It’s been a really hot summer for Los Angeles and I’m not referring to the weather. The largest online dating site, Match.com, reports its figures show more singles than ever used its dating services to find love this summer, according to a PR Newswire press release. A pioneer in online dating, Match.com launched in 1995 and now has dating sites in 25 countries.

Match.com says the number of its clients actively involved, from June -August,  in the dating scene was up 33.5% over 2009. Also, the company released its top 10  hottest U.S. cities for online dating this summer and L.A. was number three!

1. Miami, FL
2. New York, NY
3. Los Angeles, CA
4. Chicago, IL
5. Washington, DC
6. Dallas, TX
7. San Diego, CA
8. Phoenix, AZ
9. Boston, MA
10. Houston, TX

Additional cities where Match.com says singles are actively turning to the Internet for help in finding a date are Providence RI, Philadelphia, PA, Minneapolis, MN, Pittsburgh, PA, and San Jose, CA.

Oh, if you having found the right hook-up yet, Match.com suggests you take advantage of Labor Day, which it says is historically one of the most active online dating days.

What a difference a few days can make.  This time last week, temperatures were rising along with the humidity here in Media City and throughout SoCal. Triple digits are normal for the Southland in August, but we’ve had such a mild summer that last week’s heat wave was a shock to the system.

It was delight to be greeted by a cool breeze and temperatures in the 60′s rather than the 80s this morning, in the Burbank hills. Sure makes it easier to do those yard chores like raking leave and trimming shrubs. 

The high today in B-town is expected to be around 70, however, the forecast is for warmer temperatures thorough the week. By Thursday and Friday, we should be in the upper 80s and low 90s — just in time for the long Labor Day weekend.

A full house at the public forum

Photo: FLLewis/ Media City G -- A big turnout for the Burbank Police Commission's first public forum on Wednesday, August 18, 2010 in the Community Services Building

After all the hoopla, debates, agenda re-writes, and months of delays, the first public forum held by the Burbank Police Commission in recent memory went off with only a few minor glitches.

 First, additional chairs had to be brought out to accommodate the crowd that showed up last Wednesday night, August 18, in the Community Room of the Community Services Building on Third Street, across from the Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Resident speaks out at Burbank Police Commission public forum on Wednesday, August 18, 2010

More than 100 people were packed into the Community Room. A large number of personnel from the BPD filled the seats around the perimeter or stood along the wall.  That I’m told, along with the location of the forum, created an air of intimidation and tension for many in the audience. All of the Burbank City Council members were there and so were a number of other city officials and staff.

Most of the 13 speakers who stepped to the mike spoke about personal situations, some involved allegations of harassment by BPD or hassles with neighbors. The 800 pound gorilla in the room, aka the police mess, was touched on briefly or alluded to by only a few speakers. Interesting, considering the chatter on the blogs and around the town for the past weeks and months has been about the police corruption, scandal, firings, lawsuits …etc and the need for some direct answers from Interim Police Chief, Scott LaChasse, about what is REALLY going on in the BPD.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse provided some lengthy statements about various projects in the BPD at the public forum, August 18, 2010

If Burbankers came to the public forum to hear about identity theft, crime mapping, and prison reform, well they got an earful from Police Chief LaChasse. As has become his habit, LaChasse danced around, but did not answer, any question related to the police mess.  More and more it seems, the BPD is being run like a secret police in a foreign country where only a privileged few get to know what’s going on — and that does not include the public who’s paying the bills for its operation and its mistakes.  

Word is the Interim Police Chief is lobbying hard for the job permanently. Clearly, LaChasse is not seeking the approval of the public, but of the city government establishment — some of the same officials who may have had a hand in allowing the police mess to get to the point that it’s costing us millions and millions of dollars. Since the forum, I’ve heard more people say “we’re going to have to rely on the Feds” to do the clean-up of the BPD. They just might be right on that.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G- Police Commission Chair Robert Frutos delivers opening remarks and introduces his fellow commissioners at the public forum, August 18, 2010

As for the Burbank Police Commission, it received positive and encouraging comments from many speakers. Chair Robert Frutos introduced his fellow commissioners: James Etter, Hagop Hergelian, Elise Stearns-Niesen, new member Robert Cohen, Vice-Chair Nathan Rubinfeld, and Secretary Ray Adams.

The commissioners appear to have a strong commitment to the community and a new take charge attitude as demonstrated by Commissioner Adams. When he was alerted by a resident that the forum was not following the printed agenda, Adams quickly took action and  got it back on track. Hopefully, the forum is the first step to a stronger relationship between the Burbank Police Commission and the community.

Update on axed after school program   

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G-- David Starr Jordan Middle School, 420 South Mariposa Street in Burbank

Last Tuesday, I spoke with Julio Herrera of the Boys & Girls Club of Burbank and Greater East Valley, and he assured me that his organization was starting a new after school program at David Starr Jordan Middle School. However, this new program, unlike the previous one, would require a $75 a year membership in the Boys & Girls Club.

Last Sunday, I blogged about the highly-regarded long-standing free, city funded, after school program at Jordan Middle School getting terminated by the city budget cutting axe. Today, I clicked over to the Burbank Unified School District website and checked under after school programs for Jordan Middle School – and yes, there are now details about the Boys & Girls Club program and study hall in the library option as well.  Also, information on how students can ride the “Got Wheels bus” — something the parent who contacted me was reluctant to allow her child to do because of city officials’ refusal to answer pertinent questions about that supicious city bus accident back in January, involving some students from Jordan and Emerson Elementary.  

I still think the city should pick-up the cost of the Boys & Girls Club program for parents. The cancellation of the previous program has caused problems for parents who found out about it just before the new school year began last Monday. If the city officials can find money in the budget to pay for raises to certain “select” employees, they should be able to find a few dollars to help out some parents and their children.

Gripes & Complaints

Did you hear the heartbreaking story that a homeless woman and her daughter told during public comments at last Tuesday’s city council meeting? The woman complained she could not get help for herself and two children. Yeah, the story was convoluted and difficult to follow, but it was pretty evident the  family is in need of assistance.

Steve Ferguson updated the story on his blog, “Politically Speaking” the next day, when he discovered the family still living in a park. The mother had been injured — but still had enough concern to ask Ferguson’s friend to buy something for her son to eat.

