City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services
80th Anniversary
“Creating Community through People, Programs, and Parks”
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The City of Burbank and the Park, Recreation and Community Services Department express gratitude to the individuals and organizations that played integral roles in our 80th Anniversary Celebration. Burbank City Clerks Office, Burbank Historical Society, Burbank Public Information Office, Burbank Public Library, Burbank Records Center, Los Angeles Public Library, San Diego Historical Society, and 80th Anniversary Celebration Committee.
CITY OF BURBANK City Council Mayor • Jef Vander Borght Vice Mayor • Todd Campbell Councilmember • Dave Golonski Councilmember • Stacey Murphy Councilmember • Marsha Ramos City Manager • Mary J. Alvord Assistant City Manager • Michael S. Flad
Park, Recreation and Community Services Board Chair • Carolyn Jackson Vice-Chair • Jess Talamantes Member • David Laurell Member • Todd Layfer Member • Garen Yegparian
Park, Recreation and Community Services Department Director • Eric A. Hansen Deputy Directors: Janice Bartolo • Garth W. Nelson • Linda Oseransky • Teri Stein Administrative Analyst II • Marisa Garcia Managers: Tim Lorman • Gwen Sam-Indermill • Patrick Thomas • Jeff Zoumbaris Supervisors: Erin Balderama • Andrew Carrasco • Regi Cutler • Mickey DePalo • Kim Freed Barbara Groth • Gayle Migden • Christine Rumfola • Carol Stiver-Mercado • Kristen Taylor-Smith Art Gallery Exhibit • 80th Anniversary Celebration Committee Art Director • Maria “Frances” Santistevan Research and photos compiled by Gwen Sam-Indermill
City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department 275 East Olive Avenue Burbank, California 91510 818.238.5300 www.ci.burbank.ca.us September 2005
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR Since 1925 the City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department has played an important role in creating a healthy community through diverse and innovative recreation programming. Our mission to provide a place to learn and play, a place to be safe and secure, and a place to create and imagine remains consistent with the early pioneers of the Department. Today we are still creating community through PEOPLE, PROGRAMS, AND PARKS. To celebrate our 80th Anniversary, the Park, Recreation and Community Services Department will showcase many of the significant PEOPLE, PROGRAMS, AND PARKS that form the foundation of the Burbank park system today. The first section of this publication focuses on important PEOPLE-the pioneers in the Department. These individuals were the early leaders who developed the vision for the community and provided programs and services that made Burbank one of the leaders in municipal park, recreation and community services. The second section provides a retrospective of the popular PROGRAMS and services provided to the community over the past 80 years. The final section focuses on PARKS. From Vickroy Park, our first facility dedicated in 1924, to the original telephone pole log seating at the Starlight Bowl Theater in 1935; from the historic significance of Compass Tree Park dedicated in 2002 to the proposed Robert R. “Bud” Ovrom Park, due to break ground in 2005; generations of City leaders have been committed to create and preserve open space, promote recreational experiences, health and wellness, and improve the quality of life in the community. Recognition should be given to all the early City leaders and pioneers, including members of the boards, commissions, and committees, community organizations, staff and volunteers that helped form the foundation of this Department. Sincere appreciation is extended to the Burbank City Council, Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Board, Burbank City Management, and the many City employees that dedicated their careers to developing the programs and services in the community. Recognition also includes, but is not limited to, the Burbank Advisory Council on Disabilities, Burbank Athletic Federation, Burbank Performing Arts Federation and its member organizations, Burbank Performing Arts Association and its member organizations, Child Care Committee, DeBell Golf Course Greens Committee and its member organizations, Disabled Advisory Committee, Fine Arts Federation, Mayor’s Youth Task Force, Senior Citizen Board, Supporters of Senior Services, Youth Board, Youth Endowment Services Fund Advisory Committee, Veterans Commemorative Committee, and the thousands of volunteers who provided valuable services to our programs and the community. This publication is intended to provide a historic snapshot of the Department. It is intended to be a living document that records our continuing growth and achievements. We conducted a tremendous amount of research to complete this project. Because of the breadth and scope of this department and the records available for research, some significant contributors to our success may have been missed. We encourage anyone with additional information to contact us so it can be included in our records. Take this abbreviated historic journey with us and celebrate our 80 years of service to the Burbank community. Eric Hansen Director
1
People
The Roaring Twenties was a remarkable era and 1925 became a memorable year. Calvin Coolidge was President of the United States, F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote The Great Gatsby, the greatest silent films were The Big Parade, The Gold Rush, and The Phantom of the Opera, and the big musical hits were Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen and Tea for Two.
Tree planting at Stough Park. Parks and Recreation Department Director, Dewey Kruckeberg far right with the Starlight Bowl in the background. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
Aviation in the mid-1920’s was still in its infancy when the Lockheed Aircraft Company purchased a piece of Burbank farmland, near a place called “Turkey’s Crossing,” and built a plant for the production of its planes. It is also the year of the formal appointment of the Park and Forestry Commission, thus launching the official birth of the Park, Recreation and Community Services Department in Burbank. On August 11, 1925 a City Ordinance was passed to establish the creation of a commission to manage and control the parks and buildings 2
owned or operated by the City of Burbank. The first Park and Forestry Commission officers were appointed on September 1, 1925. This fivemember volunteer commission was responsible for building facilities, establishing fee schedules, and having oversight over and care of the trees, plants, lawn, and flowers along the public streets. The Commission would also formulate rules and regulations governing the use of the parks and parking areas in the City. Known as the “Mother of Burbank’s Park Movement,” Octavia Lesueur was appointed
small to provide a beauty spot within the City. On May 17, 1927 a second commission was established to maintain, and operate the playgrounds, bath houses, recreation centers, and recreation camps in the city. The five-member Playground and Recreation Commission worked independently from the Park and Forestry Commission.
