These ads get too much attention

Reprinted from Friday's Burbank Leader

Whether they are an eyebrow-raising push for "Hot Topless Maids" or a pitch for more socially acceptable businesses such as a car wash, signs attached to vans, trucks or trailers that are used solely for the purpose of advertising have been banned by the City Council. Vehicles used to transport goods, such as your favorite pizza delivery service, will not be affected by the new law. The ordinance outlawing such signs had been in the works since last summer, when brightly-colored vans started appearing on Burbank streets carrying messages about the $99 topless maid service and Thai massages. They were parked in major intersections, drawing ire from residents and businesses. Officials said their sudden appearance seemed tied to a ban in Los Angeles. So they moved here. Those days will be in the rearview mirror soon.