Later at the public forum, I asked Burbank City Manager, Mike Flad,  about the woman’s situation. Flad insisted the woman had been given a voucher for a two day stay in a hotel. That’s it? That family needs at least a two-month or even a six-month place to stay in order to get their lives together. And why are they hungry? Could not one of the charitable organizations that get funds from the city find food for this family? This is a shame. City officials need to do something to help this woman who once owned a home in Burbank. She should be able to benefit from some of the tax dollars she has paid to the city over the years.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- A festive display drew crowds to a National Night Out block party on Chandler Boulevard in Burbank, August 3, 2010

Burbank celebrated National Night Out with around 20 block parties throughout the city earlier this month  on August 3. The nationwide event encourages neighborhood spirit and a strong partnership between the community and police in the fight against crime.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank Police Chief Scott LaChasse and Burbank Police Commissioner Jim Etter show off a $2,500 donation from Target to the BPD, at the NNO Chandler Boulevard block party , August 3, 2010

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- A group of children have a friendly exchange with some public servants at the NNO Chandler Boulevard block party in Burbank, August 3, 2010

A block party on Verdugo Avenue

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank firefighters join the chow line at a huge neighborhood party/BBQ on National Night Out, August 3, 2010

Major block party on East Verdugo Avenue in the hillside area of Burbank attracted more than a hundred folks. Long-time Burbank residents/BPD volunteers, Jesse Fox and Judy Andrews, told me this ”let’s get together and party” has been going on for several years on National Night Out. This was my first time attending and I had a terrific time. Along with the personal chatter, I heard quite bit of discussion about the local neighborhood watch and what residents can do to help make their communities safer.

Also dropping by this block party, some Burbank firefighters, Burbank City Councilman, David Gordon, several Burbank Police Commissioners as well as Police Chief LaChasse and his entourage.   

Oh, I gotta give a shout out to Captain BBQ, Franko McGonagle, who not only grilled up some great BBQ, but also dished out some of the best macaroni and cheese I’ve ever tasted. No wonder the organizers are thrilled that McGonagle has become a regular at their annual NNO block party.

More photos later.

City budget cuts terminate after school program 

Monday, August 16, is back to school day for the Burbank Unified School District. For some David Starr Jordan Middle School students and their parents, there might be more than the usual degree of anxiety that goes along with the first week of school.  

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G-- David Starr Jordan Middle School, 420 South Mariposa Street in Burbank

Recently, I got an e-mail from a very upset parent who felt blindsided, earlier this month, when notified about the dumping of an after school program at Jordan: “I only found out when we picked up the back to school packet. It said due to budget cuts it was canceling the program so I have to assume that it is for the year. This is where the kids hang out in the gym with some supervision from two teachers until 5pm. Most of the kids play basketball and others do homework. It is a blessing for working parents as it gives me a chance to get across town. It said that the kids could catch the Burbank got wheels bus to either Olive or Verdugo. I am not happy about my kid going on the bus (after your reporting of the bus crash and your subsequent receipt of a veiled threat) but I have no choice now.” (more on that controversial bus accident later)

A Burbank school administrator, who spoke only on the condition of anonymity, admitted the program filled, “…a huge need in the community.”   If you go to the Burbank Unifed School District website and check under after school programs at Jordan you’ll find a blank page.

This weekend, I’m hearing from two different sources, that efforts are underway to replace the axed after school program with one run by the Boys & Girls Club. One major hitch, the previous program was free — the proposed one is not. The city should pick-up the tab for these parents. If there’s money for “certain” city employees to get raises in this difficult economy – there should be money to help out these Burbank families.

Bus accident flap

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- West Olive Avenue and South Orchard Drive in Burbank

I’m still waiting for a Burbank City Council member to request the police report on that controversial bus accident and answer some important lingering questions about it for the public.

The accident occurred on January 15, 2010 at Orchard Drive and Olive Avenue in Burbank. There were no reports of injuries in that bump-up between a city bus and a vehicle. The passengers were students from Emerson Elementary and Jordan Middle School. I heard about the accident from various sources and posted a story on this blog back in March.

City officials insist it was a “Got Wheels” bus, but my sources tell me the police report suggests otherwise. Also, there MAY BE questions about the bus driver’s qualifications. I got what appeared to be a  threatening e-mail from Interim Community Development Director, Greg Herrmann, when I asked questions about that accident.

The City Attorney, Dennis Barlow, has blocked my request and those of others in the public for copies of that police report. However, Barlow has indicated city council members can see that report. So a Burbank City Council member needs to step-up, view that police report, and clear the air for the public in public!!

That upcoming public forum

For months, Burbank Police Commissioner, Jim Etter, pushed for a town hall meeting to get input from city residents about their concerns and issues as related to the police department. That simple and clearly defined concept, with the guidance of Burbank Mayor Anja Reinke and other city officials, has been reshaped into something called the Police Community Forum as it’s called by the BPD. Or as it’s listed on the City of Burbank website, City Council-Police Commission Community Forum.

The Burbank Leader article on the event skipped the title confusion and just called it a public forum. The Leader article reported that the BPD is still struggling to deal with  allegations of misconduct, discrimination, lawsuits along with probes by outside agencies and at least two high profile controversial officer-involved shooting sin the past few months. The scandal in the Burbank Police Department is the biggest and most controversial story in this city, in the last 15 months or so, and has received nationwide attention.

The lawsuits and the clean-up of the BPD are costing taxpayers millions of dollars — they deserve to know NOW how and where that money is being spent, not later at sometime in the distant future.

If you read the tightly controlled agenda for the forum, the State of the Police Department presentation from Interim Police Chief, Scott LaChasse, is on police service information, prison reform, crime mapping and identity theft. What about an update on the police mess? That was the reason LaChasse got hired –to get the BPD back on the right track.

The public deserves to know what LaChasse is doing to improve the department and a summary of the recent actions taken as a result of the police mess. That’s a no brainer, unless of course you’re trying to distract the public from knowing what is really going on in the BPD.

The forum agenda has been through a lot of re-writes — but it could use some more tweaking.  Oh, and it would be nice to include an introduction of the Burbank Police Commissioners — it’s supposed to be their forum, right?

The forum is this coming Wednesday, August 18, from 7-to-9 p.m. in room 104 of the Community Services Building at 140 North Third Street in Downtown Burbank.

Should you get rid of your lawn? 

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank resident on Bel Aire Drive turns front yard into a cactus and rock garden

 Many Burbank residents are re-thinking their lawns in light of the skyrocketing water rates. A few have exchanged sod for cactus and decorative rocks. There are other alternatives as well using wild flowers and native plants.

Last month, I attended a “Take Out Your Lawn with Lili Singer” session  at the Burbank Buena Vista Library. Singer, a native plants expert, gave an overview of the alternatives including more water conserving types of grasses. The next session is at the Buena Vista Library again, this coming Wednesday, August 18, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Also at the July 28 session, Burbank Recycle Center Specialist, Ferris Kawar,  made a pitch for volunteers and homeowners to take part in a new turf removal program. A few lucky Burbank residents will be selected to have their lawns removed and replaced with water conscious alternatives. The homeowners are required to pay for the plants and design, while the program will supply the labor. For more information contact the Burbank Recycle Center, (818) 238-3908.

Gripes & Complaints 

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- The pay- to-park machine near the alley gate entrance to the parking lot of the Downtown Burbank Post Office at 125 East Olive Avenue

 I still think that paid parking deal at the Downtown Burbank Post Office is a terrible idea, even with the new rate scale. I first reported on the parking boondoggle here, on this blog, a few weeks ago on June 26. 

