Photo: Chuck Kennedy/White House -- President Obama and the First Family viewed the MLK National Memorial before the official dedication in Washington DC October 16, 2011

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial has been open since last August, but the official dedication was delayed until today by the fury of Hurricane Irene during the summer. A crowd estimated to be around 30,000 gathered on the National Mall to witness the historic event.

Remarks by President Obama at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Dedication

The National Mall
Washington, D.C.

For this day, we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s return to the National Mall.  In this place, he will stand for all time, among monuments to those who fathered this nation and those who defended it; a black preacher with no official rank or title who somehow gave voice to our deepest dreams and our most lasting ideals, a man who stirred our conscience and thereby helped make our union more perfect.

And Dr. King would be the first to remind us that this memorial is not for him alone.  The movement of which he was a part depended on an entire generation of leaders.  Many are here today, and for their service and their sacrifice, we owe them our everlasting gratitude.  This is a monument to your collective achievement.  (Applause.)

Some giants of the civil rights movement –- like Rosa Parks and Dorothy Height, Benjamin Hooks, Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth –- they’ve been taken from us these past few years.  This monument attests to their strength and their courage, and while we miss them dearly, we know they rest in a better place. 

And finally, there are the multitudes of men and women whose names never appear in the history books –- those who marched and those who sang, those who sat in and those who stood firm, those who organized and those who mobilized –- all those men and women who through countless acts of quiet heroism helped bring about changes few thought were even possible. “By the thousands,” said Dr. King, “faceless, anonymous, relentless young people, black and white…have taken our whole nation back to those great wells of democracy which were dug deep by the founding fathers in the formulation of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.”  To those men and women, to those foot soldiers for justice, know that this monument is yours, as well.

Nearly half a century has passed since that historic March on Washington, a day when thousands upon thousands gathered for jobs and for freedom.  That is what our schoolchildren remember best when they think of Dr. King -– his booming voice across this Mall, calling on America to make freedom a reality for all of God’s children, prophesying of a day when the jangling discord of our nation would be transformed into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood.

It is right that we honor that march, that we lift up Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech –- for without that shining moment, without Dr. King’s glorious words, we might not have had the courage to come as far as we have.  Because of that hopeful vision, because of Dr. King’s moral imagination, barricades began to fall and bigotry began to fade.  New doors of opportunity swung open for an entire generation.  Yes, laws changed, but hearts and minds changed, as well. 

Look at the faces here around you, and you see an America that is more fair and more free and more just than the one Dr. King addressed that day.  We are right to savor that slow but certain progress -– progress that’s expressed itself in a million ways, large and small, across this nation every single day, as people of all colors and creeds live together, and work together, and fight alongside one another, and learn together, and build together, and love one another.

So it is right for us to celebrate today Dr. King’s dream and his vision of unity.  And yet it is also important on this day to remind ourselves that such progress did not come easily; that Dr. King’s faith was hard-won; that it sprung out of a harsh reality and some bitter disappointments.

It is right for us to celebrate Dr. King’s marvelous oratory, but it is worth remembering that progress did not come from words alone.  Progress was hard.  Progress was purchased through enduring the smack of billy clubs and the blast of fire hoses.  It was bought with days in jail cells and nights of bomb threats.  For every victory during the height of the civil rights movement, there were setbacks and there were defeats. 

We forget now, but during his life, Dr. King wasn’t always considered a unifying figure.  Even after rising to prominence, even after winning the Nobel Peace Prize, Dr. King was vilified by many, denounced as a rabble rouser and an agitator, a communist and a radical.  He was even attacked by his own people, by those who felt he was going too fast or those who felt he was going too slow; by those who felt he shouldn’t meddle in issues like the Vietnam War or the rights of union workers.  We know from his own testimony the doubts and the pain this caused him, and that the controversy that would swirl around his actions would last until the fateful day he died.

I raise all this because nearly 50 years after the March on Washington, our work, Dr. King’s work, is not yet complete.  We gather here at a moment of great challenge and great change.  In the first decade of this new century, we have been tested by war and by tragedy; by an economic crisis and its aftermath that has left millions out of work, and poverty on the rise, and millions more just struggling to get by.  Indeed, even before this crisis struck, we had endured a decade of rising inequality and stagnant wages.  In too many troubled neighborhoods across the country, the conditions of our poorest citizens appear little changed from what existed 50 years ago -– neighborhoods with underfunded schools and broken-down slums, inadequate health care, constant violence, neighborhoods in which too many young people grow up with little hope and few prospects for the future.

