. So we are moving! Location to be determined!”

According to the page, “Products will be on SALE! Up to 50%! Fixtures will also be for sale! Used crates, carriers and more are available! Come and get a deal today!
We will keep you posted with updates of our status!”

Pet Mania is the second pet store in the area to shut down. The iconic Peggy Wood closed their doors a couple of months ago. Pet Mania bought many of the supplies that were left over from the Peggy Woods closure.

The post Another Burbank Pet Store Closes its Doors appeared first on myBurbank.com.

After much anticipation by local burger lovers, Five Guys Burgers have opened their doors in Burbank. The location is in the Burbank Town Center, but accessible from the outside at the corner of San Fernando and Magnolia. The Burbank location is open 11 am to 10 pm every day.

While the intersection is one of the heaviest foot traffic areas in Burbank, there is very little street parking. Parking is available on the other side in the Town Center with some limited parking available on San Fernando.

With my respects to the Burger Dude (he does not review chain burgers anyway), I had to try one of these burgers that so many swear by.

I ordered a cheeseburger, fries and a large drink which came to $15.01. I did not have a penny so I got back $4.99, with no quarters present. You are able to watch the burger being made which is a fresh patty. It took about 10 minutes to get my order at the time when I was lucky enough that they were not very busy. In fact, there were more employees eating then there were paying customers when I was there around 2:45 pm.

A large plus is the new coke machine that have every type of drink in the known coke universe available. I went for the cherry vanilla Mr. Pibb.

Once I got the burger, I immediately discovered what all the calamity was about.  This thing was great. Cheese oozed out, the meat was great and it was loaded with condiments. It seemed to be a step up from the In N’ Out Double Double.

My only disappointment were the fries (like In N’ Out). They did not seem to be cooked very long and had no crispness at all. They were made with real potatoes and fatter then In N’ Out but they wiggled like worms when you took them out of the container. I did not finish them.

There you have it Burbank – if you have never tried one of these Burgers you need to stop by, this is an absolute taste treat. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time though because parking will definitely be an issue.

The post Five Guys Burgers Opens Their Doors in Burbank appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Nothing says Halloween like a good old fashion Witch Burning!

And You thought that sort of thing was only done in Salem Mass. This is the Media Capitol of the World so we want a Witch Burning that can be seen from outer space!

So “who you gonna call?”

Why Park and Recreation of course! Every year on Diamond 2 and 3 at Olive Rec. they hoisted up the Evil Witch on a pole, put about 3 cords of wood with a bucket of gasoline under her… and Poof!, You have a Witch burning fit to Dance and chant around!

I love the poor little girl in one picture who is about to tear up and run screaming when face to face with the Condemned Witch and her broom.

Please write to your Park and Rec Director to bring back this fine Burbank Tradition!

Visit the Burbankia website for more great Burbank history

The post FLASHBACK FRIDAY: A Burbank Halloween appeared first on myBurbank.com.

It took the Burroughs High football team only four plays to score its first touchdown, and would lead by four touchdowns after one quarter.

When it was over, the Indians would eventually pull away for a convincing 48-6 victory over Hoover in a Pacific League game at Memorial Field on Thursday night.

The Tornadoes (1-4 and 0-2 in league) made it somewhat easy for the Indians to pull ahead 14-0 after turning the ball over twice.

The Indians (4-1 and 2-0 in league) had four passing touchdowns and three rushing scores as they cranked out 362 total net yards, including 234 yards on the ground.

“We did exactly what we wanted to do,” Burroughs coach Keith Knoop said. “In a game like this, offensively we wanted to execute and make our blocks. Defensively we wanted to bring in the second unit and give them some valuable playing time. It’s game five and we wanted to give the starters a little rest.”

Senior quarterback Steven Hubbell had three scoring passes, and has 13 touchdown tosses for the season with two interceptions.

Wide receiver Robert Awunganyi snares a pass from backup quarterback Andy Amela in 48-6 win. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Hoover wasn’t able to pick off Hubbell, who finished his evening’s work by connecting on seven of 10 attempts for 62 yards.

The score was so lopsided senior Andy Amela, the backup quarterback, entered late in the second quarter and had a 51-yard toss to senior wide receiver Erick Hernandez (69 yards on three catches) that made it 42-0 and 4:58 left.