Recently, I spotted signs revising the flat $3 parking for all after hours parking at that U.S. Post Office. The new signs say $1 for 0-2 hours and $3 for 2-10 hours.  I guess that means if you want to mail a letter, pick up your mail from a P.O. Box or any other postal business it will only cost you a buck. That’s a bummer. 

That parking lot should be offering free parking to those doing business at the post office and to the folks who come into the downtown area to spend money at local businesses and entertainment venues.

Burbank & the Bell salary flap

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank City Council members (left-right) Jess Talamantes, David Gordon, Gary Bric, Dave Golanski, and Mayor Anja Reinke. Council members posed for pictures after voting in Reinke as mayor on May 3, 2010

Here ‘s a sad, but true tale of two Southland cities where the pay of  selected officials/employees has been jacked up to ridiculous levels.  The Los Angeles Times outed the  small community of Bell recently for paying exorbitant salaries to a handful of its city officials. Nearly $800,000 to the Bell City Manager, $457,000 to the Police Chief, and $376, 288 to the Assistant City Manager. Oh, and most of the Bell City Council members were banking a $100,000 a year.

 The Times’ investigation produced a series of stories and columns, sparking outrage among Bell citizens.  That outrage prompted  the city manager, assistant city manager, and police chief to resign. And grudgingly, the Bell City Council members gave-up their six-figure salaries.

The Bell flap has focused national attention on the problems created by city officials who shell-out hefty salaries and raises to some ”allegedly-more-valuable- than -the-rest” employees to the detriment of the communities they’re supposed to serve.

Here in Media City, many residents are ticked off at the Burbank City Council for recently voting to hike the salaries of the senior executives at the Burbank Water And Power an estimated 7-to-11 percent. Thanks to the generosity of the city council, Burbank Water And Power General Manager Ron Davis’ salary reportedly will take a huge leap from around $218,000 a year, to somewhere between $233-and-$270-thousand per year. Nice gift. I blogged about it in a City Buzz column back on July 7.

 It happened days after the city council approved a budget with fee increases that included a 13 .5% hike in water rates and 2.9% for electrical. Apparently, the four city council members, Jess Talamantes, Dave Golonski, Gary Bric, and Mayor Anja Reinke, who voted for the raises, came down with Bell fever. Council member David Gordon, who did not show signs of the political ailment, voted against the  BWP pay hikes and those proposed by staff at last Tuesday’s city council meeting as well.

On July 27, city staff presented new requests to the city council for some job re-classifications and pay hikes in the Park, Recreation, and Community Services Department as well as a 19 and ½ percent raise and new title for a graphic illustrator in the Community Development Department.

This time around, Councilman Golanski refused to support that 19 and ½ percent raise, but three other council members voted for that salary increase and the others as well. So all of those salary hikes passed. Dr. Gordon voted “no” on all the raises. Reinke, Talamantes, and Bric voted “yes” on all of the raises.

I find it distrubing that the city council is handing out fat raises to some city employees — while members of the Burbank PD work without a contract. The BPD has been hit hard by scandal, corruption, and mismanagement. Still, Burbank cops are out there on the streets putting their lives on the line to protect the city and its citizens. You’d think the city council members and top staff would be scrambling to get raises and a contract for Burbank cops. Now, that would benefit the entire community — not just line the pockets of a few select employees with more taxpayer dollars

Bell fever. I wonder how long certain Burbank City Council members will be afflicted with the malady. Somebody needs to find a cure fast!

Politically Speaking

Photo by Milton Alvarez-Ramos -- Steve Ferguson, Chair of the Park, Recreation, and Community Services Board in Burbank

 Steve Ferguson, Chair of the Park, Recreation and Community Services Board in Burbank, has a new blog, Politically Speaking. Ferguson has posted a thought-provoking piece called, “The Unspoken Conflict.”

Ferguson writes: “Police lawsuits, cut-throat political tactics and gossip have created an environment of fear, paranoia, and desperation. It’s not okay to disagree, to want to know more, or even to read a blog or two in our City. As a result, the dominant culture of our community divides those who are involved, based on their current views of City policies, into three groups: those who are right, those who are wrong and those who are not involved or don’t have a clue. There is no longer any appreciation for a difference of opinion. The division is everywhere. When two individuals from different groups interact it is mostly unspoken and sometimes even eerily cordial.” Read the entire post here.

Update on San Fernando Boulevard Fire 

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Smoke billows from a huge commercial building fire on San Fernando Boulevard near downtown in Burbank on Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Fire officials are still investigating that major fire at a commercial building in the 500 block of  San Fernando Boulevard near downtown in Burbank, last Tuesday, July 27.  The fire broke out shortly before 7 p.m. and burned hot and fast. Smoke from the blaze billowed out into the neighborhood and could be seen for miles.

There were no injuries, but on Friday,  Burbank Fire Spokesman, Captain Ron Bell,  put the damage estimate to the gutted building at $1 and ½ million and damage to the contents at around $250,000.

Captain Bell says they don’t know yet exactly what caused the fire and it is still “… under investigation and will be so for some time.”

Gripes & Complaints

Some sharp criticism of the Burbank Adult School over on the Semichorus blog. The educational facility is accused of charging for some courses that reportedly should be free to students.  Details here.

Some days ya gotta keep rolling, no matter what.  Rolling right over the bad stuff to the weekend!!

Two Burbank City Council members speak out on two very different issues

Burbank City Councilman Dr. David Gordon photo from Burbank website

Burbank City Councilman Dave Golonski photo from Burbank website

In the past few days, two members of the Burbank City Council have sent letters to two different newspapers about two very different concerns –  producing quite a contrast.

As Dr. Gordon stated in his letter, he began asking questions after”… it was brought to my attention that millions of school bond, state grants and $23 million provided by the city for district-wide modernization of school facilities had been inappropriately used, were not properly account for or simply disappeared.” Gordon criticizes the Leader’s article for its “…distorted and inaccurate..” portrayal of his position.  Here’s the link to Gordon’s letter on the Leader website.

Also, Burbank City Councilman Dave Golonski was prompted to write a letter to the Orange County Register for a personal reason — a project in San Clemente where he owns property.  Apparently, Golonski is concerned because he says ”…the project is upside down financially and the City Council is considering bailing it out using taxpayer funds.”

I first saw a post about this letter on the Semichorus blog, where there’s a discussion going on about how Golonski supported a project in Burbank where developer, Michael Cusumano, got a piece of city land for only $100. The property is at Third Street and Olive Avenue. It’s where the $20 million Cusumano Plaza was built.  

Burbank city officials react to yet another lawsuit

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Activist Mike Nolan is a frequent speaker at Burbank Police Commission and Burbank City Council meetings

 In another strange twist in Burbank politics, Activist Mike Nolan has joined forces with Burbank Business Owner, Greg Bedrossian, to try to legally block the development of the 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport Center, at 1903 Empire Avenue.

