Focus on 'special needs' refreshing
As an older adult with a learning disability, I really enjoyed reading about all the special-needs schools they have for the kids ("Journeys end in pride at Magnolia," June 9).
I know a smaller per-pupil ratio would have helped me when I was a kid, since comprehension and subjects could be really difficult.
Every year, I love reading about Monterey High School and how they make great strides to help special-needs kids.
I was very impressed to read about Sid Jurman being principal of Magnolia Park School, since he was one of my special education teachers in junior high.
The emphasis on special-needs schools goes to show us that schools are doing some very, very good things for our kids, especially kids that cannot handle traditional school environments.
I give Burbank two thumbs up.
So much negative press about how poorly schools are doing can be such a downer. Special-needs classes and schools are a much-needed bright spot.
JODY LAWSON
Burbank
Good job on quick city utility work
Last week our neighborhood was informed by Burbank Water and Power that we would not have power from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday to upgrade the high-voltage system from our current 4-kilovolt system to the more reliable 12-kilovolt system.
My first thought was, how can I keep food cold in my refrigerator for six hours without power?
The answer was, don't open the doors during that time. But would that actually work?
My worry was unfounded. On the day of the outage, the power was turned off promptly at 8 a.m., and back on at 8:32 a.m.
This demonstrated excellent planning and preparation by the department.
Burbank Water and Power is to be congratulated on its forethought and concentrated effort to impose as little inconvenience to its customers as possible.
We are very fortunate to have such excellent service. Everyone involved should be very proud.
DON ELSMORE
Burbank
City's 'conflict' remains apparent
One would think that if the Augustine family was interested in any kind of spirit of good will, as well as continued business with the city, it would renegotiate the sweetheart deal it received on the West Verdugo Avenue property ("City will audit housing agency," June 13).