That was Amela’s first pass and would have one more in the second half that netted 15 yards to senior wide receiver Robert Awunganyi.

“We wanted to get everyone in the game, and we were trying to figure out how we were going to do that,” Knoop said. “We expect them [second string] to come in and play like the first guys.”

Junior tailback Chance Bell was the game’s top ground-gainer as he sliced and diced his way to 149 yards on eight carries with three touchdowns.

Tailback Chance Bell tallied three scores and 149 yards against Hoover. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

“We prepare every week the same,” said Bell, the Indians’ leading rusher a season ago. “It doesn’t make any difference if the team is good or the team is bad. We want to play at our level and not at the level of our opponent.”

Bell’s 18-yard dash came after a fumble by sophomore running back Maurice Herrera that was recovered by junior linebacker Taiyo Gibbs. The tally gave the Indians a 7-0 lead with 9:31 left in the opening quarter and capped a 53-yard march.

“We practice the way we want to play in the game,” Bell said. “I have good vision, but all the credit goes to the offensive line. They do all the work.”

Hoover’s next series resulted in yet another fumble, this time by junior quarterback Quinton Smith which junior linebacker Nico Frugone pounced on at the Hoover six-yard line.

Hubbell’s six-yard slant pass to senior wide receiver Nick Mercado (40 yards on four receptions) made it 14-0 with 7:32 left in the initial quarter.

After Hoover punted, the Indians took a 21-0 lead as Hubbell hit Hernandez with a 13-yard bullet and 5:25 remaining in the same quarter.

Burroughs’ stout defense held the Tornadoes to 213 total net yards. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Burroughs’ lead became 28-0 when Bell bolted into the end zone on a 43-yard sprint and 58.4 seconds left in the first quarter. The run capped a four-play, 70-yard march.

Hubbell’s 12-yard strike to Mercado in the right corner of the end zone came with seven minutes remaining before the intermission as the Indians led 35-0. The drive consumed seven plays and covered 63 yards.

Burroughs opened the second half with a 55-yard, four-play excursion that Bell capped with a three-yard romp and 9:12 showing in the third quarter for a 48-0 edge.

Hoover (213 total yards) was finally able to get on the scoreboard with 17.1 seconds left in the third quarter when junior Johnny Hernandez drilled a 46-yard field goal as the Tornadoes drove 55 yards.

On the game’s final possession, Hernandez, a wide receiver, converted a 27-yard field goal with a second left that climaxed a 70-yard march.

Herrera led the way for Hoover with 103 yards on 18 carries, senior fullback Jesse Martinez had 58 yards on 14 carries, and Smith contributed 32 yards on 15 carries.

Burroughs’ next game will be Friday at Memorial Field against the Pasadena Bulldogs.

The post Burroughs Races To 48-6 Win Over Hoover appeared first on myBurbank.com.

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

• On October 4, 2015, from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., I-5 will be fully closed from Hollywood Way to Burbank Boulevard so that Burbank Water and Power can safely relocate overhead power lines. The on- and off-ramps between Hollywood Way and Burbank Boulevard will be closed. Southbound I-5 motorists will be diverted at Hollywood Way and northbound I-5 motorists will be diverted at Burbank Boulevard.  A signed detour will be posted.

• For the safety of motorists during pile driving for a new railroad bridge, one lane of northbound Buena Vista Street will be closed on weekdays, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October 16, 2015. For more information click here.

134 to Magnolia Boulevard

Bridge Widening Activities: 

+ Construction of concrete barrier rails at Western Avenue and Alameda Avenue

+ Construction of bridge supports underneath the Los Angeles River Bridge

+ Slab construction at Alameda Bridge

+ Stripping and patching of concrete barrier at Los Angeles River Bridge

Magnolia Boulevard to Buena Vista Street

Burbank Western Channel: Backfilling trench operations.

Old San Fernando Tunnel: Concrete crushing.

Empire Bridge: Installation of falsework to support freeway bridge structure.

Victory Place Bridge: Drilling CIDHs (cast in drilled holes) for bridge support structures.

Buena Vista Bridge (Winona Bridge): Installation of falsework on southbound side.

Buena Vista Railroad Bridge: Pile driving and shoring work.

San Fernando Railroad Bridge:  Demolition of main line track on the northbound side.

Railroad Retaining Wall: Installation of precast panels on the railroad retaining wall between Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Way (night work).