Nolan and Bedrossian (the owner of the Burbank Athletic Club), have sued the city on the grounds the Burbank City Council’s vote/decision on May 18 approving the controversial project ”… failed to comply with the applicable provisions of the law.”

In a Burbank Leader article, Burbank Spokesman, Keith Sterling, would not comment directly on the lawsuit, but is quoted as saying city officials were “vigorously defending our position and the decision that was made.”  Isn’t that the knee jerk reaction of Burbank officials lately? Rather than looking at the merits of a recent slew of  lawsuits involving the police scandal — they are fighting them all by spending thousands and probably millions of dollars of taxpayer funds. Great for the lawyers, not so good for the city and taxpayers paying the bills.

Controversial tape of the BPOA President’s shaky testimony  

You gotta wonder what the fallout will be from that tape up on YouTube of Burbank Police Officers’ Association President, Detective Mike Parrinello.  The tape shows a portion of Parrinello’s deposition given in matters dealing with the Burbank Police Scandal/Corruption/ mess. It’s spliced with snippets of an audio tape and transcriptions, which appear to demonstrate that Parrinello told less than the truth under oath.

The audio tape is hard to understand at times, but Parrinello’s body language speaks volumes. Get the hook up for the tape on the Semichorus blog.

Gripes & complaints

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G — A Burbank city inspector recently checked out the repair work on East Angeleno Avenue in the hillside area

I’m still hearing the unhappy stories from hillside residents about  what they consider as tacky work done by Kalban — a contractor hired by the city of Burbank to repair sidewalks and ramps in the area.

I first reported about the complaints from homeowners in a City Buzz column last month on June 23. And I’m hearing new complaints. Also, the homeowners are apparently doing their own investigating. I’m told the initial inspectors of the project were freelancers hired by Kalban not by the city of Burbank.

I did spot a Burbank inspector recently checking out the repair work done by Kalban on East Angeleno Avenue. The Burbank inspector admitted hearing complaints of so-called substandard work and damage done to some properties by Kalban from homeowners. However, the inspector dismissed those  complaints and told me he approved of Kalban’s work.

Clearly there is a disconnect between the city standards and the expectations of homeowners. The construction project is expected to be completed by the end of August. More details on the Burbank city website.

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Landmark Warner Bros. tower in Burbank

Yes, things are changing here. Media City Groove is the new name. Many of the elements of A Writer’s Groove will remain, while new ones are going to be added. Stay tuned. 

Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- A happy shopper bags some bargains at the popular Burbank Farmers' Market held on Saturday mornings in the city hall parking lot at Third Street and Orange Grove Avenue.

Business is booming at one little shop in Burbank

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Customers waiting in line at Yogurtland in Downtown Burbank

While many local businesses are struggling in this tough economy, Yogurtland is packing in the customers and making serious money!  ”Business is very good.” Jamileth Mendoza, a shift leader, told me with a broad smile as she worked behind the counter last Saturday, June 26. I was out in Downtown Burbank when I noticed this crowded little pink shop near North San Fernando Boulevard and East Palm Avenue.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Yogurtland employee, Jamileth Mendoza, counts change for a customer

Mendoza, a mother of three and writer, has been employed at this Yogurtland since it opened 10 months ago. She says she really gets a kick out of watching the kids and the adults pump their own frozen yogurt into hefty cups and then load on toppings like fruit, nuts, cookies, cereal, candy, …etc  You pay according to the weight of your cup. Basic price: 30 cents per ounce.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Part of the Yogurtland experience is pumping your own frozen yogurt from a series of dispensers — offering an assortment of flavors including pistachio, Irish mint creme, Butterfinger, and pumpkin pie

I had to give Yogurtland my personal taste test. I grabbed a yogurt cup, pumped in Dutch chocolate, chocolate coconut truffle, and pecan praline, then topped it off with blueberries, nuts, cookies, candies, and, well, a lot of stuff. While the Pussycat Dolls played on the sound system, I sat down at a corner table and dug into my creation. After a while, Mendoza looked over at me, grinned, and said: “Delicious?” My mouth was so full, I could only nod. Mendoza laughed and went back to ringing up orders. Apparently my non-verbal response is quite common in this little yummy shop.

For more on Yogurtland, check out the company website.

Burbank City Council makes a controversial decision

A public hearing on a redevelopment project drew a crowd at last night’s Burbank City Council meeting. Actually, the public hearing began last April, but was postponed to allow more time for input from local businesses. The project centers on a proposal by Westwind Properties to create a “campus-like environment” in a Burbank industrial area by closing off parts of Spazier Avenue and Varney Street — between Flower Street and Elm Court. As part of the deal, Westwind gets to purchase the vacated city property for $67,000.

Many of Westwind’s neighbors, small business owners, fought the deal bitterly, but lost. Last night, the council voted 4-to-1 to approve the project with the dissenting vote coming from City Councilman Dave Golonski. This time around, the city council just didn’t rubber stamp the staff’s recommendation of approval.  For that, the council members should be applauded.

Mayor Anja Reinke insisted and got support from other council members to add a condition, which would require Westwind to open the proposed gate at Spazier Street should there be a need for large trucks to use that exit. It was a compromise. A way to move forward on the development of an area city officials consider “blighted” and to give some concession to nearby businesses. 

Burbank Leader reporter heading south

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Reporter Christopher Cadelago outside the Burbank City Council chambers where he covered many issues, debates, and controversies over the past 16 months

Reporter Christopher Cadelago has handed in his resignation at The Burbank Leader and is going to work for the San Diego Union-Tribune starting July 12. Cadelago began his newspaper career as an intern at the San Francisco Chronicle in 2007. The U-C Berkeley graduate arrived at the Leader in March of 2009 and quickly made his mark as a talented hard working journalist.

Cadelago, 25, has covered all sorts of stories for the Leader as well as the nearby Glendale News-Press: from the Burbank Police scandal, to city hall politics, the crime beat, and an occasional feature like that cute story, back in May, about a family of ducks delighting visitors and staff at Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Oh, and I gotta mention that really good report a few weeks ago Cadelago did on the 500-plus Burbank city employees who are earning six-figure salaries. Folks are still talking about that article.

 ”I really enjoyed my time here. Burbank politics –public safety –never boring. I think we were able to get a lot of people, through both the Leader and your blog, talking about the issues.” Cadelago told me last week, when I congratulated him on his new gig as a beat reporter on the Union-Tribune’s metro desk. Definitely a plus for the Union-Tribune and, sadly, another minus for the Burbank Leader/News-Press. Happy Trails, Chris!

Kicking off the long July 4th holiday weekend with a warning

Go ahead, wave the flag, fire-up the BBQ grill, but don’t include fireworks in your personal celebration for the 4th of July holiday weekend. It’s illegal to manufacture, sell, possess, or shoot-off fireworks in B-Town and the cops will be out to enforce the law.