Playground at McCambridge Park. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
the first President of the Park and Forestry Commission by Mayor J.C. Crawford. In the early years, nearly every street in Burbank was lined with pepper trees. However, prior to Miss Lesueur’s involvement, anyone who took a notion could destroy one of the peaceful pepper trees planted by the original town site company, with never a thought of replacing it. During Miss Lesueur’s eight-year tenure over 30,000 trees were planted in the parkways of each City street. Her philosophy was that no parcel of land would be too
Following the stock market crash in 1929, air travel and Lockheed Aircraft, the newly created Metropolitan Water District, and the Work Progress Administration (WPA) helped Burbank recover from the Great Depression. World War II brought an economic boom to Burbank. By the time the United States entered the war, Lockheed Aircraft employed 94,000 people. Burbank’s prominence in the aviation field was evident during the war when Lockheed’s Burbank-built planes helped win the Battle of Britain. In 1941, the City of
Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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Art and crafts program at Verdugo Park. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
were consolidated into a single department. Park Superintendent Dewey Kruckeberg was appointed as the new director. Under his leadership, the City acquired land and completed construction of facilities including Olive Avenue Park (Izay Park), which included the Olive Recreation Center, Memorial Baseball Stadium, Burbank Little Theater, and Auld Lang Syne building (Creative Arts Center site), and tennis courts. Kruckeberg was responsible for the development of Civic Center Park (later renamed Glenoaks Park and then McCambridge Park), McCambridge Recreation Center, swimming pool, and tennis courts. He was involved in the construction of the facilities located at Verdugo Park including
Burbank entered into a contract with the United States government to build a United States Organization (USO) building at the future site of Olive Avenue Park (Izay Park). The building was completed in 1942 using joint funds from the City of Burbank and the Federal government. It served as a USO Headquarters to provide recreational services for enlisted personnel and the community. In 1950 the Park and Forestry Department and the Playground and Recreation Department Major General Homer Maton addresses the audience on Independence Day 1962 at McCambridge Park; Police Boys Band in foreground. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
the Recreation Center, Lower Assembly Building, and swimming pool. In addition he developed Brace Canyon Park, Buena Vista Park (Johnny Carson Park), DeBell Golf Course, Pacific Park, Starlight Bowl, and Valley Park.
Teen Program. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
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Kruckeberg was known nationally as a pioneer and the first in the nation to install outdoor athletic field mercury vapor lighting systems, indoor recreation center color-corrected mercury vapor lighting systems, and an Olympic-size swimming pool utilizing a multiple bottom jet feed system.
Kruckeberg retired in 1963 and George A. Izay was appointed director. He was followed by Rich Inga, 1984-1991, Mary J. Alvord, 1991-2000, and Michael S. Flad, 2000-2003. In 2001, the City Charter was amended to change the title of the Parks and Recreation Department to the Park, Recreation and Community Services Department. Today the Department is lead by Eric Hansen. Burbank City Council has recognized a number of special individuals for their dedication and leadership by naming facilities in their honor. They include the following: Jackie Amos – City Hall Elevator Bill Burton – Izay Park Ballfield #2
Dewey Kruckeberg kneeling. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Johnny Morse – Tennis Court Frank Nardo – Joslyn Adult Center Small Auditorium Hank Riggio – Playground Barbara Rownd – Izay Park Ballfield #4 Tilly Schaffer – Foy Park Ballfield Jack Smock – Izay Park Ballfield #3 Lefty Thomas – Izay Park Ballfield #1 Hazel Walker – Joslyn Adult Center Large Auditorium Daisy Wong – Tennis Court
Construction project at Pacific Park. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
Applying for a summer job at Verdugo Park swimming pool. Photo courtesy: John Wolfe
Since 1925, the parks system has grown from two parks to a total of 41 parks and facilities and a public golf course; from 10 employees to 373 full and part-time employees; from a Department operations budget of $3,000 to over $14 million. 5
People Senior special event at McCambridge Park, Circa 1950s. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
A boy drinks from a fountain at a Burbank Park. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
A KFWB Radio Broadcast Concert at Olive Recreation Center. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
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Women’s Choral Club at Olive Recreation Center. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Youth boxing program at Olive Recreation Center. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Verdugo Park vintage 1960’s Teen Dance. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Joslyn Center 30th Anniversary with live band and singers. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Olive Recreation Center, First Community Dance, April 19, 1952. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Burbank on Parade at Olive Avenue Park. Miss Burbank gives a hula demonstration. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
McCambridge Park Pool Water Carnival 2004 “A Pirates Adventure.” Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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Programs
Throughout the 1920’s and 1930’s the community continued to grow. Increased development in Burbank contributed to a population increase from 2,913 in 1920 to 16,622 in 1930. By 1943, the wartime effort of the aviation industry had pushed the Burbank population to 53,899, and a number of municipal facilities were built, including the City Hall building. Memorial Stadium in March 1949. The Browns played nine exhibition games including two games against the world champion Cleveland Indians. It is estimated that as many as 32,000 spectators attended the Browns routine workouts and games. As a result, a local semi-
1943 Women’s Softball Champions Still Electric Shop. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
As the 1940’s came to a close, sports and aquatics programs were gaining in popularity. In 1947, construction of Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium located at Olive Avenue Park (Izay Park) was completed. In 1949 the City of Burbank entered into a contract with the St. Louis Browns professional baseball team for use of the Olive Avenue Memorial Stadium as a spring training headquarters. The St. Louis Browns opened spring training at Olive Avenue
St. Louis Browns spring training game, Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
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1940 Men’s Basketball Program. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
professional team was sponsored by the St. Louis Browns and was known as the “Burbank Browns.” Each Sunday afternoon the Burbank Browns played semi-professional teams at the Olive Avenue Memorial Stadium. The St. Louis Browns utilized Olive Avenue Memorial Stadium as their spring training headquarters until 1952. The aquatics program received a big boost when the construction of the
Verdugo swimming pool and bath house was completed. Miss Burbank, Debbie Reynolds, was part of the dedication festivities held on August 20, 1948. Swimming and aquatic programs quickly rose into prominence as a major park activity. Swim meets were held every other week throughout the summer. Badminton and table tennis were prominent in Burbank. In 1948 and 1956 the City hosted the California State Badminton Tournament at Olive Avenue Recreation Center. In 1958 the Junior National Badminton Tournament
Miss Burbank, Debbie Reynolds during the 1948 Verdugo Swimming Pool Dedication Ceremony. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
Park. The program included hikes, nature study, crafts, games, a family night, and weekly cookouts. In 1952, the Burbank Athletic Federation (formally Softball Commission) was founded by Kenny Wattenberger to provide oversight of softball, basketball, baseball, track, and flag football programs and to foster, promote, and develop amateur athletics in Burbank.
