Calling all molls, mobsters and flappers

The Roaring 1920s will be brought back to life on Sat., March 1, as part of "Gatsby's Speakeasy," an evening of gaming, dining, and auctioning sponsored by the Parent Teacher Association of Oak Hills Elementary School in Oak Park.

The public is invited to enjoy silent and live auctions, raffles, a Texas Hold 'em poker tournament, gaming tables, cocktails and dinner catered by Merlin's Kitchen. The event will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. in O'Reilly Hall at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church.

Prizes include a week's stay at a chateau in France, Broadway/ New York theater package, Disneyworld resort family adventure package for four, Pinehurst Resort golf and dining and spa package, a Saks Fifth Avenue New York shopping spree, Vancouver and Whistler British Columbia package, Italian Vespa motorcycle, principalforaday, and a prime parking spot in the school lot.

"This year we've really turned it up a notch. The prizes are more elaborate," Lippel said. "It will be a great evening."

Tickets are $75 per person and can be bought at the door or at www.ohes.opusd.k12.ca.us. The price includes hors d'oeuvres, dinner, one drink and $1,000 in casino money. Entry fee for the poker tournament is $50 and should be reserved in advance. There are still seats left, according to Lippel.

All proceeds benefit the school. The money is especially significant due to Gov. Schwarzenegger's proposed budget cuts which will take about $1.2 million from Oak Park Unified School District, according to Mimi Kim, an Oak Hills PTA boardmember.

"Our goal as educators, and as parents, is to continue to provide our students with the best educational experiences possible. This would not be possible without supplementary income generated through this event," said Lesley Lippel, Oak Hills PTA fundraising chair.

- Sophia Fischer