Future New Empire Avenue: Excavation work next to Sharky’s.

Southbound I-5 Retaining Walls: Construction of new retaining walls on southbound I-5 between Empire Avenue and Burbank Boulevard.

Utility Work: Underground utility work on Maria Street north of Empire Avenue and San Fernando Boulevard east of Grismer Avenue.

Closures and Detours

SR-134 to Magnolia Boulevard

+ From September 25, 2015, through October 2017, the Los Angeles River Bike Path between Riverside Drive and just south of the SR-134 overcrossing in the city of Glendale will be closed. For more information and the bike path detour, click here.

+ There will be intermittent closures of the northbound Alameda Avenue and Western Avenue on-ramps Monday, October 5, through Friday, October 9, between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Magnolia Boulevard to Buena Vista Street

+ On October 4, 2015, from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., I-5 will be fully closed from Hollywood Way to Burbank Boulevard. The on- and off-ramps between Hollywood Way and Burbank Boulevard will be closed as well. Southbound I-5 motorists will be diverted at Hollywood Way and northbound I-5 motorists will be diverted at Burbank Boulevard.  A signed detour will be posted.

+ Through October 16, 2015, one lane of northbound Buena Vista Street will be closed on weekdays, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.  For more information, click here.

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It was so hot at the Elks’ Chili Cook-Off and Car Show on Saturday, organizer John Coyle joked that competitors didn’t need their portable stoves.

It was 104 degrees in the parking lot where entrants were simmering their recipes, according to Coyle, who is the leading knight of Burbank Elks Lodge #1497. Many of the 100 people attending — family and friends of the Elks — stayed in the air-conditioned lodge.

Mark Peale and Enrique Castillo took home first place this year at the Elks Lodge Chili Cook-Off (Photo By Edward Tovmassian)

First-place winner was Elks member Mark Peale, who made his tasty blend following the rules of the International Chili Society — all meat, no beans or pasta.

A consolation first-place prize went to Road Kings car club members Karl Grossman and Don Baldaseroni who made two kinds of chili — one without beans and one with beans that took second place. Fellow Road King Al Gonzalez Jr., owner of Al’s Wholesale Meat, provided 30 pounds of meat and it was gone by the end of the event.

Grossman was the head chef and they used his recipe that was refined while he was a firefighter with the Los Angeles Fire Department. He’s now retired.

When tasters were judging the recipes, Coyle said, they preferred Peale’s meatless over Baldaseroni’s but they liked it and liked it even more with the beans.

“Unfortunately, this year’s turnout for the actual cooking of the chili was fairly scarce,” Coyle said. “I attribute this to the 104-degree temperature of the day. I guess there is a lot to be learned from the old adage: ‘If you can’t stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen!’ I would add though, that the chili that was prepared was excellent. Thanks to all who participated in this event.”

In addition to the chili, there were 30 classic cars displayed, about 20 of them owned by Road Kings members. Also displayed were a vintage 1952 Ford police car from the Burbank Police and Fire Museum, and a 1951 fire engine owned by George Moore of Van Nuys. Moore was a volunteer firefighter in Pennsylvania before moving to California. He purchased the fire engine at a truck show while visiting Pennsylvania in 1996. Moore is retired after a 30-year career with the Los Angeles Police Department.

​The Burbank Elks Lodge #1497 is a fraternal order dedicated to the act of charity. As an order, the Elks champion the plight of blind children through its donations.

“Not only do we see to the needs of these children, but we fund research in the field of child blindness,” Coyle said.

​The California-Hawaii Elks Major Project Inc. is a multi-million dollar-a-year charity that is funded solely by the charitable donations of its Elk members. Proceeds are raised through fund- raising events put on by Elk Lodges, such as the Burbank Elks’ Chili Cook Off and Car Show.

​Funds are actually collected daily at the lodge when members deposit their pocket change into conveniently located purple pigs. In all, the California-Hawaii Elks Major Project is providing therapy for some 400 children. More than a 100 pre-schoolers are visited by pediatric screeners, and nearly 50,000 children are screened for vision issues each year, including children in Burbank.

​In addition, the Burbank Elks is a sponsor of Burbank Boy Scout Troop 210. The Elks maintain a close relationship with these young men working together on community projects, Coyle said.