Our work is not done.  And so on this day, in which we celebrate a man and a movement that did so much for this country, let us draw strength from those earlier struggles.  First and foremost, let us remember that change has never been quick.  Change has never been simple, or without controversy.  Change depends on persistence.  Change requires determination.  It took a full decade before the moral guidance of Brown v. Board of Education was translated into the enforcement measures of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, but those 10 long years did not lead Dr. King to give up.  He kept on pushing, he kept on speaking, he kept on marching until change finally came.  (Applause.)

Read the full text of the president’s remarks on the whitehouse.gov website. More photos and video of the president’s speech here on the White House blog .

This pro-Walmart flyer was e-mailed to me last night.  It’s a slick piece of promotion from the nation’s largest retailer.  As expected, Walmart is  trying to rally support for its upcoming “community open house” at the old location of the Great Indoors, in the Empire Center, Monday, October 17, at 5 p.m. This location is the designated site of a new Walmart.

Meanwhile, the “No Walmart in Burbank “group is holding a fundraiser this evening at the Flappers ComedyClub in Downtown Burbank starting at 8 p.m.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Flappers Comedy Club at the corner of Magnolia Boulevard and First Street in Burbank

An evening of comedy and fun is planned. The “suggested donation” is $12. And all proceeds reportedly will be”…used to help stop Walmart.”

So the battle is on between supporters and opponents of Walmart. The open house next Monday is shaping up to be quite a showdown.

No Wal-Mart forces take the fight to City Hall

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- The former site of The Great Indoors at 1301 North Victory Place in the Empire Center Burbank

 In the past few days, a number of media reports have come out about Wal-Mart finally fessing up to plans to move into the site once occupied by The Great Indoors, at the Empire Center over on North Victory Place. Wal-Mart owns the site now — but anti-Wal-Mart forces in B-town aren’t giving up the fight just yet.

The No Wal-Mart on Facebook group has organized a rally for today, on the steps of Burbank City Hall at 5:30 p.m. The small but vocal group is being joined by the politically savvy Burbank Democratic Club, which has urged its members to support the rally and speak out against Wal-Mart at the city council meeting at 6 p.m.

At last Tuesday’s city council meeting, Deputy City Manager Joy Forbes revealed Wal-Mart executives “… want to do a community forum… ” at the site sometime in mid-to-late-October. Well, the site is more appropriate for a P.R. event than a community forum to hear the concerns of  residents.

Clearly, these Wal-Mart suits aren’t really taking the community very seriously. They’re reportedly considering options like including a restaurant or nail salon in that 120,000 square foot building. Hey, there are already plenty of restaurants in the Empire Center and a lot of nail salons in Burbank. I guess the Wal-Mart bigwigs do not need to be very creative, when most of their customers only care about how many cheap products they can stuff into a shopping cart. That location at the Empire Center needs some imagination. Wal-Mart needs to add something different to the mix of  restaurants and retail.  However, that kind of  progressive thinking may be beyond the comprehension of the Wal-Mart executives.

A new Burbank Police Commissioner

The city council majority snubbed former Chair of the Burbank Police Commission, Bob Frutos, once again last Tuesday. Right after Frutos lost a close run-off for a city council seat against Emily Gabel-Luddy — the CCM refused to re-appoint him to his seat on the police commission.

Recently, Frutos tossed his hat in the ring for the commission seat vacated by Jim Etter, who moved on to the Los Angeles County Fish and Game Commission. Frutos got only two votes, Dr. David Gordon and Gary Bric. The CCM voted for former Paramount executive, Tom Bruehl, who has been kicking around in local political circles for a while.

But the CCM is not rid of Frutos just yet. A few weeks back, each council member made an appointment to the Citizens’ Charter Committee. This group will decide if changes are necessary for the city charter, which could open the door for a charter review committee to be set up.

Here’s how the appointments went down: Dr. Gordon named Bob Frutos, Gary Bric — Jackie Waltman, Emily Gabel-Luddy — Carolyn Jackson, Dave Golonski — Lee Wochner, and Mayor Jess Talamantes appointed Victor Georgino.

It has been rumored about for weeks now.  Then, late today the official announcement came from Burbank City Hall in the form of a news release — naming the replacement for retiring Burbank City Attorney, Dennis Barlow. She is Amy Albano who is now the city attorney out in Thousand Oaks.

Photo: City of Burbank -- Amy Albano new Burbank City Attorney

Next Tuesday, the city council will consider appointing Albano to the position — but at this point, that’s merely a formality.  It’s a done deal.

