Tag Archives: Burbank

City of Burbank Night a Big Hit at Dodger Stadium

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(L to R) Burbank City Council members Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy, Jess Talamantes, Bob Frutos and Vice Mayor Dr. David Gordon (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(L to R) Burbank City Council members Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy, Jess Talamantes, Bob Frutos and Vice Mayor Dr. David Gordon (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

What an evening it was at Dodger Stadium Friday night. From the opening first pitch thrown out by Burbank Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy to the game-ending wild pitch that gave the Dodgers a 2-1 win over the Atlanta Braves in 10 innings, you could not have asked for more.

Mayor Emily Gabal Luddy makes the pitch. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy throws the first pitch (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Except for the spectacular fireworks show that followed the game and the home run blast by Los Angeles Dodgers rookie-phenom Yasiel Puig that occurred in game. It was a night to celebrate for all Burbankers in attendance.

On the City of Burbank night, the Burbank community was treated to a festive pre-game celebration and a well-played game shortly thereafter. Prior to Gabel-Luddy’s debut on the mound, more than 10 teams from the Burbank Little League circuit were recognized along the outfield track.

As Gabel-Luddy warmed up along the first-base line in foul ground, Vice Mayor Dr. David Gordon and fellow city council members Jess Talamantes and Bob Frutos watched in anticipation.

“I love it. It’s one of my favorite nights. Burbank Dodger night is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Dr. Gordon about the special City of Burbank tribute. “I love to see the people out here and I love to be out here in the atmosphere. It’s really an exciting evening.”

Vice Mayor David Gordon congratulates Mayor Emily Gabal Luddy at home plate after a successful pitch to home plate. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Vice Mayor Dr. David Gordon congratulates Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy after a successful pitch to home plate (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

When asked if he was ready to catch the first pitch from Gabel-Luddy, Dr. Gordon was as confident as a catcher would be.

“I will do my best to try. I am as prepared as I can be,” he said.

As for what kind of pitch to expect from Gabel-Luddy, possibly a fastball or even a curveball, Dr. Gordon chuckled and said, “she’s been doing that for years and I have somehow managed to survive all this time.”

Talamantes provided advice to Gabel-Luddy after throwing out the first pitch two years ago as Mayor of Burbank.

“I told her to just throw it up high and tell your catcher (Dr. Gordon) don’t let the ball hit the dirt. I told the Vice-Mayor to sacrifice your body and don’t let it hit the dirt,” said Talamantes, who was proudly wearing his Burbank centennial jersey, #100, given to him in honor of his big moment on the legendary Dodgers mound in 2011.

Mayor Gabel-Luddy is interviewed prior to the first pitch (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Mayor Gabel-Luddy is interviewed prior to the first pitch (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“It’s a great honor and a great opportunity to represent the city of Burbank. I was the centennial Mayor so I was very fortunate to be the Mayor at that time. It makes you feel great because the community is out here cheering you on representing the city I was raised in.”

Frutos, Burbank’s newly-elected councilman, took in his first Burbank Night as a member of the City Council.

“This is exciting. It’s an honor and I am very privileged,” Frutos said. “This is our community and we get to see a Dodger game and a fireworks show. We are very blessed.”

He predicted that Gabel-Luddy would throw a curveball but that Dr. Gordon was prepared to block the plate in case of a wild pitch.

The Dodgers' Yasiel Puig after hitting a home run to tie the game at 1-1 (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Dodgers’ Yasiel Puig after hitting a home run to tie the game at 1-1 (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

At 7:01 p.m., it was time for Gabel-Luddy to take the hill and have the honor of throwing out the first pitch. Nervous at first, she showed poise and confidence as only a 10-year pitching veteran would. Gabel-Luddy fired a fastball that caught the outside corner of the plate. Not on a bounce but on a line. Dr. Gordon caught it cleanly. Mission accomplished.

Dr. Gordon, Talamantes and Frutos clapped and cheered in support of Gabel-Luddy’s accurate throw. So did many of the Burbank citizens in the stadium.

“I’d say it was a strike. I felt great out there. What a thrill it was for me,” said the ecstatic Mayor of Burbank. “It’s the 22nd anniversary of Burbank Night and our community being here at Dodger Stadium. So can you imagine how thrilling it is being able to stand on that mound and throw out the first pitch?”

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Gabel-Luddy received a warm ovation from the stadium crowd. It was an impressive outing for the rookie right-hander. As fate would have it, Dodger rookies Hyun-Jin Ryu and Puig followed Gabel-Luddy’s lead in a victorious night for the Dodgers and the City of Burbank.