​The Burbank Elks invite elementary school students to the annual Halloween and Christmas parties.

The Elks also make donations to military veterans. In addition to a Veteran’s Day dinner, members send simple amenities to troops still in “harm’s way”, Coyle said.

The Road Kings will have their annual Car Show at Santa Anita Horse Race Park beginning at 7 a.m. on Oct. 11. All proceeds go to Burbank and San Fernando Valley charities. For registration and other information, visit roadkingsburbank.com.

The Road Kings car club of Burbank began in 1952 and some of the famous members include drag racers Don Prudhomme, Tommy Ivo and Ken Safford. Many Road Kings members still race today, including Bob Muravez, who recently began driving the Western Hoist top fuel dragster in the Nostalgia Races. In his third race, Muravez won at Las Vegas.

The post Elk’s Chili Cook-Off as Hot as the Day appeared first on myBurbank.com.

Burbank Police have put out the word that another ‘Flash Mob’ event may be coming this Tuesday to the Krispy Keme at the Empire Center on Tuesday, October 6, 2015.

Past Krispy Kreme Tuesdays have brought the area to a standstill like in August of 2013 (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

A release from the Burbank Police stated, “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.

Mass gatherings can create a public nuisance, disturb the general peace and create situations which impact the safe and efficient flow of traffic. To that end, the Burbank Police Department will be fully deployed in the area to enforce all applicable laws, including those involving illegal engine/vehicle modifications.”

Police were out in force back in June when a possible gathering was scheduled (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The last time there was a mass gathering Burbank Police used mutual aid and brought in other departments to assist with enforcement. They also closed off the Empire Center to all vehicles.

Gatherings before that created traffic nightmares in the past with both residents and business owners completely locked in and the traffic then spilled out of the area into other businesses,

The post Flash Mob to Return to Krispy Kreme? appeared first on myBurbank.com.

By Jim Riggio

Part of growing up and going through high school is learning how to overcome one’s mistakes. This extends to many areas, including the football field.

The Burbank High football team showed Friday night that it must cut down on its mistakes and learn to overcome obstacles. After appearing in the driver’s seat for nearly the entire first half, the Bulldogs fell apart in the second half and were stunned by visiting Muir 21-20 in a Pacific League contest at Memorial Field.

“They (Muir) deserved to win. We did all the things to lose a game,” Burbank coach Richard Broussard said. “We got away with it last week. I didn’t do my job teaching them about discipline and the little things, so we will take care of that.”

Burbank (2-3 overall, 1-1 in league) was coming off a 7-3 win against defending CIF Southern Section Southeastern Division champion Crescenta Valley last week.

BHS wide receiver Forest Fajardo tries to break free from Muir defender. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

The Bulldogs took the lead on the second play of the second quarter as junior quarterback Guy Gibbs hooked up with junior wide receiver Forest Fajardo on a six-yard touchdown pass.

The Bulldogs went up 14-0 with 4:54 left in the first half as sophomore running back Darnell Williams scored on a five-yard run.

Muir (1-4, 1-1) came back and made things closer as senior quarterback Joey Knowles found junior wide receiver Elijah Blades on a seven-yard touchdown pass. The Mustangs missed the extra point, making it 14-6.

But things changed on Burbank’s ensuing drive as Gibbs fumbled the ball on his own. Muir’s Jordan Baker picked up the loose ball and raced 46 yards into the end zone. The Mustangs converted the two-point conversion to tie the score with just six tenths of a second left in the first half.

“It was huge. It was clearly the difference in the game,” Broussard said of the fumble.

Muir took the lead at the 9:45 mark of the third quarter as Knowles hit junior wide receiver Jamal Tims with a 61-yard touchdown pass.

Burbank struggled in one-point loss to Mustangs. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

It took a while for the Bulldogs to counter back. But they did with 10:52 left to play as Gibbs and Fajardo hooked up on a 35-yard touchdown pass.

However, the Bulldogs bobbled the snap on the extra point and were unable to convert the play that turned into a two-point conversion attempt.

It would turn out to haunt them because later in the quarter senior kicker Andrew Hank was well wide on a 42-yard field goal attempt.

The Bulldogs had another opportunity as they took over on their own 26-yard-line with three minutes to play. They marched down the field only to fumble the ball deep in Muir territory with 1:25 left.

