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FLLewis/ Media City G -- Tony's Bella Vista site 3116 West Magnolia Blvd. Burbank January 8, 2020

Bella Vista restaurant site in Burbank sells for big bucks

By Fronnie Lewis on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Tony’s Bella Vista restaurant site in Burbank sells for big bucks. The Burbank Leader made the announcement on Wednesday reporting the sale price as $2.9 million. After more than 30 years, the popular Italian restaurant closed its doors last June. The property is located at 3116 West Magnolia Blvd in Magnolia Park. The loss is deeply felt. The restaurant is on a stretch of Magnolia Blvd between Hollywood Way and Buena Vista Street, which needs more eateries and now it has one less. Magnolia Park could use the kind... Read More →

Tags: Magnolia Boulevard, Magnolia Park, restaurants

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- Full O' Life Organic Market & Cafe 2515 West Magnolia Blvd. Burbank August 21, 2018

Talk of the Town: Full O’ Life closing, Sizzler leaving Magnolia Park

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, August 28, 2018

A major Magnolia Park business is calling it quits. This time it’s not a huge spike in the rent to blame, but a dramatic drop off in business. Management at Full O’ Life, 2515 West Magnolia Blvd, broke the bad news to employees last Tuesday. Full O’ Life, a healthy foods market and cafe, opened back in June of 1959. Cindy Moon and her mother, Kay Matheson, 97, are the owners. The opening of Whole Foods The family run business has weathered a lot of hard times, but the recent... Read More →

Tags: restaurants, Talk of the Town

Photo: FLLewis/ Media City G -- Whole Foods Market opening June 20, 2018 in Burbank May 28, 2018

City Buzz: Whole Foods Market and other openings

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, June 19, 2018

The wait is almost over for the much talked about Whole Foods Market in Burbank. Since opening in Austin, Texas in 1980, the upscale market has become one of the most popular and most desired among shoppers. Also, last summer’s purchase of Whole Foods by the giant Amazon has the lure of lower prices as well. The Media City Whole Foods is set to open tomorrow morning, Wednesday, June 20 inside the still developing controversial Talaria Project, 3401 West Olive Avenue. Construction crews have been working weekends... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Chick-fil-A, City Buzz, Media City, Naimie's, Talaria project, Whole Foods market

Photo: FLLewis/ Media City G -- Target 1033 North Hollywood Way Burbank April 2, 2018

New Burbank Target opening tomorrow April 4

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Final preparations are wrapping up at the newest Target in Burbank. The store at 1033 North Hollywood Way is set for a soft opening Wednesday, April 4. Doors will open to the public at 7 a.m. tomorrow. The grand opening celebration is this Sunday, April 8. The Burbank Target West is about 24,750 square feet and is considered one of the retailer’s small-format stores. “With a smaller footprint, these stores curate an assortment to meet the needs of local guests,” according to a news release. Also, much of the... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Burbank Target West, Magnolia Park, shopping, Target

job fair graphic

UPDATED: The Castaway offering hundreds of new jobs

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, March 20, 2018

UPDATED Wednesday, March 21, 2018 — The job fair has been expanded. It was announced today that the job fair will continue two additional days. They are Tuesday, March 27, and Wednesday, March 28, 10 am to 6 pm at the Castaway. The newly renovated Castaway in Burbank is holding a major job fair to fill 200-300 hundred jobs. The fair kicked off today Tuesday, March 20 and will be held also on Wednesday March 21 and Sunday March 25, from 10 am to 6 pm, at... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Castaway, restaurants

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- Construction underway at the new Target site 1033 North Hollywood Way Burbank November 28, 2017

City Buzz: New retail outlets, restaurants, and a chance to be on TV

By Fronnie Lewis on Monday, December 11, 2017

Target Magnolia Park construction underway A lot of construction at the site of the new Target store on Hollywood Way in Magnolia Park lately. The project apparently was hung up in plan check for a while, but now appears to be racing to meet a 2018 opening. This Target store is a new design, smaller than usual. It will be approximately 24,750 square feet. Still, there reportedly will be room for quite a lot of merchandise including fresh groceries, men’s and women’s apparel, some children’s and baby products, home décor,... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, City Buzz, Magnolia Park

Staples at the Rancho Marketplace Shopping Center in Burbank

City Buzz: Major Burbank retailer to shutdown and new hotel in the works

By Fronnie Lewis on Wednesday, August 30, 2017

As the long Labor Day weekend approaches, employees at a major retailer in Burbank are facing an uncertain future. Staples at 1060 West Alameda Avenue is shutting down in a few weeks. Apparently, the customer volume has dropped off significantly at the office supply store in the Rancho Marketplace Shopping Center. Earlier this year, Staples announced it would be shuttering at least of 70 of its underperforming stores in North America. Another factor in the closure may be the recent reported acquisition of Staples, for $6.9 billion, by... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, City Buzz, Dr. David Gordon, food festivals, hotels, retail stores, Staples

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- City Hall 275 East Olive Avenue Burbank June 24, 2017