“This has been a great event going on for 22 years. It brings the community together just like we do in Burbank when we have functions and events,” Talamantes said. “We come here to enjoy a Dodger game and see fireworks so it’s even better. What I like about it is that it brings our community to an event that we can enjoy together.”

“It felt like being home again. I grew up on the Dodgers here. When they moved here from Brooklyn, my dad took me to my first game when I was probably nine years old,” Gabel-Luddy added. “It’s a great thrill to be here tonight and I can’t believe that 50 years later I had the opportunity to throw out the first pitch.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“Thanks to all the community because we had a tremendous turnout tonight with all the kids from the leagues. I am looking forward to a great summer of baseball.”

So are we. Congratulations to the City of Burbank on an exciting and well-deserved night of recognition.

 

Hundreds Attend Armenian Banquet to Support Honerees

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Over 250 people attended the sixth annual Armenian National Committee of America, Burbank (ANCA-B) banquet at Ambrosia banquet hall on Friday, May 31, where the contributions of John Krikorian, Marsha Ramos, Timmy Mardirosian and Woodbury University to the Burbank community were honored. The Honorable Jack Hadjinian, Montebello City Councilmember acted as Master of Ceremonies. The late surprise arrival of Congressman Adam Schiff, capped a great evening for all attendees.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The evening presented an opportunity for individuals and organizations in the community to meet with Burbank officials and supporters of the ANCA-B and discuss the range of activities – from college fairs, Armenian Genocide recognition programs, and continuous voter-registration efforts – and raise funds that make these programs and activities possible.  “It was a pleasure to bring together members of the Armenian-American community of Burbank with the individuals and organizations that have helped the various events and projects come to life in the past year,” said Armond Aghakhanian, the chair of the banquet organizing committee.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

In attendance were various local, state, and national elected officials, including Burbank City Council members Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy, Vice-Mayor, Dr. David Gordon, BobFrutos, and Jess Talamantes.  The newly-elected Burbank City Treasurer Debbie Kukta and City Clerk Zizette Mullins also joined the festivities.  The Burbank Board of Education was represented by members Dave Kemp, Roberta Reynolds, Charlene Tabet, Ted Bunch, and Larry Applebaum.

Representatives from the offices of State Assemblyman MikeGatto, State Senator Carol Liu, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich were also present and offered letters of recognition for the honorees.  In his address Congressman Schiff recognized the honorees and thanked the ANCA for its continued service to the community.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“The broad representation of our political and civic leaders at this year’s event demonstrates the important role the ANCA-B plays in engaging the Armenian-American community,” said Zareh Khachatourian, Acting Director of ANCA-B.  “It was a pleasure to speak to the attendees about the benefits of our programs not only for the Armenian-American community, but for all of Burbank.”

The sold-out crowd joined together to pay tribute to the evening’s honorees. The late John Krikorian’s was received by his son, Greg Krekorian.  Mr. Krikorian was presented with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of community service as the founder and publisher of “Business Life” and “Senior Living” magazines.

Former Mayor of Burbank, Marsha Ramos, was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award for her contribution to the passing of Measure S in March, and her involvement in multiple Burbank organizations.

Timmy Mardirosian was presented with the Business Civic Leadership Award for his continued support of the community, and constant focus on increasing opportunities for youth.

Finally, Woodbury University was named Organization of the Year for its role in educating the Armenian American community, through projects such as the “Rebirth Humanitarian Scholarship” for its students.

The Armenian National Committee of America, Burbank advances the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of the area’s Armenian American community and promotes increased Armenian American civic participation at the grassroots and public policy levels.

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

BANC Banquet -7

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank, Glendale Police Combine on DUI Checkpoint in Glendale

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DUI Checkpoint Turns Out To Be ‘Not A Bust’ After All

Despite the fact that no one was arrested for drunk driving at the Burbank and Glendale Police Departments’ joint DUI Checkpoint on Saturday night, the special enforcement operation is still considered a success.

The checkpoint was held on Glenoaks Blvd. in Glendale, just south of Alameda Ave., between 9 p.m. Saturday and 2 a.m. Sunday.   During the operation, 1,051 vehicles heading north on Glenoaks Blvd. passed through the checkpoint. 1,021 drivers were screened for signs of driving under the influence.  Of those, six were detained and given a Standardized Field Sobriety Test.  No one was arrest for driving under the influence.

