In 2000, the Los Angeles City Council ratified an existing Ordinance that prohibits bikers on city park dirt trails

By: Shelley Rizzotti

Now, a group called CORBA (Concerned Off Road Bike Association) and other mountain bikers will be trying to get in “just one little trail” as the City Planning/Department of Transportation Bicycle Master Plan is up for review.

Mountain bikers and horses don’t mix as horses are naturally flight animals.  Even the most bombproof horse could bolt and cause massive injuries to its rider or a near hiker if it is spooked by a bike coming at it.  The horse community is clear that road bikers (cyclists) are the group that should be addressed by the Department of Transportation and that Off Road Biking (mountain bikers) should not be considered by this department in reviewing the Master Plan, but left to the department of Parks and Recreation.

Horses need a safe place to get exercise after being cooped up on stalls as well as a change of scenery to keep them calm and happy.  Allowing mountain bikers on city trails would cause real danger to hikers and equestrians.  There are many other nearby trails to accommodate this sport, let’s leave the horses alone.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Shelley Rizzotti

This is something we all should know about.  Try this free, efficient service Google now offers

By: Roger Ewing

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN0q8SvlQAk&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

Roger Ewing

Who would have thought this Burbank storefront cupcake establishment would give the famous Magnolia Bakery on Bleeker Street in New York City a run for their money

By: Shelley Rizzotti

On a typical Friday night people will wait in a line that runs down the block just to get their hands on a delectable cupcake from Magnolia Bakery. Things aren’t so different in Burbank. Yummy Cupcakes located at 2918 W Magnolia Blvd, in Burbank offers the New York bakery plenty of competition.

The cupcakes are insanely good! From their red velvet cupcakes to the incredibly rich cream cheese frosting, you can’t go wrong.  Milk is also sold to wash down the delightful bites. I don’t know how they do it, but their vanilla ice cream frosting actually tastes like ice creamy.  You can also dabble with various flavors by just sticking to an assortment of mini cupcakes. This store being new to Burbank is always packed with people that come from near and far; it is a step in the right direction for our city.  You can find more information at http://www.yummycupcakes.com/

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Shelley Rizzotti

So happy to have this high end consignment store recently opened!

By: Shelley Rizzotti

Magnolia Commons

Anyone who thrift shops in Burbank remembers Cele’s Encore on Magnolia near Victory Boulevard.  Celes closed a few years ago and “It’s a Wrap and the Discovery Shop” seemed like the only option for bargain hunting fashionistas.  I went into Encore Nouveau, across the street from It’s A Wrap.  Encore sells “new” clothes which come from downtown designer sample sales .  The owner of Encore has a keen eye for picking great stuff for her shop and has created a homey atmosphere by serving refreshments from a kitchenette in the middle of the store while you sit and chat on the comfey sofa.

When I was in Encore a few weeks ago, the owner told me that friends of her, mainly in the entertainment industry, had opened a high end retail store across the street.  I practically bolted across Magnolia to see this rarity at 3413 W Magnolia!  Oh my!  It is amazing.  Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, shoes, shoes, wonderful shoes…all at a fraction of what they would cost new.  This place takes Burbank to the next shopping level.  The owner is very friendly and has created a funky eclectic feel.  For a special occasion ~ this is the place to go!  They are on facebook at:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/MAGNOLIA-COMMONS-High-End-Consigment-Store/220719760533

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Shelley Rizzotti

Paint the town at Raphael

Raphael's

By: Deena Nissley

For a no-fail date in the 818, head to Raphael in Studio City, a polished-but-unpretentious bistro ideal for food snobs and picky eaters alike.  Look for a globetrotting spin on fine-dining staples, paired with a wine list diverse in both price and provenance. It’s all in a respectably modern room with some dressed-up touches, like a mirrored ceiling and crystal sconces.

Expect outstanding service and consistency from both the staff and the kitchen. A French-inspired poached apple salad with hazelnuts and ricotta stands out among the starters. Saffron gives Spanish flair to the pan-roasted chicken breast, which comes perfectly cooked alongside crispy prosciutto chips and potato croquettes. Vegans and vegetarians will appreciate an eggplant tart’s classic Greek flavors, while bread pudding with peanut butter ice cream, tempura-fried bananas and crumbled peanut brittle makes for an unstoppable dessert.