City Buzz: Changes at Burbank City Hall and around town

By Fronnie Lewis on Sunday, June 25, 2017

Some changes and developments in the Media City as we head into the last week of June 2017. Burbank City Hall — After five years as Burbank’s Public Information Officer, Drew Sugars, is moving on. Sugars’ departure was officially announced late last Friday in a news release from City Hall. The veteran broadcast journalist will become the Director of Communications and Community Relations for Glendale Community College. In the release, Sugars said: “… I’m sad to leave so many colleagues and friends in this fantastic City, but I’m excited... Read More →

Tags: Burbank City Hall, City Buzz, Drew Sugars, restaurants, Talaria project, Whole Foods market

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- Grocery Outlet at 1615 West Verdugo Avenue Burbank February 15, 2017

Burbank Grocery Outlet open for business

By Fronnie Lewis on Thursday, February 16, 2017

A new grocery market opened this morning in Burbank. The Grocery Outlet calls itself the bargain market. It took over the old Fresh & Easy location at 1615 West Verdugo Avenue. There are reportedly more than 260 Grocery Outlets in California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Most are “independently operated by locally-based families,” according to the company website. The Burbank store has been under construction for several weeks. Last month, this Grocery Outlet drew job seekers to a hiring event in the front of the store. Yesterday, staff... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Grocery Outlet, shoppers, supermarkets

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- El Torito at 3113 West Olive Avenue Burbank officially closed its doors on December 26, 2016

Burbank El Torito shuts down

By Fronnie Lewis on Thursday, December 29, 2016

The El Torito restaurant at 3113 West Olive Avenue here in Burbank has shut down and removed all signage. The parent company, Cypress-based Real Mex Restaurants, shuttered the Burbank location and five other Southland eateries for a number of reasons from lackluster performance to “unfavorable” lease terms, according to the Orange County Register. The closures were announced last Monday, December 26. Real Mex is apparently trimming down in preparation for the acquisition of a new chain to kick start growth, the Register reports. The word is some of... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, El Torito, Media City, restaurants

Rock-a-Hula poster 2016

Rock-a-Hula at Verdugo pool in Burbank tomorrow

By Fronnie Lewis on Wednesday, September 14, 2016

The forecast is for sunny skies and warmer temperatures in Burbank today and tomorrow. That’s going to make the folks headed over to the Rock-a-Hula very happy. Yup, there will be some serious rocking and partying at the Verdugo Aquatic Facility 3201 West Verdugo Avenue on Thursday, September 15 . The event is designed for active seniors, 55 or older. There will be swimming, aqua fitness demonstrations, food, dancing, and a tribute to the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis. The pool party is free and runs from... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Media City, music, pool party, swimming, Verdugo Recreation Center

National Night Out returns to Chandler Bikeway in Burbank

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, August 2, 2016

National Night Out returns to the popular Chandler Walk/Bike Path in Burbank tonight. The annual nationwide celebration promotes neighborhood camaraderie and strives to strengthen the ties between law enforcement and the community. In the past, National Night Out has drawn crowds to the Chandler Bike Path. However in 2014, the event was moved to the parking lot of the Burbank Police headquarters. Many, including some City Hall officials, felt National Night Out needed to be back at the bike path — a favorite community gathering site.... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Burbank Police, Media City, National Night Out

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G-- Johnny Carson Park 400 South Bob Hope Drive in Burbank reopens after redesign plan completed July 1, 2016

Johnny Carson Park grand reopening celebration today

By Fronnie Lewis on Thursday, July 21, 2016

A major bash planned this evening at Johnny Carson Park. The grand re-opening celebration is set for the 5-8 p.m. with free food, giveaways, face painting, music, and even a kids zone for the little ones. Burbank’s Parks and Recreation Department is spearheading the event. The park at 400 South Bob Hope Drive, across from the Burbank Studios, reopened quietly earlier this month. The 17.6 acre facility underwent an extensive redesign and renovation, which took over a year. Now it’s available as a wonderful green space for locals... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, celebrations, Johnny Carson Park, parks

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- Burbank Walmart Supercenter at the Empire Center finished and ready for the big opening tomorrow. June 21, 2016

Burbank Walmart Supercenter opens tomorrow

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, June 21, 2016

The Burbank Walmart Supercenter opens tomorrow morning with a ribbon cutting ceremony and some presentations. The festivities get underway at 7:30 a.m., followed by “presentations of $12,500 in grants from Walmart to local community groups including $5,000 for the Burbank Temporary Aid Center and $2,500 each for the Boys & Girls Club of Burbank & Greater East Valley, the Burbank Police Foundation and the Burbank Community YMCA,” according to a news release. The Supercenter is at 1301 North Victory Place. It took months to convert approximately 143,000 square feet... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, celebrations, Media City, Walmart

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- First Street entrance to Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Burbank May 23, 2016

