“Think Pink” Dinner for Breast Cancer Awareness Set Oct. 13 at Wheeling Park’s White Palace

WHEELING - It's October, and once again it's time to "think pink" and commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Following a two-year hiatus due to COVID concerns, the local Think Pink Team has scheduled its annual Think Pink fundraiser dinner for 5-8 p.m. Oct. 13 at Wheeling Park's White Palace.

At least 400 are expected to attend.

The event this year is in memory of Janie Altmeyer, who started the event as a luncheon at her home in 2003, said Think Pink chairwoman Julie Joseph. The event grew and moved to St. Matthew's Episcopal Church's basement, then became even more popular and the venue changed to the White Palace.

This year the "Think Pink" celebration becomes a dinner, but Altmeyer's vegetable lasagne recipe still will continue to be a part of the central meal served. It will be prepared by culinary students at both Wheeling Park High School and John Marshall High School using ingredients from Jebbia's fruit and produce market.

"We always have 48 to 50 lasagnas," Joseph said. "It's a big undertaking."

Chef Adam Luiso will be catering the other main course items, which include chicken and salmon. There will be salad, and a cookie table with dessert.

A silent auction also will be part of the event. Among the items available will be a Steeler basket package, a lottery raffle, a locally-made wooden bench and other artwork.

There will be live music by Bob Gaudio, as well as a cash bar with a signature "Pink Drink" for the occasion.

Many local individuals and businesses already have contributed to the fundraiser, and Joseph said the Think Pink Team would like to thank all the sponsors and donors who have contributed.

"We have such a generous community, and that makes this event possible," she said.

Joseph also commended the work of the Think Pink team for coordinating the event. Without them, the event would not have been possible, she said.

There are a limited number of tickets available, and tables can be reserved for blocks of eight or more tickets. Those wishing to purchase tickets or reserve a table should contact Joseph at 304-312-0307.