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Kravitz Deli honors fallen police officer, raises funds
By SAMANTHA PHILLIPS
LIBERTY
Kravitz Deli is known to draw a big crowd, but Friday, customers wearing “Thin Blue Line” and “R.I.P. Justin Leo” shirts had more than lunch on their mind.
Jack Kravitz, deli owner, dedicated Friday, National Sandwich Day, to fallen Girard police officer Justin Leo by having a fundraiser. Since Leo’s badge number was 324, customers could buy three corned beef, turkey or Reuben sandwiches for $24.
Leo was killed in the line of duty answering a domestic-violence call in Girard on Oct. 21.
Police officers from Liberty, Youngstown, Girard and Poland also were offered a free sandwich as a token of appreciation for their service.
One dollar from every sandwich was donated to a charity fund in Leo’s honor through the Girard Police Department.
The fundraiser was a personal tribute from Kravitz and his staff. Kravitz said Leo was a regular customer and was friends with many staff members, including former Kravitz staff member J.J. Silverman, who worked with Leo at the Girard Police Department.
“Our staff was looking for a way to recognize his ultimate sacrifice,” Kravitz said.
As of 4 p.m. Friday, Kravitz estimated about 500 sandwiches were sold.
Jim Petruzzi, Girard firefighter, said his crew worked hand-in-hand with Leo, whether there was a minor incident or major emergency.
“Police and fire, we got to work every day to serve the community,” he said. “Girard is great with supporting their community and safety services.”
Petruzzi described Leo as a great guy who always had a smile on his face and a sarcastic, funny comment on hand.
Kristy Olinik, Choffin Career and Technical Center public-safety instructor, said the community has been supportive of the police department, and businesses have gone above and beyond to help.
“We should always stick together, not just under these circumstances,” she said.
Kristin Malosh, the health, safety and environment manager with the North America region of Vallourec Star, said the Youngstown seamless pipe-making producer has a good working relationship with police officers and firefighters.
“We actively support them. They do so much for the community,” she said. “When something tragic happens, it’s especially important to show support.”
Malosh said Girard and Liberty businesses have helped community members show support, help the Leo family and be a part of the healing process.
Vallourec employees bought at least 100 sandwiches for the fundraiser, Kravitz said. One person made a $50 donation.
Kravitz echoed Malosh’s sentiments, saying he noticed people send catering trays after a tragedy because they feel helpless.
“I have learned during times of real tragedy, when you lose somebody, you really need people to come in and say, ‘Hey, this is what you do. We’ll take care of you.’ They need to be guided through the [grieving] process,” he said.