1947 “Gold of California” production cast. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
was held at the McCambridge Recreation Center and Open Table Tennis Tournament held at the Olive Avenue Recreation Center. These tournaments attracted many of the prominent players in the State and Nation. In 1951 the City, with assistance from the schools, organized the Hap Minor Baseball League for boys. This baseball program served boys up to age 18. Additionally, the first summer day camp program was held at Stough
The first Community Dance was held at Olive Avenue Recreation Center in July 1952. The City offered recreation dances and square dances at Olive Avenue Recreation Center and teen dances at McCambridge Recreation Center.
Hap Minor Baseball Program. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
In July 1956, the Stough Park Day Camp program was canceled to allow for the construction of the DeBell Municipal Golf Course. In March 1957, the Park and Recreation Board officially changed the name of the Starlight Theatre to Starlight Bowl. In addition, Glenoaks Recreation Center (McCambridge Park Recreation Center) and Swimming Pool were dedicated. 9
demand for programs and services also continued to grow.
Stough Park Day Camp Program. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
During the summer of 1957, the first Ponytail Girls Softball League for girls was organized. Boys and girls baseball and softball programs were continuing to grow. The Civitan Day Baseball and the Ponytail Girls Softball Jamboree featured a variety of skills events including running, hitting, and throwing. One of the initial events for the girls featured the famous “Tetherball Throw” for distance. Following the St. Louis Browns departure, the Los Angeles Rams professional football team contracted with the City to utilize the Olive Avenue Memorial Stadium for their preseason training from 1958-1963. By 1960 the City population had grown to 90,159. The
First Community Dance, Olive Recreation Center 1952. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
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Technology innovations and partnership with the Burbank Unified School District have helped revolutionize Park and Recreation Department programs. The installation of mercury vapor lights offered to the community the ability to play softball and other sports during evening hours. Burbank was the first city in the nation to utilize colorcorrected mercury vapor lamps on ballfields. By 1960 these lighting systems were installed on ballfields fields at McCambridge Park and Olive Avenue Park. In 1964 the City was able to accommodate 86 youth and adult softball teams. Today there are thirteen fields equipped with ballfield lights. As a result, the Department accommodates over 440 adult softball teams and 140 youth Ponytail Girls Softball Jamboree. softball and Photo courtesty: City of Burbank baseball teams per year. Programs and services are further enhanced by the Joint Use of Facilities Agreement between the City of Burbank and the Burbank Unified School District. Since 1988, the City and School District have maintained a cooperative relationship to provide use of recreational and educational facilities. This agreement has allowed for expansion of City activities by providing additional sites to conduct recreation
programs. In September 1972 the Joslyn Adult Center located in Olive Avenue Park was dedicated. This facility was named after Marcellus L. Joslyn whose foundation donated First Miss Civitan 1955, $75,000 Marian Campbell. toward its Photo courtesty: Marian D’Elia construction, as well as additional funds to be used for
services throughout the city. Transportation services have been expanded via Burbank Local Transit Commuter Services which provides fixed route services to commuters and residents. Transportation services are also provided for youth and teens with the Got Wheels! Program. Additional senior services are provided at Tuttle Adult Center and McCambridge Recreation Center.
Joslyn Adult Center 30th Anniversary Celebration 2003. Photo courtesty: Harvey Branman
The current day camp program began in 1984. Summer Daze, Summer Daze Express, and Summer Daze Plus camps provide supervised activities such as arts and crafts, special events, swimming, and bus excursions for children Kindergarten age through 8th grade. Specialized Joslyn Adult Center 25th Anniversary 1997. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
future capital projects. This same year, the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) was launched to encourage senior citizens to volunteer their time, talents, and expertise in a variety of programs throughout the City. Today the Joslyn Adult Center provides senior nutritional programs and congregate meals, senior recreation activities, and information and assistance programs. The site also serves as the hub for the Burbank Transportation Service (BTS). This program provides Burbank seniors and the disabled population with transportation
Burbank Badminton Club. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
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“The Moving Wall” at McCambridge Park. “The Moving Wall” is a half-size replica of the Washington, D.C. Vietnam Veterans Memorial that tours the nation. The Burbank Tennis Center located in McCambridge Park was dedicated in September 1997. The Burbank Tennis Center hosted the internationally recognized Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger Tournament in Burbank. This tournament has showcased some of the top professional players in tennis including Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, and Andy Roddick.