Burbank was not finished, however.

The Bulldogs stopped Muir and even blocked the Mustangs’ punt giving them the ball at Muir’s 24-yard-line with 37 seconds left.

But the Bulldogs did not make good use of clock management and it cost them as time expired.

The post Burbank Surprised By Winless Muir, 21-20 appeared first on myBurbank.com.

I have not been in The Office for a number of years and the last time there I remember that there was nothing there to bring me back.

Now there is.

The Office cheeseburger was a surprise – a surprise that stated with the first bite. In that first bite I tasted a very unique spread that was on the bun. Most places use mayonnaise or thousand island (which I prefer), but The Office has developed their own, unique, garlic aoili spread that becomes a very different flavor explosion.

The Cheeseburger from The Office

The bun on the burger is well toasted and fits the meat to a point, but may be just a tad small. It seemed fresh and fluffy on top. The burger is a hand packed patty that was made to order.

The usual condiments of lettuce, tomato, onion also accompanied the burger. I would have preferred a bit more cheese but it was not a deterrent enough to lower the rating.

Overall, it was the unique taste of the burger that really had me hooked. Whether it was the spread that they used, or the way they season the patty, I continued to craze this taste as I continued to consume it.  If you are not a garlic fan, I would warn you not ask for the bun plain because the taste is strong and you will either love this or not, just based on the spread.

The burger was a good size and that and my fries filled me well.

The Office on Victory Blvd.

Our waitress was very nice and friendly and made sure we had our drink refills fast. They had numerous flat screens on the wall for sporting events and a pool table in the rear. In a way The Office looks like Dr. Who’s Tardis, small on the outside but much bigger inside.

This may be one of those well kept secrets in Burbank.

Notes: I asked for the fries well done as usual and the they did a good job with these skinny fries. They also sprinkle them with some seasoning salt that really add to the overall flavor of the meal. They also have many more dishes (and burgers!) to offer on what the waitress told us was a new and improved menu with many new additions. They also offer a portable mushroom burger for our vegetarians out there.

The Office is located at 3516 W Victory Blvd, Burbank – right next to the KFC on Victory. 818 848-3516. Open M – F 11:30 am until 2 am and Saturday 10 am to 2 am and Sunday 9:30 am to 2 am.

The Office 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)

If you would like the Burger Dude to consider a location for a review – let us know HERE

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When a new burger place opens in Burbank it’s always exciting. In this case it is a small business with an owner who is trying hard and works to greet everyone who comes in his door,

Better Fresh Burger is a hard find. It is located in the back corner of the strip mall at Olive and Victory (the one with the Subway on the corner). While it may be hard to park in front, there is some great parking available off of Clark in the rear of the center.

I guess you can tell when I am talking about the parking before the burger that there might be a problem.

When ordering a Better Fresh Cheeseburger, I was expecting a hand formed burger. While the meat may not be frozen, the burger patties appear to be preformed. Another problem, when they ask you what cheese you would like and you say cheddar, they instead tell you that they do not have cheddar, but Mexican Cheese.

The burger looks good when it is brought to you and both the bottom and top buns have been toasted well. The mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, pickle all appear on the bottom bun of the burger and nothing but the cheese separates the patty from the upper bun.

The bun does not do a great job of fitting around the burger and appears too small.

As always, it is the taste that makes or breaks any burger and the taste here is very bland. You can’t pick how you want the patty cooked and it appears to be medium-well and after a few bites there is just no juice to it. It really did not taste much seasoning and after about two thirds done, it felt like a chore to finish the rest.

The prices are very reasonable, maybe to reasonable. A cheeseburger goes for $3.30 and they have many variations.

I was rooting for the burger, but it just did not make the cut. The workers appear to be very friendly and the business looks clean and inviting, but it is all about the burgers as you know. The restaurant has a very ‘Mexican’ theme to it with their menu items and I have a feeling if you have a flair for Mexican food (which I do not) you may enjoy many of the menu selections.

Side Notes: The fries also failed the test. After ordering ‘well done’ or ‘crispy’ fries, they did not come that way and were not special in any way. They also make a breakfast burrito that they were very high on, but that is for another review!  They also offered hand scooped shakes whick look very good.

While you do root for the owners of Better Fresh Burger to succeed, it is the burger that you really need to root for.