Here’s the news release from Public Information Officer, Keith Sterling:

Burbank City Council to Consider Appointment of New City Attorney

Item on September 20th Agenda

BURBANK, Calif. (September 15, 2011) – After an extensive and competitive recruitment process, Amy Albano has been identified as the Burbank City Council’s lead candidate for the position of City Attorney.  Albano currently serves as City Attorney for the City of Thousand Oaks, California.

“Amy brings 20 years of municipal law experience to Burbank,” says Mayor Jess Talamantes.  “The council is very impressed with her knowledge and understanding of complex legal issues and believes she will be a great addition to our community and the executive team.”

Albano was selected after a nationwide search and thorough interviews with three panels comprised of law professionals, community leaders and city executives.  Albano joined the City of Thousand Oaks in 2005 as City Attorney after spending 14 years in the City Attorney’s Office at the City of Ventura.  She is an honor graduate of Albany Law School of Union University and received her undergraduate degree from State College of New York Plattsburg.  Albano is the immediate past president of the League of California Cities City Attorneys’ Department.

“I am honored to be considered for this opportunity,” says Albano.  “Burbank is a world-renowned community and this position will allow me the potential for tremendous professional growth.”  Albano intends to live in Burbank and become an integral member of the community.

The City Council will vote on the appointment at the meeting of September 20th and, if approved, Albano is expected to begin duties next month.  The City Attorney and City Manager are appointed positions, reporting directly to the City Council.

###

Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
The White House
Saturday September 10, 2011

This weekend, we’re coming together, as one nation, to mark the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.  We’re remembering the lives we lost—nearly 3,000 innocent men, women and children.  We’re reaffirming our commitment to always keep faith with their families.  

We’re honoring the heroism of first responders who risked their lives—and gave their lives—to save others.  And we’re giving thanks to all who serve on our behalf, especially our troops and military families—our extraordinary 9/11 Generation.

At the same time, even as we reflect on a difficult decade, we must look forward, to the future we will build together.  That includes staying strong and confident in the face of any threat.  And thanks to the tireless efforts of our military personnel and our intelligence, law enforcement and homeland security professionals—there should be no doubt.  Today, America is stronger and al Qaeda is on the path to defeat.

We’ve taken the fight to al Qaeda like never before.  Over the past two and a half years, more senior al Qaeda leaders have been eliminated than at any time since 9/11.  And thanks to the remarkable courage and precision of our forces, we finally delivered justice to Osama bin Laden.

We’ve strengthened the partnerships and tools we need to prevail in this war against al Qaeda—working closer with allies and partners; reforming intelligence to better detect and disrupt plots; investing in our Special Forces so terrorists have no safe haven.

We’re constantly working to improve the security of our homeland as well—at our airports, ports and borders; enhancing aviation security and screening; increasing support for our first responders; and working closer than ever with states, cities and communities.

A decade after 9/11, it’s clear for all the world to see—the terrorists who attacked us that September morning are no match for the character of our people, the resilience of our nation, or the endurance of our values.

They wanted to terrorize us, but, as Americans, we refuse to live in fear.  Yes we face a determined foe, and make no mistake—they will keep trying to hit us again.  But as we are showing again this weekend, we remain vigilant.  We’re doing everything in our power to protect our people.  And no matter what comes our way, as a resilient nation, we will carry on.

They wanted to draw us in to endless wars, sapping our strength and confidence as a nation.  But even as we put relentless pressure on al Qaeda, we’re ending the war in Iraq and beginning to bring our troops home from Afghanistan.  Because after a hard decade of war, it is time for nation building here at home.

They wanted to deprive us of the unity that defines us as a people.  But we will not succumb to division or suspicion. We are Americans, and we are stronger and safer when we stay true to the values, freedoms and diversity that make us unique among nations.

And they wanted to undermine our place in the world.  But a decade later, we’ve shown that America doesn’t hunker down and hide behind walls of mistrust.  We’ve forged new partnerships with nations around the world to meet the global challenges that no nation can face alone.  And across the Middle East and North Africa a new generation of citizens is showing that the future belongs to those that want to build, not destroy.

Ten years ago, ordinary Americans showed us the true meaning of courage when they rushed up those stairwells, into those flames, into that cockpit.  In the decade since, a new generation has stepped forward to serve and keep us safe.  In their memory, in their name, we will never waver.  We will protect the country we love and pass it safer, stronger and more prosperous to the next generation.

###

Transcript and video of President Obama’s address on the White House Blog.

Photo: Chuck Kennedy/White House -- President Barack Obama delivers an address on jobs and the economy to a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol September 8, 2011

President Barack Obama wants to shore up the sagging economy by putting “… more people back to work and more money in the pockets of those who are working.” Last night, in an address to a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol, the president presented the American Jobs Act, which he claims will achieve those goals.