Creative Arts Center Pottery Program. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
camp programs include the Nature Camp at the Stough Canyon Nature Center and the Art Experiences Camp, a visual and performing arts camp program at the Creative Arts Center. Also offered each summer are sports camps which develop basketball, baseball, softball, and flag football skills for young sports enthusiasts. Dating back to 1964, Burbank has provided supervised drop-in activities for children at City parks through the Summer Parks program. Daily recreation activities culminate at the end of each summer with a Family Night Special Event. During the school year, supervised activities after school are offered for elementary and middle school students on selected school and park sites. In August 1984, the Verdugo Park Swimming Pool was used as the Olympic Training Site for the Games of the XXIII Olympiad held in Los Angeles. From 1987-1998 the Annual Run for the Hungry event was held to raise funds for various Burbank non-profit organizations in the community. In February 1998, the City of Burbank was selected as a site to host the Vietnam War Memorial 12
Performing and visual arts has played an important role in the Burbank community. The Starlight Bowl was dedicated June 1951 featuring a live performance by the Burbank Symphony Orchestra under the direction of
Movies at Providencia Summer Parks Program. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Stough Park Day Camp Program. Circa 1956. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
its founder and conductor Leo G. Damiani. The Starlight Bowl would eventually close its doors in 1984. However in July 1992, the City of Burbank reopened the Starlight Bowl with a Gala Celebration.
and ceramics studio and coordinates visual and performing arts programs. In addition, the City of Burbank adopted the Art in Public Places Ordinance. Since 1993, this program has enhanced the confidence, vitality, optimism, and beauty of the community by providing over 50 art installations for public display in the community. Live theater is performed at two City facilities. The Burbank Little Theater, located in Izay Park was dedicated in December 1952 and Burbank Center Stage opened in August 2000. Both facilities and their current operating companies, The Colony Theatre and Grove Theater Companies, have been critically acclaimed and received numerous awards.
Summer Daze Daycamp Program 2003. Photo courtesty: Harvey Branman
The Burbank Arts Association, Burbank Choral Group, Burbank Performing Arts Federation, Burbank Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestra, Civic Light Opera, Fine Arts Federation, Police Youth Band, and others helped lay the foundation to promote the arts in the community. Visual arts programs can be experienced at the Creative Arts Center in Izay Park. This facility, dedicated in April 1989, houses an art gallery
Colony Theatre Company production of “Grand Hotel” at Burbank Center Stage 2004. Photo courtesy: The Colony Theatre
Burbank Accordion Class. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
There are programs and services for people all ages in Burbank. Adult enrichment classes, cultural arts programs, children’s activities, early childhood development programs, fitness and martial arts classes, forestry services, landscape maintenance services, nature programs, senior citizen programs and services, special events, teen activities, therapeutic programs, youth and adult transportation programs, youth and adult sports leagues and classes—for 80 years the City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department has been committed to Creating Community Through People, Programs, and Parks. 13
Programs Sailboat Regatta participants at Buena Vista (Carson) Park. August 20, 1954. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Innovative outdoor lighting at Olive Avenue Park Tennis Courts. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Glenoaks (McCambridge) Park Pool Water Ballet Performance, September 10, 1947. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
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Baby swimming instruction at McCambridge Park Pool, Circa 2000’s. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Water Carnival held at McCambridge Park Pool, 2004. Photo Courtesy: City of Burbank
Mommy and Me circle time at McCambridge Park Pool. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Olive Park wading pool, August, 1945. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
City of Burbank entry in the 1947 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena. Built by Burbank Tournament of Roses Association. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Creative Art Center dedicated 1989. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Youth Vehicle Day, Olive Recreation Center, August 19, 1952. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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Parks
The Park, Recreation and Community Services Department has been recognized statewide by the California Park Recreation Society for park design. The following is a brief history of some of the parks in Burbank.
Vickroy Park Hugh K. Vickroy came to California in 1895 and ranched in Burbank until 1923. On September 16, 1924 Vickroy deeded a triangular shaped property to the City of Burbank as a gift. This land was the old homesite of one of the City’s pioneer families. The City of Burbank dedicated the first parkland, Vickroy Park on May 31, 1925.
A summer afternoon at Mountain View Park. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Mountain View Park On November 4, 1925 Parkdale Park was dedicated. The park was later renamed Mountain View Park on August 11, 1926. By 1940 additional land was acquired, and
Vickroy Park dedicated 1925. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Palm Park Palm Park is one of the oldest parks in the City. In 1926 the Park and Forestry Commission authorized 50 palm trees to be removed from San Fernando Road and transplanted to the head of Palm Street. Palm Park was dedicated on May 5, 1926. 16
Stough Park under construction. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
improvements were completed that included tennis courts, multi-use courts, horseshoe pits, and court lighting.
Stough Park On April 1, 1916 land for what is now Stough Park was acquired by the City by deed of gift from Oliver J. Stough for the exclusive use as public parkland. O.J. Stough was one of the last surviving veterans of the Mexican American War in 1846. Stough Park Natural Amphitheater circa 1938. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society Stough later moved to Burbank and bought the first installment the 1930’s. The park was used for camping of what became a huge Burbank property in programs in the early 1950’s. 1883. Part of the land included the parcels eventually developed for Stough Park and Civic The summer of 1935 marked the first Center Park (McCambridge Park). scheduled use of a natural bowl amphitheater (Starlight Bowl) located in Stough Park for live Stough Park includes both the Starlight Bowl performances. Discarded telephone poles and the lower portion of the park. Park trails, were imbedded in the ground for seating. On roads, stone walls, picnic areas, and other June 1, 1951 the Burbank Starlight Theatre improvements were constructed throughout was dedicated. On March 26, 1957 the City Council approved changing the name to “Starlight Bowl.” In August 1959 a construction project was completed that added two-levels to the facility. The addition would function as a storage area for instruments; the lower level would serve Civil Defense. Construction of the acoustical shell was completed in 1965. George A. Izay Park
St. Louis Browns spring training game. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
In December 1939 the City purchased the land for future 17
1958-1963 Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium was used as a training location for the Los Angeles Rams professional football team. In 1982 the Hank Riggio Playground in Izay Park was dedicated. Riggio was a native Burbank resident who was stricken with Polio. Over the years, he dedicated himself to promote programs to help fight Polio and aid the disabled in the community. Today, the Burbank Advisory Council on Disabilities continues in this tradition. In 1984 the City accepted from the United States of America a deed of gift of an F104 aircraft, now displayed at Izay Park on Olive Avenue. It was later that year that George A. Izay, Parks and Recreation Director, passed away and Olive Avenue Park was renamed in his honor. In 1989 the Creative Arts Center at Izay Park was dedicated. Fine art and pottery classes would be coordinated at this facility. In 1989 the City of Burbank Olive Recreation Center circa 1949. closed Olive Memorial Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
The Joslyn Adult Center was built to provide senior adult activities and was dedicated on September 11, 1972 Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
parksite (Olive Avenue Park, now George A. Izay Park). In 1941 the City entered into a contract with the Federal government to jointly fund the construction of a United States Organization (USO) facility on the land. The parksite was officially named Olive Avenue Park in March 1942.