Better Fresh Burger is located at 101 North Victory in Burbank – right on the corner of Olive and Victory. 747 477-1860 (they take phone orders in advance and do catering). Open M – Thurs. 7 am until 9 pm and Friday and Saturday until 10 pm – closed on Sunday.

Better Fresh Burger receives: Could Use a Rewrite

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)

If you would like us to consider a location for a review – let us know HERE

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The winning streak is at five for the Burroughs High football team and tallying 40 points or more must be old hat after accomplishing the feat during this stretch including a 48-13 pounding of Pasadena in a Pacific League encounter at Memorial Field on Friday night.

Right now, Burroughs is clicking on all cylinders and must be considered the favorite to capture the league title. With that could come a home game in the CIF Southern Section Southeast Division playoffs.

“We’re obtaining our goals,” Burroughs coach Keith Knoop said. “We’re getting better everywhere. We can run the ball and we can throw the ball. Sometimes we have to figure out what we’re going to do. And our special teams are very good. But we’re taking it one game at a time. Now we’re going to concentrate on Arcadia.”

Extremely versatile offensively, the Indians (5-1 and 3-0 in league) don’t rely too much on the running game or the passing attack. Both worked as the offense gouged the Bulldogs (3-3 and 1-2 in league) for 426 total net yards.

Wide receiver Erick Hernandez had two scoring catches. (Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Junior tailback Chance Bell was the leading ball-carrier in 2014 and on pace to get to 1,000 yards again after finishing with 172 on 18 carries.

On Burroughs’ fourth series, Bell carried the ball eight consecutive times and capped the 97-yard drive with a 12-yard scamper that gave the Indians a 21-0 lead and 1:17 left in the second quarter.

Bell’s one-yard burst and 7:42 remaining in the third quarter put the Indians in front 34-0 and sealed an 80-yard, eight-play excursion.

After throwing two touchdowns, senior quarterback Steven Hubbell has 15 on the season with two interceptions. Hubbell’s first scoring toss went to senior wide receiver Erick Hernandez and covered four yards and came with 5:32 left in the opening quarter that made it 6-0. Hubbell directed the Indians 52 yards and the drive consumed eight plays.

“Before the season we established what we want to happen,” said Hernandez, who caught three passes for 22 yards. “One is that we should win league and the other is that we get a home game in the [CIF] playoffs and win that game. It’s been a while since we’ve done that, but we want to make that a habit. We want to be seeded in the Top Four.”

Quarterback Steven Hubbell passed for two scores and ran for a couple. Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Hubbell hooked up with Hernandez on a 10-yard toss and 1:18 left in the same quarter to make it 14-0. Hubbell found senior wide receiver Hunter Guerin on the two-point conversion. That drive began at the Burroughs 31-yard line and took five plays.

“We have a good game plan and we watch a lot of film,” said Hubbell, who didn’t play as a junior and passed for 84 yards on nine of 11 attempts. “We have a winning attitude. I’ve worked hard to get back onto the football field after my sophomore year.”

Hubbell has shown an ability to take off when a receiver isn’t available, and did on a 12-yard run with 6.2 seconds left before the half that made it 27-0.

The tally came after senior defensive back Jarret Wrobel’s interception as the Indians took over at the Pasadena 33-yard line.

Hubbell (38 yards on nine carries) ran for a second score and 3:58 left in the third quarter when he took off for 13 yards that made it 41-0. Hernandez’s 20-yard punt return set up the tally.

Burroughs’ final points came on a five-yard run by junior running back Sammy Duran (62 yards on five rushes) that made it 48-6 with 5:43 left in the fourth quarter and came after each team fumbled.

Pasadena (112 total yards) made it 41-6 with 11:56 left in the fourth quarter which had a running clock when senior running back Jeremiah Jones (82 yards 15 carries) scored from three yards out. It became 48-13 when junior tight end Kris Jolley scored on a one-yard run and 2:17 left.

The Indians next play at Arcadia at 7 p.m. in a Pacific League match before hosting Glendale on Oct. 23.

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John Burroughs High School Junior State of America (JSA) hosted Pete Peterson of Pepperdine University during lunch on Thursday, October 8, at John Burroughs High School. Mr. Peterson spoke to the students about civic engagement and civic renewal. Lulu Debretsion, Burroughs JSA Chapter President stated, “the most important message I took from Pete Peterson is the importance of going into public service to do something. Not to be someone.”