Here’s the word from a Burbank PD press release:

“Beginning Friday, July 2^nd, 2010, and through the weekend, the police department will have active patrols specifically assigned to the enforcement of firework violations.  The police department’s number one priority is to protect the safety of our citizens.  

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) estimates that fireworks are responsible for 30,000 fires totaling over $34,000,000 damage.  At this time of year nationwide, fireworks are causing 7000 injuries and 7 deaths.  The injuries sustained are fairly evenly divided between “safe and sane” (legal in certain municipalities) and illegal fireworks (illegal statewide). 

The police department is asking the public to report any violations by calling the police desk at 818-238-3000.” 

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Downtown Burbank Post Office at 135 East Olive Avenue

Businesses and city governments are finding all kinds of new ways to stick-up consumers with fees and extra charges these days. They blame it on the weak economy, but it just might be plan old greed. As of last Monday, June 21, the U.S. Post Office at 135 East Olive Avenue in Downtown Burbank is charging three bucks for after hours parking. That’s Monday-Friday after 6 p.m., Saturdays after 4 p.m., and all day on Sundays.

All the parking spaces, except the two for handicapped motorists, are now marked with bright yellow and white numbers. If you want to park and catch a flick or go to dinner it might be an okay deal. Still, I’m opposed, because I believe free public parking is one of the perks that draws visitors to Downtown Burbank.

Also, if you need to go inside this post office to send-off a letter, package, or pick up mail from a P.O. Box, or something like that after business hours, you’re getting screw-ah ripped off, cause it’s still three bucks to park. No grace period. No “in and out” — according to the posted signs.  Those that ignore the parking rules risk a $40 penalty or being towed.  

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — New paid parking signs are up at the Burbank post office on Olive Avenue

I posted a report in a City Buzz column back in March about the frequent parking violations in the eight spaces along the east side of this post office. Those spaces were clearly MARKED for postal customers. It used to be that during after hours, the large postal parking lot would be locked up tight. Many times, I’ve found all the east side building spaces occupied, only to go inside the post office and discover it empty. The reason: the parking spaces were being used by employees working nearby and folks watching a movie at the AMC or some other kind of activity in the area.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Three of the 8 parking spaces on the east side of the downtown post office in Burbank

 A crackdown on parking violators in those reserved spaces should have been part of a solution. Instead, all of the after hours parking at this post office is now paid. Go figure.

There is still time for postal officials to do right by their customers and help preserve the character of Downtown Burbank. First, the spaces on the east side of the building should be marked for a 15-to-20 minutes parking limit – and reserved for postal customers. And those restrictions have to be enforced!

Also, opening up the Olive Avenue postal parking lot is a good idea, but after hours public parking should be free to anyone who wants to spend money in the downtown area. Bottom line, postal officials need to withdraw this tacky paid parking decision and do it quickly.

I can just imagine what’s going to happen if something isn’t done about providing FREE after hours parking for postal customers at the downtown post office. Business will go down. In a few months, postal officials will be talking about closing this post office, just like they shut down the Burbank Magnolia Park post office back in May. Or they’ll go for their favorite solution, jacking up postal rates. The result, postal customers will be forced to pay the price for yet another poor management decisions by U.S. Postal Service officials.

Burbank City Council approves new budget and utility fee hikes

Last night the Burbank City Council green-lighted a $785 million budget for fiscal year 2010-2011. The tally  4-to-1, with only Councilman David Gordon voting against the budget. As with past budget debates, Dr. Gordon was the lone member of the council fighting to try to “keep utility rates down.” 

I have watched this recent debate, week after week, and I do think the four other council members believe they are doing what is in the public interest. I disagree with them, and support Dr. Gordon’s position that with all the millions being spent in this new budget there should have been enough money to cap utility rates in these tough times.

Can you blame staff, many of whom live outside of Burbank, for pushing a budget with no layoffs and plenty of hidden merit raises for themselves, even in this recession battered economy? I guess not, but city council members should be able to see beyond the self-interest, but most do not.   It is up to the voters to send the council members a message they cannot refuse to hear — through the ballot box. Mayor Anja Reinke and Councilman Gary Bric are up for re-election next spring. Bottom line, if the makeup of the council remains the same, the votes on major issues like the budget will probably remain the same.

Under the new budget, water rates will be jacked-up 13.5% and electrical around 2.9%. And that’s not all. Trash and sewer rates will increase, too. By the way, one of the main architects of these fee hikes, Water & Power General Manager, Ron Davis, is up for a huge raise to his six-figure salary. Guess where that money is coming from? The city council is scheduled to formally discuss Davis’ pay hike at its July 6, 2010 meeting.

Burbank Police Commissioner resigns

 Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Police Commissioner Claudia Bonis listens to the discussion at a police commission meeting back in fall of 2009

A lot of chatter in Burbank about the unexpected resignation of long-time Burbank Police Commissioner, Claudia Bonis. The phones started ringing and e-mails flying about the surprise decision late Monday. Bonis’ resignation to Mayor Anja Reinke and the Burbank City Council, dated June 21, 2010, cites “personal and private reasons” for stepping down from the commission.

Bonis had been a member of the police commission for 9 years and was very reluctant, at first, to accept the new pro-active agenda pushed for by other members of the body. As one police commission watcher said, Bonis “has come around” in the past few months. She’s become a supporter of the upcoming town hall meeting and now sees there are real problems in the Burbank PD that need solving.

Recently I got a shock, when Bonis told me she reads and follows, “the blogs.”  Wow!  Bonis has been involved in community service for more than 30 years. Perhaps in the future, she might find a way to once again serve the citizens of Burbank.

Burbank residents complain about shoddy repair work

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove – A crew working on a sidewalk repair project in the Burbank hillside area in spring of 2010

Recently a homeowner over on East Angeleno Avenue near South Bel Aire Drive, gave me an earful about what she described as shoddy work and rude behavior by a sub-contractor doing ramp and sidewalk repair in the Burbank hillside area, late this past spring.  The homeowner complained and pointed out to me sub par work done on and near her property and spoke about similar problems over on Orange Grove Avenue. The homeowner wondered why Burbank city inspectors were not out keeping a closer eye on the quality of work. Oh, she railed about the unprofessional attitudes of some of the sub-contractor’s workers as well.

To get some answers, I shot off an e-mail to Burbank Public Works Director, Bonnie Teaford, on June 16, 2010 and got a quick informative response. Teaford identified the sub-contractor as Kalban, Inc. and said the company had completed several projects for the city of Burbank “over the years.”

I asked if Teaford had received any complaints about Kalban’s work from homeowners: “Yes. As with any sidewalk project when we are working directly in front of residents’ properties, issues arise and we do our best to resolve them.”

Clearly, there have been problems with Kalban — then, why keep giving this company city projects? Teaford’s answer: “They were the lowest responsible bidder.” This seems to be a citywide practice — low bidder, poor quality work, and later city pays a bunch of money for additional repairs. You’d think, city officials would have figured out, especially after the millions of dollars of repairs to the Police and Fire Headquarters, that paying a little more to get the job done RIGHT the first time is the prudent way to spend taxpayer dollars.

