Tag Archives: Downtown Burbank

Downtown Burbank ARTS Festival to Feature Digital EFX Artists From Top Animation Films

Downtown streets will be packed with digital artists, street painters, sculptors, photographers and more than 12,000 art lovers on four blocks of San Fernando Boulevard between Magnolia Boulevard and Olive Avenue from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Downtown Burbank ARTS Festival is free and open to the public.

In a twist that pays homage to Burbank’s reputation as Animation Capital of the World, Downtown Burbank Partnership is uniting with Creative Talent Network (CTN) to present an entire block devoted to animation and visual EFX artists from feature films, video games and television series, along with associated schools and studios. Patrons can visit more than 40 exhibiting artists whose contributions can be seen in some of the highest grossing films in the history of animation. Located on San Fernando Boulevard between Olive and Angeleno avenues, these artists will be demonstrating their talent, selling books and prints, giving portfolio reviews and critiques, and hosting a raffle.

Simultaneously, there will be three additional blocks featuring 90 regional artists and thousands of paintings, sculptures, photographs, jewelry, ceramics and woodwork, with everything made by hand. Plus, Southern California’s most talented chalk artists will be creating animation-inspired masterpieces on asphalt and concrete.

For further information on the Downtown Burbank ARTS Festival, the public is asked to please call 818.238.5180 or visit www.downtown-burbank.org

Second Fire at Downtown News Stand Set By Unknown Suspect

Burbank Fire Fighters were called to The Newspaper Stand located at 316 N. San Fernando Blvd. following a report of a building fire. Upon their arrival they found for the second time in less than two weeks, a suspicious fire caused by burning debris next to the front roll up door.

Burbank Fire Captain Mike McDonald looks at the damage caused after this most recent suspicious fire outside the Newspaper & Magazine stand at 316 San Fernando Blvd.(Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Fire fighters extinguished the fire and the owner of the business who was on scene commented that after the last fire he just replaced the metal door.

The investigation is continuing by Burbank’s Arson Investigator, and the Burbank Police Department.

Downtown Burbank Car Classic to Feature True Blue Cars with Red Hot Pedigrees

True blue cars with red hot pedigrees will be in the spotlight at the Downtown Burbank Car Classic this Saturday, July 28 from 3:00 to 9:00 pm in Downtown Burbank.

Covering six blocks and 200 vintage automobiles, the Downtown Burbank Car Classic will feature the V8 Ford Mustang fastback driven by Steve McQueen in the 1968 film Bullitt, Herbie the Volkswagen Beetle of The Love Bug fame, a 1965 Sunbeam used for the 2008 Get Smart movie, the 1965 Lincoln Continental Convertible seen regularly on HBO’s Entourage, the original Bat Mobile and more.  The Downtown Burbank Car Classic is free and open to the public.

In addition to vehicles with TV and film credentials will be numerous cars with illustrious origins such as a 1929 DuPont Model G Speedster (only nine are known to survive,) 1928 Studebaker President Sedan (complete with a rare period-correct radio) and 1934 La Salle Series 350 Convertible Coupe (the first General Motors car designed by the legendary Harley Earl) from the collection of the Petersen Automotive Museum.

This 1962 all original MG (which is currently for sale) is just one of the many cars entered into the Downtown Burbank Car Show on Saturday.

The Downtown Burbank Car Classic will feature the fastest production car in the world, the Lamborghini Diablo; a 1978 25th Anniversary Indy Pace Car Chevy Corvette; a 1947 Fiat Coupe, winner of the 1960 Nationals in Detroit, and a 1948 Ford Deluxe convertible owned by Sam Foose, auto designer Chip Foose’s father, as well as plenty of restored, rare and vintage sports cars, exotics and hot rods to satisfy every automotive enthusiast.

The show will stretch from Magnolia Boulevard to Angeleno Avenue on San Fernando Boulevard and Olive Avenue in Downtown Burbank.

International jazz pianist and composer David Benoit will perform from 7:30 to 9:00 pm, and a cappella legends The Alley Cats will take the stage at 5:00 pm.

 

Schedule:

 

3:00 pm

Flag Ceremony by the Iron Eyes Cody District of Verdugo Hills Council, Boy Scouts of America. Then starting at 3:00 pm and continuing throughout the event, the KABC Street Team will entertain with music, swag and prize giveaways.  Plus, check out Disney Ride Makerz Cars… Build and customize your own ride! Watch talented Street Painters create supersized artworks directly on the tarmac. Marvel at these amazing artists as they bring historic vehicles to life before your eyes.

 

3:15 pm

The Car Classic takes flight with an airborne salute. Watch for helicopters and contemporary and vintage aircraft in magnificent formation in the skies above Downtown Burbank.

