Photo: Jill Weisleder/Los Angeles Dodgers --Manny Ramirez hits a home run in a game against the San Diego Padres back on April 30, 2009

It’s official, Manny Ramirez is no longer wearing Dodger blue. In a curt press release today that amounted to about 7 lines, the Dodger organization finally put the seal of truth on all those rumors about Ramirez heading to the Windy City: “The Los Angeles Dodgers announced today that outfielder Manny Ramirez was assigned on a waiver claim to the Chicago White Sox and right-handed pitcher Ramon Troncoso was recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque to take his spot on the active roster.”

After all the hoopla about Mannywood, those Manny Bobbleheads, and just last month, the P.R. splash from the Dodgers about the slugger donating his red Porsche to charity, it comes down to this. So much for building a relationship between Ramirez and the Dodger fans.

The news of Manny’s departure came on the same day as team owners,  Frank and Jamie McCourt, went to court in their bitter divorce and fight over the Dodgers. Maybe by getting rid of Manny, who has been struggling this season, they now have more money to spend on divorce lawyers. He walked into a Los Angeles court with six; she arrived with five. Oh yeah, this divorce and legal battle over the team is costing millions. They reportedly saved $3.8 million by unloading Ramirez at this time.

The McCourts court battle will be great fodder for the media, but how much damage will it do to the  team, the players, and the fan base? If Ramirez has lost his batting mojo then perhaps getting rid of him before the end of the season will be viewed later as a skillful bit of management. However, if  the slugger gets a second wind and begins to hit home runs for his new team, a whole lot of Dodger fans are going to be very unhappy with this decision.

The New York Yankees paid a special emotional tribute to the late team owner, George Steinbrenner, last night at Yankee Stadium, before the game against the Tampa Bay Rays.  Also, honors were dished out to long-time Yankees announcer, Bob Sheppard, who died last Sunday at the age of 99.  New York Daily News has details on the tribute and the Yankees’ 5-4 victory over the Rays.

Steinbrenner, known as “The Boss,”  passed away on Tuesday, July 13, following a massive heart attack. Steinbrenner was 80. In 1973, he bought the struggling Yankees and built them into a Major League success story. Also, Steinbrenner’s style of paying high-salaries for players had a huge impact on sports ownership as well as the game of professional baseball. Nice obit on The New York Times website.

The Dodger organization joined the tributes to Steinbrenner by releasing the following:

STATEMENTS ON THE PASSING OF
GEORGE STEINBRENNER (1930-2010)

“George was a friend who I admired very much.  He was a giant in our game and he built an empire.  All he was was a winner.  He wanted to give the fans a winner, and that’s exactly what he did.”                                         

- Dodger Hall of Fame Manager Tommy Lasorda

“I will always remember George Steinbrenner as a passionate man, a tough boss, a true visionary, a great humanitarian and a dear friend.  I will be forever grateful that he trusted me with his Yankees for 12 years. My heart goes out to his entire family. He will be deeply missed in New York, Tampa and throughout the world of  baseball. It’s only fitting that he went out as a world champ.”

– Dodger Manager Joe Torre

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of George Steinbrenner’s passing.  His vision, passion and commitment to winning, recharged the New York Yankees and revolutionized the game. I remember a man driven to succeed.   He was the owner, “The Boss” and number one fan of the Yankees.  Our relationship was built on mutual respect.  I will never forget and always be grateful for how he treated me and my family both during my playing days and after I retired. I will miss him very much and extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Joan, and all the members of the Steinbrenner family.”           

– Dodger Hitting Coach Don Mattingly

“George Steinbrenner was the first owner to contact me to congratulate me when I purchased the Los Angeles Dodgers.  From that day forward we built a strong and meaningful friendship.  He was a larger than life owner who cared deeply about winning.  George helped shape the game of baseball during his incredible stewardship of the Yankees.  My deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Joan and his four children, Hal, Hank, Jennifer and Jessica and the entire Steinbrenner family.”

– Dodger Owner Frank McCourt

“Twilight” stars to view “Eclipse” movie with fans

Photo: “Twilight” stars from Deadline.com/Hollywood

Early numbers indicate “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” is going to rack up a huge money haul this July 4th holiday weekend.  The third installment of the vampire/fantasy/love story film series debuted on Wednesday, June 30, with a gigantic $68.5 million domestic Box Office tally.  On Thursday, the movie earned $24.2 million, and $28.6 million yesterday, for a total so far of $121.3 million, according to Box Office Mojo.

The promotion machine for “Eclipse” has done a bang-up job — and is still working. Over the next few day, some of the “Twilight” stars will be watching ”Eclipse” on the big screen with fans. Nikki Finke over at Deadline.com/Hollywood says about 20 members of the cast will be popping in at movie theaters all across the country. The surprise visits began yesterday and will continue through the holiday weekend.

For details on the cities where the “Twilight” stars will be appearing check out the “Eclipse”website  Los Angeles is on the list, but, ah, not Burbank.  Don’t know how Media City got missed. 

Wonder Woman #600 one hot comic book

Photo: Wonder Woman DC Comics website

Yeah, Wonder Woman is a bona fide hot babe. She can dust the floor with the bad guys and never have a wardrobe malfunction, despite that skimpy outfit she has worn for more than fifty years. I’m not hating on her — just giving WW her dues.  However, finally in the reimagining of Wonder Woman issue #600, Diana Prince gets a new outfit — one more suitable for crime fighting than walking the runway in a beauty pagaent.  Wonder Woman in pants, how very 21st Century.

