‘Back the Blue’ fundraiser being held
By STACY WOLFORD
swolford@yourmvi.com
When it comes to helping others in need, Rich Algeri is always the first to roll up his sleeves and ask, “What can I do?”
After hearing the tragic news of two McKeesport officers being shot earlier this week, the Elizabeth Township business owner didn’t hesitate to spring into action.
Within moments of learning McKeesport police Officer Sean Sluganski died from his injuries, and Officer Chuck Thomas was wounded during the shooting, Algeri started making plans for a fundraiser.
“As soon as we heard an officer lost his life and another officer was hurt, I knew we had to do something to show our support and help any way we can,” said Algeri, of Elizabeth Township.
In just a few short hours, Algeri and his son, Nick, planned a two-night “Back the Blue” fundraiser at Rich’s Parkside Den, located at 1907 Donner St., McKeesport (at the Boston Trailhead of the Great Allegheny Passage.)
Moments after Nick Algeri posted the event on the bar/restaurant’s Facebook page, patrons and community members started offering donations and asking how they could help.
“We have over 50 gift baskets and more donations are coming in,” he said. “The outpouring of support has been amazing.”
The “Back the Blue” fundraiser kicked off last night and will continue at 6 p.m. today. Admission is free and includes a free buffet, gift baskets auction and entertainment by DJ Jason Ruzich. At 7 p.m., Pastor Dan Bach of Living Hope Church in Boston (Elizabeth Township) will say a prayer.
More than 200 people attended Friday’s event, which included McKeesport police Officer Chuck Thomas, who was wounded in Monday’s shooting, other members of the city police and fire departments and numerous other first responders from neighboring communities.
More than 100 gift baskets were donated for the two-night event.
During Friday’s prayer, Bach offered a heartfelt message that left many in tears.
“It’s moments like this we realize the fragility of life and how much we mean to each other,” Bach said.
Algeri thanked his family of staff members and the many people who donated to the fundraiser.
Wear blue to support police
Those coming to the fundraiser are encouraged to wear blue to show their support for police officers. Algeri said all proceeds from the gift baskets auction and half of all sales will be donated to the families of the shooting victims.
To accommodate the large crowd, there will be an outdoor tent with tables and chairs donated for the event as well as fire pits and outdoor heaters.
Algeri, who has made donations to several neighboring police departments over the years, said first responders and police officers from those communities often stop into his bar/restaurant.
“We just want to show our support and let them know their community is always behind them,” Algeri said.
For more information, call 412-896-1966 or go to Rich’s Parkside Den on Facebook.
