Located at the entrance to the Griffith Park Riding Trails…

By: Shelley Rizzotti

…at 914 South Mariposa Street – Burbank, CA 91506, the Mariposa Trading Post is a unique part of the Burbank Rancho.  I was thrilled to see it open a few years ago under Louie’s management.  He always waved to me as I passed by either in my car or walking the dogs.   Louie would always tell me that I needed to come relax a while on the front port of the shop and take time for a breather.  He was a kind man.  We miss him dearly – his life was cut too short.   I can’t think of anyone better to step into his shoes that Jim and Vicky Smith.  Vicky has a June Cleaverish type of elegant aura and is bringing some exciting clothing into the shop.  Jim has a youthful spirit and always has a smile for you.   A store like the Trading Post is such a rareity in our city, I hope everyone will continue to support Jim and Vicky on their new endeavor!  You can find more information on their site at http://mariposatradingpost.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

Holiday In The Park is an annual Burbank tradition!

By: Shelley Rizzotti

Many families, neighbors, and friends gather to join in this uplifting holiday cheer. Several shops on Magnolia Boulevard open their doors for everyone to discover the truly unique Magnolia Park District. Participating shops are open from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm on November 20, 2009. Many of these generous merchants offer holiday treats, giveaways and festive drinks of apple cider and even hot cocoa which hit the spot on a chilly night. People bundle up to walk the cheerfully decorated Boulevard. The streets are filled with choirs, as the double-decker Red Bus Shuttle transports passengers from one end to the other. There are also two stages of entertainment, and you’ll even find Santa Claus there visiting with the little ones. Every year this event is a success, and it makes the season a little brighter for all attendees. This event truly is a reflection of Burbank’s charm!  For more information you can go to www.magnoliaparkburbank.org

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

Take advantage of fall’s cool, smog-free air to see the sights from the top of Mt. Hollywood, the highest peak in Griffith Park.

Mount Hollywood

By: Deena Nissely

Where to?
Fresh air. Winding trails. James Dean. The hike from Fern Dell Drive up to Mt. Hollywood rewards even the most jaded Angeleno with a sprawling bird’s-eye view of the city.

The start
Park at the bottom of Fern Dell Dr. (just off of Los Feliz Blvd.) and hit the trail at the wooden “Ferndell” sign. This is the Fern Dell picnic area, complete with shady nooks, lush greenery and old bridges arched over running streams. As you pass the picnic area, head up and to the left towards the Observatory

Choose your destination
You’ll reach a fork in the path as you get closer to the domes of the Griffith Park Observatory (seen in Rebel Without A Cause). Stop by on your way up or back down for restrooms, a café, and endless solar system exhibits. Bear left to continue up Mt. Hollywood.
The Café at the End of the Universe @ Griffith Park Observatory, 2800 E. Observatory Ave. (213-473-0800)

Sign time
Hug the path as it winds and loops to the top, keeping your eyes peeled for the occasional celebrity working up a sweat. Take a break at Dante’s Peak (it’s marked by a wooden sign). Here you’ll find breathtaking views of the city below, shaded picnic benches and the only water fountain in the entire trail system.

Finishing up
Finish your ascent by following the path as it loops around the peak. You’ll soon see Burbank and the San Fernando Valley off to the side, and before you know it, you’ve spiraled all the way up to the highest point of Griffith Park. Whip out the camera and pat yourself on the back — you’re there. For the best views, go a day or two after it rains (not that it ever does)

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 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

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