Photo: New Wonder Woman DC Comics/ New York Times

The DC Comics’ superheroine is hot for another reason right now – the reboot of Wonder Woman #600, officially on sale last Wednesday, has sold out!  Also, Nikki Finke is reporting DC Comics is already printing up a second edition.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — The House of Secrets at 1930 West Olive Avenue in Burbank

While I was out and about in Burbank today, I dropped by the House of Secrets comic book store and asked about Wonder Woman issue #600. Sure enough, it was sold out. The counter clerk estimated they got 100 issues on Wednesday and those flew off the shelves. They received a few more issues on Thursday and by last night those were gone, too. A new shipment is expected next week.

If you’d like to check out a preview of that hot comic click here. The New York Times has an excellent article on the makeover of Wonder Woman as well.

Dodger Manny Ramirez donates some rare wheels

 Photo: Jon SooHoo/L.A. Dodgers — Dodger Slugger Manny Ramirez ‘s 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo 964

Looking for a flashy ride with some power and celebrity history? Dodger outfielder Manny Ramirez has donated a rare Porsche to a charity auction. The 1994 red Porsche 911 Turbo 964 has less than 35,000 miles. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Dodgers’ official charity, ThinkCure! and Maryvale, a local residential placement home for girls.

Bids for Ramirez’s wheels, reportedly appraised at more than $58,000, are now being taken online at  eBay until Monday, July 12, 2010 at 11 a.m.

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.

Rock festival groove

Photo: Jay L. Clendenin/Los Angeles Times  4/17/10

Music lovers groove to the beat at the huge Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival up in the Riverside County desert community of Indio today. The Los Angeles Times is reporting record-breaking crowds of 75,000 a day since the festival kicked-off on Friday, which included performances by Jay-Z and Beyoncé.  

Legendary rocker Sly Stone is scheduled to play the festival on Sunday. A notorious no-show, folks are wondering if Stone will make an appearance. Some of the other performers have been delayed or had to cancel because of that big volcanic ash cloud over Europe. More photos and article on the festival here.

A milestone at Dodger Stadium

Photo: Juan Ocampo/LA Dodgers 4/16/10

Dodger Andre Ethier belted his first-career grand slam during the second inning of a game against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium on Friday night. Ethier was on a roll. He hit a homer in the first inning as well. Dodgers went on to beat the Giants 10-to-8 in the first of a three-game series.

Michelle Obama on tour

Photo: Samantha Appleton/White House  4/14/10

In her first solo international trip, First Lady Michelle Obama visited Mexico and Haiti this week. More photos of the first lady in Mexico on the White House website.  Dr. Jill Biden, the Veepee’s wife, joined the first lady for the trip. Click here for Dr. Biden’s White House blog post about their stop in Haiti. And more photos, too. 

Grammys at the White House

Photo: Pete Souza/White House 4/14/10 

President Obama and Country Music Star Garth Brooks shared a moment at the White House on Wednesday, April 14, 2010. In the Oval Office, Brooks was presented with the “Grammy on the Hill” award for his leadership in advancing the rights of music makers. Also, the president received his better-late-than-never 2007 Grammy for the best spoken word album for his bestseller, “The Audacity of Hope.”  

Willie Davis: Photo courtesy Los Angeles Dodgers

Southland baseball star Willie Davis is being remembered today. Davis, the legendary center fielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, was found dead in Burbank yesterday. A concerned neighbor reportedly called police yesterday morning to Davis’ apartment in the 1900 block of West Victory Boulevard. Officers arrived at the scene and discovered the 69-year-old Davis on the living room floor. Burbank Sergeant Robert Quesada says, “ Mr. Davis showed no signs of life and was pronounced dead. At this time, detectives found no signs of foul play and it appears Mr. Davis died of apparent natural causes.” 

Davis’ story is the classic local gifted athlete makes good tale. Davis was a world-class sprinter at Roosevelt High in Los Angeles when he caught the attention of Dodger Scout Kenny Myers, who saw in the young runner a potential baseball center fielder, according to a press release from the Dodger organization.

Right after graduating from high school in 1958, Davis was signed by the Dodgers. It proved to be a wise decision. Davis played two years in the minor leagues, before moving up and spending 14 seasons with the Dodgers from 1960-1973. Davis is still the franchise leader in hits (2,091), extra-base hits (585), at-bats (7,495), runs (1,004), triples (110) and total bases (3,094). In 1969, Davis set a team record with a 31-game hitting streak. He won three Golden Glove Awards from 1971-1973.

In a statement released late yesterday, Davis received high praise from Dodger Owner Frank McCourt: “He was beloved by generations of Dodger fans and remains one of the most talented players ever to wear the Dodger uniform. Having spent time with him over the past six years, I know how proud he was to have been a Dodger. He will surely be missed and our sincere thoughts are with his children during this difficult time.”

File photo of Matt Kemp from his blog

A sad day-after for Dodger fans. Last night the guys in Dodger blue were soundly beaten by the Phillies 10-to-4, allowing Philadelphia to win the National League Championship Series. Second year in a row that the Phillies have dusted the Dodgers in the NLCS and moved onto the World Series.

A lot of analyzing and “what ifing” going on today and that will probably be the case for the days, weeks, and perhaps months to come. I have to say I like the insider’s view posted by Dodger Matt Kemp on his blog early this morning: “We just need everyone back, plus anyone who can help us win. We have a good team to win, we just didn’t get it done. We’re definitely closer to Philly this year. We beat them in the season series. They definitely outplayed us in this series. Those boys can hit over there, man.

This year we were definitely ready to do something big, I think. They just outplayed us. Did everything better than us. All it comes down to. Our team was better prepared this year, we knew what we needed to do, we just didn’t do it. We got to play good when it comes down to it. The last two years they outplayed us.”

You know, I think I can hear the faint whisper and wish of the loyal Dodger fans, “wait ’til next year.”