On May 20, 1946 Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium was dedicated. From 1949-1952 the St. Louis Browns professional baseball team contracted with the City to utilize the stadium for their spring training facility. Burbank was fortunate to see famous Hall of Fame pitcher Satchel Paige play for the Browns for two seasons. In addition, Hall of Fame baseball player Rogers Hornsby managed the Browns in 1952 for 51 games before leaving midseason to become the manager of the Cincinnati Reds. In December 1952, the Little Theater building was dedicated at Olive Avenue Park. In 1953 the St. Louis Browns were sold, moved to Baltimore, and were named the Orioles. From 18
McCambridge Recreation Center construction 1956. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Baseball Stadium. A new ballfield, Burbank City Stadium, was dedicated in 1996. Today the amenities continue to grow at Izay Park. On June 5, 2004 the City of Burbank and the Burbank Athletic Federation honored individuals involved in the development of the municipal sports program with the first induction into the Burbank Athletes Walk of Fame at Izay Park. The park also features the Joslyn Adult Center, the Burbank Little Theater, tennis courts, a horseshoe complex, and shuffleboard courts.
Park community center and swim stadium which were completed in 1957. In 1997 McCambridge Park improvements were completed and the Burbank Tennis Center was dedicated. The City of Burbank has maintained the tradition of honoring men and women of the armed services. In 1950 a memorial garden was dedicated to the memory of the young men and women of Burbank lost in World War II by the Gold Star Mothers of America. In 1969 the War Memorial at McCambridge Park was completed. In 1974 the Olive Avenue Park Memorial honoring World War II veterans moved to McCambridge Park. In 1988 Korean and Vietnam War Memorial was dedicated. In February 1998 the City of Burbank was honored to host the Vietnam War Memorial “The Moving Wall” at McCambridge Park. “The Moving Wall” is the half-size replica of the Washington, D.C. Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Additional memorials were dedicated in 2003 to honor entertainer Bob Hope and in 2004 to honor the Women of the Sea Services. Johnny Carson Park In 1942 the land for future parksite (Buena Vista Park now Johnny Carson Park) was purchased. On June 1943 the parksite was officially named Buena Vista Park due to its proximity
McCambridge Park War Memorial. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
McCambridge Park In 1942 the City of Burbank dedicated Glenoaks Park. Years later, in 1953, McCambridge Park was renamed in honor of James H. McCambridge, general manager of the Public Service Department and City Manager who was credited with assisting with the acquisition of many parks in the Burbank system. In 1956 the City began a Works Progress Administration (WPA) construction project to build McCambridge
Sailboat Regatta held at fly casting pool Buena Vista (Carson) Park August 20, 1954. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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to Buena Vista Street, a main thoroughfare in the City. In December 1952 a fly-casting pool was constructed in the park. On April 29, 1992 the park was renamed in honor of television entertainer Johnny Carson. One year later, a donation by entertainer Jay Leno led to the development of the Tonight Show Playground, dedicated at Johnny Carson Park. Verdugo Park On March 16, 1944 the City of Burbank dedicated Verdugo Park. Later the Verdugo Park Lower Assembly Building was completed. Swimming and aquatic programs quickly rose into prominence in 1948 when construction of Verdugo swimming pool and bath house was completed. Miss Burbank, Debbie Reynolds,
was part of the dedication festivities held on August 20, 1948. In 1956, volunteer youth groups completed construction of the Log Cabin in Verdugo Park. Verdugo Recreation Center was dedicated on December 15, 1961. The center featured a new second floor addition built on top of the existing pool bathhouse and would include an indoor gymnasium, meeting rooms, kitchen, restrooms, lounge and administrative offices. DeBell Municipal Golf Course August 3, 1954 the City of Burbank accepted the donation of one hundred acres of land from Joseph A. DeBell for a future golf course facilities and clubhouse predicated on the condition that the golf course be constructed in 4 years. The City Council accepted his donation and on July 23, 1956 construction began on the
Verdugo Park and Swimming Pool 1948. Photo Courtesy: Burbank Historical Society Debell Golf Course construction 1956. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
municipal golf course. On June 16, 1959 DeBell Municipal Golf Course was officially dedicated and opened for play.
Lower Assembly Building, Verdugo Park. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
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Joseph A. Debell was a philanthropist, humanitarian, and California pioneer. He owned hundreds of acres of land that extended to the foothills of the Verdugo Mountain wilderness. On May 25, 1953 DeBell sold more than 500 acres of adjacent land to the City of Burbank for the future site of Wildwood Canyon Park.
