Photo: FLLewis. Media City G -- Burbank reusable centennial bag
I noticed it soon after the big party of the century to celebrate Burbank’s centennial back on July 8. Whenever I took my colorful Burbank centennial reusable bag out in public — someone would comment on it. “What a cool bag!” is what a checker at the Trader Joe’s on East Alameda Avenue in Burbank said as she carefully arranged my groceries in that bag. I get versions of that compliment the most.
On another occasion, a Burbank shopper pointed out that she has one just like it — but is not using it– thinking it will become a collector’s item.
Photo: FLLewis/Media City G -- Burbank then and now snapshots on side two of the centennial reusable bag
At the Be-Boppin’ in the Park on Magnolia Boulevard earlier this month, I picked up a second centennial bag — but I had to buy a $5 coffee mug at the Burbank booth to get it. At the party of the century, the bags were handed out free. I’m told the city ordered 15-thousand or so and the supply has dwindled.
What city officials should do is re-order say 50-or-60 or a 100- thousand of these reusable bags and give them to Burbank residents as a way to encourage the ‘bring your own bag’ mindset. That would most likely flood the city with the centennial bags — putting the skids on the collectible notion. However, it’s a much more positive way to nudge folks to help protect the environment — than the proposed extreme ban on plastic bags at checkout stands in grocery stores or charging customers money for paper bags.
Really ? Where is the bag made and what is it made of ? Honestly, they should not be using taxpayer money to buy any kind of bags they should be fixing our streets and sidewalks, I am not a fan of tax the public and spend the money to change their mindset – sounds a bit evil empire to me.
Resident,
Evil empire? Really? Sounds a bit paranoid to me. Taxpayer dollars are frequently spent on campaigns encouraging (not putting a gun to your head) to conserve water, protect the environment, or even beware of mountain lions.
If folks decide to reuse the Burbank centennial bag –it’s their choice. I have no problem with that or spending money on the city’s centennial. Employee bonuses, well that’s different story — and that money I feel can be better spent on programs that serve the public or yes, fixing the streets and sidewalks.
If you don’t like the way Burbank officials are spending tax dollars — Mayor Jess Talamantes at city council meetings regularly calls on residents to contact him — he wants to know your priorities. Perhaps you should take him up on his offer.
I would love to buy this bag!! Where do I find one???