THE PRESIDENT:  Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, members of Congress, and fellow Americans:

Tonight we meet at an urgent time for our country.  We continue to face an economic crisis that has left millions of our neighbors jobless, and a political crisis that’s made things worse.

This past week, reporters have been asking, “What will this speech mean for the President?  What will it mean for Congress?  How will it affect their polls, and the next election?”

But the millions of Americans who are watching right now, they don’t care about politics.  They have real-life concerns.  Many have spent months looking for work.  Others are doing their best just to scrape by — giving up nights out with the family to save on gas or make the mortgage; postponing retirement to send a kid to college. 

These men and women grew up with faith in an America where hard work and responsibility paid off.  They believed in a country where everyone gets a fair shake and does their fair share — where if you stepped up, did your job, and were loyal to your company, that loyalty would be rewarded with a decent salary and good benefits; maybe a raise once in a while.  If you did the right thing, you could make it.  Anybody could make it in America.

For decades now, Americans have watched that compact erode.  They have seen the decks too often stacked against them.  And they know that Washington has not always put their interests first. 

The people of this country work hard to meet their responsibilities.  The question tonight is whether we’ll meet ours.  The question is whether, in the face of an ongoing national crisis, we can stop the political circus and actually do something to help the economy.  (Applause.)  The question is — the question is whether we can restore some of the fairness and security that has defined this nation since our beginning.

Those of us here tonight can’t solve all our nation’s woes.  Ultimately, our recovery will be driven not by Washington, but by our businesses and our workers.  But we can help.  We can make a difference.  There are steps we can take right now to improve people’s lives. 

I am sending this Congress a plan that you should pass right away.  It’s called the American Jobs Act.  There should be nothing controversial about this piece of legislation.  Everything in here is the kind of proposal that’s been supported by both Democrats and Republicans — including many who sit here tonight.  And everything in this bill will be paid for.  Everything.  (Applause.)

The purpose of the American Jobs Act is simple:  to put more people back to work and more money in the pockets of those who are working.  It will create more jobs for construction workers, more jobs for teachers, more jobs for veterans, and more jobs for long-term unemployed.  (Applause.)  It will provide — it will provide a tax break for companies who hire new workers, and it will cut payroll taxes in half for every working American and every small business.  (Applause.)  It will provide a jolt to an economy that has stalled, and give companies confidence that if they invest and if they hire, there will be customers for their products and services.  You should pass this jobs plan right away.  (Applause.)  

Everyone here knows that small businesses are where most new jobs begin.  And you know that while corporate profits have come roaring back, smaller companies haven’t.  So for everyone who speaks so passionately about making life easier for “job creators,” this plan is for you.  (Applause.)

Pass this jobs bill — pass this jobs bill, and starting tomorrow, small businesses will get a tax cut if they hire new workers or if they raise workers’ wages.  Pass this jobs bill, and all small business owners will also see their payroll taxes cut in half next year.  (Applause.)  If you have 50 employees — if you have 50 employees making an average salary, that’s an $80,000 tax cut.  And all businesses will be able to continue writing off the investments they make in 2012. 

It’s not just Democrats who have supported this kind of proposal.  Fifty House Republicans have proposed the same payroll tax cut that’s in this plan.  You should pass it right away.  (Applause.)

Click here for the full text of the president’s address on the White House.gov website.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Water and Power General Manager Ron Davis had to defend the new smart meters at last Tuesday's Burbank City Council meeting August 30, 2011

A lot of complaints and grumbling about, and verbal attacks on, the new smart meters in Burbank.  Officials at Burbank Water and Power are raving about the new water and electric meters — but many of the residents aren’t buying the hype. Some of the public suspicion, disapproval, and down right hostility for the meters was heard during public comments at last Tuesday’s Burbank City Council meeting on August 30. 

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G --An electric smart meter in Burbank

Most of the carping is about the electric smart meter and its environmental, health, and privacy issues. BWP honcho, Ron Davis, stepped to the podium at last Tuesday’s city council meeting and proclaimed the ”.. meters are incredibly safe..” and “… do not pose a health concern…”

In terms of privacy, Davis says the meters “..do not broadcast inside the home”… instead “..broadcast out to a data reader.”  Well, that may be the ultimate plan, but right now the newly installed electric meters are not communication with the outside data reader, according to my source at the BWP.

I’m told the new meters are working, but meter reader personnel have to go out to homes and businesses and collect the data — just like they did before the Smart Grid Program started. Installation of the smart meters began in June and is expected to be finished by the end of the year. However, the system will most likely not be fully operational until sometime in 2012.

