Rep. John Boehner and his famous tan  _ "a color unknown to nature,'' according to President Obama _ will be the featured attraction at a fundraising event Friday for Keith Rothfus, the GOP nominee challenging Rep. Jason Altmire, D-McCandless in the in the 4^th Congressional District.

Mr. Rothfus, a Sewickley lawyer, defeated former U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan in a spirited GOP primary in May. The Republican leaders presence is one more signal that the GOP regards the seat as a target of opportunity in an election cycle in which they hope to claw their way back to the majority in the House.

The reception is scheduled from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Duquesne Club. The suggested contribution is $500, but the Rothfus folks won’t be unhappy with anyone who wants to max out at the FEC limit.

The next day, Mr. Boehner will be the featured speaker at the national convention of the Right to Life Committee at the Hyatt Regency at the Airport.