Food, drink under the dome

Mike Hinchey, of Kingston, tries a sample of wine from Southern Wine & Spirits of Pennsylvania at the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre’s Wine and Dine event Sunday in the Luzerne County Courthouse.

FRED ADAMS photos/FOR THE TIMES LEADER

Nadine Oliver, of Taylor, and Joan Angeli and Karel Zubris, both of Plains Township, enjoy some conversation during the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre’s fifth annual ‘Wine and Dine’ fundraiser on Sunday.
Taxpayers need not fret, though, as all of the food and beverages was donated and the “Wine and Dine” event was a benefit for the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre – a group that works with volunteers to support women and children in the community by teaming up with other local service organizations.

“This is the fifth anniversary of our Wine and Dine in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the formation of the league,” said Catherine Mihalik, president of the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre.

Last year’s event raised about $25,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships and a raffle. Mihalik said she expects to raise less this year because ticket sales were down, probably because of the sagging economy.

“We’re a service organization, and the proceeds really benefit the non-profits we partner with,” Mihalik said.

About 15 local restaurants and wineries participated.

“It’s nice to give something back to the community, to be part of community organizations that help so many people and help get people out to support them and let them taste some really good wines,” said Dunmore resident Mark DeAntonio, a sales consultant with Southern Wine & Spirits of Pennsylvania.

Kevin Boylan, owner of Thirty-One Lake Street restaurant in Dallas, said he decided to “come out and support” the Junior League because it’s an organization that has “been around forever and they do a lot of great things in the community. And it’s great exposure for our restaurant.”

Attending the $60-a-plate event was a combination of league members and supporters, public officials and representatives of organizations that have teamed up with the league in the past or who plan to work with the league in the future.

Speaking as a league member, state Rep. Karen Boback, R-Harveys Lake, said the Wine and Dine is a “wonderful event. Everyone has a plate of food and a smile on their face, and they’re helping a wonderful organization.”

Dick Hawley, executive director of the Center for Cancer Wellness-Candy’s Place, said he decided to attend after receiving an invitation from Karen Hughes, incoming director of the American Cancer Society – an organization that league members have helped on numerous occasions. He hopes to enlist the league’s help with a fundraiser in the near future.

“I just thought this would be a great event to be a part of,” Hawley said.