Coca-Cola has been the drink of choice at WesBanco Arena for more than three decades.

Pepsi, however, soon will have a chance to quench the thirst of those attending some of Wheeling's most popular events, according to Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority Executive Director Dennis Magruder.

Coca-Cola's current five-year agreement with WesBanco Arena has provided the facility with more than $150,000 over the past five years. But that contract is set to expire June 30, Magruder said Tuesday.

Magruder said he will seek contract proposals from both Coca-Cola and Pepsi for the "pouring rights," and he expects to do so in the spring. Magruder said Coke has been the only soft drink vendor in WesBanco Arena since the facility opened in 1977, and Coke has renewed its contract with the arena at least four times since he assumed his post in 1986.

He said Coca-Cola does not receive preferential treatment because of its long history with the arena. Magruder added he has been pleased with with Coca-Cola, the services it provides and the agreement in general.

"It is a level playing field," he said of deciding whether to sign with Coke or Pepsi. "We evaluate both proposals and see what happens. They have always been competitive, and they are both quality companies that are used to doing this. ... They (Coke and Pepsi) can put anything (in the proposal) they think can enhance their deal."

The Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority met Monday. In that session, Magruder informed members that he still has received no word from Jehovah's Witnesses on whether they again will hold their regional convention in Wheeling.

As many as 15,000 Jehovah's Witnesses attended this year's event held over three August weekends in the arena. Magruder said Tuesday he still is confident the event will return to WesBanco Arena in August of 2010.

"We believe they are coming, but we need to get confirmation on it," he said. "I would (worry) if I had people wanting to lease the building at that time, but I don't have anyone else right now. I want to give them their time. We will ask them to let us know by January."