One driver was issued a citation for driving while unlicensed, and another was cited for a traffic infraction.   No vehicles were impounded.

The purpose of the operation was to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence, to serve as a deterrent to driving while impaired, and to reduce the number of persons killed or seriously injured in alchol-releated traffic collisions, according to the police department.

“The Burbank Police Department remains committed to making Burbank a safer place to live and work,” according to Lt. Jay Hawver, who heads up the department’s traffic bureau.

The Melt Has Come to Burbank

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Everyone has a chance for a free lunch during the Grand Opening celebration of THE MELT Burbank.

George Bustamonte part of Melts Culinary Team grills up a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

George Bustamonte part of Melts Culinary Team grills up a Grilled Cheese Sandwich. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

FREE lunch for fans who find the secret password on THE MELT’s Facebook page on Saturday, June 1 from 12pm – 6pm at their new location at 313 N. San Fernando Boulevard in Downtown Burbank

To get your lunch, just visit facebook.com/themelt or @the_melt on twitter for the secret password.

THE MELT Burbank is the newest location of this fast-casual eatery specializing in Grilled Cheese Happiness™. Serving all-natural, wholesome grilled cheese sandwiches, fresh artisan soups and premium soft serve ice cream and milkshakes, with innovative ordering technology in an eco-friendly store environment, THE MELT Burbank offers both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

Store hours are:

Monday–Wednesday 7am – 9pm

Thursday–Friday 7am – 12am

Saturday 8am – 12am

Sunday 8am – 8 pm

For more information about THE MELT and to see the full menu, visit melt.com.

Melt Opening Fri -2

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Noon Rotary Announces High School Art Winners

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The 13th Annual Burbank High Schools Rotary Art Contest is held to help Kids develop Arts Skills necessary to enter the highly competitive local industry of Graphic Arts in the San Fernando Valley .

The results are as follows:

Burbank High School

Burbank High first place winner David Faizi with Court Warner and Mike Thomas of Burbank Noon Rotary

Burbank High first place winner David Faizi with Court Warner and Mike Thomas of Burbank Noon Rotary

1st Place David Faizi  (receives $200 Gift Certificate to Swains Art Supply)

2nd Place Jee Soo Shin (receives $100 Gift Certificate to Swain’s Art Supply)

3rd Place Joshua Macapagal (receives $50 Gift Certificate to Swain’s Art Supply)

Honorable Mention

Derek Baer, Eon Cheong, Allison Tiegs, Lauren Yu, Tyler Yu

 

Burroughs High School

Burroughs High first place winner Karyl Dimaculangan with Court Warner and Mike Thomas of Burbank Noon Rotary

Burroughs High first place winner Karyl Dimaculangan with Court Warner and Mike Thomas of Burbank Noon Rotary

1st Place Karyl Dimaculangan  (receives $200 Gift Certificate to Swain’s Art Supply)

2nd Place Daniel Kerkotchian (receives $100 Gift Certificate to Swain’s Art Supply)

3rd Place Joseph Dasalla (receives $50 Gift Certificate to Swain’s Art Supply)

Honorable Mention

Kyle Abcede, Mathew Geronimo, Jason Hamm, John Kim, Kyle Martin

 

If you would like to see their work up close, their artwork will be on Display at the Buena Vista Library.

rotary art 3

Burbank Wins First League Title Since 1991 With 4-1 Victory Against Burroughs

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Burbank Bulldogs, 2013 Pacific League champions (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Bulldogs, 2013 Pacific League champions (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

The championship celebration begins for Burbank (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The championship celebration begins for Burbank (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Twenty-two years of frustration were erased by waves of jubilant emotions after Burbank’s 4-1 victory over Burroughs clinched a share of the Pacific League title. Not since 1991 had the Bulldogs tasted the “championship” fruits of victory. To put it into perspective, not one of the 19 Burbank players had been born yet when the last baseball title was won up on the hill.

Friday night at Burroughs, the Burbank Bulldogs were rewarded with their first-ever Pacific League championship after a stellar performance at the home of their cross-town rivals. For 15 seniors and their head coach, it was worth every grueling day of practice and games for the past 11 months.

“It’s a long road. A lot of moments when things didn’t go well,” said an emotional Burbank coach Bob Hart. “You put your heart and soul in something that matters. I’m really proud of this team.”