 

4:30 pm

Get ready for sidesplitting fun as Flappers Comedy Club presents Michael Rayner with a combination of hilarious tricks, stunts, uproarious stand-up, and a bounty of improvised fun.

 

5:00 pm

The Alley Cats, America’s premier doo-wop group, take to the stage with a perfect blend of musical talent and comedic timing. The band never misses a beat as they sing the greatest songs from the 50s and 60s.

 

7:00 pm

Awards ceremony. Prizes will be given for the following categories: Best in Show, Most Unusual Vehicle, Classic Award, Jay Leno Award, Best pre-1960 Vehicle, Best post-1960 Vehicle and Petersen Museum Preservation Pick

 

7:30 pm

International jazz pianist and composer David Benoit performs. Benoit’s career as a contemporary jazz pianist and composer has included over 25 solo recordings. His ’80s releases This Side Up, Freedom at Midnight and the GRAMMY-nominated Every Step of the Way are considered influential genre classics. In 2010, the pianist/composer was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Smooth Jazz Awards.

 

The Downtown Burbank Car Classic is presented by Downtown Burbank Partnership, a non-profit organization.

 

For more information, please call 818.238.5180 or visit www.downtownburbankcarclassic.org

Downtown Burbank Car Classic Announces Jazz Sensation David Benoit

The Downtown Burbank Car Classic, an exciting showcase for restored and pre-1974 sports cars, exotics and hot rods, will cruise into Downtown Burbank with engines roaring and horns a-blazing on Saturday, July 28 from 3:00 to 9:00 pm.  Contemporary jazz pianist and composer David Benoit will perform from 7:30 to 9:00 pm, with a cappella legends The Alley Cats taking the stage at 5:00 pm. Included in the six block festival will be lots of free family entertainment and car-related vendor booths. The Downtown Burbank Car Classic is free and open to the public.

Coordinated in partnership with the Petersen Automotive Museum, cars will stretch along San Fernando Boulevard from Magnolia Boulevard to Angeleno Avenue as well as adjacent streets in Downtown Burbank’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district.  The Petersen Museum will feature 1929 DuPont, 1928 Studebaker and 1934 La Salle cars from its collection.

In tune with Downtown Burbank’s connection with the entertainment industry, vehicles with a Hollywood twist will be in the spotlight.

For retro fans, the fun begins the night before with a special preview party, Friday, July 27, from 7:00 to 9:00pm. Participants will join in a nostalgic trip down memory lane at the original Bob’s Big Boy, 4211 West Riverside Drive in Burbank, where the 1950s are still being celebrated. It’s a chance to bask in the golden rays of a California sunset while enjoying tasty burgers and fries served by authentic car hops. The preview is also a great time to meet fellow automotive enthusiasts and admire select vehicles before the following day’s show.

In addition to spectacular automobiles, the Downtown Burbank Car Classic delivers packed entertainment including talented street painters, interactive activities for kids, a heart-stopping flyover and nationally known music headliners.

 

3:00 pm

KABC Street Team entertains with music, swag and prize giveaways.

Check out Disney Ride Makerz Cars. Build and customize your own ride!

Talented Street Painters will create supersized artworks directly on the tarmac.  Watch these amazing artists as they bring historic vehicles to life before your eyes!

 

4:00 pm

The Car Classic takes flight with an airborne salute.  Watch for helicopters and contemporary and vintage aircraft in magnificent formation in the skies above Downtown Burbank.

 

5:00 pm

A cappella legends The Alley Cats perform a perfect blend of musical talent and comedic timing. The band never misses a beat as they sing the greatest hits from the 50s and 60s.

 

7:00 pm

Awards ceremony.  Prizes will be given for the following categories: Best in Show, Most Unusual Vehicle, Classic Award, Jay Leno Award, Best pre-1960 Vehicle, Best post-1960 Vehicle and Petersen Museum Preservation Pick

 

7:30 pm

Contemporary jazz pianist, composer and five time Grammy nominee David Benoit performs.

Sewage Spill Not Left by Easter Bunny Sunday Morning

Burbank Firefighters squeegee water from the inside of Gourmet 88 after sewers for the complex backed up into several business. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Firefighters were called to the 200 Block of N. San Fernando Blvd.  early Easter morning after a main sewer line servicing several businesses on the east side of the block backed up, sending raw sewage into the businesses on the ground floor.

Gourmet 88, Burbank Athletic Club, Sushi Fuji, Burbank Village Apartments, and a public parking lot, had a couple of thousand gallons of sewage that needed to be pumped out and squeegeed.

Los Angeles County Environmental Health along with Los Angeles County Flood Control were notified and responded along with the property owner who was having a maintenance company and a Jet Wash service come finish the cleanup.

 

The floor that is reflecting water inside Gourmet 88. (Photo by Ross A. Benson)

Burbank Firefighters Don’t Have Far to Go to Find Gas Leak

Burbank Firefighters were called outside of their station when they smelled gas, it tuned out while workers were planting a tree on Third Street they severed a as line. The street was closed and Southern California Gas was called.

