Mark R. Madler
The union representing Burbank Police officers has kicked off a drive
to raise money for a museum linked with a national memorial to
officers killed in the line of duty.
The first donation of $10,000 was given Friday from Crown Realty &
Development Corp., owner of the Burbank Town Center mall, formerly
known as the Media City Center Mall.
The Burbank Police Officers Assn. has targeted $100,000 as its
goal by next summer, said its president, Officer Mike Parrinello.
"Every community has some kind of memorial or tribute to its
fallen officers," Parrinello said. "We wanted to do something on a
national level. It's important for people to see the dedication and
sacrifice given by officers on a daily basis."
The proposed museum will house photos, plaques and other objects
left at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on Judiciary
Square in Washington, D.C.
"The memorial has been gathering all of [the mementos] and storing
them," Parrinello said.
The memorial is inscribed with about 15,000 names of officers
killed in the line of duty. The Burbank department has five officers
listed.
The fundraising drive will culminate in June with a black tie
event, "An Evening of Respect." At that time, the officers
association hopes to have raised the $100,000.
Among the members of the fundraising committee are developer
Michael Cusumano; former mayors Michael Hastings and Bill Wiggins;
Airport Authority Commission President Charlie Lombardo; Chamber of
Commerce Executive Director Gary Olson; and Jeannette Meyer from
Burbank Water and Power.
To make a contribution, contact Michael Cusumano at 841-5800.
