Food, dancing help raise funds for breast cancer

A new event to raise funds to fight breast cancer takes place Friday in West Des Moines.

"Strides Eve" begins at 7 p.m. at the Village of Ponderosa, with food from local chefs, music and dancing. Tickets are $50. The American Cancer Society's event is a precursor to the group's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk Saturday at the same location.

All of the money raised will go to American Cancer Society's breast cancer research, education, advocacy and service programs.

Lynnette Richey, a breast cancer survivor, is looking forward to the fun night that supports a serious cause.

"I'm excited because the location is beautiful, and it's going to be a fun event," said Richey, 36, of Altoona. "It's just a social hour to meet people and have a glass of wine and just a nice evening with friends."

Food by chefs from Gateway Market, Centro, Cafe Di Scala, Django, Glorious Desserts and others will be featured. Madison Mayberry from Rachel Ray's "Hey, Can You Cook?! 3" contest also will be there.

Music will be provided by KLTI "Lite" 104.1, with Mary Day as emcee. Miss Iowa USA, Chelsea Gauger, will make an appearance. A raffle, live and silent auctions and the Pink Girls of Estilo Salon and Day Spa are also part of the event.

Suggested attire is business casual or cocktail, and attendees are encouraged to wear their best pink and black.

To reserve tickets or for more information, call Lori Schaben at the American Cancer Society, (515) 727-0048, or go to www.strideseve.com.