Burbank players rush the mound to celebrate the league title (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank players rush the mound to celebrate the league title (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Once catcher Hector Rodriguez caught closer Ricky Perez’s final pitch to end the game, the Bulldogs rushed the mound and dog-piled on each other in pure joy. Players, coaches and parents basked in the limelight celebrating the title. But no one was more deserving and satisfied than the skipper of the Big Blue.

Hart, in his ninth season at BHS, has seen his program rise up to an elite level of excellence that prides itself on a labor of love and a passion for the game of baseball. It came to fruition alongside a coaching staff loyal to Hart and dedicated in its vision to bring a championship to Burbank High. Ironically, Hart and his staff (Craig Sherwood, Tommy Perez and Tony Sandoval) are Burroughs alumni.

Coach Bob Hart gets doused in celebration (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Coach Bob Hart gets doused in celebration (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

While their hearts will forever bleed red inside, it was true blue on the outside on this evening. After getting doused with a bucket of water by Ricky Perez and Harrison Hernandez, an elated coach reflected upon his championship team.

“You can’t teach toughness. Our guys were a little tougher than some of the teams we played,” Hart said. “When you play catch, and you have warriors on the hill and the best coaching staff in this league, you win games.”

“I can’t even put it into words. My freshman year coming into varsity I really thought we were going to win that year. Turns out none of the seniors were really into it. I’ve spent the next three years with these guys and finally to win league it just means the world,” said Dylan Mersola, a four-year starter who is batting .366 on the season. “We have so much chemistry. Everyone just gets along great. Since day one we are all friends. We come out every day and put in work for this result.”

Burbank (16-8, 12-2) scored at the outset of the contest. Perez led off the game with a double to right field. He advanced to third on a balk and scored on a throwing error by pitcher Luis Pereyra.

John White dives safely under the tag of Anthony Robles (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

John White dives safely under the tag of Anthony Robles (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Bulldogs opened a 4-0 lead in the very next inning courtesy of four singles and mental lapses on defense by the Indians. Dylan Mersola’s one-out two-run single to left field highlighted an inning where Burroughs (16-11, 10-4) shot itself in the foot with several uncharacteristic defensive miscues.

The Indians had their own offensive struggles as well not converting golden opportunities against Burbank ace Angel Villagran in the third and fourth innings.

With the bases loaded in the bottom of the third, Indians shortstop Brian Pozos hit a soft dribbler back to Villagran to end the threat.

After Akira Abderrahman doubled to give JBHS runners on second and third with one out in the fourth, Patrick Christopher hit a comebacker that ricocheted off Villagran’s glove for a single and an RBI to cut the deficit to 4-1. On the ensuing at-bat, Pereyra laid down a bunt on a safety squeeze that Villagran cleanly fielded with his glove and flipped a perfect throw to Rodriguez who tagged Abderrahman out at home. Chris Davies then hit into a 5-4 fielder’s choice to end the inning.

“We practice that all the time in PFP (pitcher fielding practice). It felt so good,” Villagran said of his great toss. “I was trying to keep my composure. Keep the ball low, get the ground ball and get out of the inning. Basically let the defense do the work. I wasn’t too worried about them scoring if I do my job.”

Angel Villagran recorded his 7th win of the season (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Angel Villagran recorded his 7th win of the season (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Villagran pitched six quality innings allowing five hits and one earned run. He improved his record to 7-4 with an ERA of 1.90. In league, Villagran is 7-2 and an earned run average of 0.96.

Perez went 3-for-4 with two runs scored, a stolen base and his fourth save of the season. He is batting .471 in league with two huge games against his former school, Burroughs, where he attended as a freshman.

Jimmy Cramer of Burroughs had two hits on the evening and scored the Indians lone run.

“We earned it. Every day in September and October we were grinding,” said third baseman John White. “It feels so good to finally be here. This is the best group of guys I could imagine.”

“It feels great to be a champion. That’s what we worked for all year,” Villagran added. “It feels so good I just want to go celebrate right now.”

The victorious Burbank coaching staff (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The victorious Burbank coaching staff (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

And celebrate they did. In a series dominated by Burroughs over the last two decades (39-4 through 2012), Burbank swept the season series from the Indians for the first time since the late 1980’s.

The CIF Division II playoff pairings will be announced on Monday afternoon here at MyBurbank.com.

Gatto’s Bill for Dog Parks Passes Key Committee

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Assemblyman Mike Gatto’s (D-Los Angeles) bill to help local governments create dog parks for their residents passed the Assembly Local Government Committee on Wednesday with a unanimous, bipartisan vote of 8-0.  The idea for the bill came from Laura Friedman, a Glendale City Councilmember, who expressed to Gatto that cities would open more dog parks, but for the liability concerns.

