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Farewell comedy roast held for area mayor

CENTER OF ATTENTION — Former Steubenville mayor Domenick Mucci received praise and ribbing as the center of a farewell roast held in his honor Sunday at Froehlich’s Classic Corner by the Jefferson County Democratic Party. Prior to the event Mucci, standing, greeted many, including, from left, Debbie Welsch, Vicki Nurczyk and Betty and Rick Perkins. -- Warren Scott

STEUBENVILLE — As a public official for 36 years, Domenick Mucci has grown accustomed to praise and at least some insults and he received both, though the latter were offered in fun by several who have worked closely with him, at a farewell roast held in his honor Sunday at Froelich’s Classic Corner by the Jefferson County Democratic Party.

Frankie DiCarlantonio, the party’s chairman, said when Mucci announced last year he wouldn’t seek another term as Steubenville’s mayor, many suggested throwing a dinner in his honor.

DiCarlantonio said Mucci himself shrugged at the notion, saying he would be happy just to receive a few positive comments about his tenure.

Then the idea arose of Mucci being the center of a roast, a dinner where several friends and colleagues could serve up some jokes at his expense while also paying tribute to a long career in public service that has included 25 years as mayor, 11 years on Steubenville Council, 8 years as director of the Jefferson County Planning and several as president of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce.

Mucci said it was fitting since Steubenville native Dean Martin popularized the practice, which dates back to 1910, as host of many televised roasts.

He added he was willing to participate on two conditions: that proceeds would go to local charities and that he would have the microphone last and would be able to have the last laugh.

Prior to the roast, former state Senator Lou Gentile, one of several recruited to sling zingers at Mucci, said, “We’re going to have some fun but we’re also going to recognize an amazing career in public service.”

Gentile said Mucci has been unique in his ability to remain an effective leader for so many years and should be acknowledged for the many federal and state dollars he’s secured for local economic development.

DiCarlantonio agreed, saying, “He’s helped bring millions of dollars to develop several projects throughout the county.”

Jefferson County Commissioner Tom Graham, who also stepped up to lob insults at Mucci, said, “He’s a wonderful guy personally and one of the brightest guys in the political arena I know. I learned a lot from him and for that I’m deeply grateful.”

“Fortunately we’ll still be able to tap into his knowledge,” said Graham,who noted Mucci will continue to represent the county on the Ohio Mid-Eastern Government Association’s executive board.

Representing 10 Ohio counties, the regional group pursues funding and other resources for community and economic development.

Mucci also will serve on the Jefferson-Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority, which oversees the JB Green Team recycling program.

But Mucci said he will be taking a short break to spend time with family and friends and is looking forward to a Mexico vacation.

(Scott can be contacted at wscott@heraldstaronline.com.)

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