Burbank Wood Ranch restaurant opens today

By Fronnie Lewis on Monday, June 13, 2016

Burbank Wood Ranch restaurant opens today. They’re firing up the grill at this much-anticipated eatery in Downtown Burbank for dinner. It’s located at 110 North 1st Street — the old Elephant Bar site. “As a Burbank native, I am excited to return home and bring our award-winning dining experience to this community,”said General Manager Michael Gallagher in a news release. “We look forward to meeting our neighbors and being a part of many summer barbeques to come.” Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill is known for its high-quality smoked and grilled dishes.... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Food Groove, Media City, restaurants, Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill

Photo: (l-r) Food Blogger Gwenna Hunter and Chef Chloe at opening of new vegan restaurant in Silver Lake May 31, 2016 -- photo courtesy Gwenna Hunter

Food Groove: New vegan restaurant opens in Silver Lake

By Guest Blogger on Monday, June 6, 2016

I went to “by CHLOE.” vegan restaurant in Silver Lake because of Chef Chloe. She is a vegan celebrity who is known for her amazing vegan recipes and dishes at her New York City restaurant “by CHLOE.” For months, there’s been a lot buzz about this chain coming to the Southland. I wanted to be one of the first vegans to check it out and give my feedback! So, I was there for the grand opening last Tuesday, May 31, when the doors opened at 11 a.m. The restaurant is... Read More →

Tags: Food Groove, guest blogger, Silver Lake, Whole Foods market

Happy National Donut clipart

National Donut Day Friday June 3, 2016

By Fronnie Lewis on Friday, June 3, 2016

Not only is it Friday, but also it’s National Donut Day. The celebration of the sweet treat goes back to World War I and II when the Salvation Army offered free donuts to our troops. The soldiers returned home longing for the donuts they had during wartime and that sparked a new industry. No matter how you spell it, Donut or Doughnut, Americans love them. Some places are offering a free donut with a purchase, however, at Krispy Kreme you get a freebie of your choice... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, donuts, Food Groove, holidays, Krispy Kreme, National Donut Day

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- Walmart Supercenter remodel is nearly finished at the Empire Center in Burbank May 30, 2016

Burbank Walmart planning grand opening on June 22

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Burbank Walmart planning grand opening on June 22. The controversial Walmart Supercenter is nearly finished with a remodel that has taken more than a year. The old Great Indoors structure at 1301 North Victory Place in the Empire Center has been converted into several departments including grocery, general merchandise, sporting goods, apparel, and a pharmacy. More than 300 new associates have been hired. Walmart reportedly has 2.3 million employees worldwide. Company founder, Sam Walton, opened the first Walmart in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas. Walmart has grown into the... Read More →

shopping sales bags clipart

Major shopping deals on Memorial Day

By Fronnie Lewis on Monday, May 30, 2016

Major shopping deals on Memorial Day. Shoppers looking to save money can grab some deals and discounts at some big retailers today. Locally, you can check out Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lowe’s, and even Boston Market. Also, some great online deals at Wayfair and Overstock. More holiday sales here. Oh, a lot of automakers are trying to draw consumers in with special offers this holiday. Hyundai is going all out by doubling its military incentive to United States service... Read More →

Tags: bargains, Burbank, sales, shopping

Photo: FLLewis / Media City G -- First Street entrance to Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill in Burbank May 23, 2016

Burbank Wood Ranch restaurant opening June 13

By Fronnie Lewis on Tuesday, May 24, 2016

The long-awaited opening of the Burbank Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill is just a few weeks away. The extensive remodel of the old Elephant Bar Restaurant at 110 North First Street is nearly complete. The restaurant is set to open Monday June 13, according to the Wood Ranch website. Since the renovation project kicked off late last year, many changes have occurred at the restaurant including a new roof and new exterior including two entrances. One on North First Street and the second on East Orange Grove Avenue. In... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, Food Groove, restaurants, Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill

Photo: Media City G -- Walmart set to open new store in the Empire Center in Burbank April 6, 2016

Burbank Walmart hires more than 300 new associates

By Fronnie Lewis on Wednesday, May 18, 2016

The new Burbank Walmart Supercenter is on track to open next month, according to store manager Panthi Patel. The world’s largest retailer opened a hiring center a few weeks ago in Burbank. Patel estimates 350 associates have been hired for positions, from cashier to supervisor. In the past, Walmart has been criticized for low wages. During a phone interview today, Patel described the”incredible pay”at Walmart and how the company offers a “pathway to success.” He says “75 per cent of the promotions” are through the ranks and he feels Walmart... Read More →

Tags: Burbank, grocery stores, Walmart

SuperLotto Plus ticket bought in Reseda worth 23 million

By Fronnie Lewis on Sunday, May 15, 2016

A Southland lottery ticket holder had an incredible weekend. Someone bought a SuperLotto Plus ticket for last Saturday draw and won the $23 million jackpot!! The ticket was purchased at Food 4 Less 18318 Vanowen Street in Reseda. The bargain grocery retailer will get a $115,000 bonus just for selling that winning ticket. The lucky digits: 3, 4, 27, 30, 40, and the Mega 17. The skies were overcast and temperatures cool, but for that jackpot winning ticket holder the weekend was probably the best ever. The odds of... Read More →

Tags: jackpots, lottery, Reseda, SuperLotto Plus

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