Burbank Valley Park On July 14, 1952 a portion of the Eagles Ranch land (Burbank Valley Park) was purchased for street improvements. The land was located on the western boundary of Valley Street and adjacent to Clybourn Avenue. Burbank Valley Park was formally dedicated on May 19, 1956. This park also became the site for a Gemini Space Capsule model. The Capsule was a gift from Weber Aircraft and installed in the playground. On July 11, 2003 the City of Burbank dedicated Valley Park Skate Park. Pacific Park
with debris and sections of the parking lot had eight feet of mud. In 1992 the City of Burbank rededicated Wildwood Canyon Park. The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy awarded the City a one million dollar grant to renovate the 500 acre park in the Verdugo Mountains; including trail access, signage, restrooms, trail head trellises and a gate house. Brace Canyon Park
Brace Canyon Park was opened on May 5, 1955. The ballfields were completed in 1960, and construction of a large deck area, sun shelter, and courts were completed a year later. The park was formally dedicated January 25, 1963. Since then, the ballfields, tennis courts, and basketball courts have been improved, and the park has received a number of additional enhancements. Brace Canyon Park was rededicated Brace Canyon Park, March 1963 January 25, 1975.
In 1947, ten acres of land for a future parksite (Pacific Park) was purchased. Five acres of that purchase were deeded to the State of California as a site for a new National Guard Armory. It was hoped that the two parcels might be developed cooperatively so as to provide maximum Photo courtesty: City of Burbank utility for both the State and the people of Burbank. Pacific Park was dedicated September 7, 1952. Ralph M. Foy Park Wildwood Canyon Park In May 1962 Wildwood Canyon Park summer campsites and overnight camping was made available for families. On July 18, 1963 the City of Burbank dedicated Wildwood Canyon Park. It was named for the canyon in which the park is located. In 1965 a brush fire burned all the chaparral and natural growth from the slopes of Wildwood Canyon Park. Later heavy rains washed tons of soil and rock through the area. The picnic tables, dinking fountains, and many trees were lost. Campsites were filled
Ralph M. Foy Park was originally named Columbia Park and was dedicated in 1969. The park was later renamed Northwest Park in 1972. On October 2, 1979 the park was again renamed in honor of Ralph M. Foy. Foy served 42 years with the City of Burbank and 17 years as the Public Service Department General Manager. Tuttle Adult Center located in Foy Park was named in honor of Donald M. Tuttle. Tuttle was chairman of the Senior Citizen Board and dedicated 40 years of service to the community. In 1997, the Roller Hockey facility at Ralph M. Foy Park was dedicated. 21
Lundigan Park
Stough Canyon Nature Center
In 1992, the City approved naming the former site of Ben Franklin School to Robert E. Lundigan Park. Lundigan was a Park and Recreation Board member for 10 years. He campaigned for the development of the Korean and Vietnam War Memorial at McCambridge Park, the development
On March 24, 2001 Stough Canyon Nature Center was dedicated. The Nature Center serves as an educational gateway to the Verdugo Mountains and Rim of the Valley Trails. Today the Nature Center offers a variety of educational activities including hikes, astronomy programs, nature camps, exhibits, and interactive displays. Volunteer docents and junior docents supplement the programming at this facility. Compass Tree Park According to history, four Sycamore trees were planted in 1817 by Spanish Padres to mark a landmark resting point situated halfway between the San Gabriel and San Fernando missions. Each tree denoted the four points of the compass and were used to navigate the route between the missions. Although the original trees are no longer standing, four Sycamore trees were planted to mark this historic site. The small park site was dedicated April 26, 2002 and named Compass Tree Park.
Stough Canyon Nature Center 2001. Photo courtesty: City of Burbank
of Brace Canyon Park, and programs for disabled people in the community. The rose garden at the entrance to Brace Canyon Park was dedicated in his honor shortly after his death in 1990. Lundigan Park was dedicated October 10, 1992. Robert R. Gross Park The parkland was a donation to the City of Burbank by Lockheed Corporation. The park is named after the former founder of Lockheed Corporation, Robert R. Gross. After an extensive field and play equipment renovation, the park was dedicated in 1993. 22
This stump of a Sycamore tree is believed to have been the last of the “Compass Trees” planted in 1817. Photo courtesty: Burbank Historical Society
Additional Park History Bel Aire Park Ballfield- completed in 1969 Whitnall Highway Park completed in 1971 Santa Anita Play Lot rededicated September 7, 1975 Miller School Play Lot dedicated September 27, 1991 Maple Street Play Lot dedicated June 12, 1993 Earthwalk Park dedicated March 16, 1996 Abraham Lincoln Park dedicated December 7, 2002
(A donation from Permanent Charities led to the dedication of this park.)
Chandler Boulevard Bikeway dedicated August 20, 2004 Robert R. “Bud” Ovrom Park, due to break ground September 2005
Looking Ahead... There have been some remarkable changes since the Roaring Twenties era. The GI Generation, also known as the Greatest Generation, was born in the late teens to early 1920’s versus Generation Z, born in 2005. In the year 1925, the twenty-ninth President of the United States was Calvin Coolidge. Today the forty-third President of the United States is George W. Bush. In 1925 the price of a gallon of gas was 11¢ but is now $2.79. The cost of a new pick-up truck has risen from $366 to $21,325. Today the New York Times Best Sellers List includes The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown and Harry Potter--The Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling. The top box office film on the Silver Screen is Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. Americans are talking about cellular phones, wireless Internet connections, the Atkins low carbohydrate diet, the Global War on Terror, and the next space mission to the planet Mars. For eighty years, the City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department has been committed to provide places to learn and play, places to be safe and secure, and places to create and imagine. Looking ahead, our Department will continue its commitment to play an important role in creating healthy community through diverse and innovative recreation programming. We will continue to provide well-maintained recreation facilities, programs, and activities designed to meet the recreational, social, and human services needs of the entire community. We will ensure that the quality of life is enhanced for each and every participant in all programs, classes, and activities, and provide parks and open space facilities that are beautiful, clean and safe. 23
Parks Mrs. James McCambridge at the dedication of McCambridge Park, Circa 1954. Starlight Bowl performance featuring the Burbank Symphony. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Starlight Bowl Fourth of July Celebration 2003 Photo courtesy: City of Burbank Olive Recreation Center 1949. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Parkdale Park renamed Mountain View Park dedicated 1926. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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Olive Memorial Baseball Stadium, dedicated 1946. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Dedication of Verdugo Park swimming pool, August 20, 1948. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Glenoaks (McCambridge) Park playground. Photo courtesy: Burbank Historical Society
Verdugo Park swimming pool dedicated 1948. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Camp Fire Girls gather in a Burbank Park Circa 1950’s. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
Debell Municipal Golf Course, dedicated June 16, 1959. The Castaway Restaurant is in the background. Photo courtesy: City of Burbank
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The City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department wishes to recognize individuals whose leadership and service played a significant role in the development of programs and services while serving on City Council appointed Boards and Committees.