“I approached Assemblyman Gatto in the fall about how to help the City of Glendale afford a dog park for our residents,” said Friedman.  “One of the biggest issues has always been protecting the city from liability concerns, I am glad to see Mr. Gatto tackling this problem for Glendale and other cities.”

Gatto’s AB 265 addresses uncertainty that cities and counties face when operating dog parks by limiting liability and protects them from litigants who claim, for example, that they were unaware of the potential dangers (i.e., dog bites) that can occur at such parks.  While some laws and legal rulings already limit the liability of cities and counties with regards to parks and public spaces, such limitations have never been codified with specific regard to dog parks, causing many local governments to pass on the parks until the law, and their potential financial liability, is more certain.

Burbank City Councilman Jess Talamantes explained the importance of providing certainty for decision makers.  “As a Councilman, I must be responsible with the city’s public finances and ensure that Burbank is protected from liability.  Assemblyman Gatto’s bill provides greater certainty that Burbank’s potential future investment in a dog park will not come back to bite us.”

AB 265’s Republican Co-author, Assemblyman Brian Maienschein (R-San Diego), who served for eight years on the San Diego City Council, expressed similar sentiments, saying “this bill would have made my life significantly easier when I was on the San Diego City Council and trying to site a dog park.”

“Dog parks help build safer and stronger communities by providing a public space for neighbors to interact while training and socializing their dogs,” said Assemblyman Gatto.  “We should not allow liability concerns to be a major barrier to creating these valuable spaces, especially in small- and medium-sized cities that cannot afford to self-insure.”

Jennifer Fearing of The Humane Society of the United States echoed the social importance of dog parks, especially for animal lovers with physical ailments.  “Dog parks enable senior citizens and people with disabilities, who cannot always walk their dogs, a safe alternative,” said Fearing.  “The Humane Society is glad for an opportunity to support a bill with the noble goal of nurturing the human-animal bond.”

There is precedent for the state stepping in to limit liability for the public good, especially for the use of public resources that come with some inherent danger.  In 1997, the state imposed limited liability under certain circumstances for cities that open skate parks.  State lawmakers reasoned that more recreation opportunities were needed, but that skateboarding is inherently dangerous, and should be done at the users’ risk and without massive liability for cities and their taxpayers.

“By offering our communities more certainty on this issue, I believe we can help make more dogs parks available in our neighborhoods, improving the lives of dog lovers and our canine companions,” said Gatto.

Annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Brings Burbank Community Together

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This years Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast kicked off at 7:00 am with several hundred in attendance.

Greeting Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy is Karen Volpei with hands in prayer form along with Ross Purdy Paster Burbank Presbyterian Church. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Greeting Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy is Karen Volpei with hands in prayer form along with Ross Purdy Paster Burbank Presbyterian Church. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Pastor Ross Purdy of Burbank Presbyterian Church gave the welcome and the Invocation was lead by Tom Konjoyan, Headmaster of Village Christian School. Special music was provided by Jordan Jr. High’s Clef Hangers (Boys Choir). The flag salute was given by Ani Byurat, who is the President of Burbank High Schools Key Club.

Burbank Mayor Emily Gabal-Luddy greeted the guests at this years Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, recited the prayer of St. Frances.

Guest Speaker Jora Senane. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Guest Speaker Jora Senane. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The keynote speaker of the day was Jora Senane, a Burbank resident who told of his journey from Iran to here and all the problems of hiding, changing his name, and the journey to come to this free country.

The Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast locally is in it’s 38th year. It is the local version of the Presidential Prayer Breakfast held annually in Washing D.C.

 

 

Mayor's Prayer Breakfast -5

David Star Jordan's Clef Hangers (Boys Choir) preform for the guests of this years Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

David Star Jordan’s Clef Hangers (Boys Choir) preform for the guests of this years Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Softball Wins First League Championship Since 1987

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Burbank Bulldogs, 2013 Pacific League champions (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Bulldogs, 2013 Pacific League champions (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

By Dick Dornan
MyBurbank Sports Editor

It was a long time coming but well worth the wait. For the first time in 26 years, the Burbank softball team was crowned a league champion. Not since competing in the Foothill League in 1987 did the Bulldogs become top dog. They have accomplished this year’s prize with finesse and power at the plate, steadiness and reliability on defense, and trust and togetherness as a team.

