NIGHT OF HONORS — The Jefferson County Democratic Party Oct. 11 held a Night at Races in memory of the late Jerry Krupinski. Joining his wife, Eileen Krupinski, were his son, Scott Krupinski, left, and party Chairman Eddie Abdalla. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — People throughout the Ohio Valley gathered at Scaffidi’s Restaurant and Tavern Oct. 11 to attend a special evening in remembrance of a special man.

The Jefferson County Democratic Party arranged an evening to honor and pay tribute to Jerry Krupinski, a former Jefferson County commissioner and state representative

According to Eddie Abdalla, chairman of the Jefferson County Democratic Party, the Night at the Races fundraiser was the first event in what they hope becomes a long-running series. He noted officials hope this event will become an annual tradition to take place in Krupinski’s name to serve as a reminder of his lifetime of service to the people of Jefferson County.

“We wanted to honor Jerry for all of his hard work representing our community,” Abdalla commented. “As a county commissioner and state representative for 14 years, his accomplishments were not only needed at the time, but are very much appreciated to this day.”

Abdalla noted this is the first time the party has held an event such as this, adding the number of people who attended was what he believed it should be.

“We had a full house,” Abdalla said. “I think Jerry would have been very happy with the turnout and the results.”

Several elected officials, along with candidates currently running for office, were among the guests in attendance.

But perhaps the highlight of the evening was when Krupinski’s son, Scott, addressed those in the audience.

A former Jefferson County commissioner, himself, Scott Krupinski was accompanied by his mother, Eileen. He remarked about his approval of this effort — created for the purpose of remembering his father — and thanked Abdalla and the Jefferson County Democratic Party for wanting this fundraiser to become an annual event.

Scott reflected on his father’s love for the community and noted how Jerry was a Marine veteran, having served for six years.

The fundraiser featured 15 horse races, a 50/50 drawing and a Chinese auction. All of the proceeds raised will benefit the Jefferson County Democratic Party, Abdalla stated, adding Krupinski “would be thrilled with it.”

“Jerry was committed to the community and just a warm-hearted person,” he concluded.