Third Street was closed to though traffic until the line could be pinched off.

Burbank Firefighters stand by while Southern California Gas Co. pinches off a severed gas line. (Ph0to by Ross A. Benson)

Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Starts Burbank’s 12 Days of Holiday Cheer

Downtown Burbank brings you two weeks of winter wonderment with 18 family holiday events happening from December 1 through December 12. Called 12 Days of Holiday Cheer, each activity is sure to get you in a festive mood. From a communal tree lighting ceremony to spectacular décor, from strolling carolers to a pajama party for kids, from Holly Trolley sing-along tours to the Holiday Toy Express, Downtown Burbank will shimmer and sparkle with seasonal joy.

Mickey and Minnie entertain the hundreds of children who were on hand for the Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony in 2010 (Photo By Ross A. Benson)

Join in the Mayor’s Tree Lighting and Santa’s Downtown Wonderland on Thursday, December 1 at 6 p.m. in front of City Hall (275 E. Olive Ave.).  After Santa arrives and lights the tree, merrymakers will parade to San Fernando Boulevard for Santa’s Downtown Wonderland under magical snowfall lights. From Magnolia Boulevard to Olive Avenue, there will be scores of children’s characters, giant Macy’s-style balloons, vintage cars, strolling carolers, a community stage, face painting, fun holiday crafts, free treats and more from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.. Santa will on the AMC Walkway along with the giant walk-through Christmas tree. Be sure to bring new, unwrapped toys and sporting equipment for the Burbank Fire Department. All toys collected will go to Burbank kids in need.

Then, for the next 12 days Downtown Burbank will be brimming with holiday merriment. Here’s a highlight:

Sunday, December 4 – Join in some cool yule fun with the Polar Bear Pool Party at the Burbank Community YMCA (321 E Magnolia Boulevard). Includes movie screening, games and treats from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday, December 5 – Bring your furry or feathered friend to center court for Pet Night with Santa at Burbank Town Center, 201 E Magnolia Blvd. (Repeats December 12)

Tuesday, December 6 – See the best of Burbank’s holiday decorations at the Holly Trolley Tours while singing holiday tunes from an open-top, double-decker bus. Tours leave at 5:45 and 7:15 p.m.  Free hot chocolate.  (Repeats December  8).

Thursday, December 8 – Revel in an evening of old fashion fun with the Mystic North Pole at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Burbank. Includes caroling by the incandescent Van Bloem Singers, visits with Santa, hot cocoa and cookies from 6 to 8 p.m.

Friday, December 9 – Celebrate the season with the Polar Express Pajama Party at Barnes & Noble (731 N San Fernando Blvd.) Kids are invited to wear their pajamas and snuggle up with their pillows while listening to a reading of The Polar Express. Story time is followed by cookies, hot cocoa, and a fun holiday craft. Ideal for children ages 4 to 8 years old.

Saturday, December 10 – Enjoy music, games and lots of fun at Breakfast with Santa in the food court at Burbank Town Center (201 E Magnolia Blvd.). Plus, take in the Two Milk Minimum Family Comedy Show at Flappers Comedy Club (102 E Magnolia Blvd.).  Two Milk Minimum features a rotation of outlandish, zany, and outright amazing comedy magicians, jugglers, musicians, improv artists, puppeteers, and novelty acts. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Free admission (a $10 value).

Sunday, December 11 – Join thousands of cheering families as they welcome the 450-ton Metrolink Holiday Toy Express from the platform at the Downtown Burbank Metrolink Station (201 N Front St.). Enjoy free entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies from 4 to 6 p.m.. Bring new, unwrapped toys and sporting equipment for the ABC 7 Spark of Love Toy Drive in cooperation with the Burbank Fire Department.  All toys collected will go to Burbank kids in need.

 Monday, December 12 – Witness the Centennial Time Capsule Dedication Ceremony at Burbank City Hall (275 E. Olive Ave.) at 4 p.m.  The capsule, filled with Burbank Centennial memorabilia, will not be re-opened until the City’s 200th anniversary in 2111! Then, check out the Free Movie Screening of “Elf” behind City Hall at 6:30 p.m.  After inadvertently wreaking havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size, a man raised as an elf at the North Pole is sent to the U.S. in search of his true identity. Starring Will Ferrell, Edward Asner and Bob Newhart

Plus, from November 1 to December 24, the IKEA Foundation will donate $1 for every soft toy, children’s book, and kid’s meatball meal combo purchased at IKEA. The IKEA Soft Toy Campaign will benefit partners at UNICEF and Save the Children. For further information, please call 818-842-4532. And, on December 13, Call the North Pole from 4 to 8 p.m. at 818-238-1999.