My adventures in composting

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — My free compost bin from the Burbank Recycle Center

Yesterday I fed my compost bin an assortment of goodies: wilted lettuce, tangerine peels, other fruit and veggie scraps along with pieces of paper, balls of lint from the clothes dryer, and hair clippings from my recent visit to the hair salon. Not my idea of a feast, but the little hungry recycling critters in the bin consider this gourmet faire. I’m pretty sure something is happening in the bin now that I’ve added some important premium players or eaters, red worms.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Master Gardener/Compost Expert,  Jessica Craven, gives instructions with wit and humor to attendees at the June 12, 2010, Burbank Sheridan Gardens Nursery workshop.

I dropped by the two compost workshops at the Sheridan Gardens Nursery on North Hollywood Way in Burbank a few days back. The Sheridan Gardens are lovely to stroll and browse or sit and learn.  Compost Diva, Jessica Craven, taught both workshops. Craven was the instructor for the workshop I took back in May, which got me into the compost groove.

Along with tips on how to build the compost pile and what to dump in it, we got some freebie including little baggies of organic potting soil. Also, I scored some red worms from Burbank Recycle Coordinator, Kreigh Hampel. The red wigglers are voracious processors of organic waste. The worms are supposed to be able to produce pounds of dark, nutrient-rich soil like material called compost in a matter of a few months. We’ll see. I’ll post future updates.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — participants at the June 9, 2010 Burbank Sheridan Gardens Nursery workshop give a plate of compost the sniff and touch test. This is the finished soil amendment waste recyclers hope to harvest from their compost bins.

Photo: FLLewis/ A Writer’s Groove — A man takes a late morning walk along Sunset Canyon Drive in Burbank

We’re easing into summer. No blistering 100 degree plus temperatures nor scorching sun beating down on us in Media City. Yesterday, summer officially arrived. On June 21, the summer solstice – considered the longest day of 2010 – we should have been drenched in sunshine. Here in Burbank, we got some low clouds and sun rays, with only a spring-like high of 73.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Roses in bloom in Burbank

This morning at 7 a.m., overcast skies and 61 degree.The forecast is for mid-80s temps today, which is the norm for this time of year.  A nice day to take a stroll and smell the roses.

Fallout from the 43rd State Assembly Race

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — The Burbank Democratic Club hosted its 5th annual spring picnic on Saturday, May 22, 2010

It may seem like smooth sailing for Democrat Mike Gatto, now that he has been sworn-in as the new Assemblyman for the 43rd District, but some serious drama is still swirling around  him and that race. As of yesterday, for the special election to finish out the term of Ex-Assemblyman Paul Krekorian, The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website showed Gatto with 21,396 votes or 58.57% and Republican Sunder Ramani with 15,133 votes or 41.43%. Even though the counting of absentee and provisional ballots continues –Ramani has grudgingly conceded the race to Gatto.  

Gatto is now the favorite to win a full two-year-term in the November General Election. However, before Gatto gets too comfy in Sacramento he needs to deal with an ugly feud that may cost him some votes. Leading the attack on Gatto, local Guerrilla Journalist/Photog, Peter Musurlian.

I bumped into Musurlian ( I mean that figuratively) at the Burbank City Credit Union last Thursday. With no prompting from me, Musurlian went into a name-calling tirade about Gatto and some members of the Burbank Democratic Club. Musurlian announced he recently filed a police complaint as a result of a confrontation at the club’s May 22 picnic.

The reasons for the police complaint: Musurlian claims he was jostled, attempts were made to stop him from taping, and he was splashed with water.  He told me, the Burbank PD now has a copy of his videotape showing what happened.

I witnessed part of that heated debate. At the time, Musurlian was in full attack mode. I wrote about that  raucous exchange here. In a May 23 e-mail to me, Musurlian defended his conduct by saying “… if some of the Club members had not attacked me, I would not have reacted. I never throw the first punch. Asking questions is not starting a fight.”

Musurlian apparently has been hounding Gatto and peppering him with questions. From what I can gather, Musurlian adamantly believes Gatto has not been truthful with the voters — especially the local Armenian community. The Burbank Democratic Club strongly supports Gatto. Musurlian has some personal gripes against the club and some members as well. In Musurlian’s e-mail on May 23, he also called certain members of the club, “insecure bullies” and ”The protectors of Assembly Candidate Mike Gatto.”

Also, Musurlian disclosed to me on Thursday that a few weeks ago,  a member of Gatto’s campaign filed a police report against him. Yeah, maybe this is, tit for tat. Whatever it is, it’s ugly and from what I’ve seen, a re-match could escalate into something real nasty.

Steve Ferguson makes Burbank history

Photo: Courtesy Milton Alvarez-Ramos –Steve Ferguson, Newly Elected Chair of The Park, Recreation and Community Services Board in Burbank

Burbank resident/Community and Political Activist, Steve Ferguson, scored a double victory this past week. On Election Tuesday, Ferguson  was the second highest vote-getter in the race for a two-year-term on the Democratic Party Central Committee. Ferguson is one of 7 lucky candidates elected in the 43rd District. The committee works to get Democrats elected to various positions and offices.

Then last Thursday, Ferguson made Burbank history by becoming the youngest person ever to be elected chair of a city board or commission. Ferguson, 21, was elected Chairman of The Park, Recreation and Community Services Board. The Burbank High School graduate was appointed to that board when he was only 18. His involvement in community service began at 11-years-old!

Recently, Ferguson worked as the Volunteer Phone Bank Coordinator for Paul Krekorian’s bid for the Los Angeles City Council and as the Burbank Political Director for Nayiri Nahabedian’s campaign for the 43rd State Assembly.

During his one-year term as chair of The Park, Recreation and Community Services Board, Ferguson says he wants to raise “the profile of the board,” work with his “…colleagues and with the council to ban free-standing cell phone towers from our parks and city property surrounding our parks,” and “… ensure that the Park Patrol program has continued funding next budget year.” Ferguson admits he has “… a lot of plans, but limited time to accomplish them in so it is going to be a sprint!”

Pause for the Pledge of Allegiance

On Monday, June 14, National Flag Day and National Pause for the Pledge of Allegiance. The American Flag Foundation, which supports patriotic events focused on our flag, is encouraging all citizens and communities across the nation to take time out and join the “pause for the pledge” on Monday.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank City Council meeting, June 8, 2010

At last Tuesday’s city council meeting, Burbank Kiwanis Club member Sam Engel (in white shirt) led the Pledge of Allegiance. The Burbank Kiwanis Club has put out an open invitation for everyone to gather at the Burbank Tennis Center, McCambridge Park at 3 p.m. on Monday for a celebration.