Davis says that so far “…51 people …” have asked that their smart meter installation be “… put on hold.” He admits that part of the problem with convincing the public to get on board with the new system is a matter of trust. Well, it’s hard to trust Davis and his BWP top executives who have jacked up our utility rates, while pocketing salary raises and hefty bonuses. That sort of conduct does not build trust.

Photo: FLLewis. Media City G -- Burbank reusable centennial bag

I noticed it soon after the big party of the century to celebrate Burbank’s centennial back on July 8. Whenever I took my colorful Burbank centennial reusable bag out in public — someone would comment on it.  “What a cool bag!” is what a checker at the Trader Joe’s on East Alameda Avenue in Burbank said as she carefully arranged my groceries in that bag.  I get versions of that compliment the most.

On another occasion, a Burbank shopper pointed out that she has one just like it — but is not using it– thinking it will become a collector’s item.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank then and now snapshots on side two of the centennial reusable bag

At the Be-Boppin’ in the Park on Magnolia Boulevard earlier this month, I picked up a second centennial bag — but I had to buy a $5 coffee mug at the Burbank booth to get it. At the party of the century, the bags were handed out free. I’m told the city ordered 15-thousand or so and the supply has dwindled.

What city officials should do is re-order say 50-or-60 or a 100- thousand of these reusable bags and give them to Burbank residents as a way to encourage the ‘bring your own bag’ mindset. That would most likely flood the city with the centennial bags — putting the skids on the collectible notion. However, it’s a much more positive way to nudge folks to help protect the environment  — than the proposed extreme ban on plastic bags at checkout stands in grocery stores or charging customers money for paper bags.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Recycle Center 500 South Flower Street Burbank

Lately, the Burbank City Council has been peppered with tough questions from residents about the status and alleged mismanagement of the Burbank Recycle Center over on South Flower Street. This is not the first time rumors have been flying about something “not right” going on at the center.

Yesterday, the City of Burbank put out a statement about the center and its involvement in the operation.

City Statement on Burbank Recycle Center

BURBANK, Calif. (August 22, 2011) – On January 29, 2010, the State of California denied the City’s Application for Renewal of its Curbside Registration (Application), which allows the City to receive revenue from the State’s beverage containers recycling fund (CRV Fund).  The State denied the City’s Application because it accused the operator of the City’s Recycle Center, Burbank Recycling, Inc. (BRI) and Geoff Folsom, of failing to comply with State law and regulations dealing with the recycling of beverage containers at another recycling facility.  A hearing on the accusation against Mr. Folsom is still pending.

The City appealed the State’s denial of its Application because we believed that the City had acted fairly by waiting for the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to provide a hearing on the allegations to BRI.  It needs to be emphasized that the City has not been accused of any wrongdoing by the State.  The reason the City’s curbside certification was denied was simply because it uses BRI to operate the Recycle Center and to process the curbside materials.

The appeal hearing was held on March 29 and 30, 2011 and on May 13, 2011 the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) affirmed the denial of the City’s Application on the basis that Mr. Folsom had failed to comply with the State law and regulations. The ALJ did not find any wrongdoing on the part of the City of Burbank and found that the City had acted reasonably in waiting for CalRecycle to provide a hearing to Mr. Folsom. CalRecycle adopted the ALJ’s decision as its final decision on May 24, 2011. On June 7, the City Council decided not to appeal the decision.  The decision took effect on June 25, 2011.

While the denial of the curbside registration affects the City’s ability to collect CRV revenues, which totaled $20,432.23 in fiscal year 2010/11, it does not affect the City’s ability to continue operating its highly effective curbside recycling program that diverts about 40 tons per day of material from landfill disposal.  This program is part of the City’s comprehensive source reduction and recycling efforts to reduce land filling by at least 50 percent as required by Assembly Bill 939 (AB 939), which became law in 1989, and the City’s sustainability efforts to reach zero waste by 2040.  BRI is continuing to operate the Recycle Center on an interim basis while the City pursues its options.  The City of Burbank is committed to delivering excellent, uninterrupted curbside recycling services while an operational transition is completed at the Burbank Recycle Center. Residents and businesses should continue to place their recyclables in the proper carts and bins for collection and processing.

###

Quite a bit of talk in B-town about the fairytale-like e-mail announcement sent out to all Burbank City employees yesterday. The e-mail invited folks to save two upcoming dates, September 29 and October 28, for bashes honoring the retirement of controversial Burbank City Attorney, Dennis Barlow.

While the invite probably got chuckles from some — it got scorn from others who feel Barlow, a major player in the police mess and scandal, is not quite the lovable, smiling Disney type character portrayed in the e-mail. Hmm, maybe that’s the backhanded joke behind the e-mail.

Now that Barlow is heading off into the sunset — who’s going to take over the City Attorney’s job? We’re all waiting for that big announcement.

Congresswoman Michele Bachmann August 10, 2011 in Clive, Iowa from Flickr

 Minnesota Congresswoman and GOP presidential hopeful, Michele Bachmann, is celebrating a major victory today.  Bachmann won the first big Republician test of the 2012 campaign for the White House., the Iowa straw poll. 

On the official, Michele Bachmann for President website, the candidate posted this statement: “THANK YOU IOWA! We did it! I am excited to announce our campaign was the winner of this year’s AmesStraw Poll. Iowans delivered a strong message to Washington: America cannot afford four more years of Barack Obama and his failed liberal policies, and our campaign is the right choice to put our nation back on a path to prosperity.”

Michele Bachmann’s photo is from a series on Flickr.

Meanwhile, Texas Governor, Rick Perry, officially jumped into the presidential race today. Reuters has more on both developments, including how the other Republican contenders stacked up in the straw poll.

A New York congressman is calling for an investigation into what kind of “cooperation” the Obama administration provided for a movie about the take down of 9-11 terrorist mastermind, Osama bin Laden. Director Kathryn Bigelow is partnering with screenwriter Mark Boal on this bin Laden film.

Apparently, the filmmakers are being accused of getting “special access” and classified information –  allegedly including data on the Navy Seal Team 6 raid which resulted in the death of bin Laden.

Today Deadline.com posted reaction from Bigelow and Boal, declaring they have received help from officials in three administrations: Clinton and Bush are the other two.  Also on the site, a letter from Congressman Peter King detailing the allegations, which started with a recent column in the New York Times.

Last year, Bigelow won best director for “The Hurt Locker.” Boal took home best original screenplay for that Iraq drama.  More on the controversy swirling  around their latest film here.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

 Lately it seems, Burbank has become a favorite target of thieves and criminals — especially when it comes to cars, trucks, and bicycles. In last week’s crime report, put out by the Burbank Police Department, there were three cases involving stolen 3rd row seats.

Burbank Police Captain Mike Albanese has reacted to this ongoing crime wave by saying it’s happening all over Southern California. So what.  Burbank is a small city — stolen 3rd row seats should not be as rampant here as in say, Los Angeles. In past weeks, catalytic converters and tailgates have been ripped-off as well.

Also, last week three vehicles stolen: 200 Cadillac Escalade, 2007 Chevy Silverado, and 2003 Toyota Runner. Oh, and two very expensive bicycle valued at $1500-$2200.

At police commission meetings, Police Chief Scott LaChasse does quite a bit of pontificating about out-of- town-seminars and this program and that program. Enough already, chief.  What we need in Burbank is some good old fashion policing — meaning, more patrol units on the streets and more officers out there cracking down on these crooks. A stronger police presence will have the bad guys looking over their shoulders and thinking twice about pulling “a job” in this town.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- The Great Indoors at the Empire Center 1301 North Victory Place, Burbank

A lot of chatter  these days about Walmart. Is the world’s largest retailer coming to Burbank — bringing along its unsavory baggage of poor labor practices — including a reputation for discriminating against minorities – particularly women?   

Apparently Walmart has plans to open in Burbank at The Great Indoors location in the Empire Center.  Recently, Walmart bought the site from Sears. The Great Indoors is expected to close this weekend.  

There are reports Walmart is going to try to head-off the negative reaction and win over the public with a series of community forums to explain itself. Well, I hope residents don’t  fall for that high-powered promotional campaign. We need a company that will enhance the area — not lower the bar.

Burbank police commissioner resigns

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Police Commissioner Jim Etter at the National Night Out kick-off event in Burbank, August 3, 2010

The Burbank Police Commission’s most controversial and perhaps its most dedicated member is stepping down at the end of tomorrow’s police commission meeting. Jim Etter sent a letter of resignation late yesterday to Police Commission Chair, Elise Stearns-Niesen, Mayor/City Council member, Jess Talamantes, Burbank Police Chief and Deputy Chief, Scott LaChasse and Tom Angel.

 No, Etter is not going into hiding or moving out of town as some of his detractors would prefer. At the request of Los Angeles County Supervisor Mike Antonovich, Etter has accepted an appointment to the County Fish & Game Commission.

In his resignation letter, Etter explains his decision: “My availability, with a new appointment from Supervisor Mike Antonovich, on a County Commission, which holds regularly Scheduled Meetings, and more widely recognized responsibility, will circumvent my attentiveness to Burbank Police Commission Business.”

The resignation letter comes hours before a planned discussion by the city council this evening, which most likely would have ended with Etter’s removal from the police commission. The reason for the discussion: some comments Etter made at a joint meeting of the city council and police commission last November.

 During the past several months, this issue has been kept alive by Vice-Mayor/City Councilman Dave Golonski who apparently has been involved in a long-running feud with the Etter family. The city council should not be used as a platform for vendettas nor a place to settle old scores. The council should accept Etter’s resignation, thank him for his service, and move on to the process of selecting a new commissioner to replace him.

Since his appointment to the Burbank Police Commission back in 2009, Etter has been a rebel or renegade on the panel. When Etter arrived the commission was on the verge of being obsolete.  It met once every four months and had very little contact with the public it was supposed to represent. Etter was fired-up to change things. He pushed hard, ruffled feathers, and sometimes, resorted to theatrics. However, the major achievement of the police commission in the last year should be credited to Etter.

From his first days on the commission, Etter championed the town hall meetings as a chance to have direct contact with the public and to hear residents’ concerns. Etter “dogged” his fellow commissioners about the town hall meetings until they became a reality. Now that the town hall meetings have revived the public’s awareness of the police commission and  respect for it, many have claimed credit for them — but the real kudos should go to Etter.

During his tenure as police commissioner, Etter tried to be a problem solver who  believed it was his job to stay in contact with residents and to voice their concerns. He made some mistakes — at times he was too quick to act or speak without considering the consequences. Nevertheless in my view, his achievements far outweigh his failings.

Hillside view home debate

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- City council members listened to speakers debate an appeal of a hillside development permit Burbank July 12, 2011

 In a move that shocked many in the audience at last Tuesday’s city council meeting, four city council members voted to uphold an appeal of a development permit for a two-story home development at 1030 Via Alta in the Burbank hills. I was surprised. The city council got it right on this issue.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Homeowners Alice and Daniel Parks (both shown wearing glasses) at a city council meeting during the discussion of the a home development project at 1030 Via Alta Burbank July 12, 2011

 The appeal was filed by homeowners Daniel and Alice Parks and Dave and Alexis Hanson. Both couples spoke passionately about the erosion of their view this project would cause and how it would not fit in with the character of a neighborhood where views are prized above everything else.

The Parks produced excellent visuals/graphics showing how the proposed project would damage their panoramic view. They were supported by a number of residents — over 40 of them signed a petition against the development project.

On the other side, Aram and Marine Papazian, their architect, George Avetisyan,  and their supporters.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Marine Papazian defended project plans as her dream home and asked the council to deny the permit appeal Burbank July 12, 2011

The  Papazians have been through several design changes and will have to now go through more. They have a nice size lot with options.  However, that is not always the case, especially in the hillside areas. Hopefully, this will send a message views are part of the character of the Burbank hillside communities and will be protected.

 Council member Emily Gabel-Luddy left the council chambers and did not hear the debate to avoid a conflict. Luddy once accepted a campaign contribution from the Papazians.

A second chance for a group of camphor trees

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Camphor trees along Keystone Street near Verdugo Avenue adjacent to John Burroughs High school stadium project Burbank July 15, 2011

The camphor trees along Keystone Street next to John Burroughs High School are gorgeous.  Tall and sturdy — creating a huge green canopy.  Despite all the talk of protecting the environment and going green — five of these trees were at risk of being removed. The reason: their berries, branches, and roots might damage a new track being constructed as part of the Memorial Field project.

Last Tuesday night, the city council decided to save the trees. This week, work crew are out trimming these trees, which will be done periodically to reduce the amount of twigs and berries that could fall on the track. A wise decision by the city council.

Photo: White House blog -- A young girl saluted President Obama during the Independence Day celebration at the White House July 4, 2011

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama threw a big July 4th bash at the White House yesterday. The first couple celebrated the nation’s independence with more than 1,200 members of the military and their families.

During a meet and greet, the commander- in-chief of the U.S. military got a serious salute from a young girl — who just might be a soldier one day.

More on that big party, which included entertainment, a BBQ, and fireworks, on the White House blog today.

Happy Fourth of July!

Dodger Stadium festivities

The guys in blue kick-off a four game series against the New York  Mets tonight.  Also, fans will be treated to fireworks and tributes to our military. Gates at Dodger Stadium open at 3:40 p.m.

Fireworks and more at the Starlight Bowl

A July 4th tradition continues tonight at the Starlight Bowl in Burbank.  A spectacular fireworks show is planned along with entertainment and surprises. The U.S. Air Force is joining in on this “Salute to America.”  There are only 100 tickets left to this event, according to the Starlight Bowl website this morning. Tickets must be bought in advance — none will be sold at the door.

Burbank viewing parties

The Starlight Bowl fireworks are huge and can be seen for miles. Fireworks viewing parties are held in yards, on porches, and even in the streets throughout Burbank, especially in the hillside area. Watching these fireworks have become part of the July 4th celebration in many neighborhoods. And you don’t have to buy a ticket.

Fireworks illegal in Burbank

There are places in the SoCal where they allow you to set off your own fireworks — Burbank is not one of them.  The Burbank Police Department sent out a press release reminder recently stating: “… that it is illegal to manufacture, sell, possess, or discharge fireworks in the City of Burbank.”

The Burbank PD has patrol units out cracking down on fireworks violators. The public is asked to report violations by calling the Burbank Police at (818)  238-3000.

Keep your pets safe

All of this celebrating, particularly the fireworks, can really freak out dogs, cats, and other pets. On July 4th and the day after, animal shelters across the nation get the greatest number of reports of lost dogs and cats, according to a community alert from the Burbank PD.

It is recommended that you keep your pets indoors on Independence Day. Make sure the little critters are wearing proper identification. If by chance your animal becomes lost, call the Burbank Animal Shelter (818) 238-3340 and leave a message — and then follow-up in person to file an official lost pet report.

Burbank buzzing over that bonus pay report 

 For months the City Attorney’s Office, with the support of the  city council majority and City Manager Mike Flad, fought the release of this data.  The Los Angeles Times/Burbank Leader sued to get access to the information.  On May 20, 2011, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge ordered the city of Burbank to turn over the merit bonus data to the newspaper.

Last December, I joined the newspaper in requesting this bonus data  by delivering a written public records request to the City Attorney’s Office. I haven’t seen the report yet –  but others have studied it. The Semichorus blog had a report last Friday.  The Leader had a story about the merit pay for city employees on the same day and a more extensive report yesterday.

The Leader reports city employees have received $4 million in merit pay from 2007-2011.  Burbank Water and Power General Manager, Ron Davis, reportedly got $79,000 in bonuses during that period . You might remember, Davis and his executive crew at BWP got raises after city officials jacked up utility rates last summer. Davis is fleecing the taxpayers with the approval of the city council majority. Last year, Davis’ salary topped out at $263,028. 

By the way, not only did city officials squander thousands of taxpayer dollars on fighting the newspaper lawsuit – now the city of Burbank has to pay legal fees for the L.A. Times/Burbank Leader, which are at least $37,000. Could that money, along with those bonus millions, have been better spent? Oh yeah, on city services and programs that benefit the citizens of Burbank.

Photo: Pete Souza/White House -- Restaurant staff celebrated when President Barack Obama stopped for lunch at Rudy's Hot Dog in Toledo, Ohio, June 3, 2011

President Barack Obama got a big welcome from employees at Rudy’s Hot Dog in Toledo, Ohio, before sitting down for lunch with the city’s mayor, Michael Bell, earlier this month.

Photo: Pete Souza/White House -- President Barack Obama shared lunch with Toledo Mayor Michael Bell at Rudy's Hot Dog in Toledo, Ohio, June 3, 2011.

Photo: Samantha Appleton/White House -- First Lady Michelle Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia read "The Cat In The Hat" to children at a daycare center in Johannesburg, South Africa June 21, 2011

First Lady Michelle Obama and daughters, Sasha and Malia,  are visiting South Africa this week — among their stops, the  Apartheid Museum  and  the Zandspruit Township Daycare Center.

At the center, Mrs, Obama and her daughters  read the American favorite, Dr. Seuss’ ”The Cat In The Hat,”  to a group of children.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police unit

A history making promotion in the Burbank Police Department. Veteran  police officer, Jamal Childs, has been upped from school resources officer to detective.  This is the first time in 100 years — that’s right — that an African American cop has been promoted in the BPD.

In the past, black officers were ignored or the rules of promotion changed once they were in line to move up to the next level.  For too long, police brass  and city officials made  flimsy excuses  for the discrimination and  pretended there were no qualified  black candidates.

 I doubt this promotion has occurred because of  a sudden desire in City Hall  to do what is right and fair.  I suspect it’s fallout from  those lawsuits charging  discrimination, harassment, and misconduct in the BPD and that probe by the U.S. Justice Department into what is now known as “the police mess.”

Burbank is throwing a huge party on July 8, 2011 to celebrate the city’s centennial. Now if  discrimination and racism were  completely and totally eradicated from all aspects of  Burbank city government  –  that would be reason for some serious  partying.