On the evening of Saturday, June 7 – the day of the Hotsinpiller Fallen Stars 5K – race supporters and members of the community will come together for a celebration.
The very first “Paint the Night Blue” ball will be held at The “O” by Oliverio’s. A ticketed event featuring live music, appetizers, signature cocktails and a cash bar, it’s an evening not to be forgotten and one that has been imagined for some time.
“We’ve talked about doing a ball for a few years, and this year being our 15th anniversary of the race, we decided it was time,” said Ashley Hotsinpiller, Fallen Stars 5K and dance organizer.
There were various ideas about what time of year would be best, but ultimately it was decided to hold it the same day as the 5K.
“It seems crazy to do two events in one day, but that way people coming to town for the race can be included and it will be a full day of celebrating,” Hotsinpiller said. “We will be celebrating all that’s been done over the past decade and a half, members of law enforcement and, of course, Derek.”
The race – and now the ball – pays tribute to Deputy U.S. Marshal Derek Hotsinpiller, who was shot and killed while serving a warrant on Feb. 16, 2011. The first 5K was held in June of that year and since then, has been a major fundraiser for the Hotsinpiller Memorial Scholarship which also honors Derek’s dad, Jim Hotsinpiller, a former Bridgeport police officer. Several scholarships are awarded annually to West Virginia high school seniors intending to major in criminal justice or a related field, as well as police officers furthering their education.
The “Paint the Night Blue” ball will also serve as a fundraiser to enhance the scholarship program. There will be various activities at the dance that will serve the same purpose.
“We are still working out details, but we are thinking of things Derek would enjoy – things he would like to see at a party,” Hotsinpiller said.
Cocktail attire in shades of blue is appropriate for the event which will feature a vibrant atmosphere filled with purpose and gratitude.
Tickets will drop soon. Stay tuned to Connect-Bridgeport for details, including how to purchase tickets, special guests to be in attendance and featured musicians. The event will accommodate about 350 people and will run 7 p.m. through midnight on June 7.
The 15th Annual Derek Hotsinpiller Fallen Stars 5K will be held at 7 a.m. Saturday, June 7. As always, the race begins at Bridgeport City Park and follows a course through Bridgeport, ending back at City Park. Those who cannot attend in person are encouraged to participate virtually. Goals for the 15th anniversary race are to get 15 participants from each state, 15 participants from different countries and a total of 1500 participants. Registration for the 5K is $20 and for the Kids K is $15. Register HERE.
Editor’s Note: Pictured right are Dustin (brother of Derek) and wife Ashley Hotsinpiller, taken at the 2024 United Hospital Center Holly Ball.