Pete Peterson speaking to group (Photo Courtesy Burroughs JSA)

Pete Peterson is Interim Dean of the School Public Policy at Pepperdine University and Executive Director of the Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership at Pepperdine. In 2014 Pete Peterson was a candidate for California Secretary of State.

John Burroughs High School Junior State of America is in its tenth year. The Junior State of America is the nation’s oldest student-run organization. Junior State of America is a non-partisan organization dedicated to educating high school students about the institutions of a democratic society. For 80 years, Junior State of America has not only brought high school students together to debate and discuss important societal issues, but also fostered these concepts by giving students the opportunity to learn through civic leadership.

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Students at John Burroughs High School participated a variety of creative activities at the annual JBHS Arts For All Day – A Hands On Experience on Wednesday, October 7. During fourth period and lunch, the school’s population checked out dance, acting, visual arts, music, theater, small engines, technology and more.

“Arts for All has evolved over the years,” explained Debbie Gudzin from the JBHS Athletics and Activities Department, who has coordinated the program for several years. “It started out as an event to show the artwork, exhibits and performance abilities of our student body.”

Cinema Secrets movie and special effects makeup station was a popular stop at JBHS Arts For All Day. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

“It also allowed all students to see what our different programs have to offer them at John Burroughs High School. We then began to invite community artists and local businesses to promote their arts programs to our students who may be interested in a career in the arts.”

“Over the years, this event has taken place in several locations throughout our campus. We have had jazz bands playing in the Building 2 alley,” she continued. “A photography display setup like an art walk near Building 2. We even utilized our gym mezzanine and hallways of Building 6 when it rained one year.”

(Photo By Lisa Paredes)

“Last year, Arts for All took a new turn, with the theme ‘A Hands On Experience,'” Gudzin added. “We asked all of our programs to come up with a way to teach our students something. To let them touch musical instruments, put their hands on a pottery wheel. Learn a dance. Take a vocal lesson. Mold a piece of clay. Paint a mural.”

“This concept was very well received by our student body. We have continued the hands on experience as our theme for this year’s Arts for All event, with even more involvement by our talented teachers and students.”

Teacher Debbie McHorney demonstrates some functions of the Makey-Makey interactive station at JBHS Arts For All Day. (Photo By Lisa Paredes)

Junior Megan Chan was excited about the clay dish she made in less than 15 minutes with help from an instructor at the pottery station.

“It was really fun!” Chan exclaimed. “Even if it gets broken while you’re making it, you can fix it.”

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John Muir Middle School unveiled “Hall of Heroes,” a new series of murals painted by local artist Randall Williams, at a ceremony on Thursday afternoon, October 8. Fifteen notable figures from throughout the world have been painted in large portrait-style in the school’s 100 hallway.

“I wanted to make each person really come to life in the paintings,” Williams commented. “I’ve been an artist all of my life and with this project, I wanted to have the students look at them and say, ‘wow.’”

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

“My hope is that these kids research these figures and learn more about them,” he continued. “I want [the portraits] to speak to them beyond the images.”

The notable leaders portrayed in the mural were selected by the teachers and administrators, and each portrait includes a quote to inspire students.

The Muir Middle School Hall of Heroes includes:

• Susan B. Anthony – Women’s Rights Activist
• Cesar Chavez – Civil Rights Activist
• Malala Yousafzai – Nobel Peace Prize Winner
• Frida Kahlo – Painter
• Helen Keller – Author/Political Activist
• Martin Luther King, Jr. – Activist/humanitarian
• Herman Melville – Novelist
• Little Richard – Song Writer and Musician
• Theodore Roosevelt – U.S. President
• Aung San Suu Kyi – Burmese Politician
• William Saroyan – Dramatist/Author
• Elizabeth Cady Stanton – Women’s Rights Activist/Abolitionist
• Harriet Tubman – Abolitionist
• Elie Wiesel – Writer/Political Activist
• John Muir – School Namesake and Naturalist/Author/Environmental Philosopher

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Maha Bitar, ASB President, opened the program with the Pledge of Allegiance. The Muir Symphonic Band, led by Suzie Snell, performed the “Star Spangled Banner” and the Muir Imaginations choir, led by Lydia Lee, performed “This Land Is Your Land.”

