Oak Park Friends go 'Vegas' on Jan. 19

GOODIES- Kat Pellicano and Dhana Stevens show off several auction items for the fundraiser to benefit Oak Park schools. Dole Food Company presents the Friends of Oak Park Schools fourth annual fundraiser, "Viva Las Vegas- What's Spent in Oak Park, Stays in Oak Park," at 6 p.m. Sat., Jan. 19 at North Ranch Country Club.

The event will feature casino games, food, hosted bar and live and silent auctions.

Auction items include the GM Suite for 12 at a Clippers game, one-week vacation in Jackson, Wyo., gourmet dinner for eight by Playboy Mansion's executive chef, two-night stay at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, Bret Favre autographed jersey, Misty May autographed gold volleyball, mountain bike, NASCAR Auto Club 500 tickets and pit passes for four, trip to Griffith Park Observatory with OPUSD superintendent and science specialist, and culmination seats for all five Oak Park schools.

Last year's event, combined with an annual appeal letter campaign, contributed $100,000 to the Oak Park Unified School District.

Friends of Oak Park Schools is a nonprofit organization which provides the Oak Park Unified School District with private funding to supplement public funding.

Individual event tickets are $125. Group tickets for tables of eight and 10 are also available. Call (818) 735-3270 or go to www.friendsofoakparkschools.org for tickets and information.