On the Town:

Throughout Burbank you will find plaques and tributes that stand as a permanent reminder of those who have played a significant role in the city’s history.

From dentist and real estate entrepreneur David Burbank, who founded the city, to entertainer Johnny Carson, City Council members, city managers, city staffers, appointed officials, war veterans and dedicated volunteers, Burbank’s streets, parks and facilities carry the names of those who have left an indelible mark in making Burbank a better place to live, work and visit.

As Burbank inches toward next year’s centennial celebration, there is one name that is as well known throughout the city as any of the aforementioned — Cusumano.

Brothers Chuck and Roger Cusumano, along with Chuck’s sons, Michael and Charlie Cusumano, are the principals of the Cusumano Real Estate Group, a property management, development, construction and brokerage company. The family has built and managed buildings throughout the city and has brought signature structures to the downtown skyline.

The sons of a butcher, Chuck and Roger Cusumano began their company by purchasing small apartment buildings. Michael and Charlie Cusumano have been involved from the time they were old enough to help in the renovations of those office buildings. They have also been instrumental in supporting the arts, schools, the Boys & Girls Club, the Family Service Agency of Burbank, Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, and other charitable and nonprofit organizations.

This month, the Cusumanos celebrated the 50th anniversary of their company by coupling their annual holiday party with a golden anniversary celebration at the Third and Olive Restaurant.

Among those who joined the Cusumanos were Evelyn, Caroline and Bettina Cusumano, Mayor Gary Bric, council members Dave Golonski, Jess Talamantes and Anja Reinke, City Manager Mike Flad, Assistant City Manager Joy Forbes, Police Chief Tim Stehr and his wife, Barbara; former Burbank Mayors Bob Bowne, Mary Lou Howard, Larry Stamper, Michael Hastings and Vince Stefano and Airport Commissioner Don Brown.

Others in attendance who brought toys for the Toys for Tots program and food for the Burbank Coordinating Council’s Holiday Basket Program included Gary and Sharon Olson, Greg Jackson and his wife, Carolyn, Dimples owner Sal Ferraro, Tomme Lenz, Sandy Talamantes, Gary and Tracy Canfield, Max Andrews, Terre Hirsch, Keith Sanneman, Brian and Linda Bowman, Dianne Bowne, Mary Lou Stefano, Tony Cusumano, Dena Troxell, Richard Raad, Tim and Paula Davis, Sam and Eileen Asheghian, Emily Gabel-Luddy, and Rose Nielsen.