Park, Recreation and Community Services Board • Established 1925 Octavia Lesueur • Margaret D. Yale • George Kittinger • Walter Price • Gertrude Soule Griffin • Guy L. Miltimore • Dave Preston • Virginia A. Dorr • Grace Lovejoy • Lola Steiner • Porter Blanchard • J.J. Groebli • O.M. Morris • O.C. Lane • A.B. Pierce • Troy Meier • J. Frank Crockett • W.W. Collette • H. Wadsworth Cole • C.B. Lane • J.B. Baer • Walter H. Melch • K.K.Simpson • Stan Summeril • Henry W. Rouscup • Franklin M. Jones • Buel F. Enyeart • Dr. Karl P. Stadlinger • Ray Wilkinson • W. Bryan Frank • Carl Tomsche • Walter H. Long • Leon E. Rope • Milton G. Recksiek • Horace V. Thompson • Albert J. Rediger • Philip J. Lewis • Patrick H. Price • La Verne V. Still • Floyd J. Jolley • Charles E. Compton • Walter W. Mansfield • Theodore A. Esptein • Gilbert N. Harris • Joseph B. Harris • Marvin E. Thorpe • William B. Barber • Carl Guerriero • Marwin F. Jonas • Robert D. Leland • Paul L. Pease • Frank Fredenhagen • James P. Corradi • George W. Haven • Dr. Robert F. Brandon • Doyle Nave • Paul E. Steckel • Maynard T. Campbell • Robert Olney • George Stoica • David Crowther • Dr. Richard Samuelsen • Paul P. Grant • Rowland Price • Jess Johns • Eugene Radding • Bea Brownstein • Ed Glosup • Robert V. Zwissler • John J. Kelley • L.A. “Lou” Kubasak • Thomas A. Condit • Dr. Martin Small • John P. Hahn • Jacqueline A. Wessel • Anthony J. Santoro • James Walter Etter • Richard V. Martin • Jeffrey C. Jonas • E. Daniel Remy • James McDowell • James Wagner • Alan L. Small • Stan W. Daniel • Mary E. Kelsey • Robert E. Lundigan • Rollin A. Bigbee • Victor Georgino • Michael Ragan • Walter L. Bebrich • Timothy M. Murphy • Edwin LaRocque • Gary D. Canfield • Joe Hooven • Dr. Henry B. Hunt • Elizabeth Handler • Susan Georgino • John Dominguez • Marsha R. Ramos • Stacey Murphy • David Laurell • Arne Pearson • Rodney Cooper • Terre A. Hirsch • Carolyn Jackson • Jess Talamantes • Todd A. Layfer • Garen V. Yegparian
Senior Citizen Board • Established 1973 Duke Lee, Jr. • William P. Watkins • Charles R. Fillerup • Frank T. Turano • Josephine L. Olson •Mrs. Sidney Harrison • Harriet Corrigan • Mary Stoica • Edward Bedigan • Kenneth Walker • Donald M. Tuttle • Reba C. Yapp • Joe Rhodes • Primo Margarit • Helen M. Curnow • Donald J. Huber • Hazel Walker • Mary M. Brady • Bernice Gierke • Frank Nardo • Florence Nos • L. Lou Kubasak • Peter J. McGrath • Irene B. Gallagher • Opal Nance • Gay Maund • Marva Murphy • Forrest L. Barker • Libby Nardo
Child Care Committee • Established 1988 Barbara Kornyl • Robert Bua • Connie Sharp • Carolyn Loria-Jackson • Deanne Phinney • Kim Villalobos • Bill Provence • Goldie H. Bemel • Doris Bullock • Lynn Cecchini • Lucy Alarid • Gail Dover • Allen Eisner • Barbara Durham • Sharon Feldman • Jack O’Neill • Carolyn Jackson • Carol Davis-Perkins • Annabelle Godwin • Gail Reisman • Mildred C. Engel • Kim Rhodes • Barbara Gunderson • Debbie Resnick. • Stephen Pennington • Nancee Rodriguez • K. Roland Armstorff • Helen Von Seggern • Jose Delgado • Paul Krekorian • Carol Miller • Robin Wright • Yvette Coontz • Jodie Bodwell • Shanna Vaughan • Kelley McGowan • Tracy Lynch
Art in Public Places Committee • Established 1992 Alice Asmar • David Hackett • Edward F. Hill • Robert Sandmeyer • Susan Georgino • Marsha Ramos • James O’Doherty • David Gerred • Carolyn Berlin • David Laurell • Robert Coontz • Carolyn Jackson • Dink O’Neal • Todd Layfer • Daniel Humfreville • Penelope K. Young
Youth Board • Established 1970 Sheila Marie Fewless • Debra Bergstrom • Hal Meltzer • Brian McCoy • Linda Nelson • Barbara Hayden • Dick Thompson • Judy Voelker • Randy Graziano • Linda Nelson • Debbie Hatt, Bridge • Diane Danis • Lisa Kagan • Gina Christine Gutru • Jeffre N. Segall • Cynthia Maples • Denise Lioy • Sheryl Gossard • Mary Ellen Matasso • Scott Raine • Debbie Gallyon Bridge • David LaFrance • Jim Bradford • Ann Kirk Satterlee • John Schoengarth • Heidi Wilson • Antoinette Mongelli • Diane G. Kulisek • Stuart Perlitsh • Suzanne Wegener • Louis Dargenzio • Ramon Mola • Tony Giliberto • Linda Smith • Lorraine Bellis • Debra Mobley • Gary Glass • Carol Sciberras • Antoinette Mongelli • Dena Hayden • Andrew Loya • Jan E. Rademacher • Tom Cotrel • Kirk Tiner • Patricia Stoddard • Michael Graceffo • Richard J. Howard • Richard