OGDEN -- Partygoers will have a chance to frolic as in the time of flappers, tommy guns and jazz music when Northern Utah Coalition-HIV/AIDS Project and Weber State University present "A Night at the Speakeasy," a fundraiser set for Oct. 8 to benefit the project's clients and their families.
For three years, the event has conjured up images of Ogden's rambunctious past with the 1920s party theme.
Dressing up is optional, with prizes awarded for the best costume.
"We used the theme because it is a little different and it gives the folks something to do," said Sarah McClellan, Northern Utah Coalition Inc.'s project director.
Besides providing a roarin' good time, organizers said, the fundraiser enhances awareness of healthy lifestyles and promotes and supports communities in protecting themselves from new HIV infections.
The diseases have faded into the background for many people, McClellan said.
HIV/AIDS Project serves 30 to 40 clients and their families in the Ogden area, but the Journal of the American Medical Association reports that, although the country saw a huge decline in the number of infections, the numbers have begun to slowly increase again.
The number of new HIV diagnoses in Utah increased during 2009 compared with the same time period the year before, according to the Northern Utah Coalition-HIV/AIDS Project, with the probable causes being misconceptions and an increase in substance abuse.
The money raised helps the project provide transportation and food for the those it serves.
In addition to costume contests, guests can dance to live music by Voodoo Darlings, play casino table games, see a magic show by James Daley and bid in a live auction.
The event will be from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Ogden Marriott Hotel, 247 24th St.
Tickets are $40 a person and include dinner and entertainment. Purchase of eight tickets or more includes $50 extra casino play money. Discounted rooms are available at the hotel.
For tickets, contact Sheena at 970-764-5965 or sscoffield123@gmail.com or Sarah at 801-393-4153 or nuc536@comcast.net.
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