Burbank High School twelfth-grader Brandon Kilham gave a presentation in the character of the school’s namesake, John Muir. A tribute to Little Richard, written by teachers Glen Jaffe and Steven Moos was performed by Jaffe, Moos, teacher Bill Esparza and eighth-grader Khalil Mansour.

The Muir Middle School Hall of Heroes was sponsored by Logix Federal Credit Union. The project took 11 weeks over the summer break to complete.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

“We’re proud to have both Logix Federal Credit Union and Randall Williams partner with us again to create these portraits of historical leaders,” Principal Greg Miller said. “Our students will have the opportunity to see these people who made a difference and some still continue to improve the world. We’ve already incorporated their stories into our classroom conversations.”

In 2014, Logix sponsored a 5,000 square-foot mural of Yosemite, Yosemite Valley, in the sixth-graders lunch area. This piece was one of many that Williams has completed for Burbank Unified Schools and the largest mural in the City of Burbank.

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Downtown Burbank is proud to be hosting the inaugural Burbank Beer Festival on Saturday, October 17, 2015. A first of its kind, the Burbank Beer Festival will celebrate the arrival of the autumn season, local business and of course, refreshing craft beers.

The Burbank Beer Festival will take over the streets of Downtown Burbank for one day and will feature a monumental fall street fair as well as tastings of over 85 craft beers on tap from scores of different breweries including Absolution Brewing Co., Angel City Brewery, Figueroa Mountain Brewing, Saint Archer Brewery, Portland Cider Company, Eagle Rock Brewery, Karl Strauss Brewing Company, MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., Island Brewing Company, The Bloody Cure, Ballast Point, Stone Brewing Co. and Firestone Walker Brewing Co.. Burbank Beer Festival will feature two sessions of craft beer sampling: 12:00 – 3:00 pm or 4:00 – 7:00 pm.

The street fair portion of the Burbank Beer Festival will take over several blocks of Downtown Burbank, transforming San Fernando Boulevard into a colorful outdoor street fair. Entertainment will include live musical performances on the main stage throughout the day. Confirmed bands include SayReal, an exciting combination of meaningful lyrics and a vibration of reggae and rock, and The Bomb, a Santa Barbara based band with R&B beginnings that now features a variety of musical talents to get the audience dancing and moving.

As with any good street fair, food will be widely available to purchase throughout the festival. With more than 100 restaurants in Downtown Burbank, there will be plenty of variety to choose from, from snacks to fast casual and fine dining experiences. Also making a presence will be dozens of local merchants, displaying and offering artisanal craft goods such as handmade jewelry, accessories and clothing, supplementing the many existing retailers on San Fernando Boulevard. For more information on Downtown Burbank and to make restaurant reservations, please visit www.DTNBUR.com.

To encourage a comfortable and relaxing end to the evening, Burbank Beer Festival has partnered with 7 local hotels to offer special packages for the weekend. Hotel partners include Safari Inn, Coast Anabelle Hotel, Holiday Inn Burbank Media Center, Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport, Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles/Burbank Airport, Hotel Amarano and SpringHill Suites Los Angeles Burbank/Downtown. All packages include a pair of tickets to the Burbank Beer Festival on Saturday, October 17. In addition, there will be a shuttle service connecting the event site with the hotels during the festival.

Entry to the Fall Street Fair is free and open to the public. Tickets to the beer tasting areas can be purchased for $40 online or at the door while supplies last. Tickets include a tasting glass and 3-ounce samples of over 85 craft beers. Individuals must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to enter the festival’s sampling blocks and to consume alcohol. For more information, please visit www.BurbankBeerFestival.com.

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The Burbank City Clerk’s office is pleased to offer a new, convenient service to residents of Burbank and nearby communities. Beginning Monday, October 12, 2015, the Clerk’s office will provide passport services to those needing a new passport, or renewing an existing one.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Passport services will be available on the following dates:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Appointments need to be scheduled in advance by calling (818) 238-5851, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Passport photos will be available during the appointment for a nominal fee, or applicants may bring their own photos.

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air. U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government.

(Photo by © Ross A. Benson)

Information on the cost and how to apply for a U.S. passport is available at www.travel.state.gov or www.burbankca.gov . U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish, by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778 or 951-826-5200.

For more information, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 818-238-5851.

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