Coach Nicole Drabecki (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Coach Nicole Drabecki (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

“To be a league champ means we worked to our greatest ability as players and coaches to achieve one common goal; be the best team out there,” Burbank coach Nicole Drabecki said. “Nothing ever comes easy. With time, hard work, determination and believing in ourselves, we can do anything.”

Drabecki arrived to BHS in 2008. She patiently built a solid program and eventually a champion in six years. Following a successful 2012 campaign where they went 23-7, the Bulldogs are 23-2 this year and undefeated in league (13-0). Burbank is 45-10 in the Pacific League since 2010.

Six players are batting over .400 including a team batting average of .398. Throw in the most dominant pitcher in the area, sophomore Caitlyn Brooks, and you have the makings of a possible CIF champion. It was only fitting that Brooks threw a no-hitter against Arcadia to clinch the outright league title.

Caitlyn Brooks (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Caitlyn Brooks (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

The Bulldogs are currently ranked No. 2 in CIF Division II behind Highland, a team that Burbank has split two games with this season.

Burbank’s next goal is to go undefeated in league. Standing in the way is their cross-town rivals from Burroughs, league champions from 2010 through 2012. The Bulldogs won the first game this season, a 3-0 victory at McCambridge Park on April 18. The two teams play this Friday night at 6 p.m. at Olive Park in what promises to be another exciting game.

Softball in the city of Burbank is flourishing with both programs head and shoulders above the rest of the league. After three years of domination by the Indians, there is a new sheriff in town. Or shall we say “champion?”

Lily Winn (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Lily Winn (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Drabecki and her team of Bulldogs are top dogs once again.

“These girls have given every ounce of their might to this program and this season. They have worked harder than any of my other teams in the past,” Drabecki said with pride.

“An excellent work ethic, focusing on the fundamentals and mechanics and cheering for each other is the difference maker. This 2013 team deserves the league title.”

 

Sudden Change in Weather Creates Problems on Clark Ave.

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Burbank Police officer Brent Fekety was dispatched around 3:30pm to a reported tree onto a house in the 3400 block of Clark Ave. Upon his arrival, that’s exactly what he found as a city parkway tree, a huge one,  had uprooted and fell on a house and a neighbor’s car sitting in a driveway.

There is a house and a car somewhere under this parkway Ash tree that fell in the 3400 Blk Clark Street on Sunday afternoon. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

There is a house and a car somewhere under this parkway Ash tree that fell in the 3400 Blk Clark Street on Sunday afternoon. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

He checked to see if anyone was trapped inside the house, and finding all occupants out, he requested Burbank Forestry Division.  A short time later four trucks and a crew consisting of Juan Cardenas, Felipe Orozco, Hen Horn, Joseph Deagon, and Sr. Tree Trimmer Baudelio Loera were on the scene.

The parkway tree was a 60 year-old Modesto Ash.  It had uprooted, even with light winds blowing, and went falling down into the resident’s home.

If you counted the circles that show the years of a tree, this one was about 60 years old. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

If you counted the circles that show the years of a tree, this one was about 60 years old. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Clark Avenue was closed for about two hours while the forestry crew cut up and removed the tree, leaving the stump for removal during the week.

Several residents out for their Sunday walk stopped and snapped pictures as the debris was whisked away and the street was reopened.

Because this is Burbank, the tree was cutup and removed quickly even though it was a Sunday.  There was no damage to either the house or parked car. This was the second time the forestry crew was called out on Sunday. They responded earlier in the day to another parkway tree uprooted on Screenland Drive.

The only loss appeared to be the shade from the tree.

(All Photos by Ross A. Benson)

 

Two hours later the tree was all cut up and removed by Burbank's Forestry Division. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Two hours later the tree was all cut up and removed by Burbank’s Forestry Division. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Hen Horn from Forestry Division left a little firewood for the resident, after cutting up the 60 year old Ash tree that fell in the front yard. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Hen Horn from Forestry Division left a little firewood for the resident, after cutting up the 60 year-old Ash tree that fell in the front yard. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Forestry Crew remove this 60 year old Ash tree that fell on a house in the 3400 Blk. of Clark Street Sunday. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Forestry Crew remove this 60 year old Ash tree that fell on a house in the 3400 Blk. of Clark Ave., on Sunday. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Forestry Sr. Tree Trimmer Baudelio Loera checks out the base of this Ash tree that fell Sunday afternoon. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Forestry Sr. Tree Trimmer Baudelio Loera checks out the base of this Ash tree that fell Sunday afternoon. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)