Raphael
11616 Ventura Blvd., Studio City (818) 505-3337
raphaelonventura.com

Price: 3 (out of 4) Noise: 1 (out of 4)
Parking: $5 valet
Scene: Studio foodies sick of sushi, plus a growing clientele of local couples and regulars, the majority of whom witnessed the 1970s.
Best bets: Apple salad; free-range pan-roasted chicken; eggplant tart
Hot seat: A front corner table keeps you out of waiter traffic and offers a street view.
Taste test: Make nice with the staff — they’re big on treating first-timers to freebies.
Nearby: Laurel Tavern; Firefly; The Fifth The Rundown’s restaurant reviews are based on anonymous visits by reporters, not press releases.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Deena Nissley

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In the spirit of Halloween, I’d like to offer a few creative Halloween decor ideas cordially presented by youtube.  Happy Halloween all!

By: Roger Ewing

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVcqYhlHd7E[/youtube]

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Roger Ewing

Amelia Earhart (born 07/24/1897- missing 07/02/1937) is remembered as a prominent Female American Aviator.

By: Shelley Rizzotti

She was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic  Ocean solo.  In addition to her many accomplishments she was also a best-selling author, passing on her experiences of her flying expeditions.  Once marrying George Palmer Putnam in 1931, Amelia decided to live in Toluca Lake, where she resided at 10042 Valley Spring Lane.

She chose this area because it was located close to Burbank’s Lockheed Plant where the best aircrafts in the world were being designed and built. The home is  well known for its front-yard tree where Amelia Earhart historically signed her round-the-world flight plan. In 1937 when Amelia took her round-the-world trip in her Lockheed L-10 Electra she disappeared over the Central Pacific Ocean near Howland Island which is just north of the equator.  Her story is a mystery, there are many speculations of what happened to her. People will remember her as a remarkable, brave person, and it’s nice to know that Toluca Lake was a part of life. Her house still exists today and the memory of Amelia Earhart will never be forgotten.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Shelley Rizzotti

It may be time to say goodbye.  The Magnolia Park Station Post Office at 3810 W. Magnolia Boulevard will not likely be renewing their lease.

Magnolia Station

By: Shelley Rizzotti

This post office is often referred to as a Burbank landmark, and the absence of the post office will have a negative effect on individuals and businesses in the surrounding community. Many independent shops in the Magnolia Park area such as Bell Cottage, and Atomic Records depend greatly on the traffic that comes through to visit the post office. This will mean a dramatic decrease of everyday business for local stores, the same stores that make Burbank so unique.

Aside from storefront businesses taking a downfall, this will be a major inconvenience for disabled and elderly residents. Many of these people depend on the Magnolia Park Station Post Office being available to them while they are unable to make the drive or  seek proper transportation to the Hollywood Way branch which is 1.5 miles away. On  top of this, the Hollywood Way and Olive Avenue branch, being the closest two now, on an average have a twenty to  thirty minute waiting  time. Sadly, the Magnolia Park Post Office will likely be closing mid-January, 2010. Many Burbank Patrons are shocked and in disagreement about this change. This will have a major impact on Burbank, an impact that no one is happy about.

Another neighborhood post office, Glenoaks Station Post Office located on San Fernando, may have a similar fate.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Shelley Rizzotti

I am excited to announce the launch of our new web site design, including new features.

By Roger Ewing

In a short time we will be launching our newly redesigned web site at ewingSIR.com.  It may take us a few days to get the kinks out and some of our links may temporarily not work as a result of the new theme installation.  Please be patient with us, we are doing our very best to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Over the coming weeks, we will also be updating our Community Blog sites as well.

We will be adding a new link to our Community Newz sites, where you can subscribe to receive current statistics for your community by zip code.

When our new site is launched, please let me know your thoughts and your feelings about the new design.  We greatly value your input and recommendations.

If you would like to see your community featured on our community blog list, or if you would like to become a Community Newz contributor for your neighborhood,  please let us know.

Best wishes,

Roger Ewing

Roger Ewing

Vitello’s in Tujunga Village

By: Lisa Stanley

Vitello's

In the enclave of Tujunga Village, you will find many little trendy shops and eateries. On the southwest corner sits Vitello’s, the restaurant made famous by Robert Blake, which is neither little nor trendy. It is, however, an original, with a devoted clientele of patrons who have frequented the joint for decades.

Upstairs is a secret that needs to be secret no more. Every Saturday and Sunday night, climb the stairs and be treated to “Sterling’s Upstairs at Vitello’s.” It is a nightclub experience reminiscent of the showrooms of Las Vegas in the 1960s. Some of L.A.’s best talent is up there performing their cabaret after a dinner that is actually quite yummy. Who needs Liza or Barbra? You can meet the stars of tomorrow right in Tujunga Village.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Lisa Stanley

LIFE IS A SONG From the moment Lisa Stanley made her entrance into this world, she came out "singing." Lisa's mother says that she came out crying. No one had to slap her. No, Lisa's too smart for that. Lisa lives life with a song in her heart, always.

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