L. Warmuth • Doris Kissling • Janet D’Andrea • Michael Ragan • AeYoung Yoon • Jack Keath, Jr. • Karen Lambeth • Michael Resnick • Anne Dunn • Susan Gardina • Sue Hawkins • Michael Brewster • Alex Acevedo • Lori Mirabel • Lisa Russell • Ray Angobaido • Neil Hancock • Melinda Lilly • Michele Henry • Karen Stanbarger • Joel Blossom • Melissa Walch • Carol Hoaglund • Tevia Celli •Sarah Acevedo • Richard Yousko • Michael Brewster • William A. Fickett • Arvid Frederiksen • Karen Jonkey • Mark A. Fox • Michael Kanigher • Barbara Houston • Kimberly A. MacMartin • Scott Wetzel • Ross Moen • John H. Thai • Esther Yuh • George White • Yvette Ramos • Gabe Sandoval • Chris Davis • Angee Walls • Judie Stamper • Lisa Fuller • Tammi Palubeski • Michelle Hoeschen • Brian Ganley • Melissa Wilde • Tammi Palubeskie • Lorna Profant • Darren Bell • Ann Yousko • William K. DeWitt • Shawn Honess • Rich Rode • Hiroshi Wald • Michelle Voges • Paul Ehlert • Cori Eldridge • J. Michael Ibarra • Blanca Menendez • Carrie Nash • Roy Ahn • Maxwell Ligot • Alina Dumitrescu • Barrie Pink • Jeannie Rhee • Mishelle Voges • Cori Eldrige • Myrmay Nocon • Jennifer Boersma • Vladimir Moncada • Jennifer Van Duzer • Amber Hansen • Marla Manchoff • Maggie Hause • Kimberly Flinders • Angela Pennington • Rosana Ruiz • Tracy Wargo • Diane L. Jones • David Eaton • Denise A. Ebery • Jessica New • Sabrina Feely • Jennifer Garrels • Gina Ruffino • Trina Calderon • Leonard Diaz • Larissa Skewes • Emily Wargo • Susan Jackson • Daniel Wilson • Thomas Mike III • Kristie Whiehorses • Michael Umpierre • Elizabeth Austin • Kate Perkins • Kim Lewis • Patrick Peters • Jessica Pink • Dalbert Buitrago • Jennifer Detweiler • Monica Sutter • Carmen Henares • Susan Cooper • Arnaldo D’Alfonso • Natasha Campos • Mario Fernandez • Suzy Babko • Jill Vander Borght • Emily Rohwer • Paige M. Stefano • Ann Stefano • Lily Bedrossian • Scott E. Talamantes • Katie Tsaniff • Kary Vander Borght • Aphrodite Papanikolaou • Linda Escalante • Vince Campos • Patrick Kemp • Marie Gasson • Ryan McCormick • Joseph Arbucci • Mariela Henares • Jennifer Leonard • Eric Vacca • Bailee Rad • Kristie Vosper • Theo Arbucci • Kyle Vander Borght • Dennis Wilson • Briana Rad • Armen Zenjiryan • Daniella Fortuina • Megan McKenzie • Amanda McMahon • Chris Arbucci • Anoushka Scott • Rochelle Rockwell • Mallory Lynch • Morgan Blanch • Mitchell Thornton • Jennifer Propper • Andrew Share • Steven Slaughter • Nazo Koulloukian • Rachel Freeman • Jenny Bannian • Melineh Terzian • Jeffrey Kurges • Sierra Layfield-Bosco • Shant Davoudian • Jovanna Betancourt • Kendra Barbula • Kevan D’Damery • Rhiannon Guillen • Ashley Kurges • Jacqueline Molina • Sarah Niss • Kristin Talamantes • Bill Rena • Gean Aliaga • Michael Gasson • Santosh Desai • Jenna Wilcox • Aliza Vecchiarelli • Vanessa Mendez • Sara Rebman • Elisabeth Coleman • Selin Petrosian • Gladys Sarabia • George Touma • Paul Dinh • Sara Grigoleit • Tony Glavez • Brynn Larson • Lilian Calzadilla • Caitlyn Cwik • Ashleigh Diller • Nicole Diller • Stephanie Farag • James Nagy • Cassandra Pozos • Shannon Stone • Alex Knopper • Jackie D. Balousek
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The City of Burbank Park, Recreation and Community Services Department has been recognized for programs and services. Here are some of the most recent awards: California Park and Recreation Society 2004 Agency Showcase Award of Achievement 2003 Agency Showcase Award of Excellence 2001 Achievement Award 2000 Award of Merit 1999 Creating Community Award of Distinction 1999 Special Award of Excellence 1997 Agency Showcase Award of Excellence 1997 Recreation and Community Service Award 1997 Facility Design and Park Planning Award 1996 Agency Showcase Award of Excellence 1996 Recreation Programming Award 1994 Agency Showcase Award of Excellence California and Nevada National Association of Telecommunication Officers and Advisors 2004 Golden Mike Award League of California Cities 1997 Helen Putnam Award Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation 1998 New Sports Facility Award 1991 Golden Shield Award 1976 Golden Shield Award Sports Foundation & Congress for Parks & Recreation 1976 Grand Award of Excellence National Arbor Day Foundation 1977-2005 Tree City USA Award Western Access Video Excellence 2003 First Place Award