It kicks off with a concert by the Burbank Community Band and then at 3:30 p.m., cash prizes will be awarded to the talented local school students who won top honors for their patriotic posters and photos. At 4 p.m. sharp, the Pledge of Allegiance — at the same time — all across the nation– people will be honoring our county by reciting that oath.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Mayor Anja Reinke helps Sam Engel show-off some of the winners in the Burbank Kiwanis Club’s poster and photo contest, at the June 8, 2010 Burbank City Council meeting.  Also, Engel is holding a proclamation from the city for Flag Day activities.

Jacaranda trees bloom in Burbank

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Jacaranda trees in bloom along Tujunga Avenue near Bel Aire Drive in Burbank

A sure sign of warm spring days — the blooming of the Jacaranda trees in Burbank. The purple blooms are stunning, but the flowers carpet the ground and leave behind a sticky residue.  Messy yes, oh well,  beauty has its price.

Voters head to the polls on Election Tuesday

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — A Burbank pollworker prepares to insert a voter’s ballot into the Inkavote machine to check for errors on Election Day,  November 4,  2008.

Jobs are hard to come by these days, but Los Angeles County officials are still finding it difficult to attract enough pollworkers for the Primary Election, this Tuesday, June 8.  As of last Tuesday, June first, The L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s office was scrambling to fill about 200 pollworker positions at various locations.

Pollworkers get paid $80 a day, plus $25 for attending a two-hour training session. There still might be some openings at this late date — call the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County  Clerk’s office at 1-800-815-2666 option 7 or visit their website  lavote.net.

Also, now is the time to pull out your sample ballot and begin to seriously consider the candidates and issues. Remember, there are two races in the 43rd State Assembly District. In the front of the ballot, the primary –candidates are vying for the chance to run in the November election for a full two-year term. At the back of the ballot, the special election in the 43rd State Assembly District to finish out the term of Paul Krekorian, who won a seat on the Los Angeles City Council last fall.  Krekorian’s term ends in November. Only two candidates are still in the running: Democrat Mike Gatto and Republican Sunder Ramani. I believe Gatto is the stronger candidate and he’ll get my vote.

There are a number of other races, along with several important ballot measures.  You’re snail mailbox probably has been stuffed with campaign literature recently. Oh, and those phone endorsements, my favorite (not); more than likely you’ve received a few of those as well. Still, have some questions and decisions to make?  Check out the local newspaper endorsements.

For the Los Angeles Times endorsements, check its website. The Los Angeles Daily news endorsements are here.  Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. on Election Tuesday.

Tension and tempers rise again in the Burbank PD

A stinging letter from the big honchos in the Burbank Police Officers Association, posted over on Jim Carlile’s Blog. You really have to wonder if those guys are part of the solution or the problems that are dragging down the Burbank PD. 

The Burbank Police Commissioners should take a gander at the letter and read the comments. Some commissioners seem to think the BPOA would be the first place officers take their complaints. Hmm, don’t think so. The commissioners should seek information from the officers themselves.

More celebrity farewells

 ”A Golden Girl” makes a sudden exit. Seventy-six-year-old Rue McClanahan had some health issues, but appeared to be on the mend. Then last week, she suffered a massive stroke and passed away on Thursday. More on People Magazine website.

A lot of tributes out there for legendary basketball coach, John Wooden, who died late Friday of natural causes at the age of 99. A good selection of stories, photos, memories, and reactions on the  L.A. Times site. 

Lakers and Celtics battle in game 2 of the NBA finals

Lakers go for a repeat at Staples Center this afternoon. Kobe and company beat the Boston Celtics in game one of the NBA finals on Thursday, 102-89. A lot of talk about a sweep. Kobe’s not dealing with that. The Laker star is quoted as saying: “We just want to win the series.”  More on the Lakers and the NBA finals here.

City Cruiser

 Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — A cyclist takes it slow and easy along West Verdugo Avenue in Burbank. Nice way to avoid the high gas prices and enjoy the city view.

New comedy club opening in Burbank

The Burbank City Council has cleared the way for the city’s first comedy club. You would think it was a no-brainer with entertainment being the number one industry in B-town, but it wasn’t. Last night, the city council approved a business assistance loan of $190,000 for The Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant by a 4-to-1 vote. Dr. David Gordon was the lone dissenter.  

The loan will be used to remodel the old Macaroni Grill site at the corner of East Magnolia Boulevard and North 1st Street, in the downtown area. Even though co-owner Barbara Holliday will secure the loan by putting up her Burbank home and other assets, Gordon was concerned about repayment should the business go under. On the flip side, the other council members saw the potential as being well worth the risk.

Councilman Dave Golonski admitted the site had certain challenges, but liked the passion and enthusiasm he heard and saw in Holliday and her partner Dave Reinitz, and their supporters, including a number of comedians who spoke at the meeting. Golonski said it was a “great use” for the site, the business plan “made sense,” and the project had the “right chemistry, ” so he voted “yes”.

While critics point to the city’s support of failed restaurants like Bombay Bicycle Club, Golonski cited successes like Fry’s Electronics and the hugely popular, Porto’s Bakery & Cafe. Holliday and Reinitz together have more than 20 years experience in comedy production and event planning. I think they have a good chance of making “Flappers” ah, fly. 

During his time in front of the council, showing support for the club, comic Michael Rayner pulled off a very funny trick; spinning a cheeseburger on an umbrella. After the vote, I asked Rayner where else had he performed that trick? He said all over the place, from the “Late Show with David Letterman” to the Burbank library. I’m looking forward to seeing Rayner do that trick again when The Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant opens in late summer.

Also, the revised and much debated plan for a 24 Hour Fitness gym near the Burbank Empire Center won approval from the city council, too. The vote was 3-to-2, with Gordon and Mayor Anja Reinke opposing.

Councilman David Gordon’s bio up on Burbank city website

BTW, Burbank Councilman David Gordon’s bio is now up on the city website. Now you can read about the backgrounds, interests, and achievements of the entire Burbank City Council. Click here for Gordon’s bio. On the left side of that page, there are buttons to click on for the bios of the other four members as well.  

Baseball coach Jose Sandoval speaks out 

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove –Coach Jose Sandoval outside the Burbank courts building, on November 5, 2009

A lot of chatter about the dismissal of the criminal case, on Monday, against long-time Burbank baseball coach, Jose Sandoval. Yesterday, I e-mailed the volunteer coach for the Burbank Park and Recreation Department and got his reaction. Below are Sandoval’s answers to my questions.

1.  How do you feel about the dismissal of the case against you?

 I feel relieved that this case is finally over and it was dismissed. I know for a fact if it was any other coach this would have never of gone this far. I used all of my vacation days in court and ran out of time last year so it was all on my time.

 2. Your court appearances on this matter started last July?  How many times have you had to go to court?

 I went to court 12 or 13 times before yesterday (Monday) I believe I went twice in a couple of months.

3. After that controversial altercation at the baseball game, you were suspended for a year, right?  When did that end? 

I was able to start coaching in mid April.

