Jill Johnson found writing her latest press release "hard, awkward, proud yet healing."
The marketing director for the Wrigley Mansion in Phoenix was trying to help the business advertise a May 8 fundraiser for the 100 Club, an organization to help the families of fallen police officers. But it's impossible to keep this one strictly professional.
Johnson was 7 when she lost her father, Rusty Hawkins, a Phoenix police officer. The hostage negotiator was killed on duty 25 years ago. According to a memorial Web site, Hawkins was on an undercover assignment when he was struck fatally by a vehicle as he tried to cross a freeway frontage road.
"It's strange how finally after all this time, I am just starting to heal," writes Johnson in an e-mail she sent along with the press release, which is republished below.
Wrigley Mansion hosts, "Hero's Night at The Wrigley Mansion" benefiting 100 Club of Arizona
Just over 25 years ago my father, Phoenix Police Officer and Hostage Negotiator, Rusty Hawkins, was killed in the line of duty....I was 7 years old.
Through the years, and even now as an adult, it is difficult to put into words the loss that my family suffered. The 100 Club of Arizona came to the aid of my family and helped us through our tragedy. As the Public Relations & Marketing Director of The Wrigley Mansion, I have been given the opportunity to give back to an organization that has helped my family and many other families of fallen officers and firefighters to help heal our wounds.
The Wrigley Mansion family is supporting this very worthy organization by sponsoring an event to celebrate the men and woman who stand behind the badge. Tickets to this event are $50.00 per person and can be purchased on line at www.wrigleymansionclub.com - proceeds will benefit the 100 Club of Arizona. The evening will not only be a night of celebration, but a night to honor and/or remember those who have dedicated their lives to serving the citizens of Arizona. Please join us in support of our Hero's.
WHEN: Friday May 8, 2009
PRICE: $50 per person- Complimentary hors d'oeuvres, Live Band, and
Silent auction. No-host bar
TIME: 7:00 pm- 12:00 am
WHERE: Event will take place in the Verandas. The Wrigley Mansion is located just north of Missouri off 24th Street on Biltmore Circle.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Tickets can be purchased at the door, but it is recommended to buy them in advance.