4. Are you coaching the same kids or a new team?

Some final words.

I want to thank all that stood with me and by my side through all of this. THANK YOU from the bottom of my HEART.  I want to thank you and your bloggers for all of the kind words and support. if you guys get a chance come check out some of our games we play every day of the week. 

Bob Kramer on the prowl

Photo:  FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Community Assistance Coordinator Bob Kramer’s get-around-town vehicle promotes the city’s water conservation campaign

Have you seen Bob?  Bob Kramer, the Burbank Community Assistance Coordinator. For the past six months, Kramer has been cruising the city, looking for problems to solve, in the Burbank Water and Power “conserve water” promotion van. Last month, I saw Kramer zipping up the hill on Olive Avenue above Bel Aire Drive, one Monday and a week later, spotted him driving through another hillside neighborhood.

Despite the “conserve water” message on his vehicle, Kramer is not the water police. Kramer says ”every week” he checks all the alleys for junk like dumped couches and graffiti. He reports his findings to city departments for action.

Kramer is considered the “go-to-guy” for all sorts of problems residents might have with trash, parking, sidewalks, trees, or even the well being of a neighbor. Go here for information on how to contact Kramer. 

Catching up on some items from the past few days.

Fire Service Day in Burbank

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Crowds turned out for the salute to Burbank Fire and Police Departments on Saturday, May 8, 2010

The streets surrounding the Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters in Downtown Burbank were blocked off for the ”Fire Service Day” celebration from around 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. yesterday.  Burbank Police joined in the festivities in honor of National Police Week, which kicks-off today.

I dropped by just before noon and discovered a colorful street festival at Third Street and Orange Grove Avenue. There were fire and police vehicles on display, along with a helicopter, demonstrations, information booths, a rocking band, fire house tours, food, and free balloons for the kids.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — The Burbank and Glendale Police helicopter was a favorite stop at yesterday’s “Fire Service Day” event in Downtown Burbank.

Mingling in the crowds, Burbank Police Commissioner Claudia Bonis, 43rd State Assembly Democratic Candidate Mike Gatto, and 43rd District Field Representative Suzy Jacobs. They were smiling and greeting folks; so were Burbank firefighters and police personnel. It was nice to see considering all the tension, turmoil, and controversy rolling through Burbank these days.

I missed the pancake breakfast, but caught Santoro’s submarine sandwich lunch. It took some patience to buy one of their famous sandwiches. I think I was in line for 20 minutes. Despite the wait, Santoro’s pastrami sandwich (yikes, I had it with onions) was quite tasty. Definitely, I would recommend trying one of their subs. Santoro’s is located at 1423 West Burbank Blvd, in Burbank  91506.  Check out their cool website santorossubs.com

The Burbank Leader calls out city council for snub of Gordon

Photo from Burbank city website: Councilman Dr. David Gordon

In an editorial published late Friday night on its website, The Burbank Leader took some Burbank City Council members to task for repeatedly, and most recently on Monday, May 3, passing over their colleague Dr. David Gordon for mayor or vice-mayor. The Leader did this in a backhanded manner with a few jabs at Gordon, but I believe it’s the overall message that counts here – and that was straight-on target.

Also, what about the well-known criticism of some of the other council members, such as inattentiveness in council meetings, insensitivity toward the public, inexperience …etc  None of these shortcomings stopped the present mayor and vice-mayor from being elected, so why the double standard for Gordon?

Earlier in the week, the council’s snub of Gordon created a storm of protest and condemnation on Jim Carlile’s site and on this blog as well. I’m glad the Leader decided to take a strong stand and join us in calling out the city council on this matter. Read the Leader editorial here.  

One more thing. Why is Gordon the only council member without a bio on the city website? What’s up with that? It’s not like he’s new in the position.

UPDATE: I’ve heard Gordon’s bio will be posted on the city website soon, perhaps by the end of the week.

Sex offender Burbank teacher sentenced

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank courts building on Olive Avenue in Downtown Burbank

The strange saga of that Burbank middle school teacher, who confessed to having sexual affair with one of her male students, came to an end in a Burbank court last Friday. In March, 33-year-old Amy Beck pleaded no contest to charges of having unlawful sex with a minor for several months last year. The victim was 14 at the time.

On Friday, Judge Patrick J. Hegarty sentenced Beck to two years in prison. Beck has been in jail since quitting her job at David Starr Jordan Middle School, and walking into the Burbank Police Department where she reportedly confessed to the crime. Beck’s attorney, Michael Williamson, says she could get out of prison in as little as 10 months. However for the rest of her life, Beck must register as a sex offender. Beck, who has three children, is married to a Los Angeles police officer.

Another grand slam for Dodger Slugger Andre Ethier  

Photo: Jill Weisleder/LA Dodgers — Slugger Andre Ethier arrives at home plate to a crush of happy Dodgers who were there to celebrate his walkoff grand slam and 7-3 win over the Milwaukee Brewers Thursday, May 6, 2010 at Dodger Stadium.

Andre Ethier’s bat is red hot!  Last Thursday, the Dodger outfielder belted his second career grand slam this season and it’s only May.  Also, it was the first game ending walkoff grand slam for the guys in L.A. blue since Russell Martin hit one in the win against Pittsburgh, back on April 21, 2007.  Coincidentally, the score of that game, Dodgers 7 and Pirates 3.

Springtime treatment for roses 

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Nursery Professional Emilio Telles trudges out a rose bush for the show-and-tell portion of the “Rose Care for Beginners” class at Armstrong Garden Center in Glendale on Saturday, May 8, 2010

In my pursuit of gardening and yard care tips, I attended the “Rose Care for Beginners” class at the Armstrong Garden Center at 5816 San Fernando Road, Glendale 91202. Nursery Professional Emilio Telles explained and then demonstrated the proper technique for giving rose bushes a light pruning in the spring. Telles gave the group a lesson in fertilizers, soil amendments, regular and organic,  as well as instructions on how to handle bad bugs and disease.

After our very rainy winter, a big problem is that white stuff on rose bushes — powdery mildew.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Armstrong Gardens Rose Expert Emilio Telles points out powdery mildew and then gives the class some tips on how to get rid of it.

The one-hour class whizzed by very quickly. A lot of really good information for growing everything from your roses to trees, lawns, and whatever.  Another plus — the class is free.  If you’re an orchid grower — on Saturday, May 22 at  9 a.m. there’s a class on repotting at the Glendale Armstrong Garden Center. Also, there are a lot of great tips and guides for all levels of gardeners on the company website. Or you can drop by the Glendale location, which has been expanded and looks terrific, and ask Telles or any of the staff for advice.

Flowers and other vegetation are blooming gorgeously all over B-town. I love spring.

Photos: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Eye catching blooms in Burbank — shot during the first 7 days of May 2010

Spring officially arrives today. The sun is shining and the flowers are blooming in Burbank. Clear skies and a